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Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden: A Catalina Island Landmark

Explore Catalina's natural beauty and history at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. Discover endemic plants and panoramic views.

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The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is a serene escape on Catalina Island, honoring William Wrigley Jr. The 38-acre garden showcases California island endemic plants, while the towering memorial offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Catalina's history.

A brief summary to Wrigley Memorial

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths and climbing stairs to the memorial.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as shade can be limited in some areas of the garden.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance or at the gate upon arrival.
  • Check the Catalina Island Conservancy website for special events and guided tours.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Avalon ferry terminal, walk along Crescent Avenue towards the Catalina Casino. Continue along Avalon Canyon Road for approximately 1.5 miles. The walk is uphill and takes around 30 minutes. Admission is $12 for adults.

  • Public Transport

    Take the COAST - City of Avalon Seaside Transit from any point within Avalon to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. Download the Ride Circuit app to request a ride. Fares start at $2 per rider. The transit operates from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

  • Taxi

    Hail a taxi from the Avalon ferry terminal or the taxi stand at Crescent and Metropole avenues. A taxi ride to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden will cost approximately $10-$15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the trip.

  • Golf Cart

    Rent a golf cart in Avalon and drive up Avalon Canyon Road to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. Golf cart rentals are available on an hourly or daily basis. Hourly rates vary, but expect to pay around $50-$60 per hour. Admission to the Memorial Gardens is $12 for adults.

Unlock the Best of Wrigley Memorial

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Discover more about Wrigley Memorial

The Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, located 1.5 miles up Avalon Canyon from Avalon Harbor, is a landmark that combines natural beauty with historical significance. The centerpiece is the 80-foot Wrigley Memorial, dedicated to William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate who transformed Catalina Island into a world-class destination. Commissioned by his wife, Ada, after his death in 1932, the memorial was constructed between 1933 and 1934, using materials sourced primarily from the island itself, including stone from Pebbly Beach Quarry and tiles from the Catalina Pottery Co. The Botanic Garden, conceived by Ada Wrigley, spans 38 acres and emphasizes California island endemic plants. It started in 1935 as Ada Wrigley's private desert plant collection, with a focus on native and endemic species of Catalina Island. Visitors can explore diverse plant life, including rare and endangered species found nowhere else in the world. While William Wrigley Jr. was briefly interred at the memorial, his remains were moved to Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale, CA, during World War II. However, his original burial marker remains within the memorial. From the memorial's archway, visitors can enjoy views of Avalon Canyon and Avalon Bay. The Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden is open daily, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, from 8 am to 5 pm.

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