Moorten Botanical Garden

The Moorten Botanical Garden is a charming "living museum" of desert flora located in sunny Palm Springs. Established back in 1938, this private arboretum in the USA is home to more than 3,000 species of cacti and succulents gathered from all over the world—from the arid regions of Mexico and Africa to the local Mojave and Sonoran deserts.

Occupying a cozy area of about one acre, the garden is famous for its unique collection of rare plants, such as giant barrel cacti, whimsical boojum trees, and euphorbias. The site is infused with family warmth and a love for nature, as it has been carefully maintained for decades by the Moorten family, who created a true oasis amidst the California sands.

One of the garden's main highlights is the legendary Cactarium—a greenhouse that has become a magnet for photographers and lovers of aesthetic views. Here, among intertwining stems and unusual succulent shapes, visitors can see the rarest specimens of the collection in a protected environment. Moorten Botanical Garden is not just a botanical exhibition, but an inspiring space where Hollywood history meets the raw beauty of the desert.

For up-to-date information on events or plant sales, you can contact the garden administration directly.

The main reason people visit the Moorten Botanical Garden is to walk along the picturesque nature trail. The route leads through themed zones mimicking various desert habitats. You can see how plants adapt to harsh conditions and get an up-close look at amazing specimens ranging from tiny succulents to majestic old cacti. It is an ideal place for those seeking peace and inspiration away from the city bustle.

Special attention should be paid to the Cactarium. This greenhouse is a true paradise for photography enthusiasts and Instagram users. Thanks to its unique architecture and the density of exotic plants, it provides incredibly striking shots. Don't forget to also examine the collection of crystals, ancient fossils, and gold-mining era relics scattered throughout the grounds, which add an Old West spirit to the garden.

If you want to take a piece of this oasis home with you, be sure to stop by the local nursery, the Cactus Castle. There, you can purchase rare cacti and receive valuable care tips from members of the Moorten family. The garden is excellent for family visits: children enjoy exploring the unusual plant shapes, while adults appreciate the tranquility and positive energy of this historic site.

The Moorten Botanical Garden is located at 1701 S Palm Canyon Dr, making it easily accessible for visitors. A drive from downtown Palm Springs takes only about 5–10 minutes. Simply head south on South Palm Canyon Drive (Highway 111). Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

If you are arriving from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), the trip by taxi or rental car takes approximately 15 minutes. You can also use public transportation: SunLine Transit buses stop in the immediate vicinity of the garden entrance. Thanks to its convenient location, the garden is also within walking distance of many hotels located in the southern part of the city.

The story of this amazing place began in 1938, when Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten and his wife Patricia purchased a plot of land from the renowned photographer Stephen Willard. Chester, a legendary figure, was a former silent film actor and stuntman, but his true passion was desert flora. Together with his wife, they began collecting rare plants during expeditions to Mexico, Guatemala, and Baja, eventually transforming their private nursery into a full-fledged public garden.

The Moorten family became famous as outstanding landscape designers, creating "desert comfort" for many Hollywood stars. Their clients included celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Walt Disney. In fact, Chester Moorten helped design the Frontierland themed area at the original Disneyland. This close connection between Hollywood history and botanical science gives the garden a special charm.

Today, the life's work of his parents is continued by their son, Clark Moorten. The garden is officially recognized as a Palm Springs historic landmark, and Golden Palm Stars have been placed on the city's "Walk of Stars" in honor of the Moorten family for their invaluable contribution to the community and the preservation of the region's natural heritage.

To explore the entire grounds at a leisurely pace, guests usually need about 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to walk all the themed trails, study the Cactarium collection in detail, and take many vibrant photos.

If you are a passionate succulent collector or enjoy long conversations with the staff about plant care, your visit may last longer. The garden's atmosphere encourages peaceful contemplation, so there is no need to rush—this place is designed for slowing down and enjoying the silence of a desert oasis.

The Moorten Botanical Garden typically welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This schedule applies on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Sunday. Please note that the garden is closed on Wednesdays for maintenance and plant care.

Since operating hours may change on holidays or depending on the season, tourists are strongly encouraged to check for the latest information on the official website before visiting to ensure their walk goes as planned.

Exploring the surrounding area after a stroll through the garden will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this sunny city. Within a few kilometers, you'll find everything from historic celebrity estates to modern design districts.