DescansoGardensLA Archives - Page 2 of 2

Celebrate Spring By Communing with Nature

The 2021 Vernal Equinox is March 20, marking the first day of Spring. Now is the perfect time to get out and commune with nature. According to recent research, experiencing awe in nature has a powerful effect on emotional well-being, including less stress in our daily lives and boosting healthy feelings of compassion and gratitude. One of the most coveted features at Circa is the two-acre private rooftop park and amenity collection, offering residents plenty of greenery and spaces to retreat, gather and entertain. But beyond the comfort of home, we’ve rounded up some wonderful ways to add some awe to your routine, including bird watching trails, a butterfly pavilion, outdoor art installations, and a bounty of spring blooms. We even found some apps to enhance your experience of nature. Check websites for hours, advance ticket sales, and health guidelines.

Descanso Gardens Cherry Blossoms near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens Bloom Boom 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Experience Descanso’s bloom boom! Descanso Gardens celebrates all nature has to offer in the late winter and early spring. Currently blooming you’ll find Descanso’s iconic cherry blossoms, camellias, crabapples, daffodils, tulips, California poppies, and lilacs. Colorful flowers are a sure sign of spring, but not the only one. The birds of Descanso mark spring by making their homes in the garden. As you explore Descanso, look for special areas from the Promenade to the Oak Woodland marked with the Signs of Spring logo. There you will find displays both educational and artistic, including works by artist David Lovejoy. They’ll invite you to explore birds, nests, blooms, and all the signs of spring. Advance tickets required for non-members.

NHM Butterfly Pavilion near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Butterfly Pavilion at NHMLA 900 W Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Butterflies are taking flight at the Natural History Museum. Walk among beautiful butterflies in the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion. This springtime exhibition features hundreds of butterflies, colorful native plants, and plenty of natural light to help you see these creatures shimmer. With lots of flight space and a variety of resting spots, you’ll have one of the best views in Los Angeles of these amazing insects. Enter through the North Entrance and enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Nature Gardens on the way to the Butterfly Pavilion. All guests are required to reserve all tickets in advance for the Butterfly Pavilion and parking.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018

Need to unwind your mind? Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens was established by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness as a non-profit center dedicated to peace and spirituality. Called a “Spiritual Oasis in the City,” its purpose is to provide a place for people to take time out of their busy lives to visit, reflect, and be rejuvenated by the peace and solace of nature. The centerpiece of the property is an outdoor stone labyrinth, using the same design as the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth. The spectacular Asian-themed meditation garden presents sixteen water features, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas tucked away to reflect, repose, meditate, while a pergola and courtyard gardens offer additional areas to enjoy.

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary 2900 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Nestled in a wooded canyon with a small stream, the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary and Trail offers views of many species of birds in their natural habitat. This short hike offers great views and connects to a wider system of trails. The bird community represents most of the rich diversity found in the Santa Monica Mountains. More than 200 species have been recorded over the years, and around 150 are seen every year. From March through June, nearly 70 species may nest, particularly in the many small canyons that drain off the slopes into the Los Angeles River.

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK Featuring Kronos Quartet in Griffith Park

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK is a free, GPS-enabled work of public art that uses music to illuminate the natural environment of L.A.’s Griffith Park. Created by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and sound artist Ellen Reid, the experience is guided by the listener: the path you choose dictates the music you hear, and no two visits will be exactly the same. After downloading the free app and putting on your headphones, you can explore the park, triggering musical cells that are carefully crafted to harmonize with the park’s landscape and attractions. SOUNDWALK can be experienced while following social distancing guidelines and will be available free of charge to park visitors through 2023. Get the free app HERE

South Coast Botanic Garden near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Hide & Seek Art: Meets Nature South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Embark on an artful adventure at South Coast Botanic Garden and explore 87 acres of lush habitat and manicured gardens. Hiding amid colorful blooms and luscious flowering trees are eight exquisite works of sculpture just waiting to be found at the Garden’s newest exhibit: Hide and Seek: Art Meets Nature. The exhibition features two contemporary pieces owned by South Coast Botanic Garden and six modern works from the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The sculptures have been carefully placed throughout the Garden as a way to encourage nature exploration with an artful game of hide and seek. The Garden’s vast nature space provides an exquisite opportunity for each sculpture to express its own artistic character. The interplay of nature and art will add a whole new level of appreciation for the Garden’s botanical collections.

