Explore the Garden with Friends

By scheduling a self-guided visit, you are choosing your own adventure through the Garden. Download one of our self-guided visit tour maps or let the moment take you by exploring the Garden on your own. Get a little lost or stay to the main paths - there's no wrong way to experience the Garden with your group.

FAQs

What does the reservation include?

Your reservation holds that day/time for your group. Self-guided visits do not have a fee due in advance. 

Admissions will be collected at the Garden's Welcome Center when your group arrives. Groups larger than 8 are encouraged to pay in a single transaction to ease the check-in process.

Does my reservation include parking?

Parking is free and on a first-come, first-serve basis. Spaces are limited and the Garden cannot accommodate buses at this time. Although your reservation reduces the risk of parking conflict, it does not guarantee open spots. Please consider sharing rides to reduce parking issues.

Can I reserve picnic tables?

There are many picnic tables throughout the Garden including several near the parking lot and restrooms. All tables and benches in the Garden are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Guests are encouraged to bring and enjoy a picnic or snacks in the Garden. Please help keep the Garden clean by remembering to pack out your trash.

When can I schedule a group visit?

Please use the 'Schedule Your Time' button to see available times. If a date or time does not appear, it is not available for a group reservation. Group reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance.

How long can I stay at the Garden?

Most people spend about two hours at the Garden. Your reservation is for 90 minutes, but you may enjoy the Garden as long as you'd like between 10:30 am and 5 pm.

What is the Garden's tour cancellation policy?

Self-guided visits may be cancelled at any time.

The Garden may reschedule or cancel your visit due to extreme weather or safety concerns. In the event of a schedule change, the Garden will contact you at the email listed on your reservation as soon as possible.

Some people in my group have mobility concerns. What are the Garden's pathways like?

The parking area, restrooms, and welcome center are easily accessible. The California Oaks trail is under a half mile with no more than a 5% grade. However, as a former quarry, the Garden's natural and historic topography includes steep, uneven, gravel pathways that may not be suitable for all guests - especially in the Asian Woodland. Please note in your reservation if you have mobility concerns so your guide can plan their route accordingly.

We encourage everyone to explore the Garden at their own pace. Your guide will be happy to walk slowly and take frequent breaks. Please review the Garden's visitor map to see if we are the right fit for you group.

What should we bring?

Comfortable, sturdy shoes and weather appropriate clothing are highly recommended. Aside from the gift shop and restrooms, the Garden is entirely outdoors. Bring a hat, sun protection, a snack, and bottled water.

Water and light snacks are for sale in the welcome center.