Summer Hummerz
Experience the Magic!
This summer, we’re celebrating one of California’s most dazzling little visitors. From June 2 through August 31, the Gardens bursts into a colorful hummingbird-inspired experience with the debut of Summer Hummerz — an immersive exhibit where nature meets imagination.
Come wander our scenic walkways, where the fragrance of our wildflowers rides on the salty Pacific breezes. Find yourself enchanted by the tiny pollinators that bring our landscape to life. Designed for visitors of all ages, Summer Hummerz combines learning, creativity and plenty of whimsical photo-worthy moments along the way.
Open All Summer!
June 2 - August 31
Garden Admission: $15 (includes exhibit). Admission is free for VBG members and children 18 and under when accompanied by an adult.
What You'll Discover
As you explore the gardens keep an eye out for these fun features:
- Giant Hummingbird-Head Scopes
Step up and take a closer look. These oversized viewing scopes with internal video displays reveal fascinating facts about hummingbirds and how they live, feed and fly.
- A Whimsical Flock of Suspended Hummingbird Sculptures
Look up! A colorful installation creates a playful canopy of humming birds overhead.
- A Walk-in "Nest"
Walk into an oversize hummingbird "nest" constructed of fiber and stained glass.
- Painted Perchers Art Collection
Twelve invitation-only artists have each designed a one-of-a-kind hummingbird-inspired garden art. These signed works will be displayed throughout the gardens and later auctioned as part of a special limited-edition collection to support the Gardens' mission.
- Kids Treasure Hunt
Young explorers follow clues throughout the gardens in a hummingbird-themed educational treasure hunt designed just for kids.
- Fun Facts & Garden Learning
Discover how hummingbirds feed, migrate and thrive in California and learn which plants support them.
Will I See a Real Hummingbird?
It's very likely! Southern California is prime hummingbird habitat, and the Ventura Botanical Gardens are filled with nectar-rich plants these tiny birds love. Anna’s hummingbirds live in the area year-round and other species like Allen’s hummingbirds are especially active along the California coast during summer.
If you spend a little time strolling the garden paths — especially near flowering plants — there’s a good chance you’ll spot one darting between blooms or hovering for a quick sip of nectar. No luck spotting one? Try listening for the sound of them zooming around!
Photos by:
- Pamela Fisher
- Kristine Behrens
- Andrew Waud
- Chris Nova
- Michelle Infante
- Samantha Mellinger-Hutchison