Desert X near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Desert X DX 2021 Coachella Valley, CA

Ready for a road trip? Desert X is a site-specific exhibition that first took place in Spring 2017. Artists from different parts of the world are invited to create work in response to the unique conditions of the Coachella Valley and project their vision based on the extraordinary natural and social history, matchless spectacle of the geologic epic, radical abstraction of the surrounds, and the singular incursions of humans into the seemingly barren landscape. Free and open to the public, but health and safety guidelines apply. Timed tickets are required at select sites. Download the Desert X app HERE

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is excited to announce that WildLights is returning to the Zoo – with a spring twist! WildLights of Spring will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with vantages of select animal habitats including the emus of the new Australian Adventures, and new for Spring, a portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and more. Plus, there will be new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Advance reservations required.

iNaturalist App

Do you want to contribute to science? The iNaturalist app allows you to connect with nature and record your observations of the natural world, such as birds, plants, forests, butterflies, marine life, and wild bees. You can share your observations with fellow naturalists, discuss your findings, and create your own projects. Every observation can contribute to biodiversity science, from the rarest butterfly to the most common backyard weed. iNaturalist shares your findings with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to help scientists find and use your data. All you have to do is observe. iNaturalist is a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.

Picture This app nature near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Have you ever encountered a beautiful, unknown flower during your walk and wondered what it was? Or do you need advice on how to care for your plants? Simply take a photo of the plant and PictureThis answers all the questions for you. PictureThis® identifies 1,000,000+ plants every day with 98% accuracy – better than most human experts. The app’s revolutionary artificial intelligence engine is constantly learning from experts and specialists – and now it’s all at your fingertips. Picture this plant, and discover a new appreciation for nature.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Photo #4: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #5: Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Photo #6: Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Desert X

Photo #9: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Photo #10: iNaturalist App

Photo #11: Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Let It Glow: Where to See the Holiday Lights in LA

It’s time to sparkle and shine, and DTLA is all aglow with holiday lights to make your spirits bright. You’ll also find some spectacular displays just a short distance from Circa, such as Altadena’s legendary Christmas Tree Lane and St. Albans Road in San Marino. This year, you can experience seasonal celebrations from the comfort of your car, like the Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival and The Bite LA Sweets Crawl at Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake. Or take a moment to reflect on nature’s beauty at Descanso Gardens and stroll among the stunning art installations at South Coast Botanic Garden. This season, there’s no end to the holiday magic when you let it glow.

Sparkle DTLA holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience a magical holiday show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable night time journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience.

Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival Dodger Stadium 1000 Vin Scully Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The 2020 World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a drive-thru Holiday Festival, complete with a light show, LED video displays, faux snow, and interactive displays honoring the Dodgers World Championship and celebrating the holidays. The Dodgers Holiday Festival is a great way to enjoy the holidays responsibly from the comfort of your own vehicle. Open nightly 5-10PM until December 24. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Grand Park holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

This year Grand Park is trading its annual Winter Glow for a thoughtful art installation called “Ground Our Present, Dot Our Future,” featuring walkways flecked with Angelenos’ messages about hope and social connection. Read them in the glow of a lighted selfie wall, fountain and holiday tree in front of the Music Center. Until Jan. 2, 2021. Free admission.

Reflections at Descanso Gardens holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Reflections at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens invites you to take a moment to reflect and enjoy the beauty that’s all around us. Discover art pieces in the garden, special seasonal plantings, self-guided activities, and a beautiful Wishing Tree created by artist Kaz Yokou Kitajima. Walk through the Golden Grove where gold-burnished logs and stones will appear from the base of the oaks creating a festive glow. Stroll through the Camellia Forest and visit the Mirror Tree, adorned with mirrors that reflect the light and beauty around it, and make a wish for the New Year. Non-members must purchase tickets online in advance.

