The article was written by Cindy Bokma
If you haven’t visited the beautiful Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino, California, you must go if you are in Southern California. Located near Pasadena, this cultural center is a stunning place to spend an entire day. It offers an incredible 120 acres of gardens plus libraries and artwork to view.
Here is what you will find:
Independent Research Libraries, which includes British and American history, literature, art, and the history of science, stretching from the 11th century to the present, and include 7 million manuscripts, 430,000 rare books, 275,000 reference books, 875,000 prints and ephemera, and 774,000 photographs.
A collection of European and American Art, European art dates from the 15th to the early 20th century, and American art from the late 17th to the mid-20th century.
There are 120 acres of botanical gardens You will see orchids, cycads, camellias, and bonsai plus many more. The living collections are part of the 16 themed gardens. Be sure to bring your camera if you enjoy taking photos of flowers and plants.
I went a few weeks ago and enjoyed the gardens and plants so much that I didn’t want to take the time to look at the artwork. My friend chose to walk through the galleries and highly recommended the paintings, especially European art.
You can plan out your time at the Huntington by using this link to see what is available to do.
Location:
Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
Phone: (626) 405-2100
Founders: Henry E. Huntington, Arabella Huntington
Dining
The *Tea Room offers an elegant experience inspired by the tradition of English tea service. There is a set price, sit down tea and reservations are necessary.
- Wednesday–Monday | 12 p.m.–5 p.m.
- Saturday–Sunday | 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
At *1919 Cafe, you will find a casual, cafeteria type setting. There are pizzas, salads, soups, sandwiches, and daily specials as well as Border Grill taqueria’s signature modern Mexican cuisine. The Bar offers small plates to be paired with beer, wine, or craft cocktails.
My friend ordered this delicious plate, however, this is not gluten free
*The Red Car coffee shop offers espresso, tea, pastries, ice cream, snacks, and grab-and-go fare.
Created by Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, the outdoor Patio Grill offers Latin American-inspired cuisine—Cuban cheeseburgers, honey-lime grilled yam, seasonal agua frescas, and more. This is walk-up and order place with tables available outdoors.
The *Freshwater Dumpling and Noodle House are located in the gorgeous setting of the Chinese Gardens and you will enjoy your food with a stunning view.
If you are Gluten-Free like I am, there are very few options at the *Dumpling and Noodle House, even less at the *Red Car Coffee Shop. I recommend the 1919 Cafe where I safely ate Mexican food from the Border Grill. When we first arrived at the garden, it was late morning so I bought a coffee then walked around for a few hours and circled back to the 1919 Cafe for a late lunch. We then finished up our day in the Desert Garden.
- *Note: I did not experience these restaurants, but wanted to offer them as suggestions. I have recommended these because I have heard they are all good.
5Startips🌟:
🌟 Parking is free🌟 Most areas are wheelchair/stroller accessible
🌟 Family friendly but small children will need to be supervised
🌟 Commercial photography requires a permit
🌟 Wear sunscreen, there is not much shade and you will be in full sunshine
🌟 Check the weather before you visit, it gets very hot during the summer months, so dress accordingly
🌟 Bring water bottles, and snacks
🌟 Wear good walking shoes with support
🌟 Weekdays are less crowded
🌟 Plan to spend about five to eight hours here exploring
Final Thoughts:
If you live near or are visiting Southern California and enjoy nature and art, you will find this experience to be memorable. It is a great idea to clear your day to absorb all the art and beauty that will surround you. To add to your knowledge, you can take a free garden tour with a docent as well. I highly recommend putting this on your must-see list!
A bit about the author: Cindy Bokma
Cindy Bokma grew up in New Jersey but now lives in California. Cindy is the author of
The Blondes of Bel Air, A Thousand Dollars for a Kiss and Here If You Need Me. She has also written a children’s book, Victorious Girls and has pitched television shows to networks such as Disney and Nickelodeon. She is an accomplished screenplay analyst, having worked for a popular Hollywood production company.
Order her book: Low Oxalate Cookbook – The Low-Oxalate Anti-Inflammatory Cookbook: 75 Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Soy-Free, Yeast-Free, Low-Sugar Recipes to Help You Stress Less and Feel Better on Amazon.
Visit her also at Wild Flower and Woods And Visit her also at Cindy Bokma Books
About Pamela Rossi
I am passionate about travel and taking each moment and making it a five star experience. My goal is to create those experiences for YOU!
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