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Located 30 minutes north of San Diego in Encinitas, California, is the 37-acre San Diego Botanic Garden. The garden offers visitors a chance to see all sorts of lovely foliage. There are rare bamboo groves, desert gardens, a tropical rainforest, California native plants, and Mediterranean climate landscapes. There are also succulent gardens, an herb garden, a subtropical fruit garden, and native coastal sage natural areas. It’s a wondrous place! Kids love the Hamilton Children’s Garden and its climbing structures, a petting zoo, interesting crafts, and a new scavenger hunt every month!
Mike Shubic (Mike's Road Trip)
15:50 09 Apr 24
During a visit to the San Diego Botanical Gardens, I was filled with anticipation, considering the region's renowned... climate and its potential for lush, vibrant landscapes. While the gardens are indeed a pleasant retreat, offering a decent variety of flora and serene walkways, I must confess they didn't quite live up to the high expectations I had set based on other botanical gardens I've had the pleasure of visiting.The San Diego climate, known for its warmth and sunshine, seems like it would be the perfect backdrop for an expansive and exotic collection of plants and flowers. However, I found the variety and presentation at the San Diego Botanical Gardens to be somewhat lacking in comparison. It's certainly nice, with well-maintained paths, a peaceful atmosphere, and several lovely spots to sit and take in the surroundings, but it doesn't quite offer the wow factor or the educational depth I've encountered elsewhere.That said, there are definitely highlights worth mentioning. The garden does offer a few unique specimens and themed sections that capture the imagination, and it's clear that the staff puts a lot of effort into the maintenance and design of the space. It's a good place for a leisurely stroll, to unwind, or even to find a quiet spot for reading or reflection.The admission price is reasonable, and considering the effort that goes into keeping the gardens beautiful, it feels fair. The facility also hosts events and educational programs from time to time, which I can imagine would add value to a visit.In conclusion, while the San Diego Botanical Gardens might not have left me as awestruck as some other gardens have, it remains a nice spot for those looking to enjoy a bit of nature. It offers a tranquil environment to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, even if it doesn't quite reach the botanical richness one might expect given the local climate. It's worth a visit if you're in the area and looking for a pleasant outdoor activity.read more
Mary N.
22:51 08 Apr 24
This is a sprawling, educational preserve that holds flowers, trees, grasses, cacti, and vines from all over the world.... Paths meander and wind all over, up hill and down, past a waterfall and turtle pond, and there are unobtrusive signs everywhere that explain what you're seeing and where it's typically found. There's a tram if you're not up for the walk, and a raised open lookout with great views of native trees and shrubs. The staff are everywhere, and they're knowledgeable and helpful. We spent over 2 hours exploring - a great spot!read more
Lisa Cea
00:54 01 Apr 24
We walked around here for about two hours and definitely could have stayed longer but it was a spontaneous visit and we... weren't wearing the best shoes. Beautiful plants and trails as well as a fun treehouse for the kids to climb.read more
Anthony Cunningham
11:07 27 Mar 24
Absolutely amazing place with so many wonderful plants. The staff are so kind and knowledgeable. The landscaping is... just so magical you can easily spend hours at this place.read more
James Bray
21:56 04 Mar 24
Delightful garden and worth a visit or even a membership! Large parking lot with plenty of parking. There are several... Blink Level 2 chargers, but were are not operational yet. If you are coming with someone needing a mobility chair you'll need to bring your own. I'd recommend a powered chair as there are some significant elevation changes on their wide paved roads. The side paths are generally dirt and quite narrow. Lots of restrooms available throughout. There is even an incredible toddler playground with a shallow stream, climbing areas and is a wonderful place to bring youngsters and pre-teens.read more
Udo Wahn
19:41 24 Feb 24
Gorgeous gardens highlight different habitats around the world in a peaceful setting overlooking the ocean. You must... go and bring your family including kids. So much to see and learn. A great way to spend a half or whole day!read more
Desiree Betancourt
00:03 14 Feb 24
