Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens

Let’s break down the name. PEACE - it’s definitely a peaceful spot to spend an hour. You do get a sense of tranquility away from the city even though time is limited. AWARENESS - the architecture, interior design and history are blatant as soon as you walk in. I was not aware of the people that live there and that you get to only explore a very limited space. Due to the classes they have there and construction currently going on. The website does not make you aware of all these things. LABYRINTH - it’s a labyrinth stone design in the courtyard area. A little underwhelming. GARDEN- There was no garden. Half of the “space” is off limits due to a renovation of the garden. We didn’t know that. We were not AWARE of that. I would wait until the renovations are done …. Early 2026 according to the guide. PEACE out ✌️.

What a beautiful, peaceful place. Well worth a visit. The labyrinth is supposed to be the draw and it is very cool, but the meditation garden is spectacular (in a meditative sort of way.). We were allowed to enter through the mansion, which was built in the 1800's by a vintner, and later purchased by Buzby Burklee. At half past the hour, guests are also invited to take part in a ten minute meditation exercise. I was the only member of the group there today that took part; there was no pressure to do it. I don't meditate regularly but thought it was worth trying and I found it soothing. There's a $6 admission charge and during the visit we were provided with bottles of water and, had we wanted them, sun hats and parasols. We were also offered free books when we left. There was absolutely no proselytizing.

Gorgeous turn off the century home with marvelous history. Went for a sound bath event. Going through some garden renovations that should be done by 2026. Intend to visit again. Staff is uncommonly friendly.

A hidden gem in Los Angeles! Leave the hustle and bustle of the LA rat race and commute behind you; and enjoy the peace, calm and revitalize yourself surrounded by the luscious Japanese Garden and koi pond beyond the house and the amazing labyrinth, fountains gurgling away and an interesting sculpture titled Madame Butterfly..not to be missed! You will leave energized and revitalized; I know I did! Go ahead and visit!

This peaceful spot feels like a spiritual retreat in the middle of the city. The labyrinth and meditation garden are open to the public, and walking the circular path is calming. The grounds are beautiful, with fountains and benches for reflection. The volunteers are kind and informative. It’s a hidden sanctuary most people drive past without knowing

My 1st time visiting with a friend Mr Tom Forbath. It was an amazing experience my mind body and soul were recharged. I will visit again soon I encourage all young adults and adults. To visit so they can get back to living.

Everyone here is very nice and it's a very beautiful place. I've come here to take a class and a tour to walk the grounds and it feels absolutely amazing here. The energy that resonates from this place is so uplifting. If you come here, I definitely recommend walking the labyrinth and sit in the meditation garden. I would definitely recommend others to come here every now and then to really feel a sense of ease within

Great escape right in the middle of LA. Very peaceful walk and a beautiful meditation from one of the residents (Matthew). I'll be coming back for another retreat into this gem of peace and to walk the labyrinth.

I've wanted to go here for a very long time and since it was so nice over the weekend, we finally remembered and went. It used to be free but it's $6 per person and you have to park on the street, but no big deal here . . . yet. Our group of 3 walks up along with another person and we try to check in with 2 men at a table. One older gray haired man tells us the tour already started. I'm completely confused and look at my watch, and say, "it's only 3 minutes after the start time." Then he says, "We were looking for you!" I said, "Well, you weren't looking very hard because here we all are checking in at the start of the tour." After he checks us in, I ask if we can sprint to catch up to the tour and he says yes. I lean into the doorway and see the rest of the tour - 4 other women right there. So half the tour was 3 minutes "late" and they decided to start, weird but moving on. The woman leading the tour was really quite lovely and I wasn't expecting the house to be so amazing since I was focused on the garden part but I really loved learning about the house and original inhabitants. We are asked several times if we want to join the meditation but I'm getting culty vibes and we keep politely declining. Once we are outside, we are asked again if we would like to join the meditation and now the gray haired man is with us again and I said, "No, we really just wanted to see the gardens." At this point he says, "Oh the gardens are closed." I'm completely confused again and said, "What? But that's why we came-- to see the gardens & labyrinth." He then says, "Oh! well the labyrinth is open but the gardens are closed." At this point I think they asked us to join the meditation again. I asked when they expected them to be opened and the response was June of this year, maybe because there have been a lot of delays. Again, weird, but okay we just want to walk the labyrinth. There were a couple of other women walking it and then our group of three joined too. I'm halfway thru it and I look up and see the gray haired man STARING at us - which included 3 preteens/teens in halter tops posing and taking pix - and I was so incredibly creeped out. I had no idea what to do, cross the labyrinth? ask him what he is staring at? I came to this place to ground and do something calming and now I have a man staring at me and other women but since everyone else was looking down or at their phone, they didn't notice so I didn't want to disrupt THEIR experience. Eventually he went away, to join the meditation I guess. We finished the labyrinth and left. It was only $6 but since it didn't mention the gardens were closed on the website or ticket, I am asking for a refund. Would I go again when the gardens are open? Yes. Would I recommend to others? Yes. Would I advise against it as a single woman? Also yes. I will update if they refund us or not.

