Bancroft Gardens
A world-renowned 3.5-acre dry garden showcasing exceptional succulents, cacti, and drought-tolerant plants, born from Ruth Bancroft's pioneering spiri...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for blooming cacti & succulents
Bancroft Gardens
Best Time
Ideal for blooming cacti & succulents
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned 3.5-acre dry garden showcasing exceptional succulents, cacti, and drought-tolerant plants, born from Ruth Bancroft's pioneering spirit.
"A MUST visit in the East Bay, favorite garden of all time!"
Bring Your Questions! 🙋♀️
Docents and gardeners are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the unique plants.
Membership for Locals 🌟
Highly recommended for East Bay residents for regular visits and exclusive events.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Agave isthmensis x colorata
Curator's Hybrid Collection
Witness a unique hybrid agave, a testament to the garden's innovative spirit, with striking blooms.

Garden of D'Lights
Throughout the Garden
Experience a magical holiday light display transforming the succulent and cactus landscape into a festive wonderland.
Opuntia Robusta
Prickly Pear Collection
Admire the large, bluish pads and vibrant yellow flowers of this impressive prickly pear species native to Mexico.

Yucca Carnerosana
Specimen Trees
See a resilient Yucca with a unique history, showcasing Ruth Bancroft's dedication to plant survival and care.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Peak Bloom
Membership Perks & Event Planning
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Questions! 🙋♀️
Docents and gardeners are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the unique plants.
Membership for Locals 🌟
Highly recommended for East Bay residents for regular visits and exclusive events.
Event Venue Gem 🍃
A stunning, naturally beautiful venue for weddings and events, accommodating up to 150 guests.
Check 'What's in Bloom' 🌱
Stay updated on specific plant flowering times via their YouTube channel.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Questions! 🙋♀️
Docents and gardeners are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the unique plants.
Membership for Locals 🌟
Highly recommended for East Bay residents for regular visits and exclusive events.
Event Venue Gem 🍃
A stunning, naturally beautiful venue for weddings and events, accommodating up to 150 guests.
Check 'What's in Bloom' 🌱
Stay updated on specific plant flowering times via their YouTube channel.
Holiday Lights Tradition 🎄
The Garden of D'Lights is a peaceful and beautiful holiday tradition for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ruth Bancroft Gardens for its stunning collection of succulents and cacti, unique beauty, and knowledgeable staff. It's a highly recommended destination for its educational value and serene atmosphere. However, some patrons have expressed disappointment with customer service regarding plant purchases and a lack of on-site food vendors during regular hours.
"Very nice, with great volunteers, docents, and gardeners to talk to. Odd that they have several tables and other places to sit, but no food vendor. I guess those are for uae diring events at the education center."
Chris Gammon
"Bought two yellow proteas two weeks ago, which died within days. For context, we have planted them in the same spot where other thriving proteas are (see last two photos). Went to Ruth Bancroft today to ask why and maybe have an expert suggestion - in the hope of an exchange or at least a discount on two new healthy plants - especially considering the amount of plants we bought from them for the past two years. Instead we only got a patronizing “they look dead to me, sorry, it happens”.
Excuse me?
That’s not the customer care I would expect from a reputable nursery such as this one.
What a shame."
Simon Parmeggiani
"Favorite garden of all time. A MUST visit when you are in the East Bay. If you live here, I highly recommend becoming a member and doing morning walks in the garden when you can."
Paula Lark
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruth Bancroft Gardens is located in Walnut Creek, California. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may involve BART to Walnut Creek station followed by a short taxi or rideshare.
Yes, there is parking available at the gardens. It's generally ample, especially outside of major event times.
It's recommended to call the Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery directly at (925) 944-9352 to inquire about the availability of Palo Verde trees.
The gardens are located at 1555 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. Use your preferred GPS navigation for the most accurate route.
Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a half-day or full-day trip, offering a unique and educational experience in a beautiful setting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $5 for children. Children 4 and under are free. They also offer free admission with an EBT card under the Museums for All program.
The gardens are typically open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or special closures.
While not always mandatory for general admission, booking in advance is recommended, especially for special events like the Garden of D'Lights or if you're visiting during peak times.
Yes, discounts are available for seniors and children. They also participate in the Museums for All program, offering free admission with an EBT card.