Rain or shine, the Bottom of Nicla Garden is an enchanting escape that shouldn't be missed. Despite visiting on a rainy... day, the experience was nothing short of magical. The raindrops added an extra layer of tranquility to the lush surroundings, making it feel like stepping into a serene oasis. The garden's beauty truly shines through in any weather. From the vibrant array of flowers to the soothing sound of raindrops hitting the foliage, every moment spent here is a treat for the senses. I highly recommend taking a stroll through the Bottom of Nicla Garden, rain or shine, for an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.read more
Marcia Jahn
02:22 23 Jan 24
We went to see Lightscape San Diego on the very last day of the season on Jan. 7th. We were through it in a quick 30... minutes which was unexpected considering we paid $116 for 4 people. They had some cool lights along the path but it was far too short in my opinion. We were hoping for an experience more like the Zoo lights or the Safari Park which was my bad to have too high of expectations.read more
rlk k
16:24 22 Jan 24
Flew in from Texas just to attend the Christmas light display. This display of lights is more than amazing. The... parking was easy, the movement of people through the display was well planned and thought out and the displays were creative with amazing diversity. Great place for family, get away or a date.read more
Regina Hockert
04:40 20 Jan 24
The children's garden is very fun and great to explore and climb around. There are some cool different sections, the... native plants and native people section was lacking more information, upkeep, and traditional building methods, one of the people we went with is Native American and their were disappointed on the lack of collaboration with local Native American tribes and people for it. I hope this section gets updated soon!read more
Beth Legg Photography
16:34 16 Jan 24
Such a beautiful and expansive garden! It really does feel tucked away from it all. There are many different sections... to explore and relax in - a lovely place to be present and enjoy nature. It's a great place for a date. As a photographer, I had the honor of capturing a proposal here! If you plan to take photos here, note that there is a required photography permit!read more
Hannah G
03:23 08 Jan 24
Came here for the light scape. Really pretty, a ton of lights. Path gets a little clogged from people stopping to take... pictures or look at the lights, even when it’s not very crowded. But really pretty and a ton to look at. Took a little over an hour to walk throughread more
Angela Lin
01:38 31 Dec 23
Visited for the lightscape Christmas event. It is beautiful and fun time to spend with family. Estimated and hour... visit. Recommend dressing warmly. You are allowed to bring in your own drinks (non-a) and snacks.read more
flat track
07:29 29 Dec 23
We had so much fun and the display areas were AMAZING !! There was so much to see, that we went through it twice. The... "Hand pie and triple cheese macaroni" were fantastic. All of the staff were friendly and interactive. I have already told others to go.You NEED to go as well !!!read more
Viennelyn Maier
23:13 18 Dec 23
This review is specifically for the Lightscape San Diego event.It was our first time attending, and my husband and I... absolutely loved every moment of this unique blend of art and music. The 1-mile loop was adorned with captivating light installations, most of which followed unique themes. Our personal favorite was the mesmerizing "Flow" installation by Squiidsoup. Along the way, there were various stops offering delicious food and drinks, including hot chocolate and warm mulled apple cider. The addition of Christmas music added to the enchanting atmosphere, creating a perfect fusion of visual and auditory delights. Considering the distance covered and the quality of installations showcased, we felt that it was definitely worth the price we paid.Overall, this event is a perfect blend of beauty, art, and music, making it an ideal choice for a romantic date night or a memorable outing with family and friends.read more
Taniyyus Syed
08:48 18 Dec 23
Beautiful botanical gardens in Encinitas. We went to the lightscape show in December and it was amazing.But tickets... and parking online to make it seamless. Expect to spend around an hour or so. The colors are vibrant and covers vast expanse.read more
Jay Pittman
01:13 12 Dec 23
