San Diego’s Garden Tours Are In Full Bloom

In San Diego, we are fortunate that the weather is mild enough to still enjoy outdoor activities in the autumn. Visit one of the city’s many beautiful gardens for a fun outing that will leave you feeling happier and healthier.

Why garden tours are a great idea:

• You’ll get some fresh air. Because plants produce oxygen, you’ll be breathing cleaner air than you’re used to. Fresh air is good for your digestion, blood pressure, heart rate, and immune system.

• You’ll be energized. Research shows that breathing in oxygen and spending time in nature and fresh air can boost your energy by up to 90%. Plus, spending just 15 minutes in the sun each day can help you sleep better, leaving you refreshed and ready to take on the next day.

• You’ll feel happier. Scents of flowers and plants can reduce stress and boost your mood. Exposure to sunlight can increase your levels of serotonin, a hormone that helps you feel calm and focused. It can also aid in combatting depression.

• Your body will thank you. Spending just one half hour in the sun can provide you with nearly the entire recommended daily dose of Vitamin D, which is important for bone health.

What are you waiting for? Head to a garden near you and take a tour for a fun and educational experience. Here are a few garden tours that are worth checking out:

 

The Water Conservation Garden

The Water Conservation Garden in El Cajon uses six acres of gardens to teach visitors about water conservation and sustainable natural resources. Learn about water-smart gardening, drought-tolerant plants, and more in impressive displays. Don’t miss the Sensory Garden, where you can experience plants with unique scents and textures.

Free docent-led garden tours are offered every Saturday at 10 am. On Sundays, they offer ADA Shuttle Tours for visitors that need assistance navigating the garden. If you’re part of a club, organization, or senior group, reserve a Group Garden Tour for a fun day trip.

 

San Diego Botanic Garden

Bird of paradise, Brazilian plume, and African blue basil are just some of the plants in bloom right now at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. See plants from Australia, Africa, Central America, Mexico, and more in 30 different gardens and enjoy ocean views at their Overlook Natural Area.

Give yourself a tour with their Self-Guided Tour Map. Reservations are required for docent-led and self-guided group garden tours. The Botanic Garden offers free admission for San Diego residents on the first Tuesday of every month, plus a discount on regular admission for seniors, students, and active military.

 

Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden is just one of the 19 gardens in beautiful Balboa Park. The 12-acre garden educates visitors about Japanese culture and symbolizes the friendship between San Diego and our sister city, Yokohama. Be sure to stop in the Tea Pavilion for a cup of imported tea.

Docent-led tours are free with paid admission, and you can also take a self-guided audio tour. Admission to the Japanese Friendship Garden is free on the third Tuesday of every month.

 

Balboa Park Botanical Building

The historic Botanical Building, built in the early 1900s, is one of Balboa Park’s most iconic structures. Located right next to the lily pond and lagoon, it houses over 2,100 plants including cycads, ferns, orchids, and seasonal flowers.

Admission to the Botanical Building is always free. Every third Friday of the month, take a guided tour hosted by the San Diego Floral Association.

 

If you have any other questions about the benefits of outdoor activity for you and your family, contact one of our excellent specialists at Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups today!