UC Botanical Garden Berkeley
A 34-acre global journey through diverse flora, from towering redwoods to arid desert landscapes. A peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom, fewer crowds
UC Botanical Garden Berkeley
Best Time
Peak bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 34-acre global journey through diverse flora, from towering redwoods to arid desert landscapes. A peaceful escape.
"It's like traveling the world in a day, with plants grouped by continent. Incredibly peaceful and not crowded. "
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The garden is a bit remote; use the 'hill line bus' for easy access from campus.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect steep hills and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for exploring all 34 acres.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World Regions Collection
Across the garden
Journey through diverse climates and continents, from Mediterranean to Asian flora. A true global botanical adventure!
Redwood Grove Amphitheater
Near the parking lot
Stand in awe of towering redwoods. A magical spot for reflection or even a memorable wedding ceremony.
California Native Plants
California Garden section
Discover the beauty and resilience of plants native to the Golden State, showcasing local biodiversity.
Desert of America
Desert of America section
Explore fascinating arid-climate flora, a stark contrast to the lush redwood groves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Give Yourself Ample Time
Navigating the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The garden is a bit remote; use the 'hill line bus' for easy access from campus.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect steep hills and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for exploring all 34 acres.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Two hours minimum to truly appreciate the diverse plant collections. Don't rush your visit!
📸 Capture the Beauty
From rare species to stunning landscapes, it's a photographer's paradise. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The garden is a bit remote; use the 'hill line bus' for easy access from campus.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect steep hills and uneven paths. Good footwear is essential for exploring all 34 acres.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Two hours minimum to truly appreciate the diverse plant collections. Don't rush your visit!
📸 Capture the Beauty
From rare species to stunning landscapes, it's a photographer's paradise.
🤝 Reciprocal Memberships
Check if your existing garden membership offers free entry and discounts.
🌿 Look for Banana Slugs!
Keep an eye out for these fascinating local residents, especially after rain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the UC Botanical Garden as a peaceful, world-traveling experience with diverse plant collections and stunning natural beauty, particularly the redwoods. While some find navigation challenging and certain areas less developed, the overall consensus is that it's a worthwhile journey for its unique specimens and serene atmosphere.
"The UC Botanical Garden is a hidden gem. It's like traveling the world in a day, with plants grouped by continent. It’s incredibly peaceful and not crowded. Give yourself at least two hours to really soak it all in; one hour just flies by!"
Raya D
"UC-Berkeley Botanical Garden is hard to find but worth the journey. Their 34 acres of hillside plantings are arranged with representative species from 9 regions around the world, plus several "Special Collections" and a handful of glasshouses AND a redwood grove accessible from the parking lot. There are some steep grades along the walking paths, and the directional signage takes some concentration to follow, but the wander will reveal LOTS of beautiful & unusual specimens you're unlikely to see anywhere else. The staff is very friendly, the gift shop is small but thoughtfully stocked, and the $4.50 for public parking is reasonable considering the remoteness of the facility & relatively small number of spaces.
My wife & I used a reciprocal garden membership card for free entry (gift shop discount, too), but the standard admission prices (with a few discounted categories) are also competitive with other gardens we've visited around the country. It was definitely worth a roundtrip from our Livermore, CA lodging spot, and we would return."
JMC STL
"Started in the Mather Redwood garden. Felt small and the trails were disorganized. Moved on to the California garden which was my least favorite. Varieties were presented on the side of eroding hills. Need more plants of one variety to improve the presentation. Poorly designed. The use of one switchback path would help the experience. The random paths leave you feeling unsure if you have seen everything. Spectacular rose garden in the far back, randomly placed. My favorite was the Asia garden and Desert of America."
Brian Hagaman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The UC Botanical Garden is located in Strawberry Canyon, a bit off the main campus. For UC Berkeley students, faculty, and affiliates, the 'hill line bus' offers direct access.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited, especially on busy days. A parking fee applies for the public.