“San Diego Botanical Gardens is an oasis of natural beauty and tranquility, a place where you can immerse yourself in... the wonders of nature. The gardens are meticulously maintained, showcasing a diverse range of flora from around the world. Each section of the garden offers a unique experience, from the tropical rainforest area to the desert gardens, making it a place of discovery and delight for all ages.The Light Scape show is a spectacle not to be missed. As the sun sets and the gardens are bathed in twilight, the Light Scape show begins its enchanting display. This immersive experience transforms the gardens into a magical wonderland. Thousands of twinkling lights adorn the trees, plants, and pathways, creating a mesmerizing landscape of light and color.The creativity and thoughtfulness behind each installation are evident. The lights are arranged in such a way that they highlight the natural beauty of the gardens, casting a new perspective on the plants and trees. The show is accompanied by a soft, ambient soundtrack that further enhances the mystical atmosphere.The Light Scape show is not just a visual feast but also an interactive experience. There are installations that respond to movement and touch, making it a fun and engaging experience for children and adults alike.Visiting the San Diego Botanical Gardens and experiencing the Light Scape show is a magical journey that combines the beauty of nature with the artistry of light. It’s a unique, unforgettable experience that is both relaxing and exhilarating. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a lover of art and light, or looking for a unique evening out, the San Diego Botanical Gardens and the Light Scape show are a must-visit.”read more
Kayla Putty
00:34 30 Nov 23
Beautiful botanic garden! I love coming here with my son as they not only have amazing plant life but also a huge tree... jungle playground. It’s really not $$$ for an annual membership and totally worth it if youre local or just visiting the area.read more
Lisa Lorraine Bowen-Moore
16:33 16 Nov 23
Spent a lovely Sunday afternoon here. Loved that you can purchase tickets in advance online and set a reservation time... so that you avoid being crowded up. Got there early and sat in the car til my time came. Many places to sit and reflect. Quiet and peaceful.read more
Deborah “Prof Quan”
05:40 31 Oct 23
I finally visited the San Diego botanical after two failed attempts before. Making a reservation online in advanced... using the reciprocal program enabled us to get in for free after confirming our membership with the Los Angeles Arboretum and identity.The volunteer lady at the entrance was super nice and explained the gardens to us.There are some flowers that I don't recall seeing at the Los Angeles Arboretum. The dragon trees here are much taller and bigger. Not a huge garden all in all but I enjoyed seeing every part of it.read more
Rem Henshaw
02:34 25 Sep 23
This place was much bigger than I thought it would be. Kind of disappointed the cafe was not even open yet (still being... built). The only place to get food or drinks was the Cork Oak coffee stand, up towards the middle of the gardens. There were drinking fountains by some of the various restrooms throughout the gardens though. I did enjoy the gift shop the most, and the herb garden area. Also unfortunately the bamboo garden area was closed for renovation today as well (including the turtle pond!!!) Took about three and a half hours to see everything, including taking breaks to rest and take photos. Beautiful view @ the south lookout tower. Adult entry without discount costs $18.00. Wear your hiking shoes for this adventure!!read more
Jason Garcia
22:20 04 Sep 23
Went here over Labor Day. This is a must go with a family. Even a date day or a date night. They have a great coffee... selection iced or hot. You can spend 3 hrs here and not see everything. Enjoy the walk with hills and flat areas. Enjoy the different smells of plants and flowers.read more
Jean Westcott
01:10 29 Aug 23
A great introduction to both the native and introduced flora in Southern California.Lots of shade, so even when it is... hot and sunny there is always a shady path or bench around the corner.The signage was attractive and informative. I was able to use my hometown garden membership for free reciprocal admission.read more
Diana W
05:53 25 Jul 23
Amazing Botanic Garden! Spent at least 3 hours and could've stayed 3 more. I was there for the bloom of the Corpse... Plant, absolutely beautiful! Loved learning the different plants from all over the world. It was overcast and a perfect day for outdoor adventure.read more
Ray Wollberg
01:52 06 Jul 23
7/5/2023B E A Utiful gardens. I especially enjoyed the carnivorous plants close to the entrance. We spent a couple... hours here and enjoyed the many different gardens.They take very good care of their displays and had many resting places which I really appreciated.Five stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟read more
G. H. Montgomery
00:11 25 Jun 23
Treat yourself to a day of unwinding at the San Diego Botanic Garden. They have a wonderful kid space and ample benches... throughout. There's a shuttle path, so even those with mobility challenges can enjoy a large portion of the garden. They have a cute little gift shop for grabbing an umbrella or magnet or sock puppet and other unique gifts. The brief walk to the observation deck is well worth it, and you're rewarded with a shady, breezy spot with a great view all the way to the beach and across the valley.read more