Christmas Tree Lane holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Christmas Tree Lane Santa Rosa Ave. (between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Dr.) Altadena, CA 91001

Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena is the oldest large-scale Christmas lighting spectacle in the United States. In 1885, real estate magnate John P. Woodbury of the Woodbury Family, the founders of Altadena, planted 134 deodar trees (broad conical cedars) as a grand mile-long driveway entrance to the mansion he would build. Woodbury’s mansion was never built, but the trees thrived and the “driveway” became Santa Rosa Avenue. Every Christmas season for more than 80 years, the majestic deodars on the “Mile of Christmas Trees” are strung with 10,000 lights for you to drive through and enjoy.

GLOW at South Coast Botanic Garden holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

GLOW South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

South Coast Botanic Garden is proud to present GLOW, a visually stunning art installation that transforms the lush botanic oasis into an oceanic experience for their Garden Lights & Ocean Waters theme, using thousands of lights designed by California Outdoor Lighting. The walk is set to an artistically curated soundtrack featuring a little something for everyone, including original music created for GLOW by Jerzy, as well as Baja surf music, Train, and Vivaldi. Let the colors wash over you like a wave and the music be your current, guiding you through this unique and unforgettable after-dark walk.

St. Albans Road near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

St. Albans Road St. Albans Rd. & Huntington Dr. San Marino, CA 91108

Every December, the tall majestic pines that line Saint Albans Road are bedecked in colored lights to resemble giant Christmas trees. This old San Marino neighborhood is also a treasure trove of stately old California architecture, all dressed up for the holidays.

Mission Inn & Spa holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Festival of Lights Mission Inn & Spa 3649 Mission Inn Ave. Riverside, CA 92501

The Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is one of the nation’s largest holiday light collections, voted “Best Public Lights Display” by USA Today. The Festival of Lights is a cherished annual tradition created by the inn’s owners as a gift for the community back in 1992. Every year, it attracts over 500,000 visitors, all thrilled to watch the display come to life through the holidays. This year, the hotel will feature dazzling lights on the exterior of the hotel, interior lighting, and holiday décor that captures the true essence and history of this beautiful venue.

Winterlit Downtown Santa Monica holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Winterlit 1351 3rd Street Promenade Downtown Santa Monica, CA 90401

Winterlit returns to Downtown Santa Monica to brighten up the holiday season. Tens of thousands of lights will illuminate the Third Street Promenade’s festive outdoor retail, and holiday-inspired art installations will come to life at eleven stops throughout Third Street Promenade, featuring window displays in storefronts and murals created by local artists who were asked to interpret what the holiday season means to them during this unprecedented year.

The Bite LA Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl Legg Lake 751 Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733

From the creators of The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl and the former creative director of the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, comes a seasonal twist on the drive-thru experience offering immersive winter holiday fun. Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake is transformed into a winter wonderland with sweets and activities all available from the comfort of your car. Stock up on sweets with your complimentary BITE LA stocking (8 Sweets Bites are included). Get your bag of 5 safe, cotton plush ‘sno-balls’ (included with your ticket) and enter the Snowman Sno-Ball Fight. Dress up your ride in the ugliest holiday sweater or decor and be entered to win prizes throughout the season. The gaudier the merrier.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: The Bloc

Photo #2: The Bloc

Photo #3: Los Angeles Dodgers

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: Christmas Tree Lane

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Red Tricycle/Sarah P. via Yelp

Photo #9: Mission Inn & Spa

Photo #10: Downtown Santa Monica

Photo #11: The Bite LA

Get Your Halloween Scary On

Halloween is always a thrilling time of year, with spooky events and creepy outdoor activities unfolding under the night sky. But this year’s celebration will be even more special, because a blue moon will illuminate the sky on the evening of October 31. Start your spirited adventure with an audio tour of DTLA’s most ghostly buildings. Relish a ghoulish dinner at a haunted Vicitorian mansion or feed your fears at an eerie Halloween food crawl. Discover the traditions of Día de los Muertos as you stroll through Grand Park. Immerse yourself in a multimedia horror show from the safety of your own vehicle. For residents of Circa, there’s no end to the fiendish fun when you get your Halloween scary on.

