Lacy Park
A 30-acre tranquil oasis in San Marino, featuring a stunning rose garden, lush lawns, and peaceful walking paths.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Roses in full bloom
Lacy Park
Best Time
Roses in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 30-acre tranquil oasis in San Marino, featuring a stunning rose garden, lush lawns, and peaceful walking paths.
"A true Southern California gem for nature lovers, families, and anyone in need of a serene stroll."
Weekend Entry Fee Alert
Non-residents pay $5/person on weekends. Consider weekdays to save money! :ticket:
Picnic Paradise
Bring a blanket and basket for a lovely picnic on the expansive lawns. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rose Garden
Central area
A breathtaking display of roses, especially vibrant in spring and early summer. Perfect for photos and a peaceful stroll.
Expansive Lawns & Trees
Throughout the park
Lush green spaces shaded by majestic trees, ideal for picnics, relaxation, or outdoor activities.
Walking Trails
Park perimeter
Paved paths perfect for jogging, walking, or cycling, offering scenic views of the park's landscape.
Playgrounds
Designated areas
Well-maintained play areas with sections for different age groups, ensuring fun for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Entry Fees
Peak Bloom & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Weekend Entry Fee Alert
Non-residents pay $5/person on weekends. Consider weekdays to save money! :ticket:
Picnic Paradise
Bring a blanket and basket for a lovely picnic on the expansive lawns.
Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Photo Opportunities Galore
The rose garden and mature trees offer stunning backdrops for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Weekend Entry Fee Alert
Non-residents pay $5/person on weekends. Consider weekdays to save money! :ticket:
Picnic Paradise
Bring a blanket and basket for a lovely picnic on the expansive lawns.
Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Photo Opportunities Galore
The rose garden and mature trees offer stunning backdrops for photos.
Parking Tips
The main lot is small; street parking is usually available but can be limited.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lacy Park is consistently praised as a beautiful, well-maintained, and peaceful oasis in San Marino. Visitors love the stunning rose garden, expansive green spaces perfect for picnics, and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds. While the weekend entry fee for non-residents is a consideration, most find the serene atmosphere and natural beauty well worth the cost.
"In the quiet, upscale neighborhood of San Marino, Lacy Park is a lush and peaceful escape from the city buzz — a true Southern California gem for nature lovers, families, and anyone in need of a serene stroll. It feels like the second Beverly Hills.
🌳 Atmosphere & Landscape:
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by expansive green lawns, majestic trees, and winding paths that invite you to wander. It’s impeccably maintained, with beautifully trimmed rose gardens and seasonal blooms that make every visit feel different. Whether you’re coming to picnic, jog, read under a tree, or just sit with your thoughts, this park gives you space and stillness.
🌸 Rose Garden & Arboretum:
One of Lacy Park’s highlights is its rose garden, especially magical in spring and early summer. It also features an impressive variety of trees and plants, making it feel like a miniature botanical garden — perfect for photography or a romantic walk.
🧺 Amenities & Activities:
There are benches, picnic areas, open spaces for frisbee or yoga, and a loop trail that’s great for jogging or walking laps. On weekends, you might see families with children, elderly couples on strolls, or even a wedding shoot or two — but it never feels crowded.
💵 Entry Info:
It’s free for San Marino residents, but there’s a small admission fee ($5) for non-residents on weekends. Totally worth it for the peace and beauty you’ll experience.
🎯 Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking for a calm, beautiful place to unwind or take in some natural beauty, Lacy Park is a quiet treasure. It’s not flashy — it’s elegant. A place where time slows down and beauty speaks so
Perfect for: picnics, mindful walks, peaceful dates, or solo journaling sessions."
Aitana Blose
"What a beautiful park. A hidden gem. Very well maintained and manicured. WOW!! The gorgeous roses, so many to appreciate and admire. Couldn’t get enough of taking pictures and just seeing them all beautifully bloomed. Many great spots to grab a basket, a blanket near the roses picnic and enjoy lunch. I could spend hours here. I loved the well maintained of the playground area, two sections for different age groups. My daughter enjoyed playing here. This park has many areas where you could gather with your family, play some games and enjoy walking the park loop.
I myself loved seeing the acknowledgement and appreciation to our U.S. Armed Forces, the flags to each branch displayed in the section area of the Memorial Soldier Statue. Thank you to all that served and are currently serving our Country."
Mercy R
"This is a nice huge park that is tucked away in the community of San Marino. They have plenty of picnic benches in different areas, and even more green space, and a garden to enjoy the view. Plus, a nice inner and outer ring-path walking trail!