Esther
20:44 10 May 23
Gorgeous gardens!When my kids were young, we had a annual membership here. They have a nice kids play area and it's... lovely to walk around and admire all the interesting shaped trees and flowers.Personal fav are the waterfall, the bamboo garden and pond.Over the years the gardens have expanded and now have grow house, larger parking lot.read more
Cameron Brownfield
00:54 06 May 23
This is a great place to visit on a cool sunny day. It took us about 2.5-3 hours to meander through the entire garden,... stopping for photos and admirations.There's an extremely diverse range of plants and trees here and they offer informational blurbs on some of them in the form of little placards.read more
Robert Yeung
18:24 11 Apr 23
This was a deceiving place but in a good way. The entrance led me to a large greenhouse event space. We were lucky... enough to be there when they had an amazing Orchid exhibition from various Orchid societies from throughout the San Diego region. This led me to the deceiving part of the Garden. We meander through a kids garden, through many regional specific ecosystems and up to a lookout on the bluff that offers views of the ocean. This place was massive! Amazing place to get lost in. I wish I had more time to explore.read more
E&C Cox
15:39 20 Feb 23
Smaller aquarium with excellent exhibits. We enjoyed the clear displays and informative signs.Parking lot is free,... but it gets crowded. By 1030, there was a line of cars down the hill. Consider this when planning for your ticket times of you purchased in advance.read more
Alison Patron
03:34 05 Sep 22
If you are a plant lover, this place is just amazing. If you like walking through a green forest or a bamboo grove, you... will equally love this place! The area this place covers is quite huge. They also rent out certain areas of the gardens for events. I just love going through the different areas of the garden. They hold plant shows in their huge glass greenhouse! There are also booths where you can buy rare and popular household plants. Just a spectacular place!read more
Ronald Dolsky
02:22 21 Aug 22
First time here and glad we came. It's like a 4 mile loop but they've done a great job of sectioning it off into... categories and placing numerous benches throughout. Plenty of spots to take a quick break and enjoy the views.There a couple lily ponds, a waterfall, and quite a few areas for photos. We packed a small cooler for sandwiches and drinks, and got to eat on a bench under a grape tree!The plant varieties were countless and in well placed habitats. There were sections for California, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and plenty of gardens. Definitely worth spending 2-4 hours...bring your comfy shoes!read more
Jessica You
14:31 07 Aug 22
I love Botanic Gardens! Came here with my friend and husband (they both love plants and I like flowers) to... explore.Admission is $18 which I found pretty high. I would think for that amount, there should be a bigger parking lot (we found parking on the side street, not even in the lot).The garden is huge though and we spent 2 hours exploring. There weren't any water fountains (that we saw) and I was dying of thirst after walking so much and emptied out our water bottle!The greenhouse had really cool plants like the corpse plant and a helpful and creative display of how to care for your plants and visual examples of them.I have to say, the gift shop was a little disappointing and didn't have too much stuff. They definitely sell a lot of plants though.On our exploration of the gardens, it is easy to get lost and miss lots of things cause there is so much to see! From a blue lined lizard to the real tree house with a great view and lots of different fruit and flower trees!Admission price is high but I will say there is plenty to see and walk around. It definitely helps to bring a hat or umbrella.read more
Suzan Luu
19:27 08 Jul 22
It was our 2nd time here, this time we got the membership. On a Thursday at 2 pm, summer time, it was very crowded. We... love the space, it is very play based, child centered place. I love the design as a grown up. I hope they will have better hours soon (the lunch break makes it more crowded when it opens I bet). The parking lot was all full but we happily found metered parking down the road.read more
Ray Frohnhoefer
01:58 03 Jul 22
The visit took me back to my childhood. My dad and I used to have 2 O-gauge trains. It was a great hobby, but later in... life, I didn't have the space to pursue it. This museum gives hobbyists an opportunity to build train layouts in multiple gauges. Lots of realistic models of various SoCal areas, along with bits of history. Well worth the visit.read more
Norma Ruiz
09:04 25 Jun 22
