San Diego Botanic Garden

I recently got engaged at the Garden of Lights. But I want to publicly thank the staff for taking care of my parents before the proposal. They flew in from South Carolina, took a train, and walked a mile to surprise me. As they waited an hour for me to arrive, almost everyone made sure my family was comfortable. Although it was raining that hour flew by because the staff was so accommodating. Thank you very much for giving me the best day of my life.

Just came here today — stayed from around 12pm — 2pm. It’s a very small botanical garden, lovely to stroll through with a wide variety of plants.
I think the only thing that I had an issue with was that we brought a wheelchair for my grandmother — and since the place is hilly — it was a bit tiring to push her through the whole area. Otherwise it was perfect and a very tranquil way to spend an afternoon in San Diego!
Oh also — it’s a great place for taking pictures! Super pretty arrangements and the whole area is laid out very thoughtfully — with great attention to detail.

My review is solely for The Garden of Lights, since I’ve never been here otherwise, I thought I should specify.
My husband and I were looking for some festive, Christmas-​y thing to do on Friday night and saw this place on list of things to do in December in SD. So off we went.
The Garden of Lights is typically from 5−9pm. We got there at 7pm. We were done by 7:30. That included walking from the overflow parking and down all the lighted pathways and back.
Don’t get me wrong, the lighted trees and bushes are pretty but not for $ 15 a person. I’d have rather driven down Candy Cane Lane in my car. For free.
We stopped by the mulled wine area and some nice ladies pour us a cup from a thermos. $ 2 for a tiny cup and $ 4 for a slightly bigger cup. We couldn’t even walk around the place with it; wine was confined to the walled-​in area with fake turf. The heat lamps were a welcome thing though.
We went down to the small marshmallow roasting area which was quaint… if you could find a spot to sit. It was mostly little kids and their parents. The kids were setting their marshmallows on fire, putting them out and then just leaving them on the ground. Of course I stepped on one and the residue is still under my shoe right now.
Live entertainment was a kids choir and they were adorable. But I think that was the only good thing about this event.
Santa was there; there was a huge line to meet him.
Bottom line, if you don’t have kids, it ain’t worth the $ 15 admission to get it.

Visited recently with my family and out of town guests for the Garden of Lights event! It was wonderful and I can’t wait to go back! Fun for kids and adults. My daughter had a blast in the child’s play house! The lights are gorgeous! I can’t wait to come back in the daytime to see the plants! Nice peaceful trails to walk and take a break from crazy city life.

#quailbotanicalmembers Took our kids to see Santa again at QBG for the fourth year in a row. Possibly the worst Santa experience ever. Not only was Santa pulling down his beard every time he had to speak which clearly illustrated it was fake but additionally, every single question he asked clearly indicated that he did not know anything about our kids. They walked into the evening feeling they had a personal relationship (naughty and nice list?) Through this experience they started questioning the reality of Santa Claus. Clearly there are other locations that have invested in a much better Santa. Don’t spend the money. Not sure I will renew my membership.

I loved this place. what a treat. better than ever I fully understand plants and trees that might grow in Mediterranean San Diego climate. Know what a Yukka is? How about what is a Torrey Pine? Lots of fun. Lots to see. Bring the kids.

3.5 stars for the Botanic Garden’s Garden of Lights 2015
— Not a whole lot of the garden was lit up for the night. Expected more to walk through.
— For a $ 15 admission fee per adult, there were not many activities for adults. (Activities offered: visiting Santa, roasting marshmallows, mulled wine, crafts/​coloring/​art, sledding down some slush/​old snow from another night).
— Small cup of mulled wine was $ 2 for about 4 oz. $ 4 for the ‘large’ size of about 10 oz. After going to December Nights at Balboa park and getting a $ 3 12-​oz hot cider the day before, I felt these prices were a little unfair, especially after the $ 15 admission fee.
However, families with young kids seem to have fun at Garden of Lights.

Garden of Lights is on through Christmas and it is magical. The gardens are decorated beautifully. We started off with some mulled wine and then took a stroll around the grounds. There was snow and sledding for the little ones, and of course Santa. Crafts and free marshmallows for toasting. Festive and fun!

I was pretty shocked (haha, funny that I am using that word) when I discovered there was another Botanical Garden in San Diego. Well it exists folks! Google maps is pretty good about directing you there so should not be too bad of a drive.
With student ID I got in for $ 10 but parking will be $ 2 unless you are a member (which I believe you get in for free).
Adults $ 14
Seniors (+60), students,
active military $ 10
Children ages 3 – 12 $ 8
Members; children ages 2 & under FREE
Parking $ 2*
If you carpool with 4 people it’s free for parking!
I was kind of sad to find out that admission was free on Tuesdays listed on their website — but it’s okay, I wanted to check this place out for a while.
From the map, I thought it was bigger but after we walked, it was quicker to cover and smaller than we thought. There were so many varieties of plants and trees. My favorite areas were the tropical rain forest and the overlook natural area. Though they were total opposites of each other, it was just really calming to relax and walk at our own pace. Rcommended for anyone that just wants to walk around and chill.
The Amazing Sundial was a disappointment. It was small and tiny, a bit overgrown and looks as though there was noone that has been taking care of it. The polar bear that directed the sundial looked pretty sad too — you could not operate it as a nearby tree covered it. However there is a tic tac toe on the round that you could play around with. We were amused for the 1 – 2 minutes that we played the game.
The Treehouse was a cute place to walk around — more or less for a child. How I wish I was still a kid that could run around in small places and act silly. Perfect if you have kids.

