Though theme parks, museums and many other entertainment attractions are now shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic, three of the Southland’s beloved gardens plan to remain open for now, with some alterations to normal operations.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino announced that most of its outdoor garden areas will remain open, but indoor public spaces — such as the library exhibition halls and art galleries, indoor botanical exhibition spaces, the Huntington Store and most dining facilities — will be closed effective Saturday until further notice. No tours will be provided.
Visitors must purchase their tickets online, and members must show their membership cards, according to library officials, who said social distancing protocols will be practiced.
“While most museums have closed, most botanical gardens are staying open for now. Because The Huntington is both, we are responding accordingly: closing our museum and indoor facilities, while keeping most of our garden areas open,” the library said in a statement.
Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge is staying open, but will operate as an outdoor-only venue until further notice. The Boddy House and Sturt Haaga Gallery will be closed through April, and all indoor programming and events were canceled or re-imagined as outdoor events.
“Descanso Gardens is a place of reflection and nature. We hope you will find peace here amid all the troubling news around coronavirus (COVID-19),” the operators said in a statement. “At Descanso Gardens, the health and safety of our visitors, staff, volunteers, and members are our highest priority. We will continue to act and respond based on the advice of government officials, public health authorities and medical professionals, as well as, continue to implement increased safety and cleaning measures.”
The Los Angeles Arboretum in Arcadia says its landscape remains open, but it is canceling all remaining programs through March 31, and is also suspending walking tours, tram tours, docent-led school tours and Santa Anita Depot Tours through May 1.
Guests are advised to check the gardens’ websites before planning a visit in the event of any changes.