One of L.A.’s most exquisite gardens is reopening this weekend, but with limited spaces.
We’ve all been yearning for a moment outdoors, where we can take in some of the incredible spring blooms happening. We’ve been dosing up with the webcams of the poppy bloom and tours of the tulips in the Netherlands, but there’s no substitute for the sensory experience of wandering through an actual garden.
Descanso has been kindly keeping us updated with virtual tours on social media so we can marvel at the huge roses blooming in the gardens. However, it’s been mildly torturous knowing they’re practically in our own backyard. So, you’ll be delighted to hear that yesterday, Descanso Gardens announced that they would be reopening this Saturday, May 16. Before you start to panic about unruly crowds, the garden has put measures in place to avoid any of the Flower District chaos seen over the weekend.
“We have been monitoring state and county guidelines to inform our decision and feel that it is safe for us to reopen in a limited way. We feel that now, more than ever, people are searching for peaceful, relaxing places to go and we want to be able to provide that kind of tranquility for members and visitors,” the update on the website reads.
Descanso Gardens will reopen beginning Saturday, May 16. All non-members must buy tickets in advance via our website. Members can enter without an advance ticket. No tickets will be sold at the garden. For full details, please visit our website: https://t.co/1O90f56P8I pic.twitter.com/ygkEAZDaGK
— Descanso Gardens (@DescansoGardens) May 11, 2020
The changes according to their website:
- A reduction in the number of guests at one time to allow for social distancing
- Longer hours to all for more visits with limited guests (The hours are 9 am–7 pm daily. The member-only hour is 8 am–9 am)
- Hand sanitizing stations can be found in the courtyard
- Everyone in the gardens will be required to wear face coverings
- All indoor spaces are closed, including the Sturt Haaga Gallery, Boddy House, and Gift Shop
- All drinking fountains are closed
- Restrooms are open and will be cleaned every half hour
- There will be no programs or walks during this time. We will bring programming back as soon as it is safe.
- Seating has been removed in the courtyard to give space for social distancing
- The Enchanted Railroad will be closed for now
- Wheelchair rental will not be available
- The Kitchen at Descanso will be open for limited hours. You can purchase drinks, which can be taken into the garden, or food, which must be eaten in the picnic area or taken home.
No tickets will be sold at the door to prevent queues. Non-member will need to buy tickets in advance online between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Members do not need to buy tickets in advance but will need to stop by at 8 am.
Featured Image: Descanso Gardens