This was my favorite, it was like it was on fire!

What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. – William Shakespeare

This weekend my husband and I had a rare hour to kill until my son’s soccer game started. We decided to visit the San Jose Rose Garden. Sometimes you forget that your city has rare gems just waiting to be visited. When we plan our vacations we are always on the lookout for hot spots in other towns but often forget what we have in our own hometown. The San Jose Rose Garden is 5.5 acres with nearly 4,000 roses. It was selected as America’s Best Rose Garden, who knew! It is a beautiful oasis in the middle of San Jose. There are many weddings and graduations held in the garden each year. What a beautiful backdrop – fountains, grass and thousands of roses, can’t be beat!

We spent our time wandering through the rows and smelling the various roses. Some have no smell and some have wonderful smells. The upkeep of the garden is done by volunteers and I want to thank them for giving their time for every one to enjoy. I encourage you to grab a blanket and picnic lunch and enjoy the garden on a beautiful sunny day, you will not regret it! It was nice to take a break from our busy lives in such a quiet and aromatic spot. We will definitely be back! What treasures do you have in your hometown?