These place is amazing. Alot of stuff to see. Totally recommended. Bring tennis shoes and put on sunscreen. Love this... place. Don't forget to visit the garden on the side of the parking lot on the back, totally check it out.read more
Herabelle Febhe Ceniza
19:06 07 Mar 22
Wonderful place to roam around and bask in the sun. Enjoy nature with family and friends. Lots of wonderful plants and... flowers around the garden. ☺️ You can also do a picnic in any of the grass areas. We saw a couple having a picnic there. I suggest going there at around 3pm. It wasn't crowded at all when we went there. Buy tickets before-hand. Visit the dome and have your picture taken in one of the posts there where you can put your phone and set it on timer. Fun!read more
Jon Thorn
22:27 17 Feb 22
The nighttime Valentine's Day experience was great! I got an email about the event several days in advance since my... wife and I are members. Being made aware of this event was appreciated and it was really easy to buy tickets via the website. It was a really unique experience to have at the gardens. The lighting was very nice and they had scent stations which I thought was a nice addition. Can't wait to visit again during daylight hours!read more
Katie Armstrong
16:53 11 Feb 22
My husband and I love to have long walks in the botanical garden at least once every few months. The lookout tower is... an amazing spot, but the Mexican Garden is my favorite. There are so many beautiful spots in this garden - it's soothing to my body and soul to be around in such calming environment. Just sitting on the bench and sharing silence sometimes is the best way to level with our daily stress.read more
Ian Lenahan
15:16 19 Dec 21
THE place to get married in San Diego, a great day trip destination for locals, and a "must visit" for vacationers in... the San Diego area. The garden is the most beautiful in the US and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. My family really enjoys visiting annually during the holiday season to see the Christmas light displays through the garden, and as a bonus we get to see Santa! This garden is an excellent option and very cost friendly for couples looking to get married at an outdoor venue. My wife and I were married here in 2018 and our guests still talk about how beautiful the day was! Enjoy!read more
Gray Strickland
14:06 15 Jun 21
A VERY LOVELY BOTANIC GARDEN!We are sustaining members of our own hometown botanical garden, which allows us to visit... all of the gardens in the US which are members of the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program (nearly all in the country) for free or at a reduced price. Consequently, we have visited botanical gardens all over the country for years. So we can say with authority that the San Diego Botanical Garden is top rate, well curated and lovingly cared for - and they have many species which I haven't seen elsewhere. There are bigger gardens (hello Dallas, hello Chicago...), but don't miss this one if you have the opportunity. You will be pleased.read more
Eric Christensen
15:07 28 May 21
Absolutely beautiful garden. I would highly recommend spending the money and time. The price of admission is very... acceptable for the amount of work that goes into maintaining this garden. It takes about two hours to make it through the whole garden at a steady pace.I love that they have different sections based on where the plants and trees come from in the world, so at one moment you feel like your walking through the Australian outback and the next your waking through a Chinese bamboo forest! Beautiful plants and trees, extremely vibrant flowers and plenty of shade.read more
William Barnes
14:09 19 Jul 20
The Botanic Garden is a peaceful, low key place to come to for relaxation & reflection. It has beautiful flora &... fauna representatives, some of who are very exotic. It is located in a quiet and uncrowded part of Encinitas. For those who want to be off the grid for a while, this is the place.read more
YsY SoCalProHealth
02:15 12 Jul 20
Wow! We are a bit partial to the Huntington Library and Gardens but this place wowed us. Staff is so friendly. Lots of... acreage, variety of terrain and plants. Definitely will return. Well worth the membership and reciprocal gardens deal.read more
Jeremiah Sherman
11:02 09 Jul 20
I love this place for a short walk or hike around all day. I have very fond memories from my childhood and have taken... my two-year-old many times. It is very special to have a place like this so close to town.read more
Emiliano Rodrigez
08:29 04 Jul 20
I took a tour of this location and absolutely love it. It has so much variety and they even have special events for the... holidays. This is a great place to bring the family, go on a walk or just spend some time meditating in the gardens.read more
Carolyn Fisher
18:30 24 Jun 20
Must book online. Beautiful. Peaceful. Come by yourself and relax and unwind a while from covid crazy....
