Orton Botanical Garden
A surprisingly vast and meticulously curated collection of desert flora, Orton Botanical Garden is a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy a peaceful stroll
Orton Botanical Garden
Best Time
Enjoy a peaceful stroll
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprisingly vast and meticulously curated collection of desert flora, Orton Botanical Garden is a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape.
"This was more impressive than expected. It appeared to have very little fanfare so we weren't sure about it."
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Hours are minimal; always check before you go, especially on weekends.
💖 Support with Donations
This privately maintained garden relies on donations to thrive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Cactus & Yucca Collection
Explore a diverse array of cacti, Joshua trees, and other yucca varieties, all meticulously labeled and beautifully displayed.
Drought-Tolerant Plant Paradise
Wander through pathways showcasing a plethora of desert plants, including flowering perennials that attract pollinators.
Seasonal 'Christmas in the Garden'
Experience the magical holiday light display during the Christmas season, a charming and peaceful evening attraction.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover a Desert Oasis
Check Hours & Support Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Hours are minimal; always check before you go, especially on weekends.
💖 Support with Donations
This privately maintained garden relies on donations to thrive.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied pathways. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Beauty
The garden offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during the holidays. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Verify Opening Hours
Hours are minimal; always check before you go, especially on weekends.
💖 Support with Donations
This privately maintained garden relies on donations to thrive.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied pathways. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Beauty
The garden offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during the holidays. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by Orton Botanical Garden's unexpected size and the remarkable diversity of its desert flora, often calling it a 'hidden gem.' The meticulous labeling and the dedication evident in its private maintenance are frequently praised. While the minimal hours and voluntary donation system are noted, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many finding it more impressive than anticipated.
"Way bigger than I expected with tons of cool cacti, Joshua trees, and other yucca varieties. Very neat!"
Jake Grow
"A great collection of plants including an extensive Eriogonum collection, with everything labeled clearly! Sweet!"
Bev Shaw
"I went one Sunday afternoon for a plant sale and stayed for a nice stroll through the garden. I enjoyed the desert landscape with the many drought tolerant plants. They display several varieties of perennial flowering plants that the pollenators flock to, cacti, and succulents. A plethora of yucca adorn the pathways including multiple Joshua trees. I was particularly fond of the desert willow trees with their delicately sweet floral perfume. I even encountered a sweet little quail family winding their way through the garden."
Emily Xavier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Orton Botanical Garden is located in Twin Falls, Idaho. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available inside the gates, but can be limited, so street parking is also an option.
It's often described as a 'hidden gem' and can appear to have 'little fanfare,' so it's best to use GPS and be aware that it might not be immediately obvious.
Parking is available inside the garden gates, but it can be limited. Visitors may need to park along the street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no fee to enter Orton Botanical Garden. It's a privately maintained space that relies on donations.
The garden keeps very minimal hours, so it's essential to check their schedule before visiting. They are often open on weekend afternoons.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged and are accepted in boxes located near the entrance/exit. These contributions are vital for the garden's maintenance.
Information on guided tours is not widely available, but the garden is designed for self-exploration with clearly labeled plants.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast collection of drought-tolerant plants, including numerous cacti, Joshua trees, yuccas, and various perennial flowering plants that attract pollinators.
Absolutely! The garden features pathways winding through desert landscapes, making it perfect for a nice stroll and appreciating the flora.
Yes, Orton Botanical Garden hosts a popular 'Christmas in the Garden' event during the holiday season, featuring beautiful light displays. 
Visitors often remark that the garden is 'way bigger than I expected' and 'much much larger than expected,' indicating a substantial and immersive experience.
While not explicitly stated, many visitors enjoy the natural setting. It's always best to check for specific pet policies if you plan to bring a pet. shows a dog enjoying a sunset nearby, hinting at a pet-friendly atmosphere in the general area.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse plant collections, especially the cacti and Joshua trees, offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The 'Christmas in the Garden' event provides a particularly magical backdrop for photos.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of the unique desert flora and seasonal displays.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting for the desert landscape, while evening is ideal during the 'Christmas in the Garden' event for capturing the lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's no specific play area, the open pathways provide space for children to explore. It's a great opportunity for them to connect with nature in a unique desert setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's plenty of ground to cover.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water, as dining options are not available on-site. This makes it an ideal spot for a picnic or a simple, cost-free outing. The value you receive in terms of natural beauty and educational content far outweighs the minimal cost of a voluntary donation.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
During the holiday season, the 'Christmas in the Garden' event transforms the space into a romantic, twinkling wonderland.
+1 It's a perfect setting for an evening date, combining the magic of holiday lights with the unique beauty of the botanical garden. Remember to check the hours and dress warmly if visiting during the winter months. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Labor of Love: The Garden's Creation
Visitors frequently compare it favorably to larger, publicly funded botanical gardens, highlighting that Orton Botanical Garden, despite its private nature and minimal fanfare, can exceed expectations.
The garden showcases a remarkable collection of drought-tolerant plants, a deliberate choice that reflects the arid environment. From an extensive Eriogonum collection to a plethora of yuccas, including multiple Joshua trees, the diversity is striking.
Experiencing 'Christmas in the Garden'
+1 It's often recommended as a perfect peaceful evening date during the Christmas season, offering a unique way to celebrate the holidays in Twin Falls. Visitors who have braved the cold to experience the lights have found it to be 'so worth the visit.'
The event provides a wonderful opportunity to see the garden in a completely different, festive light, adding another dimension to its appeal beyond its daytime botanical offerings. While the experience is highly praised, it's worth noting that the event can draw a crowd, making it a 'medium' crowd experience.
Social
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