Descanso Gardens Los Angeles
A serene botanical oasis in Los Angeles, featuring diverse gardens, oak forests, and seasonal floral spectacles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom for tulips & cherry blossoms
Descanso Gardens Los Angeles
Best Time
Peak bloom for tulips & cherry blossoms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene botanical oasis in Los Angeles, featuring diverse gardens, oak forests, and seasonal floral spectacles.
"Descanso Gardens is a peaceful escape with stunning blooms, perfect for a relaxing day out."
🎯 Free Admission Tuesdays
Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free entry!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enchanted Railroad
Various points
A charming train ride through the gardens, perfect for all ages.
Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden
Serene koi ponds, meticulously raked gravel, and tranquil bridges.
Rose Garden
Rose Garden
A vibrant display of roses in bloom, especially stunning in spring and summer.
Tulip Season Spectacle
Various points
Thousands of tulips create a breathtaking carpet of color in spring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Blooms
Beat the Crowds & Save
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Tuesdays
Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free entry!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
🌸 Spring is Peak Bloom
For the best floral displays, aim for spring for tulips and cherry blossoms. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free, making it easier to access the gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Tuesdays
Visit on the 3rd Tuesday of the month for free entry!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
🌸 Spring is Peak Bloom
For the best floral displays, aim for spring for tulips and cherry blossoms. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free, making it easier to access the gardens.
📱 Book Tickets Online
Reserve your tickets in advance, especially for popular events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Descanso Gardens' stunning floral displays, especially during tulip season and for special events like 'Carved' and 'Enchanted'. The tranquil atmosphere and diverse gardens are frequently praised, making it a peaceful escape. However, some find the ticket prices for special evening events to be quite high for the duration, and the on-site dining options receive mixed reviews.
"🌿 A peaceful escape into nature’s artistry
Descanso Gardens is an absolute gem tucked just outside the bustle of LA. From the moment you step in, you’re surrounded by lush oak woodlands, vibrant camellias, and winding trails that feel like a gentle hug from Mother Earth. The Japanese Garden is especially serene, perfect for quiet reflection or snapping a photo that looks straight out of a fairytale.
I visited on a sunny afternoon and was greeted by chirping birds, turtles sunbathing by the pond, and the scent of blooming roses. It’s not just a garden. it’s a sensory experience. Whether you’re a plant lover, a photographer, or just someone needing a moment of calm, Descanso delivers.
Bonus: Free parking, friendly staff, and seasonal events that make each visit feel fresh. Highly recommend bringing water, sunscreen, and a curious spirit. 🌸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Would absolutely return."
Kaya M Landingin
"This place was wonderful! Beautiful scenery. Most of the flowers were in bloom. The mini train ride around the park was excellent and fun for all ages.
If you want a nice walk at your own pace, it's more than worth the $15 per ticket for the park and $5 per ticket for the 10 minute train ride.
It's family oriented and just great scenery all around."
drj0007
"🌷 A Spring Dream at Descanso Gardens
Stepping into Descanso Gardens in spring feels like walking through a living painting. I came during tulip season—and wow. Row after row of vibrant blooms in every shade imaginable: soft buttery yellows, fiery oranges, and the most striking red-and-white petals that looked hand-painted by nature itself. (See photos—though they hardly do it justice.)
The layout of the gardens invites you to wander slowly, pause often, and simply breathe. It never felt too crowded, and the peaceful energy was just what I needed to reset. There were families, solo strollers, and camera-happy flower lovers—all respectfully enjoying the space.
What stood out most beyond the blooms? The thoughtful design and care. Every turn offered a new view, a new texture, or a sweet surprise like a shaded bench tucked beside a bed of blossoms.
🌼 Pro tips:
Spring is an absolute must-visit if you love flowers.
Wear comfy shoes—you’ll want to explore every trail.
Bring your own coffee (trust me), and maybe a book or journal.
This place is a gem for locals and travelers alike. I’ll absolutely be back—and maybe bring a picnic next time."
Lesley Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011.
Public transportation options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the gardens.
Yes, the gardens are well-signposted. Use the address 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 for GPS navigation.
From downtown Los Angeles, take the I-210 East freeway towards Pasadena. Exit at La Cañada Flintridge and follow the signs for Descanso Gardens. The drive typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
While direct public transport is limited, you can take a bus to a nearby stop and then a short taxi or rideshare to the gardens. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, parking is free for all visitors, which is a great perk!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $15 for adults and $11 for students.+1 Prices can vary for special events like 'Carved' or 'Enchanted'.
Yes, the third Tuesday of each month offers free admission. Student and senior discounts are also usually available.
+1 Check their website for current pricing and any special offers.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for popular seasonal events, as they can sell out. You may be able to buy tickets at the gate, but booking ahead guarantees entry.
Opening hours vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check the official Descanso Gardens website for the most accurate and up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, Descanso Gardens offers various membership levels that provide unlimited access throughout the year, often with additional benefits. This can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning Japanese Garden, the vibrant Rose Garden, and the seasonal tulip displays.+1 The Enchanted Railroad is also a hit with families.
Absolutely! Kids love the Enchanted Railroad, the open spaces to explore, and the seasonal events like 'Carved'.
Descanso Gardens features a diverse collection, including native California plants, camellias, roses, and seasonal blooms like tulips and cherry blossoms.+2
Yes, Descanso Gardens hosts various events throughout the year, such as 'Carved' (Halloween), 'Enchanted' (holiday lights), and seasonal flower festivals.
Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a beautiful location for capturing stunning floral and landscape shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe, Penelope's Cafe, offering light meals and refreshments. Some visitors recommend dining elsewhere before or after your visit, especially during evening events.
Nearby dining options include La Cabanita in Montrose for authentic Mexican food, The Proper in La Cañada, and Hill Street Cafe in La Canada. Taylor's Steakhouse is also a popular choice just a short drive away.
Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas, but it's always best to check the garden's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
The cafe typically offers a selection of salads, sandwiches, and pastries. It's advisable to check their current menu or inquire upon arrival for specific dietary options.
Some visitors have mixed reviews about the on-site restaurant, with one Reddit user strongly advising against it for a date night. It might be best for a quick snack rather than a full meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The Japanese Garden with its bridges and water features, the vibrant Rose Garden, and the tulip fields in spring are all incredibly photogenic.
Yes, the beautiful landscapes and diverse gardens make Descanso Gardens a popular and picturesque location for engagement and wedding photography. Check their website for any specific photography permit requirements.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Generally, drones are not permitted in botanical gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the environment. Always check the garden's official policy.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for capturing intricate flower shots. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for sweeping garden vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for lots of walking – comfortable shoes are key! 💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Date Nights
For a truly magical experience, consider attending their evening events like 'Enchanted' for a dazzling light display.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Spectacles: Blooms and Beyond
+2 In winter, 'Enchanted' transforms the forest into a dazzling light show, a popular event that often sells out.Exploring the Diverse Gardens
Family Fun and Activities
+2 The gardens encourage discovery, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for all ages. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit