The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden will officially open to the general public on Friday, July 10th after a two-month closure prompted by COVID-19 followed by a phased two-month opening to its membership.

“We’re excited that guests can once again explore, discover, and be inspired by the diversity of California’s native plant communities represented in our Garden,” said Dr. Steve Windhager, Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. “A visit to the Garden is one of the critical ways that we foster a love of the incredible flora of California and inspire guests to join us in its conservation.”

The Botanic Garden has partnered with Cottage Health, who will serve as its official ‘health and wellness partner’ to advise on measures that ensure the safety of Garden visitors. Such measures will include mandatory masks while on the grounds, frequent sanitation of high-touch surfaces, hand sanitizing stations at all entrances and restrooms, and adherence to social distancing protocols. In addition, the Garden’s capacity has been reduced by two-thirds, from 300 total guests at one time to no more than 100.

Nestled into Santa Barbara’s foothills at the base of the Los Padres National Forest, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden boasts over 1,000 taxa of exclusively California native plants, 5.5 miles of trails, and 78 acres in which to immerse one’s self in nature. During its initial summer re-opening, all indoor facilities as well as the Garden’s retail nursery will remain closed. And while on-site educational programming will also remain paused, visitors will have access to a robust digital library of educational resources.

“The pandemic provided an opportunity for us to take some of our educational efforts out of the classroom and into living rooms and backyards throughout the region,” said Dr. Windhager. “Between our nature journaling club, online book club, and Summer Sips Lecture Series, we have some great educational opportunities even after they leave the property.”

Admission to the Garden is $16/adult, $12/senior, $10/student with valid ID, and $8/child (2yo and under are free). Memberships to the Garden start at $75/year and provide free entry all year long! The Garden is open to visitors Friday through Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Garden Members may also visit during Members-only hours from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

The Garden’s mission is to conserve California native plants and habitats for the health and well-being of people and the planet. For more information, visit www.sbbg.org.