THE GARDENS AT GREYSTONE MANSION

Mila and I recently spent a morning exploring the gardens at Greystone Mansion. It reminded me so much of my childhood, as Twink and I both went to summer camp there as kids. It's kind of unreal that this place exists in LA. In my ongoing quest to find a European garden in Southern California, I'm grateful to have rediscovered this gem.

How incredible are these cypress trees?

Perfect fountain on a hot day.

So much fun exploring.

Greystone Park is located at: 905 Loma Vista Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Admission to the grounds and parking are free. Hours are 10am - 5pm (6pm during daylight savings) seven days a week. 

Mia's dress is from Tutu Du Monde via Thumbeline. 

THE FLOWER FIELDS

Unless I book a trip to Holland, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are probably my best chance at seeing 70 million flowers. The floricultural attraction spans 50 acres of colorful hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean (about 2 hours south of Los Angeles). 

The Flower Fields are only open a couple months every year (March 1 - May 10, 2015). 

The main attraction is the massive sea of ranunculus.

About 125,000 visitors tour the ranunculus fields, to see brilliantly bright colors like sunset gold, pink and merlot. 

Antique tractor ride for $5.

Lots of room for running.

The highlight for Mila was Santa's Playground, especially the great pink house.

Food within 15 minutes: In-N-Out Burger Carlsbad, Whole Foods Encinitas.