A spiritual center and meditation garden in Jefferson Park, it's off the beaten path for many tourist things in Los Angeles but convenient if doing something around USC. It's hard to miss when driving but if you have a reservation you can park in their lot. Visiting days are Wednesday, Friday, Sunday and you have to pre-book. The entrance ticket includes a short tour showing part of the downstairs house and after guests can walk around the meditation garden with the Labyrinth. I thought it was peaceful and calm, it was like a very small version of Self-Realization as there were grassy areas and benches to sit and relax and meditate. I appreciated the fountains because the sound of running water is so calming.

A peaceful oasis in the Historic Adams District. It used to be free, then COVID had to go and ruin that. But still, at $6.00pp it's very affordable. Plan at least an hour or two to wander around. As indicated by the name, it's very peaceful and there is a labyrinth to walk. Enjoy the gardens and water features as you marvel at this blissful hideaway in the middle of Los Angeles.

Really enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere and our mini tour of the grounds. Such a beautiful and relaxing experience. I'd definitely return to have more time to sit in longer and take in the beautiful views. Note: you can only take photos with your cellular device.

Wow, it was a real pleasure coming to visit and explore this hidden gem. I never ever what have thought such a wonderful and oasis park would exist in the Adam's District. Lots of history and knowledge of the park and District you can obtain here. It took an hour to explore all around the park. So yes, expect to do some walking for at least an hour. Parking is pretty cheap. I was happy with that. I plan to visit again.

Beautiful property with attentive staff. Went here for a tour and meditation. There are several areas on the property to meditate or sit in calmness. Check the website and Eventbrite for meditation experience events. Will return soon.

I came here for the tea tasting experience, check Eventbrite for more details) This space is actually a very big house like a mansion, people are welcome to stay here for a couple of nights & some people live here. There's a whole back story on their teachings of this place & what values they hold such a meditation, peace, and love. They had food served like buffets style (not pictured) for ($12) extra

This is an ideal space to visit anytime you're looking to de stress and ground yourself. Upon arrival, there's a check in process before you're instructed to the garden area in the back where you're given a brief overview of the space. There's also an optional guided meditation. You'll definitely want to participate in the meditation. There's a large labyrinth you can circle for reflection, clarity, focus, or whatever you're feeling in the moment. There weren't a lot of people during my visit so I got to walk the labyrinth alone and found it very calming. Afterward, I went down to the meditation garden which was so serene. The sounds of the different water fountains was tranquil and soothing to the senses. There are a few spots tucked among the trees where you can sit and meditate. I had my earbuds, so I was able to listen to some meditation music. The garden was much smaller than I imagined, but still, very nice. There's ample parking on the facility grounds, just pull up to the gate and give your name. Park and head to the check in desk. Apparently they offer short term and long term stays which you can inquire about. You can also check the website for daily in-person meditation sessions and chats.

This review is for the visit to the historical building and gardens. Tours are given by docents and is $6 a person. The building itself is beautifully restored and it's nice to learn about its history but the zen garden in the back is a wonderful oasis in the middle of the city. It really is a hidden gem! I'm glad I came to visit and wouldn't mind coming again if I'm in the neighborhood.

