Moorten Botanical Garden
A historic, family-owned desert oasis showcasing over 3,000 varieties of cacti and succulents in a magical setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid peak heat
Moorten Botanical Garden
Best Time
Avoid peak heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, family-owned desert oasis showcasing over 3,000 varieties of cacti and succulents in a magical setting.
"This one is the best one yet. We never really imagined visiting a desert themed garden, full of so many varieties of cacti & succulents."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water!
Palm Springs gets hot! Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cactarium
Vintage-style greenhouse
A magical greenhouse filled with the most Instagram-worthy spiky plants you've ever seen. It's hot, wild-looking, and completely magical.
Desert Plant Diversity
Throughout the garden
Explore over 3,000 varieties of desert plants, cacti, and rare succulents from around the world.
Wildlife Encounters
Various garden areas
Keep an eye out for resident birds, tortoises, and lizards that add to the garden's charm.
The Nursery
Garden nursery
Purchase unique desert plants and cacti to take home; the plants are known for their health and quality.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water!
Palm Springs gets hot! Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
Take Your Time
Don't rush; there are many hidden secrets and details to discover. :stopwatch:
Buy Plants to Take Home
The nursery has healthy, unique plants. Get them shipped if you can't carry them. :package:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water!
Palm Springs gets hot! Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :droplet:
Take Your Time
Don't rush; there are many hidden secrets and details to discover. :stopwatch:
Buy Plants to Take Home
The nursery has healthy, unique plants. Get them shipped if you can't carry them. :package:
Capture the Magic
This place is incredibly photogenic, especially the Cactarium. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Moorten Botanical Garden as a beautiful and unique desert gem. Many highlight the incredible diversity of cacti and succulents, the charming Cactarium, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. It's often described as a peaceful and magical escape, perfect for plant lovers and photographers alike. Some note the intense summer heat, recommending visits during cooler parts of the day or year.
"Wow! What a beautiful gem in the desert. Every year, for our wedding anniversary, we go to a different botanical garden from around this country. They have all been amazing, but this one is the best one yet. We met Clark Moorten, the owner and curator of the estate, and he was the kindest, sweetest, most knowledgeable man we have ever encountered. We never really imagined visiting a desert themed garden, full of so many varieties of cacti & succulents, as well as, birds and tortoises. Despite the high heat of summer (110 degrees F), it was still such an eye opening experience. HIGHLY RECOMMEND, if you enjoy botanical gardens."
Thomas Moore
"A nice cacti garden to walk around in. The staff was very friendly, and offered guided or self guided tours. Was fun to walk around and see the various cacti, other vegetation, birds, tortoises, lizards, and a hummingbird nest. Was a fun relaxing area to meander through."
Nicholas W
"If you love succulents and cacti like I do, you have to visit Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs. I stopped by this past January and it quickly became one of my favorite spots of the whole trip.
It’s a small, family-owned garden tucked right in the middle of the desert—and it’s packed with hundreds of stunning cactus varieties, rare succulents, and desert plants from all over the world. Every turn felt like a tiny alien landscape. 🌵🪴
The best part? The Cactarium—a vintage-style greenhouse filled with the most Instagram-worthy spiky plants you’ve ever seen. It was hot, wild-looking, and completely magical.
They also have a little nursery where you can buy plants to take home. I couldn’t resist—I bought a couple and had them shipped back to my house because TSA doesn’t love spiky souvenirs 😅
It’s peaceful, weirdly romantic, and a total vibe if you love desert beauty. You don’t need a whole day—just an hour and an appreciation for plants with personality.
Don’t skip this gem next time you’re in Palm Springs."
Deanna Trusty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moorten Botanical Garden is located at 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring Palm Springs.
Yes, there is parking available at the garden, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a popular way to get to Moorten Botanical Garden, especially if you're staying in the Palm Springs area.
The garden has trails, some of which may be uneven. While strollers can be managed, it's advisable to be prepared for some rougher patches.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Palm Springs, located on South Palm Canyon Drive. Look for the distinctive entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically $5 for adults, $2 for children aged 5-15, and free for children under 5. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing.
The garden's hours can vary seasonally. For example, the summer schedule might be 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Always confirm current hours before your visit.
Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for special events or during peak seasons, it might be wise to check if advance booking is recommended.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the admission price is quite affordable. Check their website or inquire at the entrance for any potential offers.
Coupons are not commonly advertised. The best value is the already low admission price, which includes access to a vast collection of desert plants.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is highly encouraged! The garden is incredibly photogenic, especially the Cactarium, offering unique shots of desert plants.
The Cactarium is a must for stunning photos. Also, explore the various themed outdoor gardens and look for interesting textures and colors among the cacti and succulents.
While personal photography is welcome, it's best to check with the garden staff regarding professional equipment or tripods, especially during busy times, to ensure it doesn't obstruct other visitors.
The garden offers guided tours that can highlight visually interesting areas, but dedicated photography tours are not typically advertised. You can certainly use a guided tour to inform your photo spots.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more dramatic lighting for your photos, avoiding harsh midday sun.
🎫 🌵 Plant & Garden Experience
You'll find over 3,000 varieties of desert plants, cacti, and rare succulents from around the world. It's a living museum of desert flora.
The Cactarium is a unique, vintage-style greenhouse filled with an extraordinary collection of cacti and spiky plants, making it a highlight for many visitors.
Yes, there's a nursery where you can purchase a variety of healthy desert plants and cacti to take home.
While some visitors spend an hour, many recommend allocating 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the diverse collections and discover hidden gems.
Yes, the garden staff often offers guided or self-guided tours, providing insights into the plant collections and the garden's history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water and hats, as it can get very hot. 🌵 Plant Enthusiasts & Gardeners
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Museum of Desert Flora
+2The garden spans about an acre and houses an impressive collection of over 3,000 varieties of desert plants, cacti, and rare succulents sourced from across the globe. Visitors can wander through themed outdoor gardens, discover the unique Desert Lily House, and marvel at the historical exhibits that tell the story of the Moorten family's passion for desert flora.
+1Many visitors are struck by the garden's ability to transform a seemingly barren landscape into a vibrant, otherworldly environment. The sheer variety and unique forms of the plants create a truly magical and tranquil escape right in the heart of Palm Springs.
The Enchanting Cactarium
It's a photographer's dream, offering countless opportunities for unique and Instagram-worthy shots. The dense collection and the interplay of light and shadow within the greenhouse make it feel like stepping into another world.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Cactarium represents the Moorten family's dedication to preserving and displaying these fascinating desert specimens. It’s a place where the beauty and resilience of desert life are celebrated in a concentrated, captivating space.
A Family-Owned Treasure
Visitors often have the chance to interact with the family, who are known for their kindness and willingness to share their expertise. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond a typical tourist attraction, making it feel more like visiting a friend's extraordinary collection.
This legacy of family stewardship ensures that the garden continues to be a place of wonder and education, preserving its unique character and horticultural significance for generations to come.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit