The Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery - Walnut Creek, California

Cheryl T.

What a beautifully maintained place to learn about the plants of California and their cousins from around the world in other arrid places. We enjoyed and were educated with a self-guided tour, but the guide was still very willing to answer questions as they wandered from group to group. Full guided tours are also readily available. What a fun and informative afternoon we had! Highly recommended for locals and visitors alike!

Elizabeth T.

We've attended Garden of D'lights for 4 years now. It has become a beloved tradition for our family, as a nice way to unwind and take a beautiful walk, after all the Christmas chaos. Everyone working at the garden is always very kind and rightfully proud of the stunning grounds. We love it here!

Viera V.

They are currently hosting this beautiful event Garden of D’lights and it is exactly that. Delight to walk through. I drove by shortly after 515pm and saw this beautiful light show coming from there, that made me curious enough to check it out. Ticket is $32, you can also get a hot chocolate ($3.50) or hot wine ($8) and stroll around this beautiful garden full of changing lights

J H.

Delightful garden. You are in the sun - wear sunscreen & a hat or grab an umbrella as you enter. Bring water. There are public toilets available. A plant guide is available as you enter. The walk is flat and reasonable to navigate. I saw many people walking their dogs. There are several scattered benches, and many reside in the shade. The textures & colors are wonderful. The plants have sharp bits, be aware. The garden center had a nice variety of plants, local artists ( cards / pottery ), & containers. If I were a local, the membership would be a great value.

Jennifer C.

Enjoyed this first trip to the garden today. So many things were blooming. Just bear in mind it can get very hot! There are shady places to sit, however. My husband joined the garden, but they put the expiration date on his new pass as today's date, so not sure how that will impact future visits or visits to other gardens.

Edited to add that we renewed our pass and still go once a month or so for a nice level place to walk and see lots of birds, plants, and flowers.

Peggy K.

This is a hidden gem! The garden specializes in drought tolerant plants, cacti and succulents, with a koi pond in the center. Visit during the Sculpture in the Garden event to see a variety of whimsical, abstract and interesting sculptures among the plants.
Families should check out the Explorer Backpack for kids, which has activities and goodies.

Karl G.

This garden is not only beautiful, inspiring and well-maintained, but it’s the living example of passion and dedication. Ruth Bancroft’s story can be layered onto all of our lives.

Raybies F.

Only $12 for admission into the gardens. The entire grounds are beautiful. The nursery is free to visit. I could easily spend a few hours here. The restrooms are clean. There are water fountains and a gift shop. There is a nice little play ground beside the gift shop. There is also a bicycle repair station near the entrance, in the parking lot.