The Huntington Store — Local services in San Marino

First, I'd like to preface this by saying I have never left an online review for anything. I'm just not that kind of person but the extraordinary service I received has been so far beyond the norm, I felt compelled to comment. It started when I received a book I hadn't ordered. I felt sure a mistake had been made by a second-hand bookseller from whom I had ordered a different title. Fearing my book had been sent to the true buyer of this book, I contacted the Huntington Store (after hours, I'm quite certain) to inquire how we should resolve this error. I awoke the next morning to find an email from Lynsey Hand with the answer to the mystery. The book had been a surprise gift from my brother in Japan. (Yes, he is that great of a brother!) I wrote to thank him and to recommend he take every opportunity to patronize this bookseller because I was so impressed with the packaging of my book against damage in transit. He recommended I write a review. Over the years I have had numerous books, many collectibles, damaged due to inadequate packaging. This book arrived wrapped in bubblewrap, cardboard, and packing paper in a sturdy cardboard box. I have learned since 1.) it was packed by a lady named Emily (Outstanding job, Emily) and 2.) The Huntington store is not a second-hand bookseller but is, in fact, a beautiful museum with incredible botanical gardens.(My brother forwarded a Huntington newsletter.) I can do without another visit to Los Angeles, but the next opportunity I have to visit Southern California, I plan on making the Huntington my destination spot and look forward to spending a liesurely day at this beautiful museum and its grounds and, perhaps, shake the hands of these two women who made such an impression as to prompt an old curmudgeon to write an online review. Thank...

I'm going to go out on a limb here and generalize that everyone in the world loves a good gift shop at the end of that museum visit or in this case botanical garden extravaganza. This Huntington's Store is enormous. The lady who assisted me said that it is the largest gift store in California. They have everything! There were a variety of honeys, soaps, candies, really cool T-shirt including some promoting people of color and civil rights leaders. There is a whole book section with really diverse authors and topics, not just necessarily around gardening or gardens. I have selected some of the pictures just to show some of the variety. Needless to say, we spent way too much money in this place but it was all worth it. If you don't like gardens but love gift shops this is the place for you! If you love gardens and love gift shops, this is the place for you! And if you don't fit into either of these categories go get some coffee.

The Huntington Store is fully wheelchair accessible, it is located not too far from the accessible parking provided to those visiting the botanical garden. There are accessible restrooms...

When I step into this store, I completely lose track of time 🥰 It’s a place where my soul and eyes can truly relax! On hot days, I sometimes come here just for this store (because walking around Huntington Gardens is way too hot for me).

Every corner of this Huntington Store is thoughtfully designed and divided into themed sections, so everyone can find something for themselves. I especially love the Asian corner with different kinds of tea, recipe books, wonderfully scented soy candles, and home décor pieces.

I also enjoy browsing the sections with handmade jewelry 🤩

Another favorite of mine is the glass Christmas ornaments - they have plenty even in summer (see attached photos and videos). I really want to visit closer to Christmas, because I feel it will be even more magical 🎄😍

They also sell seeds of different plants and cozy items for camping 🏕️

Tourist tip: if you’re looking for high-quality and beautiful souvenirs from Los Angeles, this store is the...