2 stars only because this place sounds nice in theory. But these people are FLAKY, so watch out when booking a tour. I booked a tour last month, only to have them abruptly cancel it a few days later, refunding my money and stating only that the property had to be closed that day - no further explanation. I then asked them if the next week would be OK for a tour. They said yes. So I booked a new tour for the following Friday. Once again, a few days before the tour, they canceled it abruptly and refunded my money. Once again, no reason given. I complained and they finally explained that the property's Guasti Villa is old and frequently has to close for repairs. They apologized and said I could take a free tour any date I wanted. So I suggested a date when I knew they'd be open... and I never heard from them again! "Peace" out!

We really appreciated our tour guide, Terry. He was so knowledgeable & patient with us (we had our babies with us). Huge thank you to Terry for making our experience so great!

Beautiful gardens, and peaceful labyrinth modeled after the one on Chartres, France. Wonderful guides and docents that do not push religion on you since this place is different. All about peace and harmony. I walked the labyrinth, then attended a quick sound meditation offered by one of the docents. He mentioned their services are free and the meditation books at the entrance of the place were also offered free of charge. Gorgeous place. Will go back and look at classes and visit the labyrinth again.

Beautiful and serene place to spend an afternoon or a weekend. Prices are reasonable

I've been very stressed out at work as of late courtesy of my director. Made an appointment to see my PCP and he recommended that I try meditating at this place. The villa is now a Peace Theological Seminary. I enjoyed the peacefulness in the Mediation Garden and listening to the running waters. Good spot for contemplation. Very pretty lily pond with koi swimming about peacefully. Many places to sit and enjoy the shade and beauty of the surroundings. Lastly I walked on the outdoor labyrinth which took about 20 minutes. Shoes recommended. There were a few people on the labyrinth, but it was fine. We were able to maneuver around each other without difficulty. It was actually peaceful , relaxing, and helped me to unwind. No one spoke. I felt recharged afterwards after spending some time here. Hopefully this will help to decrease my stress level and get me through my work day in the coming weeks. Donations welcomed. Free limited parking in front of the villa.

What a peaceful & serene nitch in the city. The waterways and ample shade was superb. The tour includes free books, and they are great reads. I enjoyed learning the history of the site & experiencing a shared belief.

If you are looking to let go of all that does not serve you, to become self-aware, to meditate, and to simply escape the hustle and bustle that is Los Angeles, I highly recommend that you take some time to visit this place. Important things to note: - free, however you can leave a donation to help maintain the garden - free parking on the grounds - similar to the broad or Getty villa, make sure you sign up for your free ticket and entrance in - you may be able to purchase food (buffet style) for $8 (cash recommended but they do take card) or coffee/tea - they offer meditation classes, sound bath, and a number of other events throughout the month I found this place to be highly relaxing. You can opt to take a tour of the grounds where the tour guid will walk you through the history of the house, navigate through the gardens and answer any questions you may have. If you don't want to do the tour, you can always head straight to the meditation Garden where do you will find many bubbling fountains, seating areas for you to relax and meditate, a koi fish pond and plenty of beautiful flowers.

