Day Trip to Huntington Library and Gardens San Marino, CA

The Huntington Library & Gardens is a popular day-trip destination in San Marino, California. This 207-acre complex houses a library, art collection, and spectacular gardens that attract tourists and some of the world’s most outstanding scholars. Opened in 1928, The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Garden were the gift of railroad tycoon Henry and his wife, Arabella Huntington.

The Huntingtons created a trust that would allow future generations to view their collection of manuscripts, books, documents, and art, conduct research in the Library, and enjoy the colorful flowers and unusual plants in their 120-acre Botanical Garden. Today, the Library and art gallery contains some of the rarest books under one roof and one of the complete collections of 18th-century art, which no other museum does.

Extraordinary gems are housed here. Items such as the Gutenberg Bible, the Ellesmere manuscript of Canterbury Tales, a 60,000-item Jack London archive, and works with important figures such as Audubon and Shakespeare.

Huntington Library

The Library was also once known for being one of the first institutions to release the complete set of Dead Sea Scroll pictures for researchers to study and house the Nuremberg Laws donated by General Patton himself.

But it’s not just what is inside that attracts guests. Beyond the Library walls are different theme gardens for visitors to roam, such as Japanese, Chinese, Desert, Tropical, Australian, Rose, Shakespeare, Conservatory, and Jungle Gardens. There’s even a unique Children’s Garden for the youngsters.

Huntington Botanical Gardens

For many, these Botanical Gardens are the highlight of their Huntington experience and contain some unique and rare plants from around the globe.

Whether you prefer the peace of the Japanese Garden with its ponds and pagodas or the romance of the Shakespeare Garden, the Botanical Garden is a relaxing place for an afternoon stroll. Most of the pathways that meander through the gardens are wheelchair accessible, and The Huntington publishes a map that includes a guide to walkways that may not be.

Huntington’s Home

Visitors may also tour Huntington’s home, furnished with antiques as it was when the couple occupied it. You will find rare and unique works from van Dyck, Canaletto, Turner, and Constable, as well as well-known artwork such as Thomas Gainsborough’s Blue Boy and Thomas Lawrence’s Pinkie. There is also a fine collection of French porcelain and several delicate tapestries.

Docent-Led Tours

Although guests can explore the entire complex independently, The Huntington provides several Library and Botanical Garden tours. Docents lead these walking tours and give visitors an exclusive look at the property, most of which are conducted before public hours. You can choose from various 90-minute tours, including the Estate, Chinese Garden, and Japanese Garden tours. However, it’s important to note that tickets must be purchased in advance.

Dining at Huntington Library and Gardens

The Rose Garden Tea Room

The Rose Tea Room and Cafe is an upscale experience in the Huntington Gardens. Guests can enjoy a traditional high tea experience or choose from a la carte items. Dining here can be expensive, but it is worth the cost for the beautiful experience. To visit the Rose Garden Tea Room, you must purchase admission to The Huntington; reservations are recommended.

Red Car Coffee Shop

The Red Car Coffee Shop at the main entrance offers various breakfast items, pastries, espresso, tea, and ice cream. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

1919 Cafe

Next to the gift shop is the 1919 Cafe, a cafeteria-style restaurant that offers an affordable lunch or early dinner option while exploring the Huntington Library and Gardens. You do not need an entrance ticket to dine at the coffee shop or cafe as they are outside of the gardens.

Where are the Huntington Library & Gardens

An afternoon at The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens is ideal for quality family time and a perfect day with grandparents and other unique out-of-town visitors. Be prepared to do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

The Huntington Library & Gardens is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Tuesdays when it is closed. It is located at 1151 Oxford Road in San Marino, California, and parking is free.

The first Thursday of every month is Free Day. Admission is free of charge with reservation. Free Day tickets are available the last Thursday of every month at 9 a.m. until sold out for admission the following week.

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