Virginia Robinson Gardens — Attraction in Beverly Hills

Tucked away in the heart of Beverly Hills, the Virginia Robinson Gardens is one of Los Angeles’ best-kept secrets. Once the private estate of Virginia and Harry Robinson (of Robinsons department store fame), this historic 6.5-acre property offers visitors a serene escape into lush botanical beauty and early 20th-century elegance.

A rare blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and tranquility in the middle of Beverly Hills. Highly recommended!!!!!

The Virginia Robinson Gardens is more than just a garden—it’s a living piece of California history. Whether you’re a local looking for a unique cultural outing or a tourist wanting something off the beaten path, this hidden gem delivers a magical and enriching experience.

Reservations are required, so plan ahead. Photography is allowed, but commercial shoots require permits.

It is a fantastic spot for quiet inspiration.

Highlights • The Mansion Tour: Guided tours provide fascinating stories about the Robinsons and the social life of early Hollywood elites. Virginia Robinson was known for her glamorous parties attended by legends like Fred Astaire and Charlie Chaplin. • The Palm Forest: This subtropical rainforest-like area features towering King Palms and creates a microclimate that feels worlds away from the city. • The Kitchen Garden: A lovely touch that adds a rustic, sustainable feel with herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees.

Walking through the gardens feels like stepping into a different era. The estate, completed in 1911, is the oldest in Beverly Hills and retains much of its original charm. From the Italian terrace garden to the tropical garden bursting with exotic palms, every corner is meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed. The estate also features a rose garden, a lily pond, and an awe-inspiring display of cycads.

What a wonderful day here!!! Love...

This 6 acre estate in the midst of Beverly Hills is a hidden gem! Built in 1911 by the Robinson family (owners of Robinson’s Department Stores) it was the first luxury estate built in the Beverly Hills area. It was gifted to LA County by Virginia Robinson in 1977, just before her death. The house was built in a “Beaux” style, and the pool house was modeled after the Villa Pisani in Tuscany. Since then, the 6 gardens surrounding the home have been meticulously maintained. Plants from all over the world are featured, and there is a large rose garden, as well as a King Palm forest that is the largest in the world outside of Australia. At one time, it was a Mecca of celebrity parties and tennis matches. The pool house and main house are also part of your tour, but access in the main house is somewhat limited as this home is in it’s totally original condition with all of the furnishings and decor that Virginia left behind. You will have to book a private tour through their website. Be prepared to walk a lot of steps on the walking paths through the terraced gardens with your guide and docent. The gardens can also be booked for photo shoots, and it’s a popular place for wedding or...

Today was my first time visiting and it was a wonderful experience, I would go back again. Elyse was a terrific guide and really knew a lot about the property and was able to answer all of the group’s questions. Due to Covid we were unable to go into the interiors but the tour takes you around the entire property through five different types of gardens. The palm tree forest was my personal favorite, I believe it’s the largest collection anywhere in California. This is also the oldest estate in Beverly Hills and for that alone it’s worth a visit.

Parking can be a little tight in the parking guest lot which is towards the back of the property and the driveway leading up to it is very narrow so if you have an especially wide or tall car (especially a large truck or suburban size SUV) you may want to park on the street. It’s incredibly beautiful inside and funded mainly by the neighboring residents of Beverly Hills. It would be nice if they let you free roam so you could sit and enjoy the property solo but I understand how that would be hard logistically wise. Overall I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of botanical gardens, history, or...