It’s amazing this place is located right here in Encinitas. Great place to go if your thinking of planting. The staff is very knowledgeable on what it takes to grow and maintain the different types of plants. Here you’ll experience something of the coolest plants around as well as ego systems including an amazing waterfall. Take a lunch and enjoy one of the most amazing jewels of north county.

First time here; Unfortunately the lady at the ticket booth failed to give us a map and my boyfriend and I got lost several times. We eventually had to look up the map on our phones.
Lots of spiders and spider webs. It’s a lot bigger than I thought it would be which was cool but A LOT of walking. Probably better to go on a cool day, it was hot and we were thirsty. It felt like we were on a hike.
The waterfall and ponds were really cool. Definitely the highlight of the garden.
There was a wedding going on, the bride and groom were having there pictures taken on a pathway blocking an area of the garden we really wanted to see. We ended up passing them feeling bad trying to hurry so we weren’t in there pictures. (Paying $ 14 a person we wanted the full experience) it was just uncomfortable I feel they should close it down for the wedding.
I recommend not wearing sandals… I was wearing flip flops and 1 of them broke. (These were very well made and I’ve worn them lots of places with no trouble) Since my flip flop broke I had to walk barefoot all the way back to our car. It was just a nightmare.

What a hidden gem. So gorgeous. So peaceful. The gift shop is so sweet and they sell potted plants.
A bit off the beaten path but worth checking out!

Wonderful wonderful destination. Love the lushness and the beauty. The last time I was here was nearly 2 yes ago.
This last visit was for the benefit of my son who was enamored with the tree house and the children’s garden. Very fun place — could have stayed there for hours finding different playmates to occupy himself.
We took advantage of the free first Tues deal and free parking with a carpool of 4/​+ people. Otherwise, it can be pricy and unaffordable.

Came by the Botanic Garden last Sunday afternoon with my husband a little before 2 pm. We paid for our admission (students pay $ 10 with ID) and parking ($ 2 per car, but electric cars park for free. There is an electric parking station as well in case you need a charge) at the booth and drove in the parking lot and parked.
We started up towards the plant and gift shop (restrooms are here and only in a few sections in this garden). We saw plenty of different plants and trees, but unfortunately some of these plant life creations had no signs so we weren’t too sure what they were.
A big part of the botanic garden had some shady pathways but there are also parts that are pretty sunny (be sure to bring a hat to shade your face and put on some SPF). My favorite part of the garden is the herb garden. You can smell some many of the delicious herbs by rubbing the herbs between your fingers. There were a few unique plants that mimic the scent of sage, citrus and peppermint which I thought was pretty interesting.
For your little ones, there is a fun children’s garden area towards the top of the garden with plenty of hands on fun. You can find a tree house here and a little stream you can float items down (make sure to bring a change of clothes because many kids just splashed in the stream). I really love the A-​Z garden. There is also a few other fun hands on things to do here as well (And there are restrooms here).
The waterfall is beautiful and perfect for photos.
I really liked the displays in the Mexican garden.
Also enjoyed seeing all the different types of bamboo in the bamboo garden.
This garden is pretty big and is plenty for one to do all day (we ended up seeing everything in 2 hours, but if you do have children, plan extra time at the Hamilton Children’s Garden). One thing I do want to mention is that you may miss a small part of the garden that is below the parking lot (which I believe plenty of people do miss). Here you can check out the succulent garden and the native plants. There is also a mini railroad and a small pond.
Overall, really glad that I made this as part of our visit to San Diego (kind of odd that the San Diego Botanic Garden is not in the city of San Diego isn’t it?).

What a treat!
The San Diego Botanic Garden is a wonderful, mostly quiet reprieve from the busy city and beach life. I am so glad to have had a chance to visit.
What to know:
HOURS: The garden is open most every single day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
COST: Admission will cost adults $ 10 – 14 depending on your status. There are discounts for students, seniors and active military. Traveling with wee ones? What luck! Those 2 and younger get in for free. Bonus! Plus, they allow in and out privileges.
THE GROUNDS: I would say allow for at least two hours for browsing. At least! There are dozens of garden types here: the Mediterranean garden, Mexican garden, olive tree garden, South American garden, South African garden, subtropical fruit garden, the Australian garden — it goes on an on!
They also have the trees used to make cork, for things like wine bottles. Looking at those gave me the heebie-​jeebies like you wouldn’t believe! Total trypophobia trigger! But cool, nonetheless.
They have a special area for children and adults who have not lost their youthful energy. They also have an outlook, which gives you a view of the surrounding hills and the ocean, if you look hard enough.
The succulent gardens were my favorite. Also, they had succulent plants in the children’s area that you were able to pot and take home with you. I planted mine, and they are doing well thus far.
There will be plenty of walking, with lots of up and down. You don’t have to be in tip top shape. Just go at your own pace. Those with strollers and wheelchairs should be fine for the majority of routes, but certainly check with the visitor’s center to plan your visit
EVENTS: The garden appears to have a pretty robust event schedule. We were not here during an event, but general browsing. They will even host weddings, receptions and birthday parties.
So, yes — awesome spot for a family getaway, some quiet time or a first date.

Lyzah Douglass, the Wedding Coordinator, is outstanding! She’s professional and prompt in responding to communication.
The Walled Garden was an absolutely perfect spot for our wedding ceremony. It comfortably sat 80 guests, and the gorgeous foliage provided sufficient shade during our afternoon ceremony. If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate wedding venue with unparalleled plants for a price that won’t put you in debt this is the place. We couldn’t have been happier.
Also, the Larabee House is a suitable spot to put your dress on, have some snacks, take some photos and peer adoringly through the windows as your guests and future husband are preparing for your grand entrance.
Everything about the San Diego Botanic garden was a dream come true. Thank you Lyzah!

On my gaaawwwwd! If you live in the area and haven’t been here before — SHAME ON YOU! This place is beautiful, amazing, clever, creative, artistic, relaxing, playful.
Understanding not everyone is into plants, they have sculptures, a kids garden with a gob of fun stuff for the kiddos, succulence up the whazoo, and a very quaint gift shop filled with must have garden items. Oh yes, and they sell plants!
There are a gob of different gardens through which you can meander and see a whole lot of specimens from the areas the garden covers (Australia, Africa, bamboo, native CA garden, fruit garden, Cactus, New Zealand, etc). The list is crazy long and the gardens are beautiful. The children’s garden is unbelievable. Those with kids need to get an annual membership because your kids (10 and under) are going to eat up this children’s garden.

The entrance is very steep and our rental car was rolling while we waited to pay to get in. Then the lady working there was having a difficult time adding the price for two tickets. When she finally came to an amount my husband corrected her incorrect addition of adding on $ 4.00 extra.
As our luck would have it the parking lot was full and we had to use the overflow lot located down hill. Our whole tour was walking on an uneven dirt path uphill. Yes there were some nice plantings and specimens and I know I missed much of the place but it wasn’t very enjoyable and after a while I felt very thirsty and couldn’t find any water for sale.
This place doesn’t compare to any other botanic gardens I’ve been too. It was like walking into a jungle with paths and many elderly ladies behinds up in the air everywhere.
The Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden is 90% BETTER!

Downgrade from an annual membership holder.
There are two reasons why this place is going downhill.
1 — They have been pushing this notion that this park is going to make tons of money promoting more kids parties. Over the past few years they’ve really been building out areas for hosting large children’s parties on a given day. Unfortunately what this does is flood the normal tranquil children’s area into fifth grade recess. Parents sit and chit chat in their private area and let their kids run amuck. With no Botanic Garden supervision to be found, you’re constantly guarding your own kids from being trampled on from running party goers and projectile building blocks. While this can be solved by going later in the afternoon, or on weekdays, it’s disturbing that SDBG is planning on expanding group events…
2 — Untrained staff working in administration /​membership signups.
— In a nutshell, SDBG doesn’t accept expired Groupons at face value. When a Groupon expires, the groupon states that you get the paid value of the coupon. Apparently the people working at the Botanical Garden didn’t understand this, and thus wouldn’t give me face value credit for my membership. It’s not like the person I dealt with was some volunteer in high school, this was someone I’ve seen there for several years.
I’ve had to call Groupon’s infamous Indian Call Center which was a major pain point.
Summation
— Stay away on Saturdays
— Don’t even think about using group (Groupon) deals here.
— Other than that, the park is really cool.

A hidden gem in North County. I love the Botanic Garden!
The grounds are expansive (much larger than it appears when you drive by) and so, so clean! I’ve never seen a piece of trash anywhere!
It is so relaxing to walk through the different gardens and look at all the amazing plants. Everything is labeled and there are informative signs throughout the garden. I have been several times and still haven’t seen all of the different garden areas. Favorites: bamboo garden and rain forest garden, with the beautiful waterfall. And so many great photo ops, too.
We, of course, love the Hamilton Childrens Garden! My boys could run through the tree house all day! And there are so many other fun hands-​on and educational areas — leaf rubbing, music making, giant tic tac toe, alphabet garden, digging area, balsa wood fort building, etc. We recently brought out of town visitors and they were all impressed with how great this area was.
My kids also have fun in the seeds of wonder area, playing with the water pump and watching the model train.