5 Stunning Botanical Gardens Near Palm Springs

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In addition to being the ultimate getaway spot of the county, this Sonoran Desert city has plenty to offer. With its famous hot springs, midcentury architecture, golf courses, spas, and proximity to the Coachella Valley drawing in numerous visitors, this city has plenty to offer. Nature lovers will fall in love with its astounding lant conservatories packed with rare species and every shade of green in one place. Whether you’re looking for a serene afternoon, a beautiful place for a photo shoot, or have a blinding love for gardening and plants, you’ll want to visit these great spots near Palm Springs.

1. The Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Location: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

Is it even a true family vacation without a trip to the zoo? The Living Desert is one of the best things to do in the deserts of California. Although technically located outside Palm Springs, this attraction is one spot you don’t want to miss out on.  Resting is nearly impossible on a family trip, but visiting The Living Desert grants you that luxury. The zoo offers a variety of experiences from feeding the giraffes to watching the mighty leopards run like the wind. After that head to the botanical garden. Enjoy the colony of plants on the rainforest soil of this man-made oasis. Learn about the diverse range of  species and delve into the curious chemistry of their tinges. Soak in the enigmatic energy of the desert greenery delivering an all-inclusive fun and educational experience. Snap a selfie to keep a heartwarming memory for all of the family to cherish.

2. Parker Palm Springs

Location: Parker Palm Springs, 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

This botanical garden is situated in the far southeast corner of Palm Springs. Spanning around 13 acres, the garden lies in the ultra-chic, ultra-private Parker Palm Springs hotel. Enjoy the famous property with astonishing willows and citrus trees. Traverse the Parker’s twisted pathways guiding you through the panoply of diverse species. Bask in the heavy pigmentation of chlorophyll and the leaf variegations. Take some time to rest at the Palm Court relaxation space or get a game in at the croquet area. 

Although the hotel was renovated in 2004, with its fun interior and soothing white color scheme, the garden continues to steal the spotlight. Spend some time outdoors, amidst this tranquil setting, while the smell of fruit trees and flowers rejuvenates your soul.

3. Moorten Botanical Gardens 

Location: 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

Home to the world’s first Cactarium, Moorten Botanical Gardens established itself as a succulent lover’s paradise in 1938.  A lush array of cacti stretches between the comfy Inn and desert grounds. Pack your bags and grab your bestie for a therapeutic weekend getaway. The awe-inspiring atmosphere stands out among other botanical gardens in Palm Springs. Embrace the changing coloration of the flora as the desert sun shifts and winks back to the crystal-like reflections blinking at you. You can also get a good glimpse of the vibrant rocks and ancient fossils located in this floral paradise. There are always events going on at this botanical garden in Palm Springs, so have a peek at its schedule and don't miss out. If you’re planning to visit the nursery, be sure to check out the admission fees to the little lab called “cactus nursery”.

PS. For a grasp of the full experience, visit the Cactus Castle – Moorten’s Mediterranean-style home nestled in the back of the Palm Grove Oasis.

4. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens

Location: 1270 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084

Offering a variety of inspiring activities and catering facilities, Alta Vista Botanical Gardens is an excellent child-friendly location for birthdays or family outings. The garden is packed with fun educational activities like “Cooking and Nutrition” or “Alice’s Hidden Tearoom.”  Besides good family-time fun, a bunch of reasons may motivate you to visit this Palm Springs botanical garden. There’s no shortage of events for all ages. Experience nature's therapeutic benefits through a series of healing exercises as you reconnect with the Earth’s splendor.. July 4th is an exciting time to visit this California attraction. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to reserve the best spots to see the fireworks.

5. Ethnobotanical Garden 

Location:  47908 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

Popular with its wedding venues, and events management skills, this Palm Springs botanical garden is right next to The Living Desert, making it a perfect complimentary destination. It ranks high on the “stunning” list. With mesmerizing sunsets and a stage setting perfectly cut out for a good photoshoot, this botanical garden of Palm Springs, California, is a wedding paradise. Enjoy the verdant belt around the garden containing native plants to the area that will shade you with its green palette. 

From the desert's hot springs to the distinctive activities and culture, Palm Springs will amaze you with its trendy offerings. Reconnect with nature through these uniquely California beauties. Take in the perks of these California beauties giving you space to relax and reconnect with nature.