This place is absolutely awesome for all ages! There's always something going on: Flashlight tours in the summer, concerts and art exhibits...and DO NOT miss their holiday festival: Las Noches de las Luminarias. My husband and I stumbled upon it one year by complete accident. We were heading for Zoo Lights, but it was waaay too crowded...so, we decided to check out the garden. This was back in the 90's - it was amazingly beautiful; walkways lined with several luminaries, acoustic holiday music, lights everywhere - extremely festive and all the perfect touches to put you in the holiday mood. My only complaint was how crowded the event got...but, they keep all moving along...and it wasn't anywhere near as bad as Zoo Lights.
Since moving to the Valley permanently, we purchased a seasonal pass for the family. I recommend it if you live in the area. It's just one of those places that's always "right." Have a bad day at work? Stop by and take a soothing stroll. Looking for something to do with the kids? Bring 'em to the butterfly exhibit in the spring or on a flashlight tour over the summer. We've been to the flashlight tours three times already and are always in awe at how friendly and knowledgeable the garden volunteers are. And what a well-organized affair! They set up about 10 informative stations. Some have desert critters, others educate about desert plants and the night sky, another with a craft and activities for the kids. If you can, bring a hand-held blacklight and you may find an extra treat along the paths (great for spotting scorpions). I don't think I've ever met one volunteer that wasn't in a good mood...but, it's hard to be aggravated or stressed when walking around such a beautiful place. It has it all; something for every season....OH, and what GORGEOUS blooms in the spring! Do not forget your camera...and don't miss Gertrude's or the gift shop (if you buy a membership, you get 10% off at the shop!)!
Hands down: our family's favorite place to unwind in the city! I will renew my membership year after year after year....and, heck, maybe I'll look into volunteering myself someday - just totally in love with this place!