Descanso Gardens Botanical Garden is located in the La Cañada neighborhood of Los Angeles County, California. The 150-acre gem was developed as a year-round retreat for urban dwellers, highlighting the beauty of nature through an internationally renowned botanical collection and seasonal horticultural displays. The gardens, woodlands, and chaparral are maintained for all to enjoy, hosting thousands of visitors each year. Here is a guide to things to do and see at the Gardens.
Descanso Gardens Tours
Self-guided walks are the most enjoyable way to experience the garden, but guided tram tours are also available for a small fee. A gift shop is located near the entrance to the Gardens. It offers a range of home and garden furniture, including garden benches, birdbaths, lanterns, and cherubs. Art lovers can appreciate framed prints, original watercolors, rugs, and wall hangings. Of course, there is a large selection of garden and nature books for adults and children. Maps are available at the entrance.
Japanese Garden and Full Moon Tea House
The Full Moon Tea House area draws inspiration from Asian design and is one of the most impressive sections of the garden. It was built in 1966 with funds from the Descanso Gardens Guild. The beautiful blue tile roofing was imported from Japan, and features include a Shinto bridge and a traditional Japanese farmhouse, known as a Minka. Surrounding the teahouse is a koi pond and traditional landscaping, creating a serene environment ideal for quiet reflection.
Descanso Gardens History
This property once belonged to E. Manchester Boddy, a newspaper magnate and the owner of the Los Angeles Daily News. Because of his love for botanical plants, he operated a garden at the location. By 1952, facing financial difficulties with his newspaper, Boddy retired and sold the property to Los Angeles County in 1957. The Descanso Gardens Guild, formed by local volunteers, manages operations in partnership with the county —a model that continues today.
Original Boddy House
The Boddy House is a 12,000-square-foot, 22-room mansion that serves as the Boddy family’s residence during their time of ownership. It’s nestled into a hillside in the southeast corner of the property and offers a glimpse of glamor from a bygone era. A grant enabled the house to be renovated and furnished with museum-quality pieces throughout. The house is available for rent for events and weddings. It’s open for tours from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Enchanted Railroad
The Enchanted Railroad offers a delightful experience, allowing visitors to ride on a 1/8th scale train that travels through a section of the Descanso Gardens. In 2024, the original miniature diesel train was replaced with an electric train and an upgraded model train exhibit, combining modern technology with the original’s charm. The train follows a quarter-mile loop, passing through the Oak Forest, crossing a rustic bridge, and moving alongside the Rose Garden. The ride lasts approximately 6 minutes.
Model Train Exhibit:
Created by Applied Imagination, the exhibit features G-scale model trains winding through intricate, nature-inspired landscapes made from natural materials, some sourced from the gardens. Notable replicas include American train depots like Los Angeles’ Union Station.
Themed Gardens
The rose garden spans five acres and features more than 3,000 roses from regions worldwide. The collection includes most of the All-America Rose Selections winners since 1940. Nature’s Table is an edible garden with fruit trees, seasonal vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers. Surrounding the area are vines, bushes, and shrubs that set a tranquil mood. The California Garden showcases the best Southern California has to offer over an eight-acre garden. Oak Woodland: A shaded grove with coast live oaks, offering a peaceful walk and birdwatching opportunities.
Dining at Descanso Gardens
The Descanso Café is a great place to grab a bite and eat near the entrance to the Gardens. It is open for service from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and offers sandwiches and lunchtime specials, with outdoor seating available for enjoying the meal.
Getting to Descanso Garden
Seasonal Events: Enchanted Forest of Light – The gardens transform into a fantastic Holiday Lights display as the sun sets. November – December.
Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada, Flintridge, CA 91011. Parking is free. From the San Fernando Valley area, expect a 30-minute drive; it’s 20 minutes from downtown LA.
For information on events and to book tickets, visit descansogardens.org
Nearby Points of Interest
Mount Wilson Observatory (10 miles, via Angeles Crest Hwy): A historic astronomical site with the 100-inch Hooker Telescope. Offers weekend tours and stargazing events (seasonal); check mtWilson.edu for schedules. Admission $10–$15. Great for astronomy lovers.
The Huntington Library & Gardens (10 miles) is a popular day-trip destination in San Marino, California. This 207-acre complex houses a library, art collection, and spectacular gardens that attract tourists and some of the world’s most outstanding scholars. Opened in 1928, The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Garden were the gift of railroad tycoon Henry and his wife, Arabella Huntington.
Griffith Park, Los Angeles (15 miles) Griffith Park is in Los Feliz, a historic neighborhood in Los Angeles. The Park spans over 4,000 acres and is located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Often referred to as the “Central Park” of California, Griffith Park offers a variety of attractions, including a miniature train ride, a zoo visit, and museum exploration.