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McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens: A Northern California Oasis

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Explore diverse gardens and native landscapes at Redding's McConnell Arboretum, a peaceful escape within Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

The McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, nestled within Redding's Turtle Bay Exploration Park, offer a tranquil escape with diverse Mediterranean climate gardens, a children's garden, and scenic views. It's a place where nature, art, and recreation intertwine, providing a refreshing experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Mc Connell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

  • Monday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7:15 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7:15 am-6 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mc Connell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

  • Leashed dogs are welcome in the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.
  • A suggested donation of $5 is appreciated at the entrance.
  • Visit the nursery on Wednesdays and Saturdays (1pm - 5pm) to purchase plants.
  • Check the Turtle Bay Exploration Park website for seasonal events and holiday light shows.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Sheraton Redding Hotel at Turtle Bay, walk across the Sundial Bridge towards the north side of Turtle Bay Exploration Park. The gardens are directly ahead. Follow the signs to the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take the RABA bus to the 'Turtle Bay Exploration Park (Sheraton)' stop. From the bus stop, walk across the Sundial Bridge towards the north side of Turtle Bay Exploration Park. The gardens are directly ahead. Follow the signs to the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens entrance. A single ride fare on RABA is approximately $1-2.

  • Driving

    Use the address '1125 Arboretum Dr, Redding, CA 96003' for GPS navigation. Parking is available near the Arboretum Drive entrance. From the Sundial Bridge parking lot, walk across the bridge to the gardens. Parking is free. During peak seasons, overflow parking is available at the Rodeo Grounds.

Discover more about Mc Connell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

The McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, a jewel within Redding's Turtle Bay Exploration Park, invites visitors to explore the beauty and diversity of Mediterranean-climate plants from around the world. Opened in 2005, the gardens span 20 acres, complemented by a 200-acre arboretum, offering stunning views of the Shasta Valley mountains and the iconic Sundial Bridge. The gardens showcase plants from California, the Mediterranean Basin, South Africa, Chile, and southern and western Australia. Visitors can wander through themed gardens, discovering drought-tolerant species and unique flora. The Children's Garden provides a whimsical space for kids to connect with nature, featuring the Mosaic Oasis, a playful water feature created by local artist Colleen Barry. The Arboretum also features a butterfly garden, a medicinal garden, and specialty gardens. The arboretum offers a mile-long walking trail that connects to the Sacramento River Trail, inviting exploration of the native trees and plants. The gardens promote sustainability and harmony between natural systems and human activity. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a family outing, or a deeper connection with nature, the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offer a refreshing and educational experience.

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