There’s something magical about a spring morning in Southern California—the kind of morning where the sun gently warms your skin, the sky is painted in soft blues, and everything around you feels alive and in bloom. That was exactly the kind of day I had when I visited The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino.

My visit began at the charming Red Car Coffee Shop, a cozy spot nestled near the entrance. The cafe offered a wide selection of snacks, coffee drinks, and even a sweet surprise—Fosselman's ice cream, available for patrons who wanted a cool treat on a warm day. I fueled up with a ham and cheese danish, the perfect bite of flaky pastry and savory filling to energize me for the garden adventure ahead.

History, Culture, and Art at the Huntington

The Huntington is more than just a scenic destination—it’s a cultural jewel with deep roots. Founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, a railroad magnate and visionary collector, the estate was transformed into a public institution that now spans 120 acres of meticulously curated gardens, a world-renowned library, and an impressive art collection. Huntington had a passion for books, art, and the beauty of nature, and he poured that love into creating a space that could be shared and appreciated by generations to come.

The library houses an incredible archive of rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible and early editions of Shakespeare. In the art museum, you’ll find British and European masterpieces—perhaps most famously, Thomas Gainsborough’s The Blue Boy. But what truly captured my heart on this visit were the gardens.

As I began my walk, I was greeted by helpful garden guides posted throughout the grounds. They listed which plants were in each section, noted whether they were in bloom or germinating, and reminded visitors to be mindful of the soil and delicate ecosystems. It was a thoughtful touch that made exploring feel even more intentional and connected.

A Garden Lovers Dream

I wandered first into the Desert Garden, a stunning stretch filled with towering cacti, succulents, and drought-resistant plants that seemed to go on forever. The variety of textures and colors was breathtaking—proof that even the most rugged environments can be filled with beauty and life.

From there, I made my way to the Lily Ponds, where the scene softened into a tranquil dreamscape. I spotted clusters of lily pads floating on the water, with turtles sunning themselves, and koi fish gliding lazily beneath the surface. Along the edges, lush grass walkways made it easy to stroll and take in the view. One of the sweetest moments of the day? Watching a family of geese, six fluffy chicks in tow, waddling their way across the path like they owned the place.

Next came the Jungle Garden, which felt like stepping into another world entirely. Shaded by towering trees and thick with tropical plants, the garden had a wild, enchanting energy. I found a quiet bench nestled in a sea of monstera plants—a favorite of mine and one I've tried many times to keep alive in my own apartment. Sitting there, surrounded by the deep green leaves and the filtered sunlight breaking through the canopy, I felt completely at peace.

From the jungle’s canopy, I wandered past the European Art Museum, housed in a grand building that was just as beautiful as the collection inside. The museum featured an extensive display of European masterpieces, from classical sculptures to richly detailed paintings—a visual feast for any art lover.

On my way to the Rose Garden, I passed through the Shakespeare Garden, a quiet, literary-themed oasis. Between these two spaces lies the charming Rose Garden Tea Room, where guests can stop for tea and light bites, adding a touch of English elegance to the day.

The Rose Garden itself was a dazzling display of color and fragrance—a favorite among visitors for good reason. Roses in every shade imaginable lined the paths, and it was impossible not to stop and admire their beauty.

One thing I appreciated about The Huntington is its thoughtful layout. The grounds are expansive, and while walking through the gardens is a joy, there’s also a shuttle system that runs periodically throughout the day. With designated stops near all major gardens, it’s a great option for those who prefer not to explore entirely on foot. Good thing I grabbed a map on my way in, otherwise, I would have surely gotten lost!

From the Rose Garden, I made my way to the Japanese Garden, where every detail—from the stone lanterns to the gently arched bridges—created a serene and immersive experience. It truly felt like a momentary escape to Japan.

Not far from there, I wandered into the Chinese Garden, which was equally stunning in its own right. With ornate bridges, quiet pavilions, and reflective ponds, it offered endless photo opportunities and another peaceful pocket of the world to explore, all without leaving California.

Of course, there were still so many areas I didn’t get a chance to visit. The Herb Garden, Camellia Garden, Australian Garden, and the Children’s Garden are just a few more gems within the grounds—each offering their own unique ambiance and beauty. It’s truly a place where you could spend an entire day, or even return for a second visit, and still find something new. Whether you’re visiting solo, with a partner, or with your entire family, there’s so much to see and enjoy that it’s an outing everyone can appreciate.

A Sweet Ending

Before heading out, I made one final stop back at the Red Car Cafe—this time for something sweet. I treated myself to two scoops of Fosselman's sorbet: one raspberry and one pear. The tart, fruity pairing was the perfect refreshment after a day of exploring under the warm California sun.

And to round out my day, I made a quick stop at my favorite local storage facility—Arroyo Parkway Self Storage, conveniently located at 411 South Arroyo Parkway in Pasadena. Just a short drive from The Huntington, it’s the perfect spot if you need a secure and accessible place for your belongings. They’re open seven days a week, making it easy to fit a visit in before or after a day at the gardens.

All in all, my visit to The Huntington was more than just a springtime stroll—it was an experience full of inspiration, relaxation, and natural beauty. A perfect way to start the day, and one I’ll definitely be revisiting again soon.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
Open Daily 10am-5pm, closed on Tuesdays
huntington.org

Red Car Coffee Shop
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
Open Daily 9am-5:30pm, closed on Tuesdays
huntington.org/dining