Moorten Botanical Garden — Attraction in Palm Springs

Tucked just off the main drag in Palm Springs, Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium is a slice of desert paradise that feels both timeless and otherworldly. This compact, one acre garden may be small in size, but it’s absolutely overflowing with personality, charm, and thousands of fascinating desert plants from around the world. Originally established in 1938 by Chester “Cactus Slim” Moorten and his wife Patricia, the garden is still family owned and proudly rooted in local history. The Moorten family’s home dubbed the “Cactus Castle” adds a vintage vibe to the property and is just one of the many quirks that make this place so special. The main attraction, of course, is the Cactarium - a shaded greenhouse packed with rare and exotic cactus species that look like they belong on another planet. From tiny, fuzzy succulents to towering spiky giants, there’s something captivating around every corner. The garden is thoughtfully laid out with paths leading you through different arid regions, including South America, the Baja Peninsula, and the Mojave Desert. It’s also incredibly photogenic, with light filtering through spines and blooms, perfect for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. For just $5 admission, it’s one of the best deals in Palm Springs and a peaceful escape where nature takes center stage. Whether you’re a plant lover, history buff, or just looking for something unique, Moorten Botanical Garden is a must-visit desert...

I went here last October and absolutely loved my visit. The people working were fantastic and were happy to answer all of my questions and chat. It’s small and I thought it wouldn’t take long to get through, but I think I ended up spending 3 or so hours. It’s a great place for plant-lovers and they have so many interesting plants. They also have great plants for sale. I bought five plants and four months later they are all thriving. The people running the garden are so knowledgeable and passionate. I can’t wait to go back and I highly recommend spending at least a few hours here!

Just want to update this regarding the beautiful plants I purchased at Moorten. They are all especially THRIVING now that it’s growing season. I hadn’t appreciated how healthy their plants for sale are when I was there (I’ve since seen the same varieties being sold at other places— much more expensive and MUCH lower quality/health). Also after talking to other people at other nurseries/plant shops, it became even more apparent that the people I spoke to at Moorten are TRUE plant/cactus experts. I still cant wait...

If you love succulents and cacti like I do, you have to visit Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs. I stopped by this past January and it quickly became one of my favorite spots of the whole trip.

It’s a small, family-owned garden tucked right in the middle of the desert—and it’s packed with hundreds of stunning cactus varieties, rare succulents, and desert plants from all over the world. Every turn felt like a tiny alien landscape. 🌵🪴

The best part? The Cactarium—a vintage-style greenhouse filled with the most Instagram-worthy spiky plants you’ve ever seen. It was hot, wild-looking, and completely magical.

They also have a little nursery where you can buy plants to take home. I couldn’t resist—I bought a couple and had them shipped back to my house because TSA doesn’t love spiky souvenirs 😅

It’s peaceful, weirdly romantic, and a total vibe if you love desert beauty. You don’t need a whole day—just an hour and an appreciation for plants with personality.

Don’t skip this gem next time you’re in...