Member FAQs
Do members need to reserve a time to visit?
Members do not need to reserve a ticket in advance to visit. Simply show your membership card at the entrance to receive free admission.
How does the Los Angeles Arboretum Reciprocal Program work?
As an Arboretum member, you receive free admission and additional benefits at botanical gardens, arboreta, and conservatories throughout North America. A list of participating institutions is available here. Please be aware that the list is subject to change. Before visiting any garden, be sure to visit its website or call to verify its hours of operation and get the latest updates on programs and other information. Reciprocal benefits do not extend to special event tickets. Please remember to carry your Los Angeles Arboretum membership card with you when you travel to reciprocating gardens. Please note, Descanso Gardens, South Coast Botanic Garden, and the California Botanic Garden do not offer reciprocal admissions to Arboretum members.
Can I apply my day admission fee to a Membership if I decide to join?
Yes, you can apply a portion of your admission fee credit toward a membership within 15 days of your dated receipt/tickets. The amount you can apply depends on the category of membership that you are purchasing. To join or have questions, please call the membership office at 626.821.3233. Please note this offer is not valid online and can only be processed in person or over the phone.
Can my children under 18 yrs old come to the Arboretum with their grandparents under my Family Membership?
Membership cards are non-transferable so the grandparents will need a Family Membership of their own. If your children are under 5 years old, they are free so the grandparents can purchase a Senior Membership for themselves. If your children are 5 -17 years old, a Family Membership is needed. Your children are always covered under your Family membership, so your membership card will cover free admission for them when you accompany them.
If another cardholder on my membership doesn’t come with me, can I take someone else in his or her place?
Yes. We require that at least one person named on the card be present. For example, if you and your husband are listed on your Family membership card, you may bring your brother in your husband’s place (but you cannot give your card to your brother to come on his own). For the Senior-level membership, both individuals must be 62 years or older. To verify how many people are covered under your membership category, please call 626.821.3233 or email memberships@arboretum.org.
How many cards are included with my membership?
It depends on your membership level, but all named members will receive one card.
If I forget to bring my membership card, may I still visit the Garden for free?
Yes! Just bring your photo I.D. and stop by the membership office to verify your status. You will be issued a one-day pass valid for free admission for all those eligible under your membership category. This day pass will also entitle you to a 10% discount in the Arboretum Gift Shop.
How can I replace a lost/stolen membership card?
A replacement card costs $5. To request a replacement card please visit the Membership Office at the Arboretum. While the office will do its best to reprint your cards right away, please be advised that requests may take up to 1 whole business day.
How do I use one of my FREE photo permits under my Garden Sustainer benefit?
Advance reservations are required two weeks prior to Arboretum visit. Some restrictions apply. Please contact the membership department at 626.821.3233 to schedule your visit. Membership admission is based on a Garden Sustainer level membership, and additional non-member tickets must be purchased in advance. Keep in mind that during our Lightscape nights, photo shoots may be canceled. The last entry is at 2:00pm sharp, no exceptions.
How can I add a caregiver to my membership?
Family-level members who wish to add a caregiver to their membership have three options:
- Substitute the caregiver’s name for one of the adult cardholders on the Family level membership.
- Upgrade your membership to the Garden Sustainer level (which allows entrance for two adult plus two guest for up to four adults) and add your caregiver’s name to your record.
- Purchase a separate Individual membership for the caregiver.
How can I keep current on Arboretum events and news?
Arboretum updates and a calendar of events are available online at www.arboretum.org. As an Arboretum member, you will receive the Arboretum’s quarterly, Exploring the Arboretum e-newsletter. Occasionally we send out upcoming events via email. If you would like to be added to our E-Newsletter, please call 626.821.3233 or sign up on www.arboretum.org
How long is a Membership to the Arboretum good for?
All Memberships are good for one full year from the time of purchase.
What are the basic Membership benefits?
ALL MEMBERS RECEIVE THE FOLLOWING:
- Support of the Arboretum’s education programs and gardens
- FREE admission to the Arboretum for one year ($15 per visit value)
- Free admission to more than 350 participating gardens throughout the U.S. and Canada
- Discount for most classes, workshops, lectures, tours, and family programs
- Subscription to the Arboretum monthly e-newsletter
- Early entry for walking and running privileges beginning at 8:00 a.m. (7:30 am in spring & summer)
- 10% discount in the Arboretum Garden and Gift Shop (temporary closed)
- Circulation privileges of plant and garden books, etc., from the Arboretum library
- Free admission to “Arboretum Summer Nights” concert series
- Invitations to special Arboretum events
- 10% or more discount at participating nurseries
- 10% discount on tickets to Pasadena POPS Summer Concert Series at the Arboretum
Is my Membership tax-deductible?
Yes, as we are a non-profit Foundation. Please check with your tax advisor.
Do you offer gift Memberships?
Yes, Arboretum Memberships make great gifts that can be enjoyed all year! To order a gift membership, CLICK HERE or call 626.821.3233.
Can members come in early?
Yes, members have walking and running privileges starting at 8 a.m. During spring and summer, we open at 7:30 a.m. for members.
How do I sign up my employer for matching gifts?
Many generous corporations take part in the matching gift programs; check with your company to find out if it has a matching gift program. Please request a matching gift form from your employer, fill it out and send it to the Arboretum with your membership application and/or donation.
How do I make reservations for a new member orientation tram tour?
(POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
How do I create an account online?
You can create an online account by clicking the Member Sign In on the main page of the Arboretum website, then follow the instructions. You will need to provide your name, email address, phone number and create a password. If you are having trouble please contact member services at memberships@arboretum.org or call us at 626.821.3233.
If I have more questions where can I call?
You can call our Membership office at 626.821.3233, seven days a week, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or email memberships@arboretum.org.