Inland Empire Botanical Gardens – A Living Oasis Close to Home

The UCR Botanic Gardens in Riverside is the Inland Empire’s standout living museum. Spread across 40 hilly acres in the foothills of the Box Springs Mountains, it features more than 3,500 plant species with a focus on Mediterranean and arid-climate collections that thrive in our region.

Wander four miles of scenic trails past themed gardens — butterfly habitat, roses (over 300 varieties), herbs, irises, lilacs, and a Native American Plants Garden. It’s peaceful, educational, and surprisingly diverse. Suggested admission is just a $5 donation, making it one of the most accessible botanical experiences around.

Pair a morning in the gardens with lunch nearby or check for seasonal blooms and events. Find current hours, special programs, and the broader IE calendar at www.iex.directory. Nature is waiting right here in the Inland Empire — go experience it.