PALOS VERDES PENINSULA, CALIF.-There are many hidden gems within a 10 mile radius of Los Angeles Airport, and one appeals to all ages but is especially fun for kids. South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Peninsula is an 87-acre garden featuring over 2,500 different species of plants from around the world, including plants in a children's garden that match stories and nursery rhymes. Enter through Miss Peggy's garden trellis, cross over a small bridge, and see an enchanted doll house, perfect for pint-size pleasure where kids can explore.

Mary Had A Little Lamb contains Lamb's Ears flowers, Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater has pumpkins and other seasonal flowering plants, and Three Little Kittens that Lost Their Mittens is filled with surprises. You can listen to an audio tour on your cell phone to learn about what you are seeing at each stop along the way.

Next to the children's fantasy of flowers and plants is the Animal Zoo garden with Snapdragon, Green Zebra Tomato, Cranesbill Geranium and Whirling Butterfly.

Especially kid (and baby) friendly is the return of the tour tram that includes narration provided by one of the expert docents offering exceptional insights and information about the acres of rare plants and flowers. Some settings along the tour may seem familiar. CSI Miami and many other shows and movies have used the gardens as a setting for portions of their movies and programs. The tram runs two times on Saturdays and costs $4-well worth it!

South Coast Botanic Garden is located at 26300 Crenshaw Boulevard, Palos Verdes Peninsula, California 90274.
(310) 544-1948 / www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org

HOURS:

The Garden is open to the public 364 days a year and closed Christmas Day.