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The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is one of the jewels of California's Central Coast! Located just a stone's throw away from the Pacific Ocean, this wonderful attraction is devoted to raising awareness about the ecosystems and plants of the world's five Mediterranean climate regions. You won't miss planning a visit if you're in the area. Here's what you need to know to enjoy an unforgettable day among California wildflowers!
About the Garden
San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is located on Dairy Creek Road in San Luis Obispo. The idea for a botanical garden in San Luis Obispo started when a California Polytechnic State University horticulture student named Even Vigil realized that there was a lack of examples of Mediterranean-climate plants available for study. The local government and parks department soon supported her idea of starting a botanical garden to showcase these plants locally. Following fundraising and planning, a 150-acre parcel in Chorro Regional Park was selected. The first version of the Garden was officially opened to the public in 1997. It has undergone many expansions and transformations in the decades since then!
Highlights of the Garden
Spanning 2 acres, the Display Garden is the primary spot for viewing plant life of the five major Mediterranean climate zones of the world! Plant species in the garden represent California, coastal Chile, a portion of the Cape Province of South Africa, parts of Western and South Australia, and the Mediterranean Basin. As drought-tolerant plants, they thrive beautifully in the California climate.
The Children's Garden is another highlight! Filled with useful and edible plants and flowers, this green space demonstrates how to collaborate with nature to conserve water. It is as beautiful as it is educational!
The Discovery Trail invites visitors to explore a mile-long path filled with colorful signs. As you make your way along the path, you'll discover interesting animals, flowers, and views of sweeping vistas. There's also a human sundial!
One of the most fascinating features of the Garden is the Fire Safe Garden. Spanning an acre of hillside land, this area is far more than a pretty sight! The Fire Safe Garden is a working model of landscape design principles that can protect properties from wildfires.
Getting Tickets to the Garden
The Garden is open every day other than Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Operating hours are dictated by daylight hours. Current admission is $10 for adults. All children under age 12 are free. Tickets can be purchased in the gift shop or via a QR code near the entrance. Leashed dogs are permitted.
Beauty Is Always in Bloom in San Luis Obispo
The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is a must-visit spot for anyone coming to San Luis Obispo. Educational opportunities and sweeping views make this a unique spot that will stay in your memory for a long time! The best part is that the Garden and other attractions in San Luis Obispo will be just a short drive away when you book your stay at one of the lovely Morro Bay hotels.
