The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Southern California Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure
By Natasha Kayes|Published February 27, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
Spring in the Golden State, especially after a good rainy season, brings us vibrant green hills and amazing displays of stunning wildflowers. With blue skies above, crisp air, and some breathtaking destinations, you are all set for the ultimate spring adventure – an unforgettable flower road trip in Southern California.
This route includes 156 miles and, barring traffic issues, approximately 3.5 hours of driving. You could do the entire trip in one long day if you wanted to, but we have split the journey into two days with a place to grab dinner a perfect place to spend the night, leaving plenty of time to get out and enjoy each spot.
You can click on this interactive map to get detailed directions and customize your route. Pack some picnic goodies to really enjoy the flower-filled destinations!
1. Gorman Hills
Gorman Post Road, Gorman Post Rd, Lebec, CA 93243, USA
Start the day just outside the tiny town of Gorman where the normally bland, almost-gray, hills suddenly pop with vibrant colors. Lively blue Lupines, golden poppies, purple Lacy Phacelia, and yellow California Tickseeds create an almost-neon sea of vibrant shades that often distract drivers passing on the highway. The best spots for stopping and taking in the views are found by turning off the highway and driving along Gorman Post Road.
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2. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, USA
Start the day just outside the tiny town of Gorman where the normally bland, almost-gray, hills suddenly pop with vibrant colors. Lively blue Lupines, golden poppies, purple Lacy Phacelia, and yellow California Tickseeds create an almost-neon sea of vibrant shades that often distract drivers passing on the highway. The best spots for stopping and taking in the views are found by turning off the highway and driving along Gorman Post Road.
In the afternoon, make your way to The Getty, an incredible hilltop museum overlooking the Los Angeles basin, to explore one of the most unique botanical gardens. The colorful circular gardens feature a central water feature with a cascading waterfall and maze-like flowering hedge design. I recommend visiting on a Saturday so you can grab a coffee in the courtyard and walk out to the beautiful overlook to see the hidden cactus garden and watch the sunset.
For dinner, stop in at The Ivy in West Hollywood. Whether you dine in one of the quaint indoor dining spaces or on the heated patio of this garden-themed cafe, you will be surrounded by plants and flowers, floral pillows, and pitchers full of fresh, colorful roses, peonies, sweet peas, and other blooms on every table.
The menu is as delightful as the ambiance, with unique pizzas, fresh seafood, Wagyu beef steaks and burgers, pastas, and lots more to choose from. And save room for the long list of delightful desserts!
Spend some time in the stargazing in the oasis-like backyard where you will find an outdoor dining set, hanging chairs, comfy sofas, and a fire pit to stay warm and cozy.
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6. Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton
On morning two, you will head to a bit of a hidden gem, the Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton. To be honest, no matter what time of year you come, you will find plenty of natural beauty here, but spring is an amazing opportunity to see delicate pink cherry blossoms, wisteria, Japanese magnolias, nectarine blossoms, calla Lillies, daffodils, and, of course, many other colorful blooms. Meander along the trails, through the trees, check out the pretty pond and waterfall, and keep an eye out for bunnies, butterflies, Mallards, herons, and even peacocks.
The beautiful green hills and valleys in Chino Hills State Park become carpeted with yellow mustard flowers each spring and often, especially during a super bloom, you will find vibrant areas of blue, purple, orange, and white wildflowers. Enjoy the views hiking on the Bane Canyon Loop Trail, go horseback riding, or even camp overnight.
Are you ready to celebrate spring on this memorable flower road trip in Southern California? Pack the car, grab your keys, and hit the road! Be sure to take a peek at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you go. What are your favorite spots to visit in spring? Share with us in the comments.