Secret Garden Tour

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Discover the hidden gems of La Jolla’s gardens during our annual Secret Garden Tour. This cherished tradition offers an exclusive glimpse into private gardens, showcasing the artistry of local landscapers, architects, and designers, and supports Museum of History and Culture La Jolla’s (MHC La Jolla) free exhibitions and public programs all year.

Our annual fundraiser

Discover Hidden Gems

The very popular Secret Garden Tour Boutique will also be held on the same day at the beautiful grounds of Wisteria cottage.  It is free and open to the public. Get ready for the ultimate garden shopping experience offering unique and handcrafted items, plants and vintage treasures. We will also have food and coffee available throughout the day.  

Bid in our Silent Auction

From exclusive experiences and dining packages to fine art, travel, and unique local offerings, our Secret Garden Tour Silent Auction is now live, and every bid supports the free exhibitions, education programs, and preservation work of MHC La Jolla. REGISTER NOW to browse and bid from anywhere. Auction closes at 11:59pm on May 16.

Sponsorship, advertising and volunteer opportunities

Want to volunteer in the gardens? Sign up for your shift here.

Learn about our Sponsorship and Program Advertising Packages. We now accept online payments for Sponsorships and Program Advertising.

MHC La Jolla Members receive early access and discounted rates. Note yet a member? Join us today!

What to expect

Stroll through a curated selection of private gardens, each with its own story and unique design.

Engage with expert docents who bring the gardens to life with historical and botanical insights.

Enjoy live music and artistic displays that enrich your experience.

Indulge in refreshments and shopping at our Garden Boutique, featuring artisanal goods and garden-inspired treasures.

A female artist smiles at the camera and stands in front of her canvas while holding a paint brush.

Car Service

If you would you like hire a car for the day, we have two preferred vendors, La Jolla Star Transportation and La Jolla Transportation Service.

Use the phrase ‘La Jolla Secret Garden Tour’ when making your reservation to receive a preferred rate. Price for the 4 hour minimum (with discount) is between $415 and $515.

Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors

Institutional Support

City of San Diego Cultural Affairs*

Lily Sponsors

Ann Craig*

Diane Kane*

Erin McConkey*

Camellia Sponsors

Anonymous*

Meg Davis and Brian Earley*

Mark and Kathryn Muñoz*

Crown Point Tree Clippers*

Drab to Fab*

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial

Torrey Pines Landscape*

The Marine Room*

Girard Gourmet*

Island Architects*

Walter Anderson Nursery*

Gardenia Sponsors

Beth Bowman

Bowers Jewelers*

The Neil Senturia and Barbara Bry Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation*

Susan Lawson*

Melanie Showalter*

Margie Warner*

Warwick's*

Catherine Ivey Lee*

Gardenia Sponsors (continued)

Brigitte Adams and Brien Metcalf*

IS Architecture*

MDEP Structures*

Neel’s Nursery*

Nautilus Construction*

Ross Thiele & Sons*

The La Jolla Tiles

Willis Allen Real Estate*

Gerbera Sponsors

Anonymous *

Ascot Shop*

Carolynn LaPierre In Memory Of Dexter LaPierre

Diana Lombrozo In Memory of Sue Miller*

Ina Thompson & Richard Wolf*

Sweet Pea Sponsors

Charles Dye*

Lucy Jackson*

Susan Vandenriesse*

* Multi-year sponsors