Los Angeles is known worldwide for many things: the movie industry, beautiful if fake people, sunshine, and the tendency for its citizens to hold unusual beliefs (beliefs such as the possibility that we may all be reincarnated alien beings or that radionic energy will move us to the next spiritual dimension.) LA may actually hold the title for most religions/philosophies/cults/awareness movements invented per square mile. One place you can learn about all of these important aspects of Los Angeles history is by taking a tour of the Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens, currently owned by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness. Let's start with sunshine. The Labyrinth is housed in the gardens of the Guasti Villa, an Italianate mansion built by Secondo Guasti in 1910. Mr. Guasti came from Italy and became wealthy as a winemaker, developing a huge vineyard in San Bernadino County. Mr. Guasti saw potential in the climate and built up a thriving business, surviving during Prohibition by selling communion and medicinal wine. This villa was his dream home; our tour guide told us that he brought in Italian craftsmen to create the wood carvings and murals. The MSA has done a wonderful job preserving this important testament to the American dream and stunning piece of Los Angeles history. Now to Hollywood. The mansion was eventually sold to Busby Berkeley, who made fame and fortune in directing and choreographing dozens of movies featuring scantily-clad women creating geometric formations. Married six times, he lived in the villa with two of his wives. The villa was later sold again and used as a retirement home for doctors (some of which were likely plastic surgeons from nearby Beverly Hills; this was one fancy retirement home!) The building has also been used for locations in several TV shows, including Veep. Finally, the spiritual dimension. The villa was purchased in the seventies by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, an organization started by a Rosemead English teacher who reportedly came out of a coma realizing that he was a spiritual leader. (His picture is all over the place in the villa; search the internet if you want to know more.) The organization features a somewhat checkered past (but then, what religious or human institution doesn't have a somewhat checkered past?). The villa currently serves as a seminary of sorts and at times, guests can also buy lunch in the cafeteria if it's available. Your first visit can be reserved on Yelp and will consist of a tour from one of the MSA members. The tours are free. Our tour guide was friendly and answered questions from the group; he did indeed push the MSA literature and events several times during the tour, so be prepared. He was nice about it though and very pleasant, sharing lots of historical details about the building itself and pointing out important architectural features. He invited us to meditate as long as we wanted in the meditation garden (hours are 12-4 pm.) Highly recommended! Free parking included with the tour.

I visited on a Wednesday afternoon and it was peaceful, quiet, and beautiful. I spent so much time in the meditation gardens. The koi pond is a dream and I saw multiple monarch butterflies. They weren't kidding when they said this is an oasis in the heart of the city - it's so inconspicuous that I drove by the entrance 3 times. This was exactly what I needed, and I will absolutely be back. BUT... wear bug spray!! Your stillness will lead to the mosquitos getting very comfortable around you. I am actually really glad they have the reservation system in place, because while it is hard to get a spot, it makes it so that everyone else visiting with you is intentionally doing so, which is nice to see.

We bought reservations for May 28th. There are 15+ people waiting outside the gate and no one will answer the phone or gate. We've all been waiting for 40+ mins already. This is unacceptable and ruined our Sunday afternoon plans. If you're not open, then you shouldn't be selling tickets for that day. This place is a scam with nonexistent customer service.

I think this estate is beautiful--especially the meditation garden. THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE SOUND BATH ONLY. I went recently, and it was terrible. Their version touts a guy who plays 20 instruments, but I would have been happy with just the bowls and a couple of bells (on the floor where they should be played and not on a table--it's all about feeling the vibes) and a constant 45-minute performance. This sound bath makes use of unfortunate interspersed video segments on big screen TVs which are absolutely unnecessary. Who, while they're lying supine with their eyes covered, wants to watch a video? If the video is just for the music, then use the track of that music with a sound system and not a video on a monitor. In the large ballroom none of the elevated instruments or recorded pieces resonate as a sound bath should. The videos are also very old-fashioned and are uninspired music selections. I could name a dozen or more better songs/instrumentals that would take one deeper (Ambient I Airport Music, Armen Steponyan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Kahn, etc.). But, again, nothing needs to be recorded and interspersed. This just isn't the place for an intense and deeply relaxing sound bath, which I've experienced on wood floors in small studios. The vibrations alone should be positively immersive. On a carpet, over a marble floor and in that big, high-ceilinged room, it felt totally empty. And it cost me $50. The dinner part was fine, but I would rather have had a penetrating sound experience. Honestly, I feel cheated that someone who purports to be in the spiritual world has no idea what a deep, absorbing and meaningful sound bath should be. I'm not the only one who has this opinion. Afterwards, my friend whom I attended with walked over to me and said what was that? Really disappointing and a waste of time and money.

Such a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. Great for meditation or simply reading a book while catching some rays . Our tour guide was amazing and very informative . Short quick visit lasted about 40 mins since we were just passing by. Definitely worth the visit.

The reason I love LA it's because of places like this! Open to the public, just reserve your space online. The tour is highly informative and you have plenty of time to roam around on your own. The gardens as well as the house are absolutely beautiful, you feel serene and at ease the moment you step inside. One of those hidden gems right in the middle oof LA, highly recommended!