Shout out to the park for dedicating some space for veterans, since General Patton was a Native Son of San Marino --his father was the first mayor of the city, so I guess that helps."
龔振勝
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lacy Park is located at 1485 Virginia Rd, San Marino, CA 91108. It's accessible by car, with street parking often available if the main lot is full. Public transport options are limited in this upscale neighborhood, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is a small parking lot within the park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Plenty of street parking is usually available on surrounding residential streets.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the park entrance. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to worry about parking.
The park has wide, paved paths that are generally accessible. The rose garden and main lawn areas are relatively flat, making it easier for those with mobility challenges to navigate.
From Pasadena, you can drive to Lacy Park via local roads. It's a short drive, typically around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lacy Park is open Monday-Friday from 6:30 AM to sunset, and Saturday-Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official hours before visiting, as they can sometimes change.
Admission is free for San Marino residents. For non-residents, there is a $5 per person fee on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday entry is free for everyone.
Tickets for non-residents on weekends are typically purchased upon arrival at the park entrance. There's no need to buy them in advance.
The current pricing structure is $5 per person for non-residents on weekends. There are no specific group discounts mentioned, so the per-person fee applies.
A Reddit user inquired about this, suggesting that attempting to enter without paying might be considered 'scummy.' It's best to adhere to the park's policies to ensure continued access for everyone.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy picnics on the lawns, stroll through the rose garden, jog or walk the trails, play on the playgrounds, and simply relax under the trees. It's also a popular spot for photography.
Absolutely! Lacy Park has large, well-maintained grassy areas perfect for picnics. Many visitors bring blankets and baskets to enjoy meals amidst the beautiful scenery.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the playground area, making it convenient for families and visitors spending extended time at the park.
Yes, Lacy Park is dog-friendly! Your furry friends are welcome as long as they are on a leash.
Many visitors rave about the stunning rose garden, especially during its blooming season. The expansive lawns and mature trees also offer serene spots for relaxation.
📸 📸 Photography
The rose garden is a prime location for photography, especially when the flowers are in full bloom. The mature trees and open lawns also provide beautiful natural backdrops.
Yes, its elegant landscaping, rose garden, and serene atmosphere make it a popular choice for engagement and wedding photoshoots.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best lighting for photography, creating a soft, warm glow.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or large events, it's advisable to check with park management for any specific permits or guidelines.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by park authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The wide paths are also great for kids learning to ride bikes or scooters. Remember that non-residents pay a $5 fee per person on weekends, so a weekday visit can be more budget-friendly for families. Don't forget to bring a picnic blanket and basket to take advantage of the numerous picnic spots. The park is also dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join the fun too!
🚶♀️ Solo Visitors & Peaceful Strolls
You can find secluded benches under mature trees for reading, journaling, or simply enjoying the tranquility. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a solo visit, offering the most solitude. The park's well-defined walking loops are perfect for a mindful stroll or a gentle jog, allowing you to connect with nature without the hustle and bustle of city life.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
The park's mature trees and expansive lawns also provide stunning backdrops for portraits and landscape shots. Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the most flattering light. The park's elegant and well-maintained landscape feels like a miniature botanical garden, providing endless inspiration for capturing the beauty of Southern California flora.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Rose Garden
The variety of roses provides a stunning visual display, making it a favorite spot for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of natural beauty. Even as some blooms start to fade later in the season, the garden retains its charm. This garden isn't just about roses; it's part of the park's overall arboretum feel, with a diverse collection of trees and plants. It’s a place where you can wander, admire the blooms, and capture memorable photos. The meticulous maintenance ensures that the garden remains a pristine and inviting space throughout its blooming periods.
Picnics and Playgrounds: Family Fun at Lacy Park
+1 There are ample open spaces for children to run around, play frisbee, or simply enjoy the fresh air. The park also features dedicated playgrounds with equipment suitable for different age groups, ensuring that younger visitors have plenty of fun. Beyond the playgrounds, the wide, paved paths are ideal for kids to ride bikes or scooters. The presence of restrooms near the playground area adds to the convenience for families. With its dog-friendly policy, even four-legged family members can join in on the fun, making Lacy Park a comprehensive destination for a family outing.
Navigating Lacy Park: Entry Fees and Best Times
The park is generally at its most visually stunning during the spring and early summer when the rose garden is in full bloom.
While weekends can be busier with families and visitors enjoying the amenities, the park's generous size typically prevents it from feeling overcrowded. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon when crowds are minimal and the atmosphere is exceptionally peaceful. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit