Exploring Historic Elegance at Spring Tea Garden

Hey, fellow wanderers! Today, I’m sharing my afternoon tea experience at Spring Tea Garden nestled in the heart of Downtown Fullerton, California. If you’re not familiar with this city it’s less than five miles from Disneyland. This elegant tea house is located in a building that was constructed in 1920 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally a Masonic lodge the building has been transformed into a tea lover’s paradise.

Let’s talk ambiance. As you drive up you’ll notice the Spanish mission revival architectural style. Tea houses tend to be cozy, not the case here with the grandeur of the high ceilings and dazzling chandeliers. Still, it’s perfect for those who crave intimate conversations without constant interruptions. While the tea room can hold parties of up to 60 guests it is set in the historic Spring Field Banquet Center. So they also have a ballroom that can accommodate parties up to 300 guests. Talk about a tea party fit for royalty!

Lets dish about the menu. Spring Tea Garden offers an both an a la carte menu and several afternoon tea options. They have array of treats to tantalize your taste buds. However, if you’re like me and prefer a little more zing, you might find the flavors a tad on the mellow side. They have extensive tea selection that is also available for purchase in their shop. They also labeled the teapots during afternoon tea – adorable touch!

Our afternoon tea selection for the day – The Royal Tea.

• Sandwiches: Avocado and cream cheese; Dill and cucumber open face; Dill, cucumber and tomato open face, egg salad, chicken salad
• Petite garden salad
• Fresh seasonal fruit
• Toasted scones
• Desserts: tiramisu, raspberry chocolate cake, cheesecake, lemon mousse, cream puff with white chocolate
• Champagne
• Tea: Carmel Vanilla Cuppa Cake and Apricot Decaf

Whether you’re celebrating a bridal shower, baby shower, or simply indulging in an elegant afternoon, Spring Tea Garden promises an experience that’s as delightful as it is refined. So, grab your besties and prepare to sip, savor, and soak in the splendor of this hidden treasure. Until next time, keep steeping in style!

Spring Tea Garden

501 N Harbor Blvd; Fullerton, CA 92832

Tea Room Hours

Thursday through Sunday 10am-4pm

TEA ROOM HOURS (90 min Table Sitting)

MORNING TEA

• 10:00 – 11:30
• 10:30 – 12:00
• 11:00 – 12:30

AFTERNOON TEA

• 1:30 – 3:00
• 2:00 – 3:30
• 2:30 – 4:00

Walk-ins welcome subject to availability

Reservations recommended.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday by reservation with a group of 20 or more. 

Office Hours: 10am-6pm Daily

Call: (714) 447-0579

Exploring The Huntington: A Sanctuary For The Soul

Hey, fellow plant enthusiasts! 🌿 If you’re anything like me, finding the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty is a top priority. And let me tell you, if you’re in Southern California, The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, or simply The Huntington, is the ultimate oasis you’ve been dreaming of!

Diana the Huntress
by Anna Hyatt Huntington

Nestled in San Marino, CA, this gem boasts around 120 acres of meticulously landscaped botanical gardens that will leave you breathless. From the serene vibes of the “Japanese Garden” to the striking allure of the “Desert Garden,” there’s something for every nature lover here. But let me spill the tea on my personal favorite: the “Chinese Garden,” aka Liu Fang Yuan 流芳園, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance.

Picture this: lush greenery, tranquil lakes, charming pavilions, and the aroma of blooming flowers dancing in the air. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, believe it or not, this slice of paradise is the largest Chinese garden outside of China! Talk about impressive.

During my visit I had the chance to chat with a landscape architect. In his professional opinion this Suzhou-style garden with its superior design and imported rock formations from China is the best garden to visit at the Huntington.

All of the garden’s visible building materials—wood beams, roofing tiles, granite terraces, paving pebbles—were sourced in China and installed by teams of Suzhou artisans. I was thrilled to find a teahouse and a tea shop serving up the most delightful blends. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s even a cute little shop where you can snag some souvenirs to remember your zen-filled day.

JAPANESE GARDEN

Now, let’s talk history. The Huntington isn’t just any old botanical garden; it’s a piece of living history. Named after Henry and Arabella Huntington, this place was once their private estate before being transformed into a public institution in 1928. So, when you wander through these gardens, you’re not just experiencing nature’s wonders—you’re also stepping into a legacy of passion for art, literature, and, of course, botany.

The Conservatory

The Conservatory

So, whether you’re craving a peaceful day of solitude or a picturesque backdrop for your next Instagram post, The Huntington has got you covered. Trust me, it’s more than just a garden; it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Grab your sunscreen, your favorite plant-themed tote, and let’s get lost in paradise together!

The Huntington

1151 Oxford Road; San Marino, CA 91108 USA

Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day but Tuesdays (closed) 
Reservations required Friday–Sunday, Holidays, and Peak Seasons; no walk-ins. Capacity limited daily. Reservations strongly recommended for week days.

Entrance fees: $13-36 Order Tickets Here

Free parking.

Exploring Culture without Cost: Southern California’s Annual Free-for-All Event

Every year, Southern California becomes a haven for culture enthusiasts as museums across the region open their doors for free during the Annual Free-for-All event. This year, on March 23, 2024, over thirty esteemed institutions will participate, offering complimentary general admission to their diverse exhibits. It’s an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in art, history, and science without worrying about the cost of entry.

What to Expect:

The Annual Free-for-All event invites visitors to explore an array of museums, each boasting its own unique collection and atmosphere. From contemporary art to ancient artifacts, there’s something to pique the interest of every visitor. However, it’s essential to note that the free admission applies only to general museum access and does not include specially ticketed exhibitions. Additionally, regular parking fees will still apply at each museum.

Plan Your Visit:

To make the most of this exceptional opportunity, it’s wise to plan your visit in advance. Consult the websites of individual museums for crucial details such as operating hours, directions, and any additional visitor information.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

American Museum of Ceramic Art

Armory Center for the Arts

Autry Museum of the American West

Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College

Bowers Museum

The Broad

California Botanic Garden

California Science Center

Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum

Catalina Museum for Art & History

Cayton Children’s Museum

Columbia Memorial Space Center

Craft Contemporary

Forest Lawn Museum

Fowler Museum at UCLA

Frederick R. Weisman of Art, Pepperdine University

The Getty Center

The Getty Villa

GRAMMY Museum

Hammer Museum

Holocaust Museum LA

Institute of Contemporary Art, LA

The International Printing Museum

Japanese American National Museum

Laguna Art Museum

La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes

Lincoln Memorial Shrine

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)

Museum of Ventura County

Orange County Museum of Art

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Santa Monica History Museum

Skirball Cultural Center

Wende Museum

Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum

Exploring Southern California’s Cultural Landscape:

The Annual Free-for-All event not only offers free access to museums but also serves as a celebration of Southern California’s rich cultural landscape. From the iconic Getty Center to the eclectic collections at the Museum of Latin American Art, each institution contributes to the region’s vibrant tapestry of arts and heritage.

Supporting the Arts:

While enjoying the perks of free admission, it’s essential to recognize the value of supporting the arts. Consider becoming a member of your favorite museums or making a donation to help sustain their programs and exhibitions throughout the year. Your contribution goes a long way in preserving cultural treasures and ensuring their accessibility for future generations.