Descanso Gardens452

Nestled in the foothills of the San Rafael Hills, the 160 acres of gorgeous Descanso Gardens is well-worth the drive. Camellia lovers come from miles around to see the unrivaled splendor of the blossoms, which start to bloom in fall and culminate in the annual Camellia Festival in February. This is North America's largest camellia collection.

A network of paved walkways takes you (and your stroller) through landscaped gardens and woods, past waterfalls, lakes, and a bird sanctuary. Children will especially love the opportunity to spot the ducks, herons, egrets, and more from the bird-watching station overlooking the lake.

A tram ride, costing $4, runs through the gardens; Tue-Fri at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm; Sat-Sun at 11am, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm. And don't miss the Enchanted Railroad, a miniature train ride which chugs its way through the shrubbery on weekends only, for $3 per person.

The Cafe Court offers sandwiches, salads, and other light luncheon fare, every day from 10am until 3pm. You can buy plants, gifts, and souvenirs at the gift shop, open daily from 10am until 4pm; 4:45pm on weekends. During the summer, tea parties can be reserved in advance.

Summer camps are offered in the form of Science Adventure Camps for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Each week-long session is a separate camp focusing on topics like extreme sports, gizmos and gadgets, and space and rocketry. Camp information is available at 888.458.1812.

Membership grants free admission, as well as cafe, gift shop, and class discounts and advance notice of events. Family memberships are $80 for two adults and children under 18. A KidKare pass can be obtained for $25 for a family caregiver.