Spotlight On: Huntington Library, Art Collection & Botanical Gardens

On Saturday I drove approximately one hour from Orange County to San Marino, California to visit the Huntington Library. This beautiful library is set on over 200 acres and houses 12 different botanical gardens. My two friends and I spent about 3 hours there walking the grounds, taking pictures, and even enjoyed a glass of wine at the patio grill.

It was a busy Saturday and the parking lot was full, but due to the vast landscape and acerage, we never felt like we were in a crowd. The Japanese botanical garden and atrium were my two favorite locales. For $24 student pricing, this library is a great day retreat and a way to immerse oneself into both nature and art.

Fun fact about the Huntington family who founded this library, Henry Huntington, a business man and scholar ended up marrying his uncle’s widowed wife after his uncle passed away. Henry and his uncle prior to his death were partners and leaders in constructing the railroads that span most of our country.

My recommendations for visiting the Huntington Library:

Wear good walking shoes

Make a reservation to dine at the tea house or noodle bar located near the Japanese botanical gardens

Bring a good camera