Free admission! Free street parking! Free tour! Sometimes in our busy lives, it's good to take time out and explore and experience new things... Val, Alana, and I went to this beautiful mansion which is now a center for learning, meditation, and awareness. We got reservations online, met at the front door, had a cool glass of water, and followed the docent through the Italian Renaissance mansion (built by Secundo Guasti, an Italian who owned the largest winery during the early 1900's) and fabulous gardens! We were invited to join the meditation class, but we declined because we had other engagements right after our tour. So, if you have time, come visit the waterfalls, reflecting pool, and labyrinth. We even saw the koi and dragonflies! They can show you a tool for centering and harmony - The Labyrinth. There are benches under the shade so you can take a break and enjoy the landscaping! For more information and to book reservations, go to this website: http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/ Wishing you happiness and peace always!

Song of the moment: Pocketful of Sunshine ------------------------------------------------------- Take me away (take me away) A secret place (a secret place) A sweet escape (a sweet escape) Take me away (take me away) Take me away (take me away) To better days (to better days) Take me away (take me away) There's a place that I go, That nobody knows. Where the rivers flow, And I call it home. A hiding place (a hiding place) I got a pocket, got a pocketful of sunshine. I got a love, and I know that it's all mine. Oh, oh whoa The sun is on my side. Take me for a ride. I smile up to the sky. I know I'll be all right. - Natasha Bedingfield ------------------------------------------------------ 5 W's 1) How: Reserve a free ticket(s) either on yelp or on their website: http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/ Once you do that, you'll get a confirmation text (through yelp) or email (website) and the time you're assigned to. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/peace-awareness-labyrinth-and-gardens-los-angeles?select=t9OrrPsH0bb30UzSNzrmHQ -Note: Don't be alarmed if you get a text from someone from the secret agency from Vimbly and your text will not self-destruct in three seconds after reading the text. :P 2) Who? You and whoever you want to bring. You can also go solo! 3) When? Check the times of operation online or yelp. Make sure you get there 15 minutes before your tour time. 4) Where/Parking: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Parking can be found once you get through the gates. There's a intercom.... so press the button and say open sesame when you hear someone pickup! 5) Why: If you like hidden gems, alone time, and feel like it's time to "center" yourself... This place is definitely for you! Service: There's a greeter (Juan) up front that'll check you in and offer you water before the tour starts. There's also straw hats available to shield you from the sun. Depending on the time you're scheduled for, you'll be paired up with a docent that'll go through the law of the land. Laurence was great and thorough! Very knowlegeable. -Note: On the weekdays, they do offer lunch. Entertainment: This place is like a buffet! Just take it all in (make sure you're respectful of others and the grounds! -Note: They'll be times little ones will be running a muck or fussing. Just try to tune everything out. 1) History of the Grounds: Find a docent to give you a history lesson of the grounds. If you are interested in the artitecture, you'll be blown away. This mansion was designed by Secundo Guasti. If there's any Busby Berkeley (Hollywood Director/Choreographer) fans, this place was where he use to live. Here's more info: http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/villa.html 2) Labyrith: Make sure you follow the stone path (do not step over the lines and cheat). There's only one way to get through the labyrith (Took me about 10-15 minutes, might take others longer). Make sure you take your time to center yourself. There are times that you'll be rubbing shoulders or there will be road blocks. Just be patient, step to the side, and once it's clear just continue on your way. Here's more info: http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/how-to-walk-the-labyrinth.html 3) Meditation Garden: Be one with nature! There are many areas (sitting areas) to set up camp and unwind for an hour or two. A lot of shaded areas, koi ponds, and mini fountains to set your mood for a state of nirvana. Here's more info: http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/meditation-gardens.html Definitely be a place i'll return for a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th time!

Gorgeous place. The labyrinth is amazing. They have given out my art tiles as gifts and in the shop so check them out @fireduptiles Some designs are special for them and not sold anywhere else.

Wonderful place, peaceful and welcoming with beautiful grounds. Loved the peace meditation led by Matthew and the staff. Great atmosphere and labyrinth.

