The Underrated Botanical Garden That Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In Southern California

There is a botanical garden in Southern California that is drenched with so much beauty that spending an afternoon here feels like spending a day in total paradise. When you're seeking that perfect place to get away from the city where you can retreat to a natural sanctuary bursting with towering oak trees, fragrant flowers and an abundance of nature, then this SoCal oasis is the perfect place to be.

There are many stunning gardens in Southern California, but perhaps the most underrated one of all is Descanso Gardens.

This gem in La Cañada Flintridge is close enough to the city to reach in a short drive from most parts of SoCal, but completely tucked away from the outside world.

It's the kind of place that will make you wish you had your "real" camera instead of just a camera phone...so go ahead and bring one with you.

The first thing you'll notice are the tranquil walking trails where you can stroll throughout the garden.

Such as this peaceful tree-lined path that is the most refreshing place to be on a hot SoCal day.

Peek through the trees in this part of the garden and you'll see this darling little train that the whole family will love.

The Enchanted Railroad is a memorable way to see a portion of the gardens while taking a tour on a small-scale diesel train.

This train may be tiny, but both kids and grown-ups find it hard not to love.

Nature abounds at Descanso Gardens.

You might spot a turtle taking a relaxing break in the garden pond...

Or see a bee fast at work in the garden buzzing from one flower to the next.

You'll also encounter a red foot bridge and a Japanese tea house hiding amongst the blooms.

The Japanese tea house is where you'll want to linger after a relaxing day in the garden.

Grab a table and sip some tea while you take in the natural scenery that surrounds you.

Descanso Gardens is one place you'll want to remember...

So make sure to stop at the gift store before you leave and bring something home that will remind you of your memorable day inside this lush oasis.

Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge and is open daily from 9 to 5. Plenty of free parking is available onsite. Price of admission is $9 per person with discounts for children, students, and seniors. Tickets to the Enchanted Railroad are only $3 per ticket for a short tour of select gardens and scenery.