Gardens of the World
A free, serene oasis featuring beautifully manicured themed gardens from around the world. Perfect for peaceful strolls and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Gardens of the World
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, serene oasis featuring beautifully manicured themed gardens from around the world. Perfect for peaceful strolls and picnics.
"A wonderful spot and a beautiful oasis in the middle of TO. The gardens are stunning and it's a serene place to spend time."
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst beauty! Bring your own food and drinks to savor in the designated picnic areas.
🚶♀️ Stroller Friendly
Perfect for a leisurely walk with little ones. Paved paths make it easy to navigate with a stroller.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Italian Garden
Central area
Admire the dominant Italian Chain Fountain and meticulously manicured landscapes.
Japanese Garden
Northwest section
Find serenity by the koi fish pond, surrounded by themed lanterns and peaceful ambiance.
French & English Gardens
Various sections
Experience the elegance of French design and the charm of English blooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free & Serene Escape
Best Times to Wander
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst beauty! Bring your own food and drinks to savor in the designated picnic areas.
🚶♀️ Stroller Friendly
Perfect for a leisurely walk with little ones. Paved paths make it easy to navigate with a stroller.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots in every themed garden. The light is especially beautiful in the late afternoon.
🗺️ Self-Guided Tours
Maps are available at entrances to help you explore each unique garden.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst beauty! Bring your own food and drinks to savor in the designated picnic areas.
🚶♀️ Stroller Friendly
Perfect for a leisurely walk with little ones. Paved paths make it easy to navigate with a stroller.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots in every themed garden. The light is especially beautiful in the late afternoon.
🗺️ Self-Guided Tours
Maps are available at entrances to help you explore each unique garden.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be limited; consider parking across the street if the main lot is full.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gardens of the World as a beautiful, serene, and well-maintained oasis. The free admission and opportunity to picnic are major draws, offering a peaceful escape with stunningly manicured themed gardens. While parking can be limited, the overall experience is highly recommended for its tranquility and visual appeal.
"What a beautiful place! A true gem, and completely free! I greatly enjoyed wandering the unique and lovely gardens, a serene escape. My favorites were the Japanese pagoda and the French garden fountain. Transporting, I would return!"
Laramie O
"This is a wonderful spot just off the 101 freeway. It's a beautiful oasis in the middle of TO. The gardens are stunning. They are beautifully manicured. The fountains and waterfalls are lovely. There are so many colorful flowers. It's just a serene place to spend some time. There is no charge to enjoy the scenery. We highly recommend you visit here. You can even bring your picnic as there is a picnic area."
Christa R
"Very tranquil and beautiful. Lots of various gardens and fountains. Great place for some pictures, and just to walk around and relax. Easily accessible by waking and driving, and you can easily start your self tour with yhe maps provided at each entrance. Highly recommend checking this place out if you enjoy beautiful flowers, calming environments and some history"
Andrew Busa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gardens of the World is conveniently located just off the 101 freeway in Thousand Oaks, California. It's about a 40-minute drive from Los Angeles. Ample parking is available, though it can be limited during peak times, so consider parking across the street if needed.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but the gardens are easily reachable by car.
The gardens are typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours before your visit.
No, admission to Gardens of the World is completely free! This makes it a wonderful budget-friendly option for a day out.
While specific pet policies are not detailed, it's generally recommended to check with the venue directly regarding pet access, especially for service animals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required as entry is free. You can simply arrive during operating hours and explore the beautiful grounds.
You can explore at your own pace using the maps provided at each entrance for a self-guided tour.
While some social media mentions tours, the primary experience is self-guided. Check their official site for any scheduled tour information.
Visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons generally offers a more peaceful experience with fewer visitors.
There is no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended as you'll be strolling through various garden paths.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a photo opportunity! The Japanese Garden with its koi pond, the Italian Chain Fountain, and the vibrant flower beds are particularly picturesque.
While personal photography is encouraged, it's advisable to check the venue's policy on professional equipment and tripods to ensure compliance.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public gardens for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, soft lighting that enhances the colors and textures of the gardens.
Respect the tranquility of the gardens and other visitors. Avoid blocking pathways or disturbing the flora and fauna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a cafe or restaurant on-site, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the designated areas.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is highly encouraged and a great way to enjoy the gardens.
Yes, there are picnic areas with tables available for visitors to use.
Thousand Oaks offers various dining options just a short drive away from the gardens.
For event inquiries, it's best to contact the Hogan Family Foundation, the private owners of the gardens, directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers & Influencers
The Italian Chain Fountain and the tranquil Japanese Garden are particularly popular spots. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and the garden's tranquility while capturing content. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Themed Gardens
The English Garden provides a charming contrast with its more naturalistic planting. These distinct areas provide a unique journey for visitors, allowing them to experience different horticultural traditions in one location. Beyond the main European and Asian styles, the gardens also include elements like a California mission courtyard, adding a local touch to the international collection.
The dedication and care put into maintaining these diverse environments are evident, making each visit a visually rich experience. For those interested in a broader perspective, some social media content mentions similar themed gardens in Berlin, Germany, such as Japanese, Balinese, Chinese, and Korean gardens, as well as Renaissance and Italian styles.
+3 While this specific content refers to a different location, it underscores the global appeal and concept of 'Gardens of the World' as a destination type.A Free & Accessible Gem
The parking situation is a point of note for some visitors. While there is a parking lot, it can be small and fill up quickly. Many reviewers suggest that parking across the street is a viable alternative if the main lot is full.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit