Spending time in sunny and scenic San Diego, California is an experience that travelers from across the map enjoy year after year with good reason. Here, there’s plenty of sun, sand, and surf to go around, not to mention amazing dining, shopping, and options for exploration! If you’re looking to infuse a natural angle into your itinerary, there’s no better place to explore local plant life and gorgeous arrangements of florals than the San Diego Botanical Gardens. Whether you spend an hour or an entire afternoon, this is a local destination worth adding to your lineup that’s sure to inspire the senses.  

Savor the Scenery at the Botanical Gardens 

When you make time to visit the San Diego Botanical Gardens, you’ll enjoy a 37-acre oasis right in the heart of San Diego’s urban center. The San Diego Botanical Gardens are home to 4 miles of beautiful trails for visitors to explore and across the gardens, you’ll have opportunities to view no less than 5,300 plant species on-site. You’ll want to set aside some quality time to explore as the San Diego Botanical Gardens house 29 uniquely themed gardens that showcase florals and foliage hailing from 15 different regions from across the globe. It’s fair to say that it’s an impressive array of natural wonders that’s designed to inspire visitors of all ages. The San Diego Botanical Gardens are conveniently located at 300 Quail Gardens Drive in Encinitas.  

Garden Mission and Vision  

The San Diego Botanical Gardens functions under an umbrella mission to create, share, and apply plant wisdom in the world. The gardens are designed to be accessible and collaborative as well as a place of inclusion where visitors feel comfortable discovering something innovative and new with every visit. Growth is always the vision at the gardens and the on-site staff is dedicated to the stewardship of the natural world at every turn. When you visit the gardens, you’ll contribute to an ongoing effort for plants and florals to empower people of all backgrounds to come together, improve the world we live in, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. 

On-Site Experiences 

Travelers to San Diego who take time to enjoy an afternoon at the Botanical Gardens in San Diego will have plenty of options for customizing their visit according to personal preference. The gardens offer unique exhibitions year-round and even the permanent gardens are ever-changing spaces to explore with the seasons. While visitors are more than welcome to wander through the gardens on their own, private tour options are also available here upon request. The San Diego Botanical Gardens hosts fun programs and events year-round with some of the fan-favorite experiences happening toward the end of the year like Santa’s Nature Workshop and Lightscape.  

Plan Your Visit 

If you want to enjoy time at the San Diego Botanical Gardens, you’ll need to purchase your tickets on-line in advance of your arrival. The gardens utilize a reserved entry time to ensure everyone has a fun and peaceful experience exploring. The gardens are open from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm daily. Adult entrance is $18, youth 3 to 17 are $10 and children under three can enjoy the gardens at no cost.  

Book Your Stay Today 

Elevate your San Diego stay in luxury and style by booking your accommodations through Vacation Rentals by Kimberly. Our property options always keep visitors close ot the places they can’t wait to explore while infusing world-class amenities, features, and comforts into the experience as well. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next trip. 

FAQ 

Is there a fee to park at the San Diego Botanical Gardens? 

No. There is currently no cost to enjoy parking at the gardens during regular daytime admission hours. You will want to double check on potential fees ahead of time if you’re visiting the gardens for a special event or program. 

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the gardens when I visit? 

Yes. Visitors are free to bring food and any non-alcoholic beverages they would like into the San Diego Botanical Gardens to stay refreshed during a visit. Do note that food and beverages are not allowed in the indoor Dickinson Family Education Conservatory.  

Are the San Diego Botanical Gardens designed to be wheelchair-accessible? 

Yes. The gardens are designed to be able to navigate with a wheelchair. There are a limited number of wheelchairs available to use on-site by stopping by the Welcome Center upon arrival and there’s no cost to utilize this service. 

Are there vacation rentals I can book near the botanical gardens? 

Yes. There are many vacation rental options available through Vacation Rental by Kimberly that are within easy reach of the gardens and provide a customized space for individuals, couples, or family and friends groups to enjoy a San Diego stay.