Photo by Jeremy Vandenberg
The Huntington Gardens is one of the most spectacular places I’ve been to. The vegetation inside is so unexpected and beautiful, you forget that you’re in the middle of Pasadena. I mean the picture above is of the bathroom… You know it’s nice when there’s tropical flowers hanging from the bathroom ceilings.
Photo by Jeremy Vandenberg
The Huntington Library was founded by businessman Henry E. Huntington in 1919, who built his fortune mainly on an empire of railroad companies. He envisioned the library to be just what it remains to be today – an art exhibit, a functioning research library, and an incredible botanical garden all in one. The library and its surrounding grounds outdoes every garden in the area and is so worth the adventure. No matter what you’re specifically into, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.
Is history your thing? You can learn about the history of Huntington and his time.
Interested in Chaucer or Shakespeare? View and read some ancient manuscripts displayed among the beautiful architecture of the library building.
Like to paint? Find a quiet corner of the gardens and set up your easel.
Miss grass? (understandable) Relax in one of the beautiful rolling lawns scattered with 17th and 18th century outdoor sculptures.
Just like to wander like myself? Walk around and enjoy every part of it. It definitely isn’t hard.
Photo by Jeremy Vandenberg
Some of my favorite spots in The Huntington are the L’Amour Captif de la Jeunesse (“Love, Captive of Youth”) located in the rose garden, along with the entirety of the rose garden, the Japanese garden, and the Library itself.
Take a day on the weekend to drive out to Pasadena and enjoy! Especially with the three day weekend here, this day trip is totally doable.
Photo by Jeremy Vandenberg
Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses. :)
Photo by Teigan Schentrup
Hope you love it,
xx Teigs