Ventura Botanical Gardens — Attraction in Ventura

This horticultural gem tucked away behind the old courthouse is still fairly new so the plants are just now filling in but the great bones that will make this garden a treasure are apparent. The paths winding gradually up the sides of this rocky slope are wide with a nice smooth surface with no ruts or erosion. Nice stone benches are spaced at frequent intervals for a rest or to enjoy the spectacular views. Plants are well marked with their botanical names, country of origin and other useful info and grouped within areas featuring different geographic regions. Specializing in water wise plants, the garden looks right at home in this climate. A map located near the entry will help you select your route: Take a picture of the map with your phone for reference. The QR code also there gives you access to more information. The visitor center features garden theme gifts as well as plants suitable for growing in the local climate. A modest entrance fee helps this...

The Ventura Botanical Gardens offer a scenic escape right in the heart of Ventura. This beautiful garden showcases a variety of plant life from five different Mediterranean climate zones around the world. While the gardens themselves are still developing, the existing flora is vibrant and well-maintained. The star of the show here are the breathtaking views. The winding trails lead you up the hillside, offering panoramic vistas of the city, coastline, and even the Channel Islands on a clear day. There are benches along the way for you to rest and take in the scenery. Keep in mind that the trails are mostly dirt paths and can have inclines, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The gardens are especially beautiful in spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom. I purchased an annual membership but you can buy a daily admission for a nominal fee/donation. Overall, the Ventura Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem that provide a peaceful escape with...

I love this place a lot so it was incredibly unfortunate to have dealt with a lady at the checkout counter who was very rude. My partner, who is Indian, was checking out because we bought some tomato plants on our way out, and when she asked how much the air plants cost, the lady at the counter scoffed and told her she couldn’t afford them. I don’t see why she would have said that other than if she was racially profiling my partner. She didn’t have that attitude with any other customer. I wish she had a name tag on so I could mention her name because that kind of comment really makes my blood boil. Love the gardens, it’s one of my favorite spots in Ventura, and my brother used to work for them and had a great experience. This one racist lady cast a shadow on all of those positive experiences and made me a lot less inclined to give them my money to enter the garden...