Date Night During the Day

Although the is the place to go in San Marino, it’s not always the first place that comes to mind when parents have some free time to themselves. But spending time together outside can be a refreshing and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.

You can easily spend your time in just the Chinese Garden. The garden’s name, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance, was created in the tradition of ancient Chinese gardens. The web site for the garden explains that water (symbolizing the ever-changing) and rocks (the eternal) create harmony in the garden, balancing nature’s yin and yang.

Meander around the lake over a bridge to discover ornamental trees, camellias, bamboo and rocks. Stroll under a covered walkway to take in one of the views through a framed window. You may want to check out an audio tour to fully appreciate the many layers of symbolic meaning throughout the garden. And when you’re ready to sit, enjoy some dim sum in the Tea House Pavilion.  

If you go now, you’ll see the cherry trees in full bloom against the back drop of the San Gabriel Mountains. You’ll be inspired and invigorated after your visit and you can even stop by the bookstore and pick up something for the kids.

The Tea House is open on weekends, holiday Mondays and free days.