Came for an event and I'm interested in coming back for the labyrinth. Not that interested in indoor events. I thought the music in the room was a bit on the loud side. Also, I was distracted by the electronics/equipment in the room. Does there need to be a computer monitor and speaker in the room; takes away from the relaxing feel. Could those be unplugged and moved away if not in use. Check-in process felt slow because I had to wait for someone to pay and give his email and info about how he heard about the event.

Zen, grounding, and self-cultivating. Really appreciated the history of the mansion as a first time visitor. I will def be returning for the labyrinth to practice mindfulness. They have workshops so make sure you visit their website. ‍‍‍ hidden LA gem. ACCESSIBILITY: unfortunately i did not see any wheelchair accessible entrance/exits. Call them to inqure.

Love this place. Discover a hidden treasure in Los Angeles! Escape the hectic pace of the city and leave your daily commute behind as you immerse yourself in tranquility. Experience rejuvenation and serenity in the enchanting embrace of the lush Japanese Garden, where a mesmerizing koi pond awaits you. Explore the captivating labyrinth, listen to the melodious gurgling of fountains, and encounter the captivating sculpture known as Madame Butterfly--an absolute must-see! Prepare to depart feeling invigorated and revitalized, just as I did. Don't miss out on this extraordinary retreat--go ahead and plan your visit now!

4.5 Yayyy my 200th Yelp review is a winner!!!!! Life's stressful, so make an appointment at the Peace Awareness Gardens and unwind. Located in West Adams several miles away from UCS, this beautiful mansion doubles as a museum and spiritual getaway. Free, but with appointment! Quick Tips: -Gated, but I got lucky and caught someone leaving who left the gate open for me. I neighborhood parked, but I'm sure you can park inside. A good amount of parking, but not a lot of vacancy. -Check in at the front. Again, you must make an appointment via Eventbrite EVERYTIME you come to the gardens. Days off and filming dates posted on their website. -Many oldies (especially made by the legendary Busby Berkeley) and contemporary works have been filmed here ('Crazy Ex Girlfriend', 'Veep', etc) -I got lucky and caught the FREE 20 min Sound Meditation. Check their website for their Tuesday 2 hour sessions!! -There is an actual labyrinth made of marble in the back and it is really relaxing -Currently being remodeled, but the garden is accessible and very much alive. -Docents are all very enthusiastic and helpful. Learn some history, relax and meditate.

It was a winter time visit and still gorgeous but I can imagine not as lush as other times of the year. The garden koi pond, nooks and crannies and running water are very serene. It's very easy to book your tickets, the house area you view is beautifully crafted and historic. The folks are welcoming, we stayed for a guided sound meditation that could have lasted hours if I had my way.

Amazing garden, good people, 3 cats, hidden gem in Los Angeles. 100% will come back. You have to make a reservation and call them to drive into the hidden parking lot.

I mean, depending upon who you ask, I'm a nice person...for the most part. Sure, I can be slightly neurotic... A bit vengeful... Wellll...spiteful? mischievous? cruel? unkind? No...passionate. Passionate is the word. And my passion has led me to some pretty scary, pretty crazy places. At times, I have to pull the harness on myself. Reel it back in a little. But don't we all have a dark side? A flaw? An Achilles heel? For example, I damn near hate self-centered, apathetic, self-entitled assholes. My pops was a very selfish, apathetic man, so when I find these traits in people, I want to rip away their confidence and egos. That doesn't make it right, but it is something with which I struggle, and I make it known. However, you can't go through life kicking the ass of every person who pisses you off. Two wrongs don't make a right. I know this. And in dire need of anger management, I chose to find my happy place by coming here...The Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens. What do I love most about this place? They have a 40ft diameter labyrinth that seems to go on for miles and miles. As you walk it, you can find yourself thinking things through, coming to terms with situations, working out your imperfections and moving toward a place of inner peace and acceptance. I love this labyrinth, and I wish the city had more. There's also a peaceful meditation garden, a koi pond, and a lovely reflection pool as well, and the staff working here wants you to enjoy every single bit of it, so please take advantage. Donations are gladly accepted but neither required or asked of you. However, please find it in your hearts to give a little something. It's nothing compared to the safe haven provided... nothing compared to the clarity you receive. Enjoy

