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THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
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Huntington
Library and Gardens
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The Hungtington Library and Gardens is a popular day-trip
destination located in San Marino, California. This
207-acre complex houses a library, art collection and
spectacular gardens that attracts tourists as well as
some of the world's greatest scholars.
Opened in 1928, The Huntington Library, Art Collections,
and Botanical Garden were the gift of railroad tycoon
Henry and his wife Arabella Huntington, who in 1919
created a trust that would allow future generations
the opportunity to view their personal collection of
manuscripts, books, documents and art, as well as conduct
research in the Library and enjoy the colorful flowers
and unusual plants in their 120-acre Botanical Garden.
Today, the Library and art gallery contain some of
the rarest books under one roof and one of the most
complete collections of 18th century art, which no other
museum in the world does.
Extraordinary gems are housed here. Items such as the
Gutenberg Bible, the Ellesmere manuscript of Canterbury
Tales, a 60,000-item Jack London archive and works by
important figures such as Audubon and Shakespeare.
The Library was also once known for being one of the
first institutions to release the complete set of Dead
Sea Scroll pictures for researchers to study, as well
as housing the Nuremberg Laws that were donated by General
Patton himself.
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Hntington Library San Marino |
But it's not
just what is inside that attracts guests.
Beyond the walls of the Library, there are different
themed gardens for visitors to roam, such as Japanese,
Chinese, Desert, Tropical, Australian, Rose, Shakespeare,
Conservatory, and Jungle Gardens. There's even a special
Children's Garden for the youngsters.
For many, these Botanical Gardens are the highlight of
their Huntington experience, and contain some unique and
rare plants from around the globe.
Whether you prefer the tranquility of the Japanese Garden
with its ponds, and pagodas, or the romance of the Shakespeare
Garden, the Botanical Garden is a relaxing place for an
afternoon stroll.
Most of the pathways that meander through the gardens
are wheelchair accessible, and The Huntington publishes
a map that includes a guide to walkways that may not.
New at the Huntington Library, and part of the $20 million
renovation in 2008, visitors may now tour the Huntington's
home, furnished with antiques as it when the couple occupied
it.
Inside you will find not only rare and unique works from
van Dyck, Canaletto, Turner and Constable. But also well-known
artwork such as Thomas Gainsborough's Blue Boy and Thomas
Lawrence's Pinkie. There is also a fine collection of
French porcelain as well as several delicate tapestries.
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Japanese Garden at the Huntington
Museum |
Desert Garden at the
Huntington Museum |
While guests are free to roam the entire
complex on their own, the Huntington does offer several
different types of tours of the Library and the Botanical
Garden. There is also a free daily garden tour, as well
as group tours of the Chinese Garden and the entire estate.
For those looking to add a little more
to the experience. The Tea and Tour package is a nice
choice. The package includes admission to the Huntington,
and a private tour and tea at the Huntington's famous
Rose Garden Tea Room. The cost is $55 and visitors will
need to make reservations at least one month before their
visit.
The Huntington is open Mondays and Wednesdays
– Fridays from 12:00 noon to 4:30 P.M. On weekends,
you can visit from 10:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. The Huntington
is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is free to all the 1st
Thursday of each month. Visitors to The Huntington on "Free
Day" must have a ticket which they can get by calling
800-838-3006. Free tickets run out so call early in the
month.
There are two eateries on the grounds. The Rose Tea Room
, and the Cafe where you can grab a sandwich, burger,
salad or other light snacks and drinks.
An afternoon at The Huntington Library,
Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens is an ideal way
to spend quality family time, and perfect day to spend
with grandparents and other special out-of-town visitors.
Be prepared to do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable
clothing and shoes.
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical
Gardens
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, CA 91108
Parking is free at The Huntington
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Balboa
Park 15 museums housed in the park’s
ornate structures. |
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Getty
Center
Perhaps the best free attraction in Los Angeles. |
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Library birthplace
and final resting place of the 37th presdent. |
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