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The Gardens at Heather Farm: A Horticultural Haven

Discover themed gardens, vibrant floral displays, and tranquil water features at this horticultural haven in Walnut Creek.

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The Gardens at Heather Farm, nestled in Walnut Creek's Heather Farm Park, is a stunning six-acre oasis featuring themed gardens, vibrant floral displays, and tranquil water features. Open to the public, this educational and demonstration garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature.

A brief summary to The Gardens at Heather Farm

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or fall for the most vibrant floral displays, especially in the Cowden Rose Garden.
  • Check the Gardens' website for upcoming events, classes, and plant sales.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll around Heather Farm Park to enjoy the lake, walking paths, and other amenities.
  • The gardens are wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the space.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Walnut Creek BART station, take County Connection bus number 6. Board the bus at the bus stop on the south side of the station. After approximately 15 minutes, disembark at the Marchbanks Dr & Larkey Ln stop. Walk east on Marchbanks Drive for about 0.1 miles; the Gardens at Heather Farm will be on your left. A single ride on County Connection is typically around $2.25.

  • Walking

    From downtown Walnut Creek, head east on Mt. Diablo Blvd. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Broadway Plaza. Turn left onto Broadway, then after about 0.3 miles, turn right onto Newell Ave. After 0.4 miles, turn left onto Marchbanks Drive. The Gardens at Heather Farm will be on your right after a short walk.

  • Driving

    From I-680, take the Ygnacio Valley Road exit and head east. Continue 1.4 miles and turn left onto Marchbanks Drive. Go 0.7 miles to the gardens' parking lot. Parking is complimentary. However, the lot has limited spaces.

Unlock the Best of The Gardens at Heather Farm

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Discover more about The Gardens at Heather Farm

The Gardens at Heather Farm is a horticultural gem located within Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek, California. Established in 1968, the gardens have evolved into a living museum, wildlife habitat, outdoor classroom, and a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy. The six-acre site showcases a variety of themed gardens, each with its unique charm. Visitors can explore the Cowden Rose Garden, boasting over 1,000 rose bushes that bloom from spring through fall, filling the air with fragrance. Other notable gardens include the Butterfly Garden, Children's Garden, Sensory Garden, and Water Conservation Garden. The Black Pine Garden features bonsai Japanese black pine and Colorado blue spruce. The Meadow Garden has a rose hedge, greenery, and conifers. The Riparian Garden showcases original valley oak trees. Originally a horse ranch and racetrack, Heather Farm was even used as a filming location for the 1931 movie "Sporting Blood". Actor Clark Gable was so captivated by the farm that he stabled his own thoroughbreds here after filming. Today, the Gardens at Heather Farm is a popular venue for weddings, parties, and other special events. The garden's facilities blend perfectly with a variety of themes and décor, offering plenty of room for personal touches. Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent 102-acre Heather Farm Park, which offers a range of amenities, including walking paths, picnic facilities, sports fields, and a lake.

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