Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden is a meticulously manicured estate located in Old Palo Alto. The hidden gem is often overlooked, but the beautiful gardens and community events make it a wonderful place to visit this spring. The historic property and garden is currently a non-profit, and the gardens are free to the public every day during daylight hours. The house, library, and office are open daily from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
The garden hosts various lovely events, including yoga and painting classes. The classes are affordable and perfect for connecting with the community while enjoying the garden. Upcoming events include the Spring Garden Tour, which is a ticket event where visitors get to view five private gardens in the area selected for their beauty. The event is scheduled for April 25-26, and the locations have yet to be released. There is also a spring marketplace scheduled for April 25 with various local vendors. You can also find delightful garden supplies for sale at the estate the same weekend.
Gamble Garden’s history
The house was originally built over 100 years ago in 1902, and the formal gardens were designed a few years later in 1908. Over time, small buildings and structures were added to the property, including a tea house and gazebo.
The carriage house was home to the Gamble family, composed of Edwin Gamble, the Son of Proctor and Gamble’s co-founder, and his family. Edwin and his wife Elizabeth had four children, and all three sons attended Stanford University, while Elizabeth graduated from Wellesley in 1910.
After her studies, Elizabeth returned to her family home in Palo Alto and soon ignited her passion for gardening. Her impressive garden featured roses and irises, and she was known for sharing her flowers with the community. In 1981, Elizabeth Gamble left the property to the city of Palo Alto, and 4 years later, with the help of a private garden club, the house was turned into a public garden.
The Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden is located at 1431 Waverley Street in Palo Alto and is open daily.