If you like drought tolerant, deer proof plants, this is the place to get them. The gardens are large, very interesting, and best of all, right in Santa Cruz.

Lots of walking but worth it (good exercise). Lots of different plant species. Usually beautiful weather. Easy to find.

A huge, sprawling selection of plants from Africa, New Zealand, Australia and California, as well as some special gardens (succulents, rare fruits). The admission fee is well worth the amount of time you can spend here and what you'll see. They also have a gift shop where you can purchase some plants. Some truly amazing and unusual plants here, the... More

The arboretum at UCSC is a wonderful place for people who love plants and families. There are lots of trails, special events for kids, an amazing greenhouse, a nice gift shop and they have large plant sales a couple of times per year. Some truly amazing plants and flowers, and lots of hummingbirds!

With sections corresponding to different continents and zones, a walk here will take you around the world of plants. Stop at the shop on the way out and buy an exotic plant for your yard.

this a world class collection of plants from the entire planet but most extraordinary are the those from the south hemisheres.. Especially are the displays from South Africa and Australia. very unique boutique with sure to please gifts. I visit every month or so to enjoy the changing foliage and the flowers in season.Don Slebir

Our most recent visit was right after a storm and the place was alive with sparkling puddles and rain drops. Lots of hummingbirds, lots of plants in bloom. Gift shop always a treat -- arboretum plants for sale.

The arboretum is a beautiful place to have a picnic in the spring with bunnies rampant through the planting areas. I especially enjoy that they kept areas focused on various ecosystems throughout the world like the New Zealand, Australian gardens. I liked the butterfly trail as well. Beautiful setting and a hidden gem.

UCSC is a leader in organic agriculture and sustainable agriculture education. They train students from many countries in modern sustainable farming techniques and borrow ancient historical techniques from primitive agriculture to try to find new ways to feed people. Many experimental plantings of unusual food crops are evaluated at UCSC. The staff are knowledgeable and general courteous. They do get... More