Washington Park Arboretum: A Seattle Oasis
Explore a 230-acre urban oasis featuring diverse plant collections, walking trails, and gardens on the shores of Lake Washington in Seattle.
The Washington Park Arboretum is a 230-acre urban green space on the shores of Lake Washington, featuring diverse plant collections, walking trails, and gardens [4, 14]. A joint project of the University of Washington and Seattle Parks and Recreation, it offers a peaceful escape and a chance to explore a world-class collection of woody plants [4, 14, 23].
A brief summary to Washington Park Arboretum
- 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, Madison Park, Washington, 98112, US
- +1206-543-8800
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring to see Azalea Way in full bloom, a spectacular display of color [2].
- Download a trail map from the UW Botanic Gardens website or pick one up at the Graham Visitors Center [9, 24].
- Check the Arboretum Foundation website for upcoming events, such as guided tours, plant sales, and volunteer opportunities [6, 10].
- Consider taking public transportation or biking, as parking can be limited [14].
- Explore the Arboretum Loop Trail, a two-mile path that connects many of the park's major attractions [8, 24].
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Seattle, several bus routes provide access to the Arboretum. King County Metro routes 43, 48, and 980 stop near the Arboretum on 24th Avenue in Montlake [5, 8]. From Madison Street, take route 11 and exit at Lake Washington Boulevard E [5, 8]. Walk north into the Arboretum [5, 8]. A one-way bus fare is $3 for adults [11]. Alternatively, consider purchasing an ORCA card for $3, which can be loaded with a regional day pass for $6, offering unlimited rides on most transit systems [21, 22, 25]. Youth 18 and under ride free [21, 27].
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Walking
From the University of Washington Station, the Arboretum is a 1.2-mile walk [5, 8]. Head south, cross the Montlake Bridge and the SR-520 overpass, then travel southwest through the Montlake neighborhood [5, 8]. Access the Arboretum via the Wilcox Bridge over Lake Washington Boulevard E at the end of E Lynn Street [5, 8]. Follow the Arboretum Loop Trail from the adjacent Madison Park neighborhood, starting at the intersection of East Madison Street and 31st Avenue East [8].
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Driving
From downtown Seattle, drive east on Madison Street through Capitol Hill and Madison Valley. Turn left onto Lake Washington Boulevard E to enter the Arboretum [5, 8]. From I-5, take exit 168 for SR-520 East and take the Montlake Boulevard exit [5, 8]. Follow signs to E Lake Washington Boulevard and turn left onto E Foster Island Road. Turn right onto Arboretum Drive E to reach the Graham Visitors Center [5, 8]. Parking is free in designated areas, including the Graham Visitors Center and the Japanese Garden [2, 8]. Limited accessible parking is available at the Graham Visitors Center [9].
Discover more about Washington Park Arboretum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boyer-Lambert House
0.4 km
Explore the Boyer-Lambert House, a historical treasure in Seattle's Arboretum, and immerse yourself in the region's rich architectural heritage and natural beauty.
Montlake Spite House
0.5 km
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ASUW Shell House
1.3 km
Immerse yourself in history at the ASUW Shell House, a charming waterfront landmark that showcases Seattle's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Lake View Cemetery
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Lake View Cemetery in Seattle's Capitol Hill, a hidden gem for reflection and exploration.
Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee Grave Sites
1.5 km
Explore the serene grave sites of Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee, iconic figures in martial arts and film, nestled in Seattle's Capitol Hill.
Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery
1.5 km
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The Lake View Cemetery bench
1.5 km
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The Rhodes Mansion
1.9 km
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P. P. Ferry House
1.9 km
Explore Seattle's P. P. Ferry House, a historical landmark in Capitol Hill showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural charm.
J. W. Bullock House
1.9 km
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Egan House
2.1 km
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Harvard-Belmont Landmark District
2.3 km
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Bellevue Place
2.6 km
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Pantages House
2.8 km
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Jimi Hendrix Statue
3.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Capitol Hill Wishing Tree
0.8 km
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Seattle Japanese Garden
0.8 km
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Seattle Asian Art Museum
1.5 km
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Volunteer Park Conservatory
1.6 km
Explore the enchanting Volunteer Park Conservatory in Seattle, a serene botanical garden filled with exotic plants and stunning landscapes.
Husky Stadium
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant energy and stunning views at Husky Stadium, a premier sports venue in Seattle's University of Washington.
Black Sun by Isamu Noguchi
1.6 km
Explore Black Sun, a stunning sculpture by Isamu Noguchi, nestled in Seattle's Capitol Hill, blending art, nature, and urban serenity.
