Around the World in San Diego

Visiting San Diego Botanic Garden

Ah, what wonders grow when the weather is perpetually delightful! Such is the case in San Diego, where the San Diego Botanic Garden is able to grow a ridiculous 4,000-plus species of plants in 37 acres across 30 different microclimate gardens representing pretty much the whole dang world!

Four miles of dirt and paved trails convey you on a global journey here, with plenty of interpretive signage to guide the way. Head east toward the Mediterranean, Australian, Canary Island, Central American, and New Zealand gardens first, where art harmonizes with such vegetation as the Portuguese cork tree (yep, it keeps your wine fresh), kangaroo paws, and thick, spiny dragon trees that provide shade for a perfectly situated bench. Continue north to check out the Hamilton Children’s Garden, which is fun even for adults. Its treehouse would make the Swiss family jealous.

Next, head west past the South American Desert Garden to a tropical rain forest. Continue west past a gazebo to stairs on your right that lead you past an African garden to a charming overlook tower. As you enjoy city and garden views, scan the coast chaparral habitat below for Sam, the local Galapagos tortoise. He’s the hero of a children’s book called Too Big to Lose.

Up for further world travels? Head west to a subtropical fruit garden, a Mexican Garden, and—who knew?— the nation’s largest collection of bamboo. By then you’ll undoubtedly be inspired to explore interpretive trails for a quick education in gardening, native plants, fire safety, and even underwater succulents. You’ll head home with a very full passport!

From the north, take the I-5 to Leucadia Blvd. and exit east, taking it for 0.8 mile. Turn right onto Quail Gardens Dr. and follow it for 1 mile. The entrance will be on your right. From the south, take I-5 to Encinitas Blvd. east. Turn left onto Quail Gardens Dr. The entrance will be on your left after 0.3 mile. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. All right, Almaden!

    Take a trip through time on this 5-mile loop in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Explore the ruins of an old cinnabar mine and enjoy the first hints of wildflower season.

    View
  2. Waterfalls and Wine Pours

    Cooler temps, green hills, and the return of our magnificent waterfalls! This family-friendly 2-mile hike at Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill is a great way to get the most out of a short hike post-rain.

    View
  3. Woman hiker is climbing up the ladder in the Steep Ravine section of the Dipsea Loop Trail on Mount Tam

    Misty on Mount Tam

    Mount Tam’s 3.9-mile round-trip Steep Ravine and Dipsea Trail Loop weathers the wets and wilds with some confidence, sheltered in parts by redwoods, and wowing with a waterfall.

    View
  4. Mile-Long Cataract Club

    In winter after heavy rains, the north flank of Mount Tam glows with flows. The nearly mile-long series of waterfalls—Cataract Falls—transforms into a supercharged spectacle. Starting at Alpine Dam, a 1.6 mile (one-way) narrow trails threads through redwoods and ferns along Cataract Creek.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Hidden Gems of Reno Tahoe

    Step into a land where adventure meets relaxation. Reno Tahoe is where the spirit of the great outdoors and the energy of vibrant city life inspire you to live with no limits.

    View
  2. Peace Labyrinth

    Hidden in LA’s historic West Adams district, the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is a welcome respite from the norms of urban noise.

    View
  3. Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View