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| - I give the Desert Botanical Gardens 4 out of 5 stars, only because they just aren't the same as they used to be :( My hubby and I were married there almost 6 years ago, so we've always had a special attachment to the Gardens, and have been members ever since.
The paths are lovely- really a nice way to spend the day getting fresh air and sunshine, soaking up the amazingly lush succulents and cacti, bunnies, birds, and other animals. The butterfly pavilion is also a treat when its in season, and a lot of the festivals and classes are great, as are the changing art exhibits (can't wait to see the Chihuly exhibit!!).
The only thing that disappoints me is how freakin expensive it has gotten! I am totally not cheap, and I am all about supporting the non-profits, but the cost of events and memberships has gone up and up an up every year. I start to wonder how the average family could enjoy the Gardens? We love the Agave on the Rocks and Luminarias events, but we may or may not go this year because the prices have just gotten outrageous, even at member-pricing. It seems like most of the mailers we get these days are highlighting their fundraising activities and we recently got hammered with calls during a fundraising campaign. I totally get it, its just a turn off to hear SO MUCH about the fundraising. It just seems like they have become more preoccupied with raising funds than adding value for visitors lately.
I still love it here, a beautiful place that holds special meaning to us. Its great to bring family, out of town visitors or for dates.
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