Huntington Library and Gardens

For the summer of 2022, we finally made it to the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino for the first time. Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. We had visitors over, so it felt like the perfect excuse for a fun day trip, and it did not disappoint. The place is a mix of peaceful gardens, art, history, and culture … a little something for everyone in the family.

If you’re planning your first visit, here’s what we learned, plus some tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Tickets and Planning

Tickets for the Huntington are around $25–$29 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and children under 18. Kids under 4 get in free. Parking is free onsite, which is a huge plus in LA.

Pro Tip: The Huntington can get busy, especially on weekends, so it’s best to buy tickets ahead of time. You can grab them through the website.

Other handy items to pack include: a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, lightweight walking sandals, and even a picnic blanket if you plan to relax outside. These small things can make a big difference for a long day of walking around the gardens.

What to See and Do

The Huntington is massive, so plan to spend at least 3–4 hours to enjoy multiple gardens and exhibits without rushing. Some highlights from our visit:

• The Gardens: There are 16 themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, Rose Garden, Desert Garden, and the Children’s Garden, which is perfect for little ones to explore.
• The Library: History nerds, rejoice! The Huntington houses rare manuscripts and historic books—including a Gutenberg Bible.
• Art Galleries: From European classics to American art, there’s something to admire at every turn.

We spent a good chunk of our day wandering the gardens. At first, we joined a guided tour, which was great for trivia and insider knowledge. Eventually, we scattered a bit and just explored at our own pace, snapping photos along the way.

Family-Friendly Tips

• Bring water and light snacks—outside food isn’t allowed in the gardens, but a refillable water bottle and snacks for the car or picnic area are lifesavers.
• Wear good walking shoes; even though the paths are stroller-friendly, there’s a lot of walking.
• Arrive early if possible, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
• Plan your day so you can combine gardens, art, and the library without rushing.

Souvenirs and Shopping

At the end of the day, we stopped by the Huntington’s gift shop and picked up a few mementos. The shop has books, prints, and small trinkets—perfect for remembering your visit. We came home with a few keepsakes that still remind us of that day.

Whether you’re a bookworm, art lover, or just someone who enjoys wandering through lush gardens, the Huntington Library and Gardens is a must-visit spot in LA. It’s family-friendly, educational, and honestly, just beautiful.

If you’re planning your visit, I highly recommend booking tickets ahead, packing essentials like walking shoes and a reusable water bottle, and leaving room in your schedule to explore without rushing. You won’t regret it.