As the one-year mark of the beginning of quarantine approaches, many of us reflect on the 2020 spring season that was filled with fear, uncertainty, and boredom. As we now enter into spring in the new year, COVID-19 restrictions are beginning to lift gradually, including the opening of many parks, museums, gardens, and more. To relish in the beauty and new beginnings of this upcoming season, it’s common for community members to participate in multiple outdoor activities. With warming weather and blooming nature, visiting outdoor centers and recreational areas provides an immersion into the beauty that is spring.

Local parks, outdoor museums, and botanical gardens serve as safe and socially distanced activities. Because much of 2020 had been spent indoors, it’s a rewarding moment to now be able to enjoy the season we missed much of in the year prior. While safety precautions and mask mandates are still in place, our community can now enjoy the spring season with limited numbers of friends and family members. Some local outdoor locations to enjoy the blooming beauty of the natural world are:

The Huntington: Library, Art Museums, and Botanical Gardens

This collections-based educational and research institution was founded in 1919 in San Marino, California. It consists of a library, multiple art collection rooms, a cafe, a gift shop, botanical gardens, and other recreational areas. While only its cafe, gift shop, and gardens are currently open, it remains an incredible place to enjoy the beauty of spring in its sprawling gardens. With 120 acres of land, the expansive gardens pull inspiration from Japanese and Chinese art and architecture. The Huntington is open every day, except for Tuesdays, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. While visitors must reserve tickets online in advance, a visit to these gardens ensures a day immersed in the beauty and serenity of spring (huntington.org).

UCR Botanic Gardens 

Located on 40 acres, this botanical garden boasts numerous species of plants and wildlife. With close proximity to the University of California, Riverside, it serves as a local activity for the enjoyment of spring. With over four miles of trails intertwining within the garden, this location offers not only exercise but also an appreciation of the surrounding nature. With no prior reservation needed, the garden is open on Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and the 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm (gardens.ucr.edu).

Yorba Regional Park

The closest location for spring enjoyment is the Yorba Regional Park. While many of us Mustangs have visited this park before, its beauty never ceases to amaze, especially in the spring season. For example, Janelle Casacchia (12) has “visited the Yorba Regional Park since [she] was born, and [she] still [remains] in awe of its beauty.” Located on 140 acres, this linear park was originally part of the 19th-century ranch owned by Bernardo Yorba, the founder of Yorba Linda. Purchased in 1972 and opened for public use in 1976, the park serves as a recreational oasis with over 400 picnic tables, mile-long trails, ponds, playgrounds, and historic beauty. Open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, the park is an easy way to enjoy the approaching spring season (ocparks.com).

After listing a few local spots to safely enjoy the blooming season, I hope you Mustangs find inspiration to spend a day immersed in the natural world. Whether at these locations or not, any time spent enjoying the outdoors is time well spent. Happy spring, Mustangs!