Is there an admissions fee?

Admission is free during our regular hours (Tuesdays - Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - last entry at 4:30 p.m.).

Tickets must be purchased for our annual Christmas Strolls. Click Here for ticket prices and other information pertaining to Christmas Strolls.

Parking is always free.

What is your photo policy?

Visitors are welcome to take photos and videos for personal use. Tripods are allowed – please be mindful of other guests. Large equipment and props, or anything that might be left in the garden (balloons, confetti, streamers, flower petals, etc.), are not allowed. For the safety and privacy of our guests, drones are not permitted.

For more information, please review our Guest Photography Policy here.

Are strollers allowed in the gardens?

Yes, strollers are allowed. Our pathways are stroller friendly.

Is Shangri La wheelchair accessible?

Yes, our pathways are wheelchair friendly. A limited number of wheelchairs are available in the front office for guests to borrow upon request during their visit. We also have accessible parking spots available inside the front gate.

Can I smoke in the gardens?

Shangri La Gardens is a smoke, tobacco and vape-free environment, indoors and outdoors. There are no designated smoking, vaping and/or tobacco-use areas within the boundaries of Shangri La Gardens.

Are there public restrooms available?

Yes, there are restrooms located and the front entrance and near the Pond of the Blue Moon.

Are children allowed in the gardens?

Yes, however, visitors under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and children must be supervised at all times.

Can I play sports or games in the gardens?

Please no running, jumping, sports or games. Athletic and recreational equipment are not allowed. Please refrain from climbing trees, walls, fences, fountains, rock formations or artwork.

Are there walking paths?

Yes, please stay on designated pathways or lawn areas. Please do not walk in garden beds. Also, our pathways are wheelchair and stroller friendly. You may view a map of the pathways here: shangrilagardens.org/wellness-wednesdays/

Can I pick flowers in the gardens?

No, please do not pick, collect or remove seeds, flowers, fruits, vegetables, plant labels, feathers, etc. Please leave flowers and plants for everyone to enjoy.

Can I swim or fish in the gardens?

No, please do not wade or swim in ponds, streams, lakes, fountains or other water sources. Fishing is not allowed from the edges of the Bayou or at any point inside Shangri La Gardens.

Is alcohol allowed?

No outside alcohol is allowed. There may be alcohol available for purchase at special events such as Sip and Strolls, Christmas Strolls or other Stark Foundation approved events.

Can I bring a pet?

Sorry, no pets are allowed. Service animals may accompany visitors with disabilities.

Is there a dress code?

Shirts and shoes are required at all times. We recommend that you dress comfortably and wear walking shoes.

Can I feed the wildlife?

Alligators and other wildlife are native in the area. They can be dangerous and should not be approached, frightened or fed. It can be harmful to them and to you. Please give all wildlife the respect they deserve and keep your distance.

Can I bring a lawn chair?

No, please use garden benches for resting. Folding chairs are not permitted.

What time do the gardens close?

Unless there is a special event, the last entry into the gardens is at 4:30 p.m. The gardens close at 5:00 p.m.

Can I bring a picnic?

Yes, please review our picnic policy. To ensure that the garden is a serene, welcoming environment for ALL our guests, we respectfully ask that guests wishing to enjoy a picnic style lunch follow the guidelines below during their visit:

-Picnic only in the courtyard area. There are tables and chairs available for use on a first come, first served basis. No food is permitted outside of this area.
-Dispose of all trash in designated recycle bins and trashcans.
-Be mindful of other guests and help keep the gardens relaxing and peaceful for all.
-Please leave tables, large coolers and folding chairs at home.
-No party supplies of any type are permitted without prior written authorization.

What is your firearm policy?

As an educational institution with numerous school and educational groups and activities, weapons are prohibited on the property. Additionally, pursuant to Texas Penal Code Sections 30.05, 30.06 and 30.07, we have posted legal signage notifying the public that we do not permit concealed or openly carried handguns in our facility.

Can I volunteer?

Yes, volunteers who share their time and talents are vital members of our team. Greet and orientate visitors at the front entrance or get your hand dirty while helping our horticulture team – the possibilities are numerous. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please visit shangrilagardens.org/volunteers/.

Be Kind to Your World

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

IN CONSIDERATION OF PERMISSION TO ENTER, YOU ASSUME ALL RISKS INCIDENT TO YOUR VISIT, INCLUDING LOST OR STOLEN ITEMS, PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND PERSONAL INJURY, AND BY ENTERING YOU NOW AGREE TO RELEASE US, OUR AGENTS, AND RELATED ENTITIES FROM ALL LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS, INJURY, OR DAMAGE THAT YOU MAY SUSTAIN, EVEN IF THE LOSS, INJURY, OR DAMAGE IS CAUSED BY OUR SOLE NEGLIGENCE OR FAULT.