Secret Los Angeles Haunted Dinner & Cocktail Experience near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Haunted Dinner & Cocktail Experience 1725 N Hudson Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Welcome hungry guests! A night of horror awaits you in a graveyard at L.A.’s oldest haunted house. Drop your candy basket at the door and step into this historic, three-story Victorian mansion where you’re promised a thrilling night, Confirm your seat at the dinner table and make your way through various scenes and experiences. There’ll be eerie encounters, with the eyes of demons, vampires, and witches on you at all times. Once you’ve made your way out of the maze of cobwebs and hallways with creaking floors, you’ll be treated to a dinner in a wonderfully macabre outdoor area — a graveyard. The ghostly hosts will feed you a menu that is simply “to die for” so make sure you come with an appetite.

Grand Park Día de los Muertos Altars near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Día de los Muertos Altars Grand Park 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Experience the traditions of Día de los Muertos as you stroll through 11 altars located throughout Grand Park, curated by Self Help Graphics in collaboration with their Noche de Ofrenda series of programs. The exhibiton includes the annual Community Altar created by Maestra Ofelia Esparza and her family. All personally and culturally relevant to Los Angeles, the 10 main large-scale altar installations represent the losses and causes of this past year. The altars are created by artists and community partners and focus on the youth from the East Los Angeles Women’s Center, and workers and tenants from Community Power Collective.

Haunted Tour of DTLA near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Self Guided Audio Tour of Haunted Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has its share of ghost stories. The backdrop of noir novels and real-life crimes, the city’s Beaux Arts buildings have seen their share of chilling events. This Halloween, you can see them for yourself, by taking an immersive, self-guided walking or driving tour of Haunted Los Angeles. When you arrive at each stop on the tour, trigger the audio to hear a bit about the eerie history of the location – and about the ghosts that are said to still haunt the hallways to this day. Words by James Bartlett and narration by Bill Kates.

Stranger Things Drive-In near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Stranger Things Drive-In ROW DTLA 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Attention all Stranger Things fans. It’s time to travel back in time to 1985 and become a Hawkins resident – in real life. Adventure calls, so gather your friends and drive to the Starcourt Mall. Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Stranger Things, where you will take part in a drive thru experience like no other. Unlock the story of Hawkins in this unique format as you savor some of the best moments from this Netflix series, and maybe even witness some unforeseen and unusual occurrences.

Makers Mess Halloween Kits near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Makers Mess Halloween Kits ROW DTLA 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Halloween is not canceled and Makers Mess has fall kits ready to be picked up. Grab your pumpkin decorating kit and shop their mini pumpkin patch at ROW DTLA. Or just stop by to take a selfie. Makers Mess is a creative art studio that offers art and design classes for all ages. They support artists by cultivating opportunities for them to share their knowledge with individuals, groups and companies.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride 120 Via Verde Dr. San Dimas, CA 91773

This year Los Angeles Haunted Hayride is taking the hayride off the trail and bringing it to you in the safety of your own parked vehicle. A first of its kind immersive experience from the creators of LA’s favorite Halloween event, this is an original haunted show featuring a multimedia story displayed on a 40 foot screen, as well as horrifying sets and characters from Midnight Falls that surround the theater and bring the story to life. Tickets are extremely limited and will sell out nightly.

The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl & Creature Safari near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Bite LA Whittier Narrows 750 S Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733

The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl and Creature Safari snakes its way around eerie Legg Lake and through immersive environments, where sinister specters offer up delicious bites of seasonal grub, all from the safety of your own car. Bites vary from savory to sweet and will include vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options for certain items. Bring a flashlight from home and scan the surrounding darkness from the safety of your car, in a hunt for the shadowy and monstrous creatures that roam the abyss. Can you find them all before they find you?

