The Huntington Library, situated in San Marino, California, is more than just a library. Founded by Henry E. Huntington, it serves as an educational and research institute. Apart from its extensive library, it also boasts an art collection that includes English figures and 18th-century French furniture. Additionally, it is home to beautiful botanical gardens, making it a diverse destination for tourists.
The library at the Huntington is a treasure trove of historical documents and rare books. It houses approximately 6.5 million manuscripts and nearly one million rare book examples. Among these are significant works such as the Gutenberg Bible, documents belonging to Abraham Lincoln and his bodyguard Ward Hill Lamon, Benjamin Franklin's autobiography draft, and drafts or first editions of some books by Charles Bukowski. These collections offer a unique insight into history and literature.
The botanical gardens at the Huntington Library are a sight to behold. Covering an area of about 485,624 square meters, they host a variety of plants collected from all over the world. The gardens are thoughtfully divided into different categories such as the Australia Garden, Camellia Collection, Children's Garden, Desert Garden, Herb Garden, Japanese Garden, Lily Pond, Palm Garden, Rose Garden, Shakespeare Garden, Subtropical Garden, and Chinese Garden. Each garden offers a unique experience and a chance to appreciate the diversity of plant life.
History & Anthropology Art & Design Ancient art Botanical garden Garden & Park Historic house Language & Literature Plants
#17 Art & Design in California #19 History & Anthropology in California #8 Ancient art museums in California #4 Botanical gardens in California #4 Gardens & parks in California #15 Historic houses in California #1 Language & literature museums in California #6 Plant museums in California #121 Art & Design in United States #40 Ancient art museums in United States #22 Botanical gardens in United States #46 Gardens & parks in United States #156 Historic houses in United States #11 Language & literature museums in United States #24 Plant museums in United States
Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | Closed |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Reservations required Friday–Sunday, holidays, and various peak seasons*
Reservations strongly recommended for weekdays.
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino
No exhibitions in Huntington Library have been found.
Huntington Library has 1 rating.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California, is a cultural treasure that offers a diverse experience for visitors. The expansive 120-acre property combines art collections, rare books, and stunning gardens, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The library houses an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible and early editions of Shakespeare's works. The art galleries showcase European and American art from the 15th to the early 20th century, with notable pieces by artists such as Thomas Gainsborough and Edward Hopper.
One of the main attractions is the botanical gardens, featuring themed areas like the Japanese Garden, Desert Garden, and Rose Garden. Visitors often praise the well-maintained landscapes and the peaceful atmosphere they provide.
The Huntington offers educational programs and exhibitions throughout the year, enhancing its appeal as a center for learning and cultural enrichment. Many visitors appreciate the blend of art, literature, and nature, finding something of interest regardless of their preferences.
While generally well-received, some visitors mention that the experience can be overwhelming due to the vast size of the property and the amount of content to explore. A few also note that the admission price is on the higher side, though many feel it's justified given the scope and quality of the offerings.
The on-site dining options receive mixed reviews, with some praising the quality and others finding them overpriced. Accessibility for those with mobility issues is generally good, but the size of the grounds can be challenging for some visitors.
Overall, the Huntington Library is widely regarded as a world-class institution that offers a rich, multifaceted experience, combining art, history, and natural beauty in a single location.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Huntington Library in or around San Marino.