Welcome to a journey through the historic Busch Gardens in Pasadena, California, a once-vibrant public garden that captivated visitors from 1906 to 1937. Nestled in the scenic Arroyo Seco, this historic site offers a glimpse into the opulent legacy of Adolphus Busch, co-founder of Anheuser-Busch. While the gardens are no longer open to the public, remnants of their beauty persist in private residences, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers.
Exploring the Busch Gardens Historic Site in Pasadena
History of Busch Gardens Pasadena
The Busch Gardens in Pasadena were the brainchild of Adolphus Busch, who purchased a winter home on Orange Grove Boulevard’s “Millionaire’s Row” in 1904. Known as “Ivy Hall” for its lush ivy exterior, the estate became the centerpiece for Busch’s ambitious landscaping project. By 1906, he and his wife, Lilly, transformed 36 acres of rugged terrain into a botanical paradise, featuring over 100,000 plants, 14 miles of walkways, ponds, waterfalls, and whimsical fairy-tale figurines inspired by Hans Christian Andersen.
A Public Attraction
Unlike the modern Busch Gardens theme parks in Tampa and Williamsburg, the Pasadena gardens were free to the public and served as a cultural and tourist landmark. They attracted visitors from across the country, including Hollywood filmmakers who used the gardens as a backdrop for classics like Frankenstein (1931) and Gone With the Wind (1939). The Pacific Electric Railway even established a stop to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Decline and Legacy
After Adolphus Busch’s death in 1913, his widow offered the gardens to the city of Pasadena as a public park, but the city declined due to high maintenance costs, estimated at $50,000 annually. By 1937, the gardens closed, and the land was subdivided into private residences. Today, traces of the gardens, such as the Old Mill and Grecian pergola, remain in private properties along Busch Garden Drive and South Arroyo Boulevard.
What to See at the Busch Gardens Historic Site
While the original Busch Gardens are no longer accessible as a public park, several historic features can be glimpsed from public streets or through guided tours organized by groups like Pasadena Heritage. Here’s what visitors can expect:
Iconic Remnants
The Old Mill
One of the most iconic features, the Old Mill, still stands as part of a private residence. Its rustic charm, with a waterwheel (now on its second replacement), evokes the gardens’ romantic past. While photography inside private properties is restricted, the mill’s exterior is visible from certain vantage points along Madeline Drive.
Grecian Pergola
The Grecian pergola, once a centerpiece of the lower gardens, has been enclosed with windows and incorporated into a home on South Arroyo Boulevard. Its elegant columns are a testament to the gardens’ classical influences. Visitors can spot it from the street, especially when referencing historic postcards for comparison.
Mystic Hut Foundation
The foundation of the Mystic Hut, a whimsical structure from the gardens’ heyday, remains on the downslope of a private residence. This site, visible along Busch Garden Drive, offers a tangible connection to the gardens’ fairy-tale aesthetic.
Photo Opportunities
Photography enthusiasts will find the Busch Gardens historic site a treasure trove of scenic beauty. The lush greenery, historic architecture, and Arroyo Seco’s natural backdrop create stunning compositions. Early morning or late afternoon visits yield the best lighting for capturing the gardens’ remnants. Historic postcards, available online or through local archives, can guide photographers to key locations.
Visitor Information
Visiting the Busch Gardens historic site requires careful planning, as most remnants are on private property. Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
Access and Tours
Public access to the gardens is limited to street views along Busch Garden Drive, South Arroyo Boulevard, and Madeline Drive. Pasadena Heritage occasionally offers guided walking tours, which provide exclusive access to select private properties. These tours, limited to small groups, sell out quickly, so book early through their website (www.pasadenaheritage.org).
Getting There
The historic site is located approximately two miles south of the Rose Bowl, near Orange Grove Boulevard. From downtown Pasadena, take the Metro A Line to Memorial Park Station, then walk or ride-share about 1.5 miles to Busch Garden Drive. Parking is available along public streets, but respect residential restrictions.
Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes: The area involves walking on uneven terrain, especially during tours.
- Bring a camera: The gardens’ remnants are photogenic, but always ask permission before photographing private property.
- Visit early: Mornings offer fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
- Check event listings: Special historical tours or community events may provide rare access to private sites.
Reviews and Visitor Experiences
While the Busch Gardens historic site lacks the formal review platforms of modern attractions, visitor accounts from blogs, social media, and historical records paint a vivid picture. Here are some insights:
Positive Feedback
“The guided tour by Pasadena Heritage was a highlight of my Pasadena visit. Seeing the Old Mill up close felt like stepping into a postcard from the 1920s. The guide’s stories about the Busch family and Hollywood’s use of the gardens were fascinating.” – Local history enthusiast, 2010.
“Walking along Busch Garden Drive, you can still feel the grandeur of the original gardens. The pergola, even as part of a home, is stunning. It’s a hidden gem for anyone who loves history and architecture.” – Travel blogger, 2019.
Challenges Noted
“It’s a shame the gardens aren’t a public park anymore. You can only see so much from the street, and without a tour, it feels a bit underwhelming. Still, the history is worth learning about.” – Visitor comment, 2015.
“I wish there were more signs or plaques explaining the site’s history. It’s easy to miss the significance of what’s left without a guide.” – TripAdvisor user, 2021.
Why Visit Busch Gardens Historic Site?
The Busch Gardens historic site offers a unique blend of history, nature, and architectural beauty. Unlike the thrill-focused Busch Gardens theme parks, this site appeals to those seeking a quieter, reflective experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with Pasadena’s Gilded Age past, explore the legacy of Adolphus Busch, and appreciate the enduring beauty of the Arroyo Seco. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the site’s remnants inspire awe and curiosity.
Pairing Your Visit
Enhance your trip by combining a visit to the Busch Gardens site with nearby attractions:
- The Gamble House: A masterpiece of Craftsman architecture, just a short walk away on Orange Grove Boulevard.
- Huntington Library and Gardens: A world-class botanical garden and cultural institution, offering a modern parallel to Busch’s vision.
- Rose Bowl: A historic stadium perfect for sports fans or leisurely walks.
Conclusion
The Busch Gardens historic site in Pasadena is a testament to the vision of Adolphus and Lilly Busch, whose gardens once rivaled the world’s great estates. Though transformed into a residential neighborhood, the site’s remnants—the Old Mill, Grecian pergola, and Mystic Hut foundation—offer a window into a bygone era. Plan your visit with a guided tour, bring your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by this hidden piece of California history. For more information, check local resources like Pasadena Heritage or explore historic photos online to deepen your appreciation of this remarkable site.
