Alta Vista Gardens is part of Brengle Terrace Park in Vista, CA (in the same general vicinity as Moonlight Amphitheater). I have played tennis on the tennis courts here, I have seen plays at Moonlight, I have even walked through the park, but I have never been to (or noticed) this 13-acre garden. How does something like this happen?
The city bought the property in 1999 but the plans for the botanical garden has been in the works since 1970. It is certified as a butterfly habitat by the National American Butterfly Association and as a wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Foundation. The non-profit that has leased the land and manages the gardens through volunteers is chemical and pesticide free. But the garden isn’t just about the plants and animals; it also incorporates art throughout the entire area.
This is our first visit but we plan to become members. A $60 family annual membership also includes a Better Homes and Gardens subscription.
We did end up getting rained out, but it didn’t ruin our good time. We hid out for a while in a palapa, but A1 took the lead and decided we were just going to walk in the rain. Rain, gardens, art… what a lovely day!
Oh man, I love your new post categories (close to home, pretty close to home, far from home, and really far from home (some day)! I have learned so much from your blogs and you really have enriched our lives. This botanical garden will be on our spring itinerary. I want to see butterflies in their ‘teepee’ and delight in the scents while strolling the culinary garden. Interestingly, I am familiar with two of the sculptors you showcased, having been to their studios: Phillip Glashoff (the woman with utensils for hair) and Ricardo Breceda’s creatures that are born in Temecula. This is all just so awesome. Thanks babe!
Thanks! It is nice to organize by categories. As you mentioned, we aren’t headed “really far” any time soon. But I can’t wait!
I think we are going to go to Breceda’s gallery this weekend. Thank you for finding it for us! 🙂
Outstanding photos! This is one more botanical garden to add to my Must Visit list. Thanks for the fun post!
Any time! Glad you enjoyed it.