Water Tower Observation Deck
1.6 km
Discover breathtaking views of Seattle and beyond from the Water Tower Observation Deck, a must-visit attraction in Volunteer Park.
Volunteer Park
1.7 km
Discover the beauty of Volunteer Park in Seattle, a lush urban oasis filled with stunning gardens, cultural treasures, and breathtaking views.
Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral
2.0 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle, a stunning architectural gem and cultural landmark.
Viretta Park
2.2 km
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Capitol Hill
2.3 km
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University of Washington
2.4 km
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The Cuff Complex
2.8 km
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Lake Union
2.8 km
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Ward House
2.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Olympia Pizza & Spaghetti House III
1.9 km
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Rione XIII
2.0 km
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Altura
2.3 km
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Cook Weaver
2.3 km
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Due' Cucina - Capitol Hill
2.4 km
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Olmstead
2.5 km
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Single Shot
2.6 km
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Kedai Makan Capitol Hill
2.7 km
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Spinasse
2.8 km
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Nue
2.8 km
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The Tin Table
3.0 km
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Westward
3.0 km
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Lark Restaurant
3.2 km
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Tavolàta Capitol Hill
3.3 km
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Stateside
3.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Casita International Gift Shop
2.0 km
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Station 7
2.0 km
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Kobo Shop & Gallery on Capitol Hill
2.3 km
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Broadway Market
2.5 km
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Revival Shop Seattle
2.6 km
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The New York Xchange
2.6 km
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Capitol Thrill
2.9 km
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Butter Home
3.0 km
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Harvard Market
3.2 km
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Late Night Vintage Market
3.3 km
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Standard Goods
3.3 km
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Glasswing Shop
3.4 km
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The Handmade Showroom
3.9 km
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The Pacific Northwest Shop
4.1 km
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Fremont Vintage Mall
4.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Herb & Bitter Public House
2.3 km
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Tavern Law
3.0 km
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Hillside Bar
3.0 km
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Quinn's Pub
3.0 km
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Montana
3.1 km
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GOLD BAR
3.1 km
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Linda's Tavern
3.1 km
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The Mountaineering Club
3.1 km
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canon
3.2 km
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Knee High Stocking Co.
3.2 km
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Paper Fan Cocktail Bar
3.3 km
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Inside Passage
3.5 km
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The Hideout
3.7 km
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The Octopus Bar
3.9 km
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Deep Dive
4.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rhino Room
2.9 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Rhino Room—Capitol Hill's premier night club and bar, known for its diverse music and vibrant atmosphere.
The Woods
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Seattle at The Woods, a premier night club and event venue in the heart of Capitol Hill.
Black Lodge
2.9 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at Black Lodge, Seattle's vibrant night club in South Lake Union, where music and fun collide for an unforgettable experience.
Rock Box
3.0 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke fun at Rock Box in Capitol Hill, Seattle, where every note brings joy and every moment is a celebration.
Havana
3.0 km
Discover Seattle's nightlife at Havana, a lively night club and cocktail bar in Capitol Hill, famous for its vibrant ambiance and innovative cocktails.
Cultura Seattle
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cultura Seattle, the ultimate Latin night club in the heart of Capitol Hill's exciting landscape.
Neighbours Nightclub and Lounge
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Neighbours Nightclub and Lounge in Seattle's Capitol Hill, where fun, music, and inclusivity come together.
Q Nightclub
3.1 km
Discover Seattle's vibrant nightlife at Q Nightclub, where electrifying beats and an energetic atmosphere await every weekend.
The Mercury @ MachineWerks
3.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Mercury @ MachineWerks, a premier night club in Seattle's vibrant Pike/Pine neighborhood.
Massive
3.2 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Massive, Seattle's top gay night club, where unforgettable nights and vibrant entertainment await.
Kremwerk
3.4 km
Experience the eclectic nightlife of Seattle at Kremwerk, a vibrant night club celebrating diversity and local artistry.
Cherry
3.4 km
Dive into Seattle's nightlife at Cherry, a lively night club in Denny Triangle, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await every visitor.
Red Lounge
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Red Lounge in Seattle, where Caribbean flavors meet energetic nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
The Rainier Club
4.4 km
Discover The Rainier Club: a timeless social hub in Seattle, blending history with modern elegance for events, conferences, and unforgettable experiences.
Deja Vu Showgirls Seattle
4.5 km
Discover the heart of Seattle's nightlife at Deja Vu Showgirls, your ultimate destination for adult entertainment and vibrant performances.