Pumpkin House at Descanso Gardens near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Halloween at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Throughout the month of October, explore Halloween at Descanso. Guests are invited to safely wind their way through socially-distanced, pumpkin-themed displays in the most popular sections of Descanso Gardens. Highlights include the pumpkin house and hay maze, wooden jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkin arch, and pumpkin mandalas. Descanso Gardens is an urban retreat of year-round natural beauty, internationally renowned botanical collections, and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. Advance tickets are needed for non-members. Descanso Gardens members can enter anytime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #2: Secret Los Angeles

Photo #3: Grand Park

Photo #4: Los Angeles Magazine

Photo #5: Stranger Things Drive-In

Photo #6: Makers Mess

Photo #7: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #8: The Bite LA

Photo #9: Descanso Gardens

Explore Beautiful Botanical Gardens

Looking for a refreshing respite from the summer heat? The Los Angeles area is home to some of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens, many just a short distance from Circa apartments. These foliage-filled natural retreats present a vast array of native flora and fauna, as well as spectacular species from all corners of the globe. You might just meet a peacock, commune with the koi, or even encounter a resident turtle! Some botanical gardens require advance ticket purchase – check their websites for details. Watch for visitor guidelines at all locations.

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden 270 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden was created by Kinzuchi Fujii for Charles and Ellamae Storrier Stearns in 1935. Fujii designed and built Japanese landscapes across Southern California in the first half of the 20th century. The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is his only remaining garden and the only intact example of a major Japanese-style garden created before World War II for a residence in Southern California. This pond-style stroll garden features a fifteen-foot waterfall and a formal teahouse on approximately two acres of land. The garden is considered by many to be a masterwork and it demonstrates the adaptability of Japanese culture in modern America.

Arlington Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Arlington Garden 275 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

Pasadena’s only dedicated free public garden, Arlington Garden is a three- acre community-built Mediterranean garden in the heart of Pasadena on Caltrans-owned land. The site is leased to the City of Pasadena and entrusted by the city to Arlington Garden in Pasadena, a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation. The garden includes thousands of California-native plants such as poppies, sunflowers, cactus and succulents, orchards of orange and olive trees, and many more species. Arlington Garden is not only friendly to people and pets, but also serves as a refuge for Pasadena’s native fauna. Birds, bees and butterflies are particularly abundant and can be seen throughout the year. Arlington Garden is open every day except Tuesday. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden UCLA 707 Tiverton Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90095

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a living museum that maintains one of the most important living botanical collections in the U.S. Over 3,000 types of plants grow in the garden and a wide range of environments are found within its borders, from the dry desert and Mediterranean sections on the eastern end to the shaded, lush interior. A stream and series of ponds run through the center of the garden, which is home to koi and turtles.

South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Unique from the start, South Coast Botanic Garden is one of the world’s first botanical gardens to be developed as a masterpiece of creative land reclamation and environment improvement. The mission of South Coast Botanic Garden is to serve the community by providing a unique horticultural and wildlife habitat experience, and to represent a model of excellence for land reclamation and sustainability. This continuing experiment in land reclamation has drawn horticulturists from all over the world, including Prince Charles of England, to study the feasibility of similar projects. Today the garden is host to over 200,000 plants, and numerous wildlife residents, including hedgehogs and peafowl.

Exposition Park Rose Garden 701 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037

The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a historic 7-acre sunken garden located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles. It has been called “one of the city’s best-kept secrets” and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. You’ll discover green spaces scattered around the USC-adjacent property, but the most charming section lies in the lovely Rose Garden.

