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Descanso Gardens Sprintime & Norton Simon Museum

Descanso Gardens Sprintime & Norton Simon Museum

Experience a day of beauty and grace when you travel with us to two cultural jewels of the Pasadena area: Descanso Gardens and the Norton Simon Museum.

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Embark on a day of timeless beauty and rich culture as we explore two of Los Angeles County’s most cherished destinations. Our journey begins at the enchanting Descanso Gardens in La Cañada, where the spring bloom transforms the landscape into a colorful tapestry of nature’s finest offerings. Wander through acres of vibrant gardens, where magnolias, cherry blossoms, daffodils, and tulips burst into bloom in a riot of color. Stroll along peaceful pathways lined with towering oaks and lush greenery, visit the serene Rose Garden, or find your way to the Japanese Garden, where koi swim in tranquil ponds surrounded by sculpted landscapes. As you explore, take in the beauty of the art gallery, which hosts rotating exhibits, or simply relax amidst the peaceful atmosphere of this natural sanctuary.

 

Afterward, we make our way to the world-renowned Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, home to an extraordinary private art collection that spans centuries and cultures. Admire iconic masterpieces by legendary artists such as Van Gogh, Degas, and Picasso, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of European art. The museum’s vast collection of South and Southeast Asian sculptures offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient cultures, while its serene outdoor sculpture garden provides a tranquil escape. As you wander through this remarkable museum, take time to appreciate the stunning beauty of the grounds, where carefully curated gardens complement the art on display.

 

Throughout the day, you’ll have ample free time to explore both venues at your own pace. Savor lunch at your leisure at Descanso’s Kitchen Café, offering delicious dishes with a view of the gardens, or dine outdoors at the Norton Simon’s Garden Café, where you can relax amid the museum’s lush surroundings. This unforgettable tour is the perfect harmony of art, nature, and cultural splendor, offering an experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All-day Excursion

All times and routing are approximate and subject to change without notice.

8:30 AM to 9:00 AM

Comfort stop

10:30 AM

Arrive at Descanso Gardens. You can have lunch on your own here at The Market or other eateries onsite (see Useful Links for more details)

1:00 PM

Depart for Norton Simon Museum

1:15 PM

Arrive at Norton Simon Museum. You can have lunch on your own here at the Garden Cafe (see Useful Links for more details)

4:15 PM

Depart Norton Simon Museum

5:45 PM

Arrive at Comfort stop (approx)

6:15 PM

Depart for local drop-offs (approx)

Tour Manager:* Susie Vetter

 

Activity Level: High

Considerable walking and/or numerous steps involved when visiting the gardens and some inclines are present. The gardens portion of this tour may be challenging for persons with mobility limitations.

 

What's Included in the Tour Fare

  • Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County

  • Professional Tour Manager throughout the trip

  • Complimentary bottled water and snacks on the coach

  • Admission into Descanso Gardens and the Norton Simon Museum

 

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

  • Meals

  • Cancellation Protection

  • Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

 

Know Before You Go

  • You will be spending time outdoors, so we recommend sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.) and comfortable walking shoes.

  • At the Norton Simon museum, all umbrellas, backpacks, bags, or purses over 11 x 15 inches must be checked at the Check Room and be retrieved before departing the Museum. Please note that all items brought into the Museum are subject to search. Please leave all non-essential items in the motorcoach. Backpacks, carriers, and purses worn on the back of any size may not be worn in the galleries.

 

How to Make a Reservation

Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours of M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Smartphones

Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and more.

 

14-Day Cancellation Deadline

  • If you purchased the optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) prior to the deadline, you can cancel your booking at any time for any reason and you'll receive a full refund of the tour fare.

  • If you declined the CPP, you may cancel your reservation fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $15 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking fourteen (14) or more days prior to the departure date, you can avoid the cancellation fee by transferring the funds to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Bookings canceled within 14 days of the departure date are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason. Name changes on daytrips are always permitted at no additional cost.

 

* Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Name Address Times
Carlsbad La Costa Avenue Park & Ride
East side of I-5, at 710 La Costa Ave, 92024.
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La Mesa Park & Ride #22 lot - 8703 Murray Dr, 91942
Narrow Park & Ride Across from Wells Fargo Bank
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Mission Valley 2005 Camino Del Este
San Diego, CA 92108; Street parking only
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University City 6245 Kantor Street, San Diego, CA 92122
Street parking only. Do not enter parking lot.
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Thu 03/27/25 $169.00 Book Now Contact
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