Every year the American Public Gardens Association, of which we are a part of, dedicates a week to encouraging the public to spend time in public gardens – whether it be taking a walk, buying a plant, or volunteering. Public gardens are vital to their communities, and we hope you all feel compelled to help support South Coast Botanic Garden during these Go Public Garden Days, happening now through May 15. And if supporting this campaign wasn’t enough for you, there are PLENTY of additional reasons to visit the Garden this week. Don’t believe us? Take a look below and then be sure to go grab your ticket!
- Flamboyance – A Topiary Menagerie is on display throughout the Garden featuring more than 100 whimsical animal topiaries, including 70 life-sized flamingos. This exhibit makes plants accessible to ALL and is included with General Admission tickets, which means it’s FREE for Members!
- SOAR – Tropical Butterflies is back for its second year in our butterfly pavilion and features brand-new species the Garden has never had before including birdwing, rice paper and glasswing butterflies. This exhibit provides an up-close experience for those wanting to learn about butterflies and their lifecycle. Tickets are $5 for Members and up to $22 for non-members, which includes General Admission tickets.
- The Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden is in full bloom and looking spectacular with more than 1,000 bushes and 100 varieties! It’s a great spot to snap a photo or to sit and take in the beautiful variety of blooms and colors.
- Our Spring Plant Sale is happening this Saturday and Sunday, with a special invite-only Spring Botanical Boutique happening Friday night for Sustainer and above Members. This is our first plant sale since the start of the pandemic and we are excited to have a variety of plants, including unique succulents, roses, house plants, tillandsia, bromeliads and more. The Spring Plant Sale is include with Garden General Admission.
- Nature is good for your health! Sunshine and fresh air can help boost your immune system.
- Hide and Seek: Art Meets Nature allows Garden visitors to see world-class art, including 6 sculptures on loan from LACMA.
- It’s spring and the Garden has a ton of new blooms!
- Picnicking in the Garden has been leveled up. Not only can you purchase a Bespoke Picnic in the Garden and have our special events team set up a magical experience for you, but our new Dorothy and Allen Lay Staghorn Fern Collection has a beautiful new picnic area with tables and chairs to sit and comfortably enjoy a snack!
- Volunteer opportunities abound. We can’t do what we do without the help of our volunteers – and we are always looking for more! It’s a great way to give back to your community, enjoy some Vitamin D and enjoy nature all at once!
- The Upper Meadow was recently given a face-life and is looking incredible. If you haven’t seen this upgraded area recently, you’ll want to take a look. The foxgloves are showing off!
The Garden relies on generous donations from our Members, visitors and community to keep access to our 87 acres open for all and to provide unique horticultural experiences that help people find connections with nature. Please help us continue this mission for years to come by considering a gift to the Garden. You can do so here.