Huntington Botanical Gardens near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Huntington Botanical Gardens 1151 Oxford Road San Marino, CA 91108

Huntington Botanical Gardens is offering Huntington Evening Strolls! Beat the heat of the day and enjoy a leisurely evening walk through the gardens Friday – Sunday from 4:30–7 p.m. through Labor day. Advance tickets are required. In 1903 Henry E. Huntington purchased the San Marino Ranch, a working ranch with citrus groves, nut and fruit orchards, alfalfa crops, a small herd of cows, and poultry. Today, the estate is home to 16 spectacular themed gardens spread across 120 acres, including Desert Garden, Camellia & Rose Gardens, Japanese Garden, Jungle Garden, Herb Garden and more. The Huntington has reopened most of its 130 acres of gardens, with new safety measures in place, but the galleries remain closed. All visitors, including Members must reserve tickets online in advance.

LA Arboretum near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

LA Arboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave Arcadia, CA 91007

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a unique 127-acre botanical garden and historical site located in what was once the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the city of Arcadia. Did you know The Arboretum is also an official wildlife sanctuary? In addition to the famous peafowl, visitors will see species of resident and migratory birds, aquatic creatures, and numerous species of small reptiles and mammals. Tickets are now limited to preserve safe distancing and all indoor spaces are closed. Members are required to reserve free tickets. Non-members must buy advance tickets online to ensure entry.

Descanso Gardens near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is an urban retreat of year-round natural beauty, internationally renowned botanical collections, and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays, located just 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles. The principal collections include California native plants and oak woodlands; one of the largest collections of camellias in the Western Hemisphere; a rose garden with specimens from all corners of the globe; and significant presentations of lilacs, maple trees, cherry trees and iris. Members can enter without an advance ticket, but visitors who are not members and guests not covered under a membership will need advance tickets with timed entry.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Photo #2: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Photo #3: Arlington Garden in Pasadena

Photo #4: Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden

Photo #5: Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Photo #6: Huntington Botanical Gardens

Photo #7: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Descanso Gardens

Go Take A Hike: LA’s Best Trails & Parks

Don your sturdy shoes, grab your water bottle, and go take a hike. You don’t have to travel far to experience the great outdoors – LA is home to a wealth of spectacular parks and gardens that are easily accessible from DTLA. You’ll discover everything from rugged woodlands to majestic waterfalls, unusual geological formations, breathtaking ocean views, and a wide variety of wildlife. Activities include hiking, running, mountain biking, bird watching, equestrian use, and more. If you’re looking for a sweet urban retreat, Descanso Gardens and LA Arboretum are now open by reservation, so you can plan your visit and take your time enjoying the flora and wildlife. Watch for signs with visitor guidelines at all locations.

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park 4235 Monterey Road Los Angeles, CA 90032

Ernest E. Debs Regional Park is 300 acre urban oasis on old ranch land in the Arroyo Seco neighborhood just northeast of downtown L.A. The fourth largest park in Los Angeles, the area is home to walnut-oak woodland, grassland, coastal sage scrub, and over 140 species of birds. A five mile loop meanders through almost every section of this dog-friendly park. Along the way, you’ll discover a pond where you can actually go fishing.

Eaton Canyon Natural Area 1750 N. Altadena Dr. Pasadena, CA 91107

Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a natural preserve located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. This scenic 198 acre natural area was originally called “El Precipicio” by Spanish settlers because of its steep gorges, and was later named after Judge Benjamin Eaton, a progressive pioneer who was the first to use irrigation from Eaton creek to grow grapes on the slopes. Visitors can explore Eaton Canyon’s expansive hiking and equestrian trails, seasonal streams, and abundant native plants.

Will Rogers State Historic Park 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Will Rogers was one of the most popular and highest paid actors in Hollywood and “America’s most beloved citizen.” During the 1920s, he bought land in Santa Monica, where he developed a ranch. Eventually, Will Rogers owned about 359 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in what is now known as the Pacific Palisades. After Rogers passed away, his widow Betty donated the ranch to California State Parks in 1944 and it became a state historic park. Hikers can enjoy a moderate 2-mile loop to and from Inspiration Point. The Rivas Canyon Trail also provides a moderate 2.1 mile hike to Temescal Gateway Park. Adventurous hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can tackle the Backbone Trail National Trail into the Santa Monica Mountains, which can take you 70 miles all the way to Point Mugu.

