Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden – Long Beach, Calif.

You have got to go here…Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden – Long Beach, Calif.

Not many people would think about going to a college campus to relax and get some peace and quiet, but I did!  Located on the campus of California State University, Long Beach  is a hidden hide-a-way that many locals don’t even know about.  The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden resides on the north side of campus and is FREE for visitors (there is a fee for parking) to enjoy.

I am a huge fan of Japanese gardens and this one did not disappoint.  From the time you enter the gates until you leave, the details are beautiful.  Be sure to look around at everything from the light fixtures to the hand rails.

So, I am just going to jump right into the good stuff…the first thing you will probably spot is a beautiful serene lake and colorful Koi fish.  I can not tell a lie, this was my absolute favorite part.  Don’t be afraid…go right down to the shore to view these beautiful creatures.  For a mere quarter you can feed them – the big kid in me HIGHLY recommends this!

If you can pull yourself away from the lake take some time and follow the curvy path around the rest of the garden.  There are cool things to see at every turn…

Another highlight of the garden is the perfectly manicured Zen Garden.  This is a great place to stop, reflect, meditate or just take a much needed deep breath.

There are several other sights to delight your eyes, but I will leave them for you to see in real time.

I have always heard how romantic the garden was and on my visit I found a couple who thought so too.  With camera in hand I was lucky enough to witness the surprise engagement of Wyatt and Kayla – Best wishes to you both!  You just never know what you may discover when you get outside and start exploring!

Not only is the garden good for romantics, they are  perfect for children or just for some time by yourself.

Although the garden does not allow food inside, there are plenty of grassy hills to relax on and have a picnic outside of the gates.  I found that eating under a shady tree after my tour was a great way to end the day.

Don’t be sad when your day is over, if you didn’t get enough…don’t forget to take part in some of the many events through out the year!

One last note, check the hours before you go as the garden is not open every day!

Who knew that behind dorms and classrooms there was a fantastic getaway  It left me wondering what other wonderful surprises are hidden on college campuses.  I task you with finding out!

Happy Gardening,

Crystal