Alice
Keck Park Memorial Gardens
Corner
of Santa Barbara and Arrellaga Streets
This is one of the city's most beautiful spots. Well-tended
gardens surround a man-made pond with coy and turtles. There
is almost always a group of children gathered at the gazebo
watching the enormous orange fish gliding through the dark water.
The
highlight of this park can be found as you follow the meandering
walkway around specialized planting beds that feature
low-water species. Each species is chosen because it grow
well in Santa Barbara with minimum water. It is a labor of
love with a message - beautiful plants don't have to consume lots
of precious resources.
The
testament to the beauty of these plants is the popularity of the
park with both student and professional photographers.
Every
Saturday and Sunday you will find brides vying for the most
beautiful flowers or splash of unique foliage to immortalize their
big day.
Directions:
From the 101 take the Garden Street exit and turn towards the
mountains. Drive along Garden until you come to the Arrellaga
cross street. There is usually plenty of free parking nearby.
Facilities None here, but this oasis in the city borders
Alameda Park, which features a large children's playground,
restroom facilities and large open spaces for Frisbee and sunning. |