The Deal: Free pass to Rancho Santa Ana garden

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Whether you want to hike the trails that meander through some of 86-plus acres of Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden or sit on a bench and read a book, you will have plenty to enjoy (like birding) when the garden hosts free admission Thursday.

Sept. 9 commemorates the anniversary of California becoming the 31st state in 1850. In honor of California Admission Day, the garden, considered one of the best of its kind, is waiving the regular admission fee of $4 to $8.

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 1500 N. College Ave. in Claremont. For more information call (909) 625-8767.

-- Lisa Boone