Mike Thornton
17:27 22 Jun 20
Great place to relax and recharge. Fresh air with extra O2 and negative ions help get rid of the stresses and get a... good night sleep.read more
Terry O Donovan
01:19 19 Jun 20
Enjoyed 3 hours walking around the Botanical gardens with a good friend I haven't seen since the beginning of the lock... down. The gardens are beautiful and our visit was exactly what I needed. Lots of fresh air, good conversation, photo ops all at a safe distance with face masks. I strongly recommend.read more
Clayton Casipit
03:25 18 Jun 20
Beautiful! Old, established trees from South Africa (Dragon trees), Madagascar.... and a huge bamboo collection. One... of the better botanical gardens I've seen in CA.read more
Roberta Nicole Photography
17:13 15 May 20
I photograph weddings all over San Diego County, and San Diego Botanic Garden is easily my favorite wedding venue. It... is the most beautiful location for photos. It's also easily accessible for all your guests, yet it feels like you are tucked away out in nature.read more
Tayler Suterko
18:32 01 May 20
I'm the owner and photographer of Tayler Ashley Photography and I have had the pleasure of shooting at this beautiful... venue! The staff is very helpful and the area is stunning. Brides would be lucky to get married here!read more
Cheryl McLeod
00:41 17 Mar 20
I am glad that we have such a large botanical garden near our home. It is nice to walk thru on the first Tuesday of... each month when they waive the admission fee for locals. This was my first time in the new green house. I enjoyed the displays of chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon plants -- probably because a nice docent told us about the plants, a little about how they arrived at the gardens, and some of the staff's struggles to keep them healthy. I would recommend a docent-lead tour if one is available during your visit, and I might even look into becoming a docent now that I am retired. The main garden is huge and amazing, but only sparsely labeled. I think they could use more volunteers to help remove any invasive weeds, repair fading signs, and create audio walking tours so you can slip in one ear piece and learn about the garden and it's plants.read more
Sarah Kelley
16:07 11 Mar 20
So so so beautiful. This is the most diverse garden I have ever been to. They mimic natural landscapes from all over... the world and have winding paths that make you feel like you are discovering something new. I spent 3.5 hours here and saw a total of 6 people. You HAVE to go here!!!read more
Sebastian Arteaga
19:33 13 Feb 20
A beautiful place to walk around and enjoy all different kinds of plants all in one place. I love what they have done... with the concrete tree house and area around it. Additionally the sculptures scattered around the gardens are beautiful. During the winter season there are beautiful lights set up and marshmallow roasting! All in all, this place is very well rounded and offers pleanty to do in a day.read more
Johny Clancy
00:35 10 Feb 20
Very nice. We went in February so some things were still under construction but it was beautifully laid out. The new... conservatory was really nice. Lots of kid areas that we all enjoyed (the youngest in our group was 16 so not just for kids).read more
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Adults $18
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Youth 3-18 $10
Members, children ages 2 & under FREE
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