Yes, the AC Transit bus system serves the area, and the 'hill line bus' is a convenient option for those on or near the UC Berkeley campus.
The garden is accessible by bike, and there are usually bike racks available. Be prepared for a hilly ride to reach the garden.
From downtown Berkeley, you can take a bus that connects to the 'hill line bus' or drive up Strawberry Canyon Road. Check transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary for the public, but UC Berkeley students, faculty, and affiliates often receive free admission year-round.
While not always required, purchasing tickets in advance can be a good idea, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to ensure entry.
UC Berkeley affiliates generally have free admission year-round.
The garden's hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official UC Botanical Garden website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, reciprocal garden memberships are often accepted for free entry and sometimes offer discounts in the gift shop.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The garden boasts over 10,000 types of plants from around the world, organized into 9 distinct geographical regions, plus special collections like the Redwood Grove and California Native Plants.
Most visitors recommend at least two hours to fully explore the garden, as it's quite extensive. Some wish they had allocated even more time.
Some paths have steep grades and can be uneven, particularly in areas like the Redwood Grove. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Absolutely! With diverse flora, stunning landscapes, and unique specimens, it's a fantastic spot for nature photography.
While there isn't a full-service restaurant, there's typically a small gift shop that may offer some snacks or beverages. Bringing your own picnic is also a great option.
📸 📸 Photography
The Redwood Grove, the Rose Garden, and any of the regional collections offer stunning backdrops. The vibrant colors of blooming flowers are also very photogenic. +1
Generally, personal cameras are welcome. For professional photography or commercial shoots, it's advisable to check the garden's specific policies and potentially obtain permits.
While general photography is encouraged, be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the plants or wildlife. Check the garden's official guidelines for any specific restrictions.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow.
Drones are typically not permitted in botanical gardens due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to confirm this with the garden directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as food options are limited. The open spaces and diverse plant life provide a stimulating and educational outing. It's a great way to get kids outdoors and connect with nature in a safe and engaging environment.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Nature Lovers
Bring a journal or sketchbook to capture your thoughts and observations, or simply find a quiet bench to meditate amidst the greenery. It's the perfect place to decompress, reconnect with nature, and enjoy some personal time.
+1📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 The Redwood Grove offers dramatic vertical lines, while the Rose Garden and various regional collections provide vibrant colors and textures. Experiment with different lighting conditions – early mornings and late afternoons often yield the best results. Be sure to explore all the different pockets of the garden to discover hidden gems. Remember to respect the plants and other visitors while you capture the beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Global Collections
Beyond the regional plantings, the garden also features Special Collections that highlight specific plant types or conservation efforts. These can include anything from rare orchids to drought-tolerant species. The Desert of America section, for instance, presents a fascinating array of cacti and succulents, demonstrating the incredible diversity of life in arid landscapes.
This global approach makes the UC Botanical Garden a unique destination for plant enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. It's a place where you can learn about biodiversity, conservation, and the interconnectedness of plant life across different continents. The sheer variety ensures there's always something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit.
+1Weddings and Events at the Garden
Couples often highlight the magical atmosphere created by the redwoods and the unique experience it offers guests. The garden's diverse landscapes provide stunning photo opportunities throughout the day.
Booking a wedding or event at the UC Botanical Garden means creating a memorable experience surrounded by nature's splendor. The combination of natural beauty and unique venues makes it a truly special place to celebrate.
The Importance of the UC Berkeley Arboretum
The arboretum serves as a living laboratory for the University of California, Berkeley, supporting research and education in botany, ecology, and conservation. It protects a vast array of plant species, many of which are rare or endangered, contributing significantly to global biodiversity efforts.
+1Visitors to the Botanical Garden are essentially exploring a key component of the larger Berkeley Arboretum. The trails and plantings within the garden are part of a more extensive natural system, offering a glimpse into the rich ecological tapestry of the area.
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