RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED
Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve welcomes visitors for Self-Guided Tours with Advanced Reservations Only made by 9 PM PST the day before any visit. Each guest must have a ticket before entering the Gardens. Same-day bookings are unavailable.
SEASONAL HOURS
We are open: Tuesday - Saturday
Our hours vary based on the seasons and are subject to change due to staffing, weather, and private events.
We are normally closed in August. This year we have procured staff to be open on Saturdays with limited hours only.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
MAKING A RESERVATION
Self-Guided Tours are $20 per person.
We have a daily limit on the number of visitors and vehicles we can accommodate. If you don't see availability, or a time slot is un-clickable, it means we're either fully booked or we are hosting a private event at that time.
When you book your self-guided visit, you'll receive two important emails within two days before your visit:
The first email, a confirmation, arrives 48 hours before your visit.
The second email, sent on the morning of your visit, will include directions and the current gate code. We send this closer to your visit to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on road conditions and the frequently changing gate codes.
Please provide an email address you check regularly to ensure you receive these messages and please read them. We promise to only send emails related to Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve. We will never spam you or sell your information.
GETTING HERE
Your GPS won't be able to find us! Make sure to print the directions before you head our way and follow them carefully.
From the main highway, you'll drive 2.5 miles on a private road, go through two locked gates, and drive over two paved creek crossings.
Take it slow and have your printed directions ready. The road to Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve is a gorgeous, scenic drive worth savoring!
ENTERING AND EXPLORING THE GARDENS
At your scheduled time slot, a Taft Team Member will meet you at the three kiosks across from our main parking lot.
You will have 2 hours and a map to explore the gardens at your own pace.
Our paths are maintained with gravel or mulch. If you have mobility issues, please reach out to us in advance using the contact information below to request accessibility information.
KIDS AND PETS
Children are welcome! Tickets for ages 12 and under are free of charge.
Dogs are allowed, provided they remain on a leash at all times.
WEATHER
We close the gardens when there is excessive heat, on rainy days, and up to one week after a big storm.
If adverse weather is forecasted, we will call or email ticket holders and reschedule visits.
When we do reopen after a storm, it is likely that there will be water from the Santa Ana Creek flowing over our roads. We recommend visitors travel in vehicles with at least 6" or more of clearance off the ground until the water fully subsides. If you have any concerns, please contact us at (805) 649-2333 on the morning of your scheduled visit.
Guided Events
Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve also offers a variety of Guided Tours, Art Events, Retreats, and Educational Programs.
Contact us
(805) 649-2333
taftgardensvisitors@gmail.com