With three children’s gardens and plenty of space to explore, San Diego Botanic Garden is the perfect place for families to enjoy the outdoors together. From hands-on SAPLINGS activities to imaginative adventures in Toni’s Tree House, little explorers are encouraged to learn, discover, and stay curious about the natural world.
Skip to SAPLINGS | Model Trains | Exploration Stations | Learning Labs | Seasonal Events
Our flagship learning and play area invites children to climb Toni’s Tree House in a lush jungle canopy, explore the Incredible Edibles garden, splash in the Mountain Stream, and create music and art together with natural materials.
Families connect with nature in this interactive garden designed for preschool-aged children, featuring a miniature railroad, dinosaur garden, playhouse, topiary, and hands-on discovery throughout.
This immersive area blends physical challenges with imaginative exploration. Logs become balance beams, tree stumps become jumping platforms, and other natural elements offer a spot for play and games.
Supported by dedicated volunteers, SAPLINGS is a family program designed by our Education Team to support early childhood connections to nature through play and seasonal activities.
WHO: You and your saplings! SAPLINGS is drop-in, not drop-off, so caregivers stay and get to play!
WHAT: Fun activities that change with the seasons. Click the button below to view our seasonal schedule.
WHEN: Every Wednesday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (weather-permitting) Note: Friday morning Tales & Tunes will be taking a brief hiatus. Please check back for updates!
WHERE: Hamilton Children’s Garden (near main entrance)
Botanic Exploration Stations are pop-up opportunities to grow your botanical knowledge! Explore SDBG’s unique gardens through fun facts, games, and engagement for all ages. Botanic Exploration Stations are volunteer operated so check with our Guest Services team to see if they’re rolling during your visit.
Current Station (Spring & Summer 2026): Birds, bees, and butterflies – oh my! Find the SDBG volunteer in the Pollinator Garden to discover the pin-sized world of pollination.
We offer a variety of seasonal events and celebrations throughout the year. Check back for more information!
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