Take a tour of this enormous floral haven and follow the trail to the coast for excellent views of the Pacific Ocean.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is a vast park full of colorful flowers overlooking the Pacific Coast. Stretching across 47 acres (19 hectares) of scenic, rolling terrain, the garden comprises wetlands, canyons, a pine forest and cliff-top trails. Bring a picnic to enjoy with your family in these idyllic grounds.
Take a tour with a guide for a greater understanding of the range of plant and animal species in the park. Group tours require a booking 2 weeks in advance. Inspect the array of colorful and scented flowers, such as rhododendrons, camellias, dahlias and magnolias. Other favorites include fuchsias, maples and succulents.
Stroll through the Vegetable Garden & Orchard to see pumpkins and strawberries among the edible herbs, fruit trees and greens used in the site’s café. Sit on a bench near the pond and read a book or view sculptures in the stunning Perennial Garden.
Gaze up at some of the 150 species of birds decorating the sky. Hummingbirds, ospreys, ravens and chestnut-backed chickadees are among the graceful creatures. Examine the intriguing works of art on display in the Biennial Sculpture Exhibit.
Enjoy a meal at Rhody’s Garden Café, which opens from April through September. Sip coffee in the scenic setting and try sandwiches or ice cream on the plaza. Purchase plants, tools and books from the Garden Store. You can also buy plants from the Nursery on the Plaza, which has drought-resistant plants from across the world.
The garden opens daily year-round from morning until late afternoon. There is an entry fee, with discounts for seniors and children. Children under 5 years old can enter for free.
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is just south of the town of Fort Bragg in the northwestern part of California. Drive south from the town for 2.5 miles (3.4 kilometers) to get here in less than 10 minutes or take a bus here in 30 minutes. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, the Sea Glass Museum and Digger Creek.
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