Western Fence Lizard
ParkCalifornia, US
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington is a stunning cultural oasis blending art, literature, and nature.
About
The Huntington is a stunning cultural oasis blending art, literature, and nature. This expansive institution houses world-class collections across 207 acres in San Marino, California. Visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking botanical gardens, explore significant art collections, and delve into a renowned research library, making it a truly unique destination.
Wander through 130 acres of diverse botanical landscapes, from the serene Japanese Garden with its iconic Moon Bridge and traditional Shōya House, to the captivating Desert Garden showcasing thousands of cacti and succulents. Marvel at masterpieces like Thomas Gainsborough's "The Blue Boy" and Sir Thomas Lawrence's "Pinkie" in the art galleries, or be awestruck by rare books such as the Gutenberg Bible and Chaucer's *Canterbury Tales* within the library's impressive halls. The meticulously themed gardens, including the Chinese Garden (Liu Fang Yuan, or Garden of Flowing Fragrance) and the fragrant Rose Garden, offer endless beauty and photographic opportunities.
A visit to The Huntington promises discovery and inspiration for all ages, whether you're a horticulture enthusiast, an art connoisseur, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat. The seamless integration of natural beauty with profound cultural collections creates an unforgettable experience, inviting repeat visits to uncover new delights in every season. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens were established by railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington and his wife Arabella Huntington. Henry Huntington acquired the San Marino Ranch in 1903, which then spanned nearly 600 acres and featured citrus groves and orchards. His superintendent, William Hertrich, was pivotal in developing the initial plant collections that form the foundation of the botanical gardens. In August 1919, the Huntingtons transformed their private estate into a public institution, dedicating their vast collections of literature, art, and plants "to promote the public welfare." The institution officially opened to the public in 1928, a year after Henry Huntington's death, sharing his passion for books, art, and gardens with the world.
What to do here
Stroll through 16 themed botanical gardens, each offering a unique horticultural experience.
* Explore the art galleries featuring European and American art, from 18th-century portraits to contemporary installations.
* Visit the Library Exhibition Hall to see rare books and manuscripts (note: Library exhibition halls are sometimes closed for construction, check the website).
* Enjoy a meal or snack at one of the several cafes, such as the 1919 Cafe or Jade Court Cafe.
* Take advantage of free garden and art tours offered by docents.
Seasonal info
Spring brings an explosion of color, while summer showcases lotus blooms and desert plants. Summer also hosts seasonal events and festivals. The Rose Garden displays splendid blooms from late March to late November.
Accessibility
Most buildings and gardens are accessible to visitors with physical accommodations. Wheelchairs are available for loan on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can bring their own motorized scooters or wheelchairs. A visitor shuttle travels around the grounds, with accessible vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs, making several stops at key locations. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the grounds.
Don't miss
1
Gardens
Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden (Liu Fang Yuan), Desert Garden, Rose Garden, Children's Garden, California Garden.
2
Art
"The Blue Boy" by Thomas Gainsborough and "Pinkie" by Sir Thomas Lawrence.
3
Library
Gutenberg Bible, Ellesmere manuscript of Chaucer's *Canterbury Tales*, early editions of Shakespeare.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Arrive early
Aim to arrive right at opening (10 AM) to enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and easier parking.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water
The grounds are expansive, covering 130 acres open to visitors, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Utilize the shuttle
A complimentary visitor shuttle operates throughout the grounds, stopping at various points, which can be very helpful for covering long distances or navigating steeper areas.
Plan your visit
Check The Huntington's website for current hours, possible gallery closures (e.g., Library exhibition halls during construction), and to reserve tickets in advance, especially for weekends, holidays, or peak seasons.
Consider a membership
If you plan multiple visits within a year, a membership can offer free admission and other benefits.
No outside food in gardens
Picnicking is not allowed in the gardens, but there are several cafes and dining options on-site.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens are open to the public from 10 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Monday, and are closed on Tuesdays and certain holidays.
- To experience The Huntington fully, it is recommended to allocate at least three to four hours, with many visitors opting to spend an entire day exploring the vast gardens, art collections, and library exhibits.
- Yes, parking at The Huntington is free. There are two entrances to the parking lot, on Oxford Road and Allen Avenue, but parking may reach capacity on weekends, holidays, and peak seasons, so carpooling or rideshares are encouraged.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 6, 2026
Jun 6, 2026
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Jun 6, 2026
Jun 6, 2026
Jun 5, 2026
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