You may not have ever considered a garden as a museum, but Descanso Gardens is definitely a beautiful natural tribute to botanicals for you to enjoy. Descanso Gardens features lush and vibrant gardens of fantastic foliage. These year-round botanical gardens and incredible seasonal horticultural displays are nationally and internationally renown for their superior beauty.
Founded in 1953 by E. Manchester Boddy, the well-preserved botanical displays span more than 160 acres, and contain gardens, woodlands and vegetation for all ages to enjoy the natural beauty of California.

Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums, welcoming thousands of visitors from all over the world annually. It is a popular and favorite attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Featuring a Japanese rose garden, Camellias, and more, there is something for everyone as you explore some of the most beautiful greenery and flowers in existence. Enjoy a cocktail or snack by the gardens, or take an evening romantic walk with your sweetheart down the promenade viewing the delightful blooms and green scenes around you as you watch the sunset. The mission fountain is a tranquil scene perfect for photography.

Many festivals are held for a variety of seasonal botanicals throughout the year. This member supported botanical garden brings you an affordable and convenient way to experience nature up close while also learning about rare and specialized plants within the landscape. Plant lovers and home gardeners will especially appreciate the beauty that is experienced, and all of the efforts in maintaining such distinctive character through the natural world, as Descanso Gardens preserves some of the most beautiful plants the world has ever come to know.

The Sturt Haaga Gallery located on the property as part of Descanso Gardens, was opened in 2011. With the help of Los Angeles Architects Frederick Fisher and Partners, Mr. Boddy’s original 1500 square foot garage was converted into the gallery with stunning 12-foot high ceiling space. The gallery features two large vertical gardens for an interesting view that challenges the perspective of visitors and provokes creative thinking towards the botanicals that surround them. This modern gallery is a unique composition which blends the traditional and contemporary arts with the sciences in the botanical gardens. Throughout the year, three presentations, with each having a duration of three months can be viewed through the gallery. If this wasn’t enough there are additional educational and learning programs provided through Descanso Gardens. The gallery’s three exhibitions throughout the year, present a unique and generous collection of contemporary artwork which relates to various botanical and naturally related themes. Each exhibit also features an enriching educational program or learning activity for children to enjoy. Every Tuesday, Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays; adults and children alike can climb aboard and enjoy the Enchanted Railroad at Descanso Gardens which travels around the gardens. Mr. Boddy’s Hollywood style mansion on the property is a large museum that highlights the history of the property and is a popular venue for weddings and other special events. There is so much to do at Descanso Gardens, with a CafÉ and Gift Shop on site, you can easily spend an entire day dazzled by the natural beauty and history. Admission prices are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for children, and kids under 5 years get in free, members can enjoy free admission. Don’t forget to come back for the Enchanted Forest of Light, a special program only available during the Holiday season. Descanso Gardens and the Boddy House can be rented for weddings, meetings or conventions, photography sessions, and other special occasions. This is a special must-see attraction for ocals and tourists, families and individuals, renown for all that it has to offer.

Address: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011