SUCH a gem in a random residential neighborhood! love the labyrinth (which i just found out has a spiritual/divine purpose) and the gorgeous, peaceful meditation garden make your free RSVP online and if it's your first time you get a tour of the property before being left to explore, otherwise you can relax and enjoy the serene back yard right away! i loved the meditation garden so much that i hope to one day create one just like it in my backyard they only open certain saturdays of the month if that's your only free day NOTE: it's located next to a church. parking is free in the gated lot but just ring the intercom so someone can let you in

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this hidden gem online. I would have never known it existed, it's neatly tucked into the busy city. Gaila was my docent, and an absolute sweetheart. Learning about the history of the villa and the properties of the labyrinth and gardens from her, made me feel how much she really loves this place. This place is pure magic, to be experienced. I cannot fully put into words what it's like to sit next to running water, feel a breeze through the trees, and just be. It's just.. Ahh. The labyrinth is something else. I love the concept, and the various ways you can focus when walking it. Please, pay this place a visit at least once.

Peaceful and beautiful environment! I got tickets for us , checked in on time . We had interesting history tour inside of the house . After lunch we attended free meditation with one of the scholar who was blind and has trained dog companion. His voice was amazing and the dog was so calm and friendly during meditation. I would do it again . Thank you for your hospitality.

Great Garden tours, i went with my granddaughter who simply enjoyed the beautiful gardens and labyrinth. I suggest that you take a tour and explore the peacefulness

Based on the great Yelp reviews and my desire to do a labyrinth walk, I decided to check this place out. The fact that the mansion is chock full of California history (an Italian winery owner and a Hollywood director were previous owners) also piqued my intrigue. I made a reservation and visited on a hot Sunday afternoon. Juan Roberto greeted me, checked me in, and offered a glass of ice water which was much appreciated on such a hot day. He told me about a sound meditation that was also being offered that afternoon and I thought I'd give that a try. So I signed up! But first, the tour: our docent, Bryan, showed a group of eight of us the interior of the house as well as the beautiful gardens outside. I loved how he pointed out the architectural details inside the house, including the various Italian marbles, the oak and walnut doors, the beautifully carved paneling, and (in true Italian fashion) ceilings painted with clouds and cherubs. After our tour of the house, he led us outside to the gardens and labyrinth. Everything was stunning. It's difficult to imagine that such a beautiful, serene place exists amidst the chaos and bustle of the city. The tour lasted about an hour, after which Bryan invited us to stroll around the gardens or walk the labyrinth at our leisure. I walked the labyrinth and luckily, only one other person did the same, so it wasn't too crowded. Then I spent some time by the koi pond, watching butterflies and dragonflies dance around the pond. Then it was time for the sound meditation, which was lead by John in the dining room. We sat on a comfortable sofa, and John gently guided us through a meditation that included breathing, a few chants, and the soft sounds of chimes and bells. There are brief mentions of God during the meditation so be aware of this if you decide to sign up. Altogether it was a lovely afternoon, and everyone there was so kind and welcoming. I enjoyed my visit and felt comfortable visiting. There is a donation box at the front of the house and I left a small donation just to thank everyone for being so giving and hospitable. The reason I give this place four stars instead of five is because the mansion and gardens are owned and operated under the auspices of a church called MSIA. There is plenty of information on the internet about the church and its founder, John-Roger. The good news is that no one mentioned MSIA during the tour. They do not evangelize at all. The only reason I knew about it is that I perused a MSIA brochure that was sitting on a table, alongside flyers describing the various classes and seminars offered at the Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens (including meditation and writing classes, concerts, and "soul dances"). These are offered free to the public with donations welcome. I liked that my experience didn't have undertones of manipulation or pressure. I only mention the church so that anyone who reads this review will be aware of the connection here. Whether you are interested in the church or not, this place is fun to visit given its colorful LA history. The people there are very nice and it is truly an oasis in this bustling city. I did walk away from my visit with a greater sense of calm and a nice afterglow from spending time in the beautiful gardens and participating in the sound meditation.

