Moorten Botanical Gardens: Palm Springs Hidden Gem

Moorten Botanical Gardens, a hidden gem in Palm Springs, offers a unique and captivating experience for desert flora enthusiasts. Founded in 1938 by Chester “Cactus Slim” Moorten and his wife, Patricia, and now lovingly maintained by their son, Clark Moorten, the gardens are a testament to their passion for desert plant life and their commitment to educating visitors about it.

Exploring the Moorten Cactus Gardens

Upon entering the gardens, you will be provided with a map and directed towards the trail entrance. The trail is brief, so take your time. Visitors will encounter glistening crystals, colorful rocks, ancient fossils, pioneer and gold-mine relics, and many exciting cacti. The gardens allow guests to stroll leisurely and peacefully to view a vast and remarkable collection. It’s a great – and shady – spot to wander or sit and enjoy the collection of over 3,000 varieties of desert plants found along a well-marked trail.

Moorten Botanical Gardens Cactarium

The most captivating feature at Moorten Botanical Gardens is the succulent greenhouse, the Cactarium. A myriad of cacti and succulents are gathered under one roof, creating a breathtaking sight. The Cactarium is renowned as the world’s first greenhouse filled with the dangling dangers and thorny outstretched arms of nearly every imaginable variety of cacti worldwide.

Cactus Castle

The Mediterranean-style home, affectionately known as “Cactus Castle,” is nestled in the Palm Grove Oasis, a haven of tranquility. A gentle waterfall cascades into a serene lake, encircling the central lawn area. This picturesque setting is perfect for various events, from weddings and art exhibits to concerts and fashion shows, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Take Home a Cactus From the Nursery

Outside the greenhouse, there are more cacti. Visitors may encounter a lizard, snake, or desert tortoise as they continue on the trail – like a cactus safari. The end of the trail leads you to a cactus nursery where you can purchase a variety of small cacti and handmade pots at very reasonable prices.

A Huell Howser Favorite

The Moorten Botanical Gardens, Palm Springs, has a special connection to the beloved TV host Huell Howser. On his show “Visiting with Huell Howser,” Huell visited this quirky garden where he explored its cacti and succulents and shared its history. Thanks to its appearance on Huell’s show, the garden is a beautiful and historical place to visit. If you’re a fan of Huell Howser, you might find a little piece of him in the Moorten Botanical Gardens.

Visiting Moorten Botanical Gardens

The Moorten Botanical Gardens are an ideal location for photography and a popular wedding venue. They have the charm of old Palm Springs and are only a short drive from downtown Palm Springs. The gardens are at 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA. During the summer, they are open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. When the weather is cooler, the gardens are open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on Wednesdays when they are closed.

Admission to the Moorten Botanical Gardens is incredibly affordable, with adult tickets priced at just a few dollars. And for families, children under five can enter for free. So, if you find yourself in Palm Springs, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Moorten Botanical Gardens. It’s a fantastic way to enrich your life without breaking the bank. Moorten Gardens Website.

Nearby Moorten Botanical Gardens

Explore Downtown Palm Springs: Palm Canyon Drive

Downtown Palm Springs is like a desert oasis of cool. It has quirky shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving tacos and vegan delights. If you’re into architecture, you’ll love the mid-century modern buildings that seem to pop up around every corner.

Take A Ride on The Palm Springs Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway boasts the world’s largest rotating tram car. It offers a scenic 10-minute journey covering 2.5 miles to the peak of Mount San Jacinto. Once at the top, visitors can revel in stunning views of the Coachella Valley, savor delicious meals at one of the two restaurants, or embark on a hiking adventure. Website.

Go Hiking in Tahquitz Canyon

Tahquitz Canyon is a fantastic place to explore. There’s a short, easy two-mile loop hike with beautiful scenery that leads to a stunning seasonal 60-foot waterfall. This hike is suitable for families with children and takes less than two hours. Parking is free, but there is a small admission fee. If you plan to visit, bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of hiking boots! Website.

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