Join us for a unique nature education experience as we explore the trails of the Nature Preserve, only accessible through guided tours! With Lanny Kaufer leading the way, we'll identify native plants, observe birds, and examine animal tracks within our local ecology. Lanny's mission is to help people connect with the natural world, starting with plants. As the author of "Medicinal Herbs of California: A Field Guide to Common Healing Plants," he has been leading herb walks, nature hikes, and workshops in Southern California since 1976. Don't miss this chance to learn from a seasoned expert and deepen your understanding of nature. Grab your tickets now and join us for an insightful journey through our local ecosystem!

Join Cassandra C. Jones, Artist and Arts Chair of our Residency Program at Taft, for a unique look at the property from a creative perspective. Jones will guide guests through the South African and Australian Gardens to the art studios to meet the artists-in-residence and see what they are working on. She will offer an oral history of Taft, point out Fibonacci patterns in plants, tell stories about botanicals in bloom, and show how the space inspires regional artists. This walking tour would benefit anyone interested in local history, patterns in nature, unusual plants, and contemporary art.

Taft Gardens and Nature Preserve invites you to explore the night sky with visiting artist and astronomy enthusiast Russell Crotty, along with assistance from his wife, Laura Gruenther. Perched above the Gardens, our Vista Point is the perfect locale for nighttime sky observation. As dusk falls, guests will be invited to enjoy the view while Russell and Laura offer a short background on astronomy and the basics of night sky observing. Once darkness falls, they will describe the celestial objects as we view them through an array of telescopes.