Hours, Admission & Parking

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HOURS

OPEN Tuesday through Sunday 9am to 5pm. CLOSED Mondays and rainy days. See calendar for holiday hours.
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ADMISSION

$15 admission for the general public. Members, children 18 and under, and EBT cardholders are free. Fridays are FREE for all. See calendar for monthly FREE days.
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DOGS

Leashed dogs are welcome Wednesdays, Fridays and on monthly free days. See calendar for monthly FREE days.
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PARKING

Parking lot closes at 5pm. Disabled parking is available at the Welcome Center. Parking closer to the pathways above the nurseries may be requested.
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GARDEN MAP

See our map to explore our garden zones, vista points, rest stops and features. Download map now.

Sustaining Our Growth

Our updated admissions fee—our first rate adjustment in nearly a decade—reflects the expanded footprint, enhanced guest experience and the need to sustain Gardens in the long term. Every admission purchased supports:

  • Our large and unique collections: The care of over 100,000 plants, including an increasing number of rare and endangered species under our stewardship.
  • Upgraded Pathway Infrastructure: A 200% increase in dedicated visitor walkways since 2019, including the recent debut of our new Fernery shade structure and Observation deck.
  • Robust Programming: A significantly enhanced calendar of events and educational workshops, including Summer Hummerz, Tomatomania, and the Plein Air Paint Out.
  • Future Discovery: The ongoing development of our upcoming Australian Garden and the Children’s Discovery Garden.
Ventura Botanical Gardens with visitors enjoying scenic coastal views and hiking trail.

Keeping the Gardens Growing

The Gardens remain committed to providing accessible ways for the community to enjoy the space.

Members continue to receive free admission year-round. Annual memberships remain just $45 — meaning a membership pays for itself in only three visits.

In addition:

  • Children 18 and under are always free
  • EBT cardholders receive free admission
  • Fridays are free for all visitors
  • Additional monthly free days are offered throughout the year (see calendar for details)

These programs help ensure the Gardens remain a welcoming resource for the entire community, supporting the ongoing care and growth of the Gardens for future generations.

Explore Membership
Ventura Botanical Gardens entrance with lush greenery and scenic views.
Ventura Botanical Gardens sculpture with metal and wood elements, lush plants, and cloudy sky.
A lush garden entrance with modern wooden structure at Ventura Botanical Gardens.
A lush botanical garden with diverse plants and scenic mountain views in Ventura.

Photos by Phil Ranger + VBG Staff and volunteers

Upcoming Activities and Free Days

See upcoming activities below or view the full calendar. Events are added frequently, check back often!

Summer Hummerz Exhibit

Tuesday, June 2 - Monday, August 31 @ 9am - 5pm

The hummingbird is one of the most enchanting and beloved of all the tiny fliers. This June 2 thru August 31 the Garden celebrates these jewels of the air with…

Books in Bloom

Friday, August 21 @ 9am - 11am
Friday, September 18 @ 9am - 11am
Friday, October 16 @ 9am - 11am

Join us for a morning where stories and nature come together! Ventura County Library’s Mobile Library will visit the Gardens—bringing books, discovery, and reading fun for all ages. It’s the…

Dog Appreciation Free Day

Wednesday, August 26 @ 9am - 5pm

Bring your dog to the Gardens on Dog Appreciation Day for a laid-back stroll surrounded by beautiful pathways and fresh air. Plus, enjoy free admission! It’s the perfect excuse to…

Labor Day Free Day

Monday, September 7 @ 9am - 4pm

Celebrate Labor Day at the Gardens with free admission all day. Enjoy a relaxed visit through scenic pathways, fresh air, and peaceful views. It’s the perfect way to spend the…

Fall Equinox Sound Bath

Monday, September 21 @ 9am - 10am

Welcome fall with a morning of relaxation, renewal and stunning views. Join us for a special Triple Healer Sound Bath, featuring three master healers. Surrounded by the beauty of the…

Fabric Dyeing with Botanicals & Herbal Tea Making

Saturday, October 10 @ 10am - 11am

Delve into the magic of botanicals as we learn to dye fabric, brew teas and make cards from pressed flowers. $25 per person. Limited to 15 people. Held at the…

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