Sonoma Botanical Garden — Attraction in Sonoma

Sonoma Botanical Garden is a hidden gem in the heart of wine country, offering a peaceful retreat filled with diverse and fascinating plant life. The garden spans 25 acres and is home to one of North America’s largest collections of wild-source Asian plants, alongside beautiful California native species. Strolling through the well-maintained trails, you’ll find magnolias, dogwoods, maples, rhododendrons, and a charming bonsai exhibit.

The setting is incredibly serene, with picturesque lily ponds, wooden bridges, and shaded pathways that make for a perfect nature walk. Some trails are steep, but the views are well worth the effort. The changing seasons bring different floral displays, so every visit offers something new to see.

Useful Information: • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM • Admission: $12 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children • Parking: Free on-site parking available • Location: 12841 Sonoma Hwy, Glen Ellen, CA

This is a fantastic spot for plant lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to relax in a beautiful setting. Bring a picnic and take your time exploring—it’s a true oasis in Sonoma Valley! Highly...

We definitely had a great time here, even in the Summer when much isn't in bloom. This massive property is gorgeous with lots of trees from China, Japan and other areas of Asia. It's not a small garden, either. There is a map and the property has about 2 miles of garden trails.

You'll also see a few sculptures, two beautiful and scenic lakes, and other lovely sites. and even might catch a glimpse of the large family of wild turkeys roaming the property.

The gift shop is nice and quaint. There are also picnic tables to eat (bring your own food). We saw a family have a tablecloth, chips, wine and sandwiches which triumphed our fancy Subway. So you could go either way with that.

I recommend going in the Spring. Although there are plants that bloom at different times of the year, July probably isn't the best month to make the trip here. It's not a free park.

The terrain is fairly simple. Most people can walk it There are a few steep parts, but you can avoid them if needed.

The summary of tips: Wear sunblock and bug spray, bring water, bring a picnic, visit in the Spring for your first trip. Wear shoes that can get dirty. Look for a...

Photographs do not do this place justice. If you are familiar with Miyazaki films (Totoro, Howl's moving Castle, etc) then you will have a better idea of how magical the garden is. I can say lush meadows, but unless you know Miyazaki, then you won't know the complex depth of the various plants in that meadow. It's a well established Asian botanical garden, so nothing is over manicured, nor linear or divided into garden beds. Plants have naturalized and spread. The ground covers are freaking amazing and unlike anything in California. Yes, ponds and waterfalls are pretty, but it's the ground cover and low growing, lush spreads that capture my heart. There are easy main paths, but also magical side trails that are narrow, but easy to navigate, that often have good stone and boulder steps. Plenty of benches tucked into shady beautiful spots. It is not a flat place to visit, the whole thing is on the side of a hill! However, the person at the check in building can advise you an appropriate...