Visit three private gardens in Los Gatos and San Jose, open for self-guided tours, to benefit the Garden Conservancy. No reservations required; rain or shine. Highlights include numerous tropical plants such as palms, cycads, and bromeliads, lush plantings in a maze-like retreat, plus symbolic and found objects like stone urns, animal troughs, giant ceramic vessels, and delicate woodcarvings. Admission is $10 per garden; children 12 and under free. Begin at the garden of Cevan Forristt or see www.gardenconservancy.org/open-days for additional locations.