Springtime in LA and time to check out what has become an annual pilgrimage for us… a journey to the sleepy town of Arcadia and the Los Angeles Arboretum. Located adjacent to the Santa Anita Racetrack (considered one of the most beautiful tracks in the world) the Los Angeles Arboretum is stunning, but come springtime the explosion of color is truly inspiring.

Originally part of the Rancho Santa Anita, the Los Angeles Arboretum was purchased by Elias “Lucky” Baldwin in 1875. His new ranch was a showplace and he ruled like a local monarch. The current 127 acres contain many examples of his reign including the famous Queen Anne Cottage, Coach Barn and adobe house constructed by the original owner in 1840. “Lucky” apparently preferred living in the rustic adobe than in the Queen Anne Cottage!

Lush vegetation began to resemble jungles. In the 1930’s Hollywood discovered the lush vegetation and the gardens quickly became the backdrop for numerous films, TV shows and commercials beginning with the Tarzan series. The Queen Anne was regularly featured in “Fantasy Island”, and was actually off limits the day we were there due to yet another film shoot. But enough of history.

The Los Angeles Arboretum is known for its’ rich selection of plant life from around the world. The gardens are set up geographically with each area representing a certain global region i.e. Australia, Japan, and South America.

Throughout the gardens are streams and ponds including a waterfall that you can hike up to the top of and the Baldwin Lake. But what truly distinguishes the Los Angeles Arboretum from other arboretums are the peacocks.

Descended from the original pair brought from India that Baldwin introduced himself, the flock now numbers over 200. They have free reign of the grounds and are kid-safe. During mating season the males ruffle up their feathers to impress the females with their bright and vibrant colors. The sound they bellow is one you are not likely to forget. As you wander the ground you will notice them all over, whether reclining under a bush or doing a mating dance by the gift shop. We do not intimidate them. This is after all their home. They have had such a profound impact on the community (some do escape) that the peacock is the official symbol of Arcadia.

Throughout the year the Los Angeles Arboretum hosts a variety of special events the most well known being the Festival on the Green Classical Music Concerts in which the LA Philharmonic presents a series of concerts outdoors in an incredible setting. Check out the Los Angeles Arboretum’s web site for events.

On your way out be sure to check out the old train depot (fully restored) next door. It was moved here to save it from the wrecking ball and is a gem of early California architecture; and since you are here you might want to check out the Santa Anita Racetrack...straight out of the 1930s (Seabiscuit raced and many scenes from the film were shot here). If so inclined try and grab the early morning tour featuring Seabiscuit trivia. Racing season is Christmas to April.

The Los Angeles Arboretum is stunning and acts as a jumping off spot for other adventures. Be sure not to miss this little slice of Eden.