Point Mugu State Park 9000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Point Mugu State Park, located in the Santa Monica Mountains, features five miles of ocean shoreline with rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted with sycamores, oaks and a few native walnuts. In all, there are more than 70 miles of hiking trails. The beach also features swimming, body surfing and surf fishing. The park includes the jagged pinnacles of the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area.

Topanga State Park 20828 Entrada Rd, Topanga, CA 90290

Located in the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park features 36 miles of trails through open grassland, live oaks and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is located entirely within the Los Angeles city limits and is considered the world’s largest wildland within the boundaries of a major city. The park is bound on the south by Pacific Palisades and Brentwood, on the west by Topanga Canyon, and on the east by Rustic Canyon. Numerous geologic formations can be found in the park, including earthquake faults, marine fossils, volcanic intrusions, and a wide variety of sedimentary formations.

LA Aboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave Arcadia, CA 91007

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a unique 127-acre botanical garden and historical site located in what was the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the city of Arcadia. Did you know The Arboretum is also an official wildlife sanctuary. In addition to the famous peafowl, visitors will see species of resident and migratory birds, aquatic creatures, and numerous species of small reptiles and mammals. Tickets are now limited to preserve safe distancing and all indoor spaces are closed. Members are required to reserve free tickets. Non-members must buy advance tickets online to ensure entry.

Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Photo #1: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Photo #2: Earnest E. Debs Regional Park

Photo #3: Eaton Canyon Nature Associates

Photo #4: Will Rogers State Historic Park

Photo #5: California Dept. of Parks & Recreation

Photo #6: California Dept. of Parks & Recreation

Photo #7: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Photo #8: Descanso Gardens

Staycation! Fun Things To Do Without Ever Leaving LA!

Time for a staycation! This summer, kick back, relax, and be a tourist in your own town! A vacation can be fabulous, but between all the crazy planning, logistics, and untethering from work, a staycation can be just as much fun, minus the stress – and certainly more affordable. Did you know in 2018 tourism in LA generated a record $36.6 billion boost to the Los Angeles economy? This means that folks from around the world spent beaucoup bucks to experience what we lucky Angelenos have right in our own backyard. Your staycation adventure awaits! Get ready to explore all the fun things to do without ever leaving LA!.

LA River Kayak Safari

Whitewater and wildlife meet urban culture when you paddle the LA River in Frogtown! LA River Kayak Safari is an urban-nature adventure that combines bikes, kayaks, instruction and conversation about the Los Angeles River. This unique trip offers you the chance to paddle with river locals, manage small rapids, and experience nature in the middle of the City. The route passes through Elysian Valley (Frogtown,) home to an emerging river culture of restaurants, coffee shops and art, next to the future parklands of the former train yards. New to paddling? Kayak Safari employs time-tuned techniques to teach you fast. By the end of the tour, you will be an accomplished urban kayaker!

Getty Villa Garden Tour 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Discover the rich mythological and cultural connections of ancient gardens in this 40-minute tour of the Getty Villa’s four Roman gardens. The Getty Villa has four gardens that blend Roman architecture with open air spaces and Mediterranean plants. In ancient times, gardens served both practical and aesthetic purposes at Roman country homes. They let fresh air and light enter the home, and also acted as gathering places to have conversations or to escape the heat. You’ll find about 300 varieties of plants are used in the landscaping of the Getty Villa, many of which can also be found in the Mediterranean region. Explore the Roman gardens at the Getty Villa through a 40-minute tour Monday, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108

When Henry and Arabella Huntington drafted the trust document in the summer of 1919 that would transform their private estate into an institution for the “advancement of learning, the arts and sciences, and to promote the public welfare,” they had no way of knowing what an intellectual and cultural powerhouse it would become. Fast forward and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of The Huntington with a cornucopia of curated art collections, cultivated gardens, and cultural programs that would do this amazing, visionary couple proud!

Summer Nights at Descanso 1418 Descanso Dr.La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is an urban retreat of year-round natural beauty, internationally renowned botanical collections and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. Summer Nights at Descanso Gardens presents a late hours program of fun events to celebrate the season. Hoist a brewsky at Beer Garden Nights (Five Thursdays from Aug. 1–29). Chill out in the Courtyard where fine brews and food are available for purchase, then wander the Gardens as the sun starts to set. Don’t miss the End of Summer Celebration (Wed Aug. 28). Grab a cold drink and relax to the tunes of the The Flashdance DJs, wander through the gardens to the sounds of live music, enjoy the sunset, then end the night with some stargazing in the Oak Woodland.

Arboretum Summer Nights 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007

LA Arboretum presents an eclectic program of music, movies and garden tours throughout August. Mark your calendars for the Arboretum Summer Nights concert program featuring the Pasadena Pops with Michael Feinstein, The Route 66 Band, and more. Enjoy live music, crafts and lawn games. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas and wine to go with your picnic-style dinner. Food will also be available for purchase from local food trucks.

LA Zoo Roaring Nights 5333 Zoo Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

The L.A. Zoo’s Roaring Nights summer series is back and wilder than ever – offering fun, fascinating explorations at the intersection of music, culture, and nature. These adults-only (21+) adventures feature live bands, DJs, pop-up Zoo Talks, animal close-ups, L.A.’s best food trucks, full bars, and more. Featuring:The Watering Hole open-air glamping lounge with specialty cocktails; an immersive silent disco experience powered by dueling DJs; three multi-genre dance areas, for an eclectic musical safari; interactive art activities; classic backyard games; and more.

La Brea Tar Pits Second Home Pavilion 5801 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

Explore the rainbow tunnels of this immersive, temporary structure where art and science meet. Second Home Serpentine Pavilion by SelgasCano at La Brea Tar Pits is a standout architectural creation. Each of the rainbow tunnels takes you on different journey. There are multiple ways to wander, and many entrances and exits, but they all emanate from a center area where you’ll be immersed in stained glass light. The pavilion experience shifts from day to night—natural light seeps through translucent walls by day, and glowing lights illuminate its colors and surfaces once the sun goes down.

World of Light Pop Up Museum 233 S Beaudry Ave 11th Fl. Los Angeles, CA 90012

World of Light is a collective of forward-thinking global artists, commissioned to create boundless installations inspired by individuality and background diversity. The exhibition promises an engaging experience – fusing art with technology through a collection of sophisticated installations and visual compositions. A truly unique experience that promises to deliver a highly personalized immersive experience.

Los Angeles Conservancy Last Remaining Seats Various locations

Experience classic films as they were meant to be seen! Last Remaining Seats is the LA Conservancy’s annual series of classic films screened in historic theatres, such as Los Angeles Theatre, Million Dollar Theatre, Theatre at Ace Hotel, Orpheum Theatre, and The Wiltern. The Los Angeles Conservancy is a membership-based nonprofit organization that works through advocacy and education to recognize, preserve, and revitalize the historic architectural and cultural resources of Los Angeles County.

Explore LA’s Urban Parks

Our city has a bounty of beautiful places to experience nature – many right in the sight of the LA skyline! Here’s a guide to the great urban outdoors from DoLA.

Trails LA County Mobile App

Take the trail with you using the Trails LA County Mobile App! Did you know it is estimated that there are more than 2,000 miles of public trails in Los Angeles County? From the Mojave Desert and Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains down to the Pacific Ocean, these trails belong to all of us. And there’s never been a single official source for trail maps, planning and information – before now. The Trails LA County app has offline mapping and navigation built right in – which means you won’t have to worry about what happens to your map when you hike out of cell phone range. Trails LA County currently hosts more than 550 miles of trails…and counting! Their goal s to partner with all the trail managing agencies in LA County to have all 2,000 miles of public trails featured on Trails LA County in the near future. Download the Trail LA County app on the App Store or get it on Google Play.