Here’s an idea for a family outing. Spend an afternoon at the Huntington Gardens in Pasadena. We took the kids there last weekend, and it was a delight, mainly because the kids could run, and run and run. There are few places in LA where they can experience that kind of freedom. The gardens are so beautiful to walk through with family or friends.
The Conservatory proved quite educational. Our kids took a special interest in the Venus Fly Trap. There was a garden expert there who let them take a pencil and see if the plant would close up on the tip of it when they gently brushed against the leaves. It did. It was a little chilly to splash around in the special fountains in the Children’s Gardens, but the kids had a great time with a noisy rock sculpture. The Children’s Garden is fabulous in the warm weather, but do bring a change of clothes.
There are several places to have a bite to eat on the grounds. There is a tea room for a high tea, and a café for more casual fare. They do not let you bring in your own picnic, which is too bad, we snack before we and sometimes on the way home stop at the Pie and Burger www.pienburger.com.
I recommend purchasing a yearly family membership for $120.00. That may sound like a lot but it pays for itself after a couple of visits. It will also encourage you to go regularly and they often send you guest passes to bring some friends along free of charge. The Huntington Gardens is also the perfect place to send Dad with the kids solo, while you have some time to yourself. Imagine that! Definitely worth the price of admission.
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
1151 Oxford Road San Marino, CA 91108 626.405.2100
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday noon-4:30. Saturdays and Sundays 10:30 – 4:40. Closed Tuesdays
The first Thursday of every month ADMISSION IS FREE with advanced tickets. Hours on Free Day are 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
