The Best Garden classrooms in Santa Cruz, California

Flutterby Preschool, located at 1803 King Street in Santa Cruz, California, is a nurturing and developmentally appropriate school founded by Lisa Serene Goldman. Lisa, a dedicated and experienced educator, believes in honoring and respecting each child as a unique and wonderful spirit. With a background in Environmental Studies and Early Childhood Education, Lisa provides a warm and loving environment where children can thrive. At Flutterby Preschool, children are met with loving kindness as they explore the world through play and hands-on experiences. The curriculum includes activities such as organic gardening, music, dance, storytelling, and art, all designed to support the children's natural development. The school also offers weekly music concerts by a guitar teacher and has a team of experienced and caring teachers.

Welcome to Rachel Carson Meadow, a serene natural sanctuary nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at the address 95064, this enchanting park offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike. Named in honor of the renowned environmentalist Rachel Carson, the meadow celebrates her legacy by providing a pristine habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors to Rachel Carson Meadow can immerse themselves in the beauty of lush landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and tranquil walking trails that wind through the park's expansive grounds. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot for reflection, a scenic backdrop for a picnic, or an educational experience exploring the local ecosystem, our meadow provides the perfect setting.

Welcome to the UCSC Arboretum, a captivating sanctuary nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 120 Arboretum Road, our expansive park offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and ecological diversity, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 135 acres, the UCSC Arboretum is home to a remarkable collection of plants from around the world, with a special emphasis on flora from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and California. Our meticulously curated gardens provide a serene environment for visitors to explore and learn about rare and endangered plant species, all while enjoying the stunning natural landscapes of the Central Coast.

Quail Hollow Montessori is a nurturing and educational institution located at 187 Laurel Drive in Felton, California. Just a block off of Highway 9 and only 3 miles from Santa Cruz or Scotts Valley, our school offers a unique learning experience for children ages 6 months to 6 years old. Our program focuses on introducing children to the wonders of the world around them, encouraging diversity, respect, and independence. With a curriculum that includes practical life activities, language, math, science, art, music, and more, we strive to challenge each child at their own level.

Calvary Preschool is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian institution located in downtown Santa Cruz, California. Our school offers a full curriculum for children ages 2½ through 5 years, with three different classrooms to personalize the learning experience for each child. At Calvary Preschool, we believe in hands-on learning and offer field trips to various local destinations such as the museum, beach, Seymour Laboratory, post office, and library. Our life lab garden allows children to work and learn about gardening year-round, while emphasizing the importance of recycling and reusing in our everyday lessons.