Descanso is Spanish for "place of rest," and it couldn't be a more fitting name for this natural respite from the Hollywood grind. Descanso Gardens is one of the best places in Los Angeles to escape for a few hours of rest and rejuvenation, and admission is less than half the cost of its showier cousin, the Huntington Gardens.
Must see and must do at Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens has a variety of themed horticultural environments and habitats, and no matter what time of year you visit, something delightful is sure to greet you. They have a little bit of everything, including roses, lilacs, wildflowers, California natives and centuries-old oak trees; check their website to see what's in bloom on the day of your visit. Be sure to stop in at the Boddy House, the 12,000-square-foot home of Manchester Boddy, founder of Descanso Gardens. Originally built in the late 1930s in the Hollywood Regency style, the estate was completely refurbished in 2007 and is now a museum that showcases the history of the property. For a little free-spirited fun, kids and adults alike will enjoy a ride on the Enchanted Railroad, a miniature diesel train that winds through a section of the Gardens near the entrance.
Best and worst time to go to Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is home to the largest camellia collection in North America, which offers a colorful show during peak blooming season in January and February. With Southern California's temperate climate, there is something reaching its peak season virtually every day of the year, but be aware that the grounds can be busy on weekend afternoons. Parking is easiest before noon, and the best time for a little solitude and quiet is early in the morning on a weekday when the grounds first open. Descanso Gardens are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Christmas, but the Boddy House and the adjoining Sturt Haaga Gallery are closed on Mondays. The Enchanted Railroad runs limited hours on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; it does not run on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Admission to Descanso Gardens
Admission to Descanso Gardens is in the $10 range for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Annual membership is available for around $75, which allows two adults free admission and early entry at 8 a.m. A ride on the Enchanted Railroad will cost you a few dollars; parking is free.
Wildlife at Descanso Gardens
Not only is Descanso Gardens home to a diverse array of plants, trees and flowers, but it is also an attractive habitat for local wildlife. Dozens of species of birds have been recorded on the property, and members can participate in guided bird walks on the fourth Sunday of every month. Early morning visitors may spot a deer or two on the grounds, while those attending evening events could have a chance encounter with a coyote.
Insider tip for Descanso Gardens
Every summer Descanso Gardens hosts Music on the Main where visitors can enjoy a jazz concert under the oak trees. The concerts are held on Thursday evenings and are free with admission. Bring a picnic and lawn chairs; lawn seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Author's bio: Amy Clites is a Los Angeles writer, content creator and actor who discovered her inner gardener when she moved to California in 2007. She writes about her experiences in urban gardening, traveling, cooking and more on her blog ZeitClites and on Twitter at @AmyClites.