Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Washington Park Arboretum
Explore the vibrant flora and tranquil paths of Washington Park Arboretum, a serene botanical garden in Seattle perfect for nature lovers and tourists.
The Washington Park Arboretum is a breathtaking botanical garden located in the heart of Seattle, offering an enchanting retreat for nature lovers and tourists alike. Spanning over 230 acres, this lush sanctuary boasts an extensive collection of plants and trees from around the world, meticulously arranged to create a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances. Visitors can meander through the winding pathways, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the environment while discovering unique plant species and seasonal blooms. The arboretum features themed gardens, including the stunning Azalea Way and the serene Japanese Garden, which offer a peaceful escape and opportunities for reflection. As you explore the grounds, take advantage of the educational programs and guided tours available, providing insights into the diverse ecosystems represented within the arboretum. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are eager to share their passion for horticulture and conservation, making your visit not only enjