Mother’s Day: Cherry Blossom at Descanso Gardens

Mother’s Day is coming up and if you’re lucky enough to have your mom around L.A. on that day, you’re probably thinking about how to celebrate. Brunch and flowers are not the only things you can do to thank your mom for all she has done for you! Be creative! This year (2018), thanks to the weather, the cherry blossom in LA has been delayed until mid-May and it’s perfect to take your mom to see that delicate flower, all pink and white-a slice of spring magic. You don’t need to fly her to Tokyo or DC to see the cherry blossom…but just drive 20 minutes outside Los Angeles to La Cañada Flintridge where Descanso Gardens is.

Located at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens feels like it’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Descanso Gardens features a beautiful Japanese garden, an arched bridge over a stream filled with swimming koi fish, and a rustic teahouse. All these structures are even made more authentic-looking with all plants native to Asia including camellias, azaleas, mondo grass and Japanese maples. Descanso Gardens is even more stunning in spring when Japanese cherry blossoms and plum trees are abloom.

The distinctive Japanese red bridge is especially striking in the spring when nearby pink cherry and plum trees are in bloom.

You’ll find Descanso Garden has something for everyone in your family to enjoy on Mother’s Day at this tranquil setting.

Nothing compares to a leisurely day with your mom in a divine setting bursting with bright pink blossoms.

If your mom needs a break after spending some time exploring, there are so many benches throughout Descanso Gardens for her to rest while taking in the beauty of the picturesque scenery all around her.

Cherry blossoms, roses in full bloom, warm late spring outdoor strolls, fragrant aromas, carefully thought-out landscape will delight many moms.

And then you can take her to Café Descanso, located just past the entrance to the grounds. Their Café offers the gourmet selection of fresh salads, sandwiches, homemade desserts, ice cream, beer and wine. Seating is available on the adjacent outdoor patio.

Know Before You Go

LOCATION

Descanso Gardens is located near the intersection of the 210 and 2 freeways, and is a 20-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles.

1418 Descanso Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Ph. (818) 949-4200

HOURS

Descanso Gardens is open daily except for December 25. Hours are 9am to 5pm (last entry is 4:30pm). There is ample free parking.

ADMISSION

General $9
Seniors 65 and over/Students with ID $6
Children (5 to 12 years) $4
Descanso members and children under 5 are free.

***General Admission tickets can now be purchased in advance. Just present your printed ticket or show your email on a device at the bridge for entry. There is no processing fee for online tickets.

GROUP TOURS

Group tours are available for parties of 25 people or more and must be reserved in advance. To arrange a group tour, please email [email protected] or phone (818) 949-4202.

Tour packages include:

Free parking for bus, vans or cars.
Admission to the Gardens during our regular hours of 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. included in all tour prices.
Free Gardens admission for driver and one escort.
Personalized service. A tour advisor will assist you with reservations and can offer creative ideas to make your visit a success.
Box-lunch reservations available.
Picnic area available by reservation.

Discovery Walking Tour

Experience the Gardens with a Descanso docent. For groups of 25 or more (no maximum), available every day of the week, this tour will introduce the magic and history of the Gardens, with an eye to seasonal surprises. Please allow three weeks advance notice for your tour. Price is $10 per person.