It's so peaceful and pretty in here! It's a great way to step away from the city while still being in it. It's very tranquil and lovely. Please be respectful when coming here as it's a precious gem! It's a perfect spot to come and meditate. Entry is free- donation only. Parking is on the street

I've been wanting to come here for two years but the first time I made a reservation they called me a day or two before and needed to cancel (I forget the reason why). Went today at 2p but was running late. When we entered there was a group of 5 other people just standing there in silence as if they had all been waiting on us. I had no idea this is how it worked, I felt terrible! Then we also had food with us to eat in the garden and we were starving but couldn't eat right away. I had thought it was more flexible not structured to complete the tour first etc. Then after the tour we ate but couldn't enjoy the meditative experience of calm because all you can hear is sirens, helicopters, and random ice cream truck music in the neighborhood behind the last tier garden. You do hear all the different water fountains but they don't drown out the noise of the city which I was told differently about from friends so that was a bit of a let down. The labyrinth itself is special and spiritual nonetheless and the grounds are kept in excellent condition.

Such a perfect thing to do on a Sunday afternoon. The property is filled with gardens and fountains. We didn't go inside- not sure if it's because of covid. We did a meditation session and spent a total of about 2 hours here. Parking is on the property, at the front of the house(front yard) and you get buzzed in.

Super cool place. Like finding water in the desert. I love when this happens in LA. Who knew this place existed? I came upon it when I googled labyrinths in LA. I had walked one about 10 years ago and loved it. Went with a friend and had no expectations. Got our tickets online (no charge). The check in was warm and oddly (in a good way) spiritual with Juan Roberto. Then we were taken on a guided tour by our docent, Juliana, who was amazingly knowledgeable, humorous and friendly. The tour was just the right length and with great information. Then we were left to explore on our own. The meditation gardens were absolutely lovely with many nooks, crannies and details to appreciate. And walking the labyrinth was a very spiritual experience. I loved, loved, loved my time here and although I thought I wouldn't return, I now long to go back.

Absolutely an amazing place. Peaceful and calming little hideaway. I highly recommend you take in this beautiful space. I immediately felt like home

A peaceful place it you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. You get to be transport into another world. Beautiful setup of meditation gardens and a nice labyrinth. Tour guide were on point. Also a nice little sound healing session. I met a lot of wonderful people here. Please check out this gem in you happen to be in LA.

Check the website for when you can have an initial tour or stop by for a visit. The Church of Soul Awareness invites you to tour their tripart grounds which include a: * Mansion built in 1910 * A replica of the labyrinth on the floor of Chartre Cathedral which you can walk * A beautiful and variate tiered meditation garden.

This is a very beautiful place to get away from the city. The architecture and design is one thing, but the real beauty is outdoors. Walking the Labyrinth and laying outside in the grass or in one of the calm and secluded meditation areas off the stone path, you don't realize how much time has passed. They're not monitoring you and giving you time limits, you don't even want to look at your phone other than to take a photo, because there are so many plants to look at, and water trickling and sunshine on your face. Guided meditation inside was short and soothing, but there were only about four comfortable seats and the rest were at wooden chairs at the center table that did not seem conducive to relaxing, so be there early.

It was just what I needed to relax. For 1st timers they take you on a tour and give you the history of the house and the property.

I booked a (free) tour of the property on a weekday. The docent was very nice and informative. I recommend visiting early as the crowd got much bigger as the day went on. Since I came early, I also got the option to buy lunch which is normally for the staff. The mansion and the gardens are very beautiful. The mansion has an interesting history. There are many secluded spots in the gardens to meditate, read, and just relax. The labyrinth was smaller than I expected. It can be a little tricky with multiple people walking through it. Nonetheless it was still a good experience. I very much enjoyed my visit and will come back. They have many free/donation-based events throughout the week. Definitely a hidden gem in LA. Also, FREE parking lot available.

This is an amazing place and it was free, which made it even better. I really enjoyed the tour/history of the property and the sound meditation they offered. It was so peaceful, I didn't want to leave. I've lived in Los Angeles my entire life and never knew about this place. Definitely a hidden gem! I will definitely be back!