Arlington Garden, Pasadena, California
Have a wish? Bring it to Arlington Garden in Pasadena and hang it on one of Yoko Ono’s wish trees. These note-strewn crape myrtles join 300 other varieties of native trees in this wonderful garden.
My friend Diana introduced me to this serene Mediterranean garden this spring. Hidden in a residential neighborhood, it’s an urban open space for anyone to enjoy who needs an escape from a fast-paced day.
In the early 1900’s, an elegant 50-room French Normandy estate in “Millionaire’s Row” graced this area. Now, a century later, you can follow windy pathways through a maze of olive trees, succulent and cactus gardens, and a small orange grove. Whimsical garden art pops up throughout this three-acre garden.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many secluded spots scattered throughout the gardens. Lawn chairs, tables, benches invite you to read, rest and restore.
Resting Place, Arlington Garden, Pasadena, California
Pasadena leases the land from Caltrans. 275 Arlington Drive is the place. Several nurseries in town sell bottles of sweet marmalade made from Arlington’s orange crop. Even sweeter, the proceeds help maintain the Arlington Garden.
Before you leave, don’t forget to tie your wish on a branch. As a child in Japan, Yoko would visit a temple and tie wishes on a tree filled with so many other people’s wishes that they appeared as white blossoms from afar.
A Wish, Arlington Garden, Pasadena, California
So though “Millionaire’s Row” is a thing of the past, who could put a dollar sign on the enjoyment you’ll find spending an hour or two here?
I love that we have been there with you. It’s a magical place. Thank you for sharing.
Xo
Right across the street from the Storrier-Stearns garden, too. Indeed, this is a special place.
Wow! Looks beautiful. I have purchased the most wonderful jam from a place like that…there is a little house at the front of the lot and a long orchard behind it. I don’t remember it being described as a garden. The family has owned the place for many years. Hmmm. Wonder if it is the same place? I love the concept of writing a wish attaching it to the tree…so the tree looked like it had white blossoms. So descript and refreshing to consider in the midst of the craziness in the world. Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Wish I lived closer to Pasadena. Looks like a very tranquil place.
One of those CA gems I miss so much. Wish I were there right now. Your lovely post transported me out of the office to a peaceful place.
Wow! This place sounds fantastic! Will have to visit next time I am down. You take amazing photos. Your dad would love these…and maybe be a little jealous! *L*