Originally an extensive library, art and botanical collection shared privately by Henry Edwards Huntington and his wife Arabella, The Huntington was opened to visitors in 1928, shortly after their deaths, and is among the most celebrated independent research libraries in the world. But even if you don’t come here to witness, for example, the 15th-century Ellesmere manuscript of The Canterbury Stories or paintings by Dennis Hopper and Andy Warhol, you have plenty to discover on the 130 hectares of botanical plants, divided into more than a dozen themed gardens. From a moon bridge and a ceremonial teahouse in the Japanese garden to the world’s largest outdoor collection of mature cacti and succulents in the desert garden, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York
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Designed by the Olmsted brothers (sons of Prospect and Central Park designer Frederick Law Olmsted) and opened in 1911, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is one of the crown jewels of New York City. The garden extends over 52 hectares and contains more than 14,000 species of plants. In spring the grounds burst with colour, with more than 200 cherry blossom trees blooming in April, and the lilacs, bluebells and peonies coming to life in May. In July, visitors can throw down a blanket and enjoy live jazz in the evening.
Denver Botanical Gardens, Colorado
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