The garden paths are generally accessible, but some areas might be uneven due to the natural landscape. It's advisable to check with the garden directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The garden specializes in climate-resilient plants, featuring an extensive collection of succulents, cacti, and drought-tolerant species from arid regions worldwide.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the garden's collections and history. Self-guided tours are also an option.
The Garden of D'Lights is a popular holiday event where the gardens are illuminated with thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a visually stunning place, perfect for capturing unique plant life.
Yes, there are several tables and seating areas throughout the garden, though food vendors are typically only present during special events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food vendors are generally not present for regular visits. They are typically available only during special events or at the education center. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks or plan to dine elsewhere.
Bringing your own food and drinks is usually permitted for personal consumption, especially for a picnic. However, it's best to consume them in designated areas and be mindful of the garden's environment.
Yes, Walnut Creek offers a variety of dining options. You can find numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the downtown Walnut Creek area, a short drive from the gardens.
Yes, Ruth Bancroft Gardens is a popular venue for events, and they work with preferred planners who can arrange catering services for your event.
During special events like the Champagne Stroll, alcoholic beverages such as champagne are typically offered. Check event details for specific offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a unique shot! Focus on the textures of succulents, the vibrant colors of blooming cacti, and the architectural forms of the plants. The Garden of D'Lights is also a photographer's dream.
Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or special events to ensure visitor flow. It's best to check the garden's photography policy or inquire upon arrival.
Keep an eye on their events calendar. They occasionally host workshops or have 'Designer in the Nursery' events that might appeal to photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Yes, the gardens are a popular and stunning location for wedding and engagement photos. They also host weddings, offering various spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the garden is beautiful, it's important to supervise children closely due to the presence of prickly plants. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as food vendors are not always available. The educational aspect of the garden, with its focus on drought-tolerant plants, can also be a valuable learning opportunity for young minds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save on food expenses, as on-site dining options are limited. Focus on enjoying the self-guided tour to maximize your experience without additional costs. The sheer beauty and educational value of the garden provide a rich experience without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Beyond photography, the garden's artistic merit lies in its landscape design and the living sculptures that are its plants. It's a place to appreciate the artistry of nature and horticultural design. The 'Garden of D'Lights' also offers a unique, illuminated artistic experience during the holiday season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Ruth Bancroft
Bancroft's dedication to conservation and education is a cornerstone of the garden's mission. She actively collected and propagated rare and unusual succulents and cacti, many of which are now iconic specimens within the garden. Her work laid the foundation for what is considered one of the finest dry gardens in the world, inspiring countless gardeners and horticulturists. The garden continues to honor her legacy through its ongoing horticultural research, plant propagation, and public outreach programs.
Visitors can feel Ruth's spirit throughout the garden, from the carefully curated beds to the resilient plants that have adapted to the arid environment. Her story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep love for the natural world, making the Ruth Bancroft Garden more than just a collection of plants, but a living museum of horticultural history.
A Succulent and Cactus Paradise
The garden's curator, Brian Kemble, has been instrumental in developing and maintaining these collections for over 45 years. He has even created unique hybrids, such as the Agave isthmensis x colorata, demonstrating the garden's commitment to horticultural innovation. Visitors can witness these special creations and learn about the fascinating reproductive processes of these desert dwellers, including the dramatic 'death bloom' phenomenon seen in some agave species.
Beyond the well-known species, the garden features a wide array of less common plants, offering a unique educational experience. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or a curious beginner, the sheer variety and beauty of the succulents and cacti at Ruth Bancroft Gardens are sure to leave a lasting impression. It's a place to marvel at nature's ingenuity and the beauty of plants that flourish with minimal water.
Events and Venue Hire
The venue's natural beauty means less decoration is needed, allowing the stunning flora to take center stage. Preferred event planners are available to help coordinate your event, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. From ceremonies amidst the cacti to receptions under the stars, the garden offers a truly distinctive setting.
Beyond private events, the garden hosts a variety of public programs and workshops throughout the year. These can range from plant sales and member events to guided tours and educational talks, such as Brian Kemble's anniversary celebration, which highlights the garden's rich history and horticultural expertise. Checking their events calendar is a must for those looking to experience the garden in a different light or to participate in community gatherings.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit