Arboretum visits in Santa Barbara, California

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, located at 1212 Mission Canyon Road in Santa Barbara, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The garden features a variety of native plants and exhibits, including the 'Arriving Home' exhibit which evokes feelings of comfort and belonging. One interesting plant you may come across at the garden is the Dudleya, also known as liveforevers, a genus of about 65 species and subspecies in the stonecrop family. Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature in a serene and peaceful setting.

Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a stunning park located at 1500 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California. Once the site of the El Mirasol Hotel, this downtown block is now home to a beautiful botanical collection featuring 75 different tree and plant species, a peaceful pond, a sensory garden with audio posts and Braille signs, a demonstration garden showcasing low water use plants, benches, walking paths, picnic areas, and a charming gazebo. This park is often referred to as the "crown jewel" of City parks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden free of charge and are encouraged to join the dedicated team of volunteers who help maintain this beloved park. Every Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., volunteers of all experience levels can participate in tasks such as pruning, mulching, deadheading, and weeding under the guidance of Parks staff. Drop-in volunteers are always welcome and should meet at the big shed on the Santa Barbara Street side of the park. If you have your own hand tools and gloves, please bring them along, although a limited supply is available for use. Come and be a part of preserving this special green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Lotusland is a stunning public garden located on Cold Spring Road in Montecito, California. Spanning over 37 acres, this botanical treasure features lush gardens and exquisite architecture that will leave visitors in awe. Due to its location in a residential neighborhood, Lotusland operates under unique limitations set by the County of Santa Barbara, including restrictions on daily visitors and hours of operation. To ensure a visit, all guests must make advanced reservations. With rare and exotic plant specimens, as well as themed gardens, Lotusland is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists from around the world. The garden was founded by the passionate gardening visionary and generous humanitarian, Madame Ganna Walska. Your support helps Lotusland continue to bloom for the enjoyment of the community and future generations.