Descanso Gardens: A Tranquil Urban Retreat

Descanso Gardens, located in La Cañada Flintridge, California, is a 150-acre urban oasis offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature. The gardens boast a rich history, dating back to the Tongva people who originally tended the land. In 1784, the land became part of Rancho San Rafael, granted to José María Verdugo by the Spanish governor. Later, in 1937, Elias Manchester Boddy, owner of the Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News, purchased the property and established Rancho del Descanso. Boddy developed the land into a working ranch and built a 22-room mansion. He also cultivated extensive camellia, rose, and lilac collections, with assistance from horticulturists. During World War II, Boddy purchased nearly 100,000 camellia plants from Japanese-American nurseries whose owners were being sent to internment camps. In 1953, Boddy sold the property to Los Angeles County, and in 1957, the Descanso Gardens Guild was formed to manage the gardens. Today, Descanso Gardens features nine botanical collections, including the Rose Garden with over 1,600 roses, the Japanese Garden with a teahouse and native Asian plants, and the Camellia Collection, which is the largest in North America. Visitors can also explore the Oak Forest, with trees that are centuries old, and the California Natives Garden. The Sturt Haaga Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibitions, and the Boddy House serves as a museum and interpretive center. Additional attractions include the Descanso Railroad, a miniature train ride, and various seasonal events, such as musical performances, workshops, and family activities. Descanso Gardens is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, offering free parking and wheelchair accessibility. Visitors can purchase food and drinks at the on-site cafe and enjoy them at the picnic tables near the entrance.