Discover the Beauty of Fullerton Arboretum

The Fullerton Arboretum is an iconic landmark that puts conservancy and research into action. California's most famous "plant museum" is a living landscape that offers opportunities to relax, explore, and learn. It was founded in 1976 under the guidance of the Trustees of the California State University system to provide research opportunities for students throughout California. If you're planning a visit to Orange County, you don't want to miss the chance to have an engaging environmental experience!

What You'll Discover

The Fullerton Arboretum is operated by California State University, Fullerton (CFU). While guests will find this natural landmark to be a relaxing and edifying place, students and researchers actually utilize it as a living research facility. It occupies 26 lush acres within the California State University, Fullerton campus. When you visit, you'll have the privilege of exploring the largest botanical garden in all of Orange County. The current living collection within this botanical garden consists of nearly 5,000 plants.

When supporting the Fullerton Arboretum, visitors are actually supporting conservation efforts! That's because the researchers here are devoted to saving both extinct and nearly extinct agricultural species. The paths here wander through collections that feature woodlands, desert, Mediterranean greenery, rare fruit groves, organic vegetable gardens, citrus groves, avocado groves, conifers, palms, community gardens, and a children's garden. A structure called the Heritage House that is situated in the center of the gardens is actually Fullerton's oldest home!

Things to Do at the Arboretum

Visitors can customize their adventures! Many people visit this landmark simply to have peaceful, meditative experiences while exploring more than two dozen lively acres. This is why you'll find many people meditating, practicing yoga, sketching, or journaling throughout the trails that are carved into the landscape. Non-commercial photography is also allowed. Of course, many people simply come to learn about the plants, trees, and wildlife that populate this inspiring space.

Planning Your Visit to Fullerton's Famed Arboretum

This plant museum is open to guests of all ages! Guests should simply make an effort to only stay on designated paths in order to avoid disturbing any of the native plants or wildlife. While entry is free, visitors are asked to make a $5 donation per person in order to help support the mission of this research landmark. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. However, the attraction follows the CSUF holiday calendar. Hourly and daily parking options are available. If the main lot is full, visitors can utilize adjacent Lot G.

Enjoying Nature in Orange County

It's no secret that Orange County is known for its beauty! If you're coming to this slice of California to take in as many natural landmarks as possible, you can't skip the ocean. You don't have to be an expert surfer in order to make the most of the Pacific Ocean during a Southern California vacation! In fact, some of the best things are found in the shallowest of waters. If you need proof, just check out this list of the best tide pools in Orange County CA.