Away from the urban sprawl, yet just above the city, these 34 acres established in 1890 are home to thousands of plant species and varieties collected from all over the Golden State and beyond. The botanical garden’s purpose is to create beautiful landscapes for our appreciation by displaying diverse plant life while providing a natural habitat for animal life as well. One of the nation’s largest and most diverse collections, this garden has more than 10,000 types of plants featuring  nine geographical regions from Australasia to South Africa. There’s even a redwood grove in this living museum. Admission charges apply, online reservations required. botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu<