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Three Popular Bay Area Gardens Have Reopened

Can you smell flowers through a face mask? Ruth Bancroft, Heather Farm and Filoli have opened again.
By - posted 5/13/2020 No Comment

Thanks to the Mercury News for letting us know that three popular Bay Area gardens, Ruth Bancroft, Filoli and The Gardens at Heather Farms are now open to visitors.

Social distancing and face masks will be required, and only limited guests will be accommodated. After being closed for weeks because of shelter-in-place, now is your chance to enjoy and smell the flowers (through your facemask, of course).

Please note there is no word yet on any reopening plans for other popular Bay Area gardens such as UC Berkeley’s Botanical Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park

The Gardens at Heather Farms

1540 Marchbanks Dr., Walnut Creek, CA – Admission Free

Visit The Gardens at Heather Farm, a local gem nestled on a picturesque hillside just over two miles from downtown Walnut Creek. The Gardens at Heather Farm is an independent nonprofit operating a free public garden and nature education center with six acres of natural landscape to explore.

During the revised Contra Costa County shelter in place order in effect until June 1, outdoor public garden areas are open for visiting from sunrise to sunset.

  • Visitors should practice safe physical distancing and wear face coverings as recommended by the County Health Department.
  • No picnics, group gatherings, organized activities or events.
  • The building and offices are closed until at least June 1.

Support The Gardens

Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery

1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek, CA – Admission $10 for adults

Ruth Bancroft, the world-renowned 3.5-acre garden, houses a collection of succulents, both unique and beloved welcome back members only from May 12-15 and will be open to the general public starting May 16 at 10 am. 

  • All visitors will be required to wear masks in the Garden and Nursery per County regulations
  • We’re limiting the number of visitors to the parking lot may be full and you may be asked to return later
  • Entry and exit areas to both the Garden and Nursery have been modified so please follow signs upon arrival
  • We will be reopening with reduced staff so your patience and cooperation is appreciated.

To Become a Member go here. You may go here to Support and Donate the Garden

Filoli Gardens

86 Cañada Road, Woodside, CA – Admission $20 for adults

Filoli Gardens, known for its historic home and manicured gardens to a vast estate and nature trails where you can explore the beauty and tranquility of another time.

  • The Garden and Estate trail are open, the historic House is closed at this time
  • The Clock Tower Shop is open with Filoli-made products, plants for your garden, and other special items. All purchases are credit card only, no cash or checks
  • Online advanced tickets are required for all visitors, including members 
  • No seating or drinking fountains are available
  • Visitor and Education Center restrooms are the only available restroom facilities onsite
  • Daily capacity is capped to ensure necessary space for social distancing

Tickets are limited and not available at the door. Admission is free to members but must reserve online. Purchase your tickets online.

Become a Member. You may Support and Donate to the Garden.

As the former First Lady Bird Johnson once said, “Where flowers bloom so does hope”. In the recent pandemic let this be a sign were are waiting for.