Photo: Bobbie Longest
Photo: Mr Ramio
Photo: Mark Miller
Descanso Gardens
★4.7(10,340 reviews)$$Activity
🕑 2.5-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers are enchanted by the miniature train and spotting ducks in the ponds, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the seasonal family programs, scavenger hunts, and exploring the different garden environments. The flat, paved paths make it manageable even for families with infants in strollers.🧡 Saved by 90+ families
About
Descanso Gardens offers 150 acres of natural beauty perfect for families seeking outdoor exploration without long hikes. Kids absolutely love the Enchanted Railroad, a miniature train that winds through the gardens, while parents appreciate the stroller-friendly paths that meander through stunning rose gardens, oak woodlands, and seasonal blooms that change throughout the year.
Highlights
- ✓Enchanted Railroad - a kid-sized miniature train ride through the gardens
- ✓Ancient oak forest with shaded walking paths perfect for nature exploration
- ✓Seasonal family programs including story times, nature walks, and hands-on activities
- ✓Duck and koi ponds where kids can observe wildlife
- ✓Interactive scavenger hunts and explorer backpacks available for loan
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when gates open at 9 AM for the calmest experience and best wildlife spotting opportunities before crowds arrive
- 2.The Enchanted Railroad requires separate tickets that often sell out on weekends,book online in advance or visit on weekday mornings for better availability
- 3.Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated Oak Grove area; there's limited food available on-site and it can get pricey
- 4.Bring a wagon or stroller even for older kids,150 acres is a lot of walking and little legs tire quickly
- 5.Download the garden map from their website beforehand and let kids help navigate to different themed areas like the Japanese Garden or Camellia Forest
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings from Tuesday-Thursday offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds. Spring (March-May) is spectacular with blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, while fall offers beautiful foliage. Avoid weekend afternoons when the gardens are busiest and parking fills up.
What to Know
Admission costs approximately $15 for adults and $5 for children 5-12 (under 5 free), with free parking on-site. The Enchanted Railroad requires an additional ticket ($5-6 per person). Limited snacks available at the café, but outside food is welcome in designated picnic areas.
Seasonal Notes
Spring features spectacular rose blooms and tulip displays. Summer offers special family programming and longer hours during select events. Fall brings beautiful leaf colors in the oak forest. The gardens host special holiday events like Carved in October (pumpkin displays) and Enchanted Forest of Light during winter months (separate ticketed evening event that's magical for families).
Nearby Eats
Head to Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in Pasadena (15 minutes away) for kid-friendly comfort food, or try Upper Crust Pizza Kitchen in La Cañada Flintridge (5 minutes away) for casual dining with good pizza options kids enjoy.
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