California garden named ‘most beautiful’ in the nation by HGTV. Which one?
Want to wander through a breathtaking natural space this fall?
California has one of the “most beautiful” gardens in the country, according to HGTV.
The cable network searched for the best spot in each state that “make our hearts flutter when we think about their colorful flower beds, inventive landscaping and inspiring art,” HGTV contributor Alexis Benveniste wrote in an Aug. 25 article.
To create its 50 States of Beautiful Blooms list, HGTV showcased a single garden per state. The resulting list ranges from botanical gardens to arboretums and century-old estates. “These spots across the country are absolutely worth visiting,” Benveniste wrote.
Here’s which Golden State destination landed on the list:
What makes Montecito garden the best in California?
HGTV named Ganna Walska Lotusland in Montecito the most stunning garden in California based on its eccletic exhibits and rare botanical collections.
Polish opera singer Ganna Walska purchased the property in Santa Barbara County in 1941 and spent four decades crafting a botanical garden, according to Lotusland’s website.
Lotusland now boasts more that 3,000 plant species, including exotic types of cycads, cacti, palms, euphorbias and lotus flowers.
Walska’s “passion for the extraordinary” is on full display at Lotusland, according to HGTV.
“These 37 acres showcase theatrical garden rooms that blur the line between fantasy and reality,” HGTV said.
When I visit Lotusland? How much does admission cost?
Ganna Walska Lotusland is open to the public from Feb. 15 through Nov. 15. Visitors are required to make reservations in advance.
Admission costs $60 for adults and $25 for children ages 3 to 17. Kids 2 and under get in for free.
What are the best gardens in the West?
Here are the most beautiful gardens in the western United States, according to HGTV:
- Arizona: Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix
- California: Ganna Walska Lotusland in Montecito
- Colorado: Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver
- Idaho: Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise
- Montana: Tizer Botanic Gardens & Arboretum in Jefferson City
- Nevada: Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden in Las Vegas
- Oregon: Portland Japanese Garden in Portland
- Washington: Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island
This story was originally published October 5, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "California garden named ‘most beautiful’ in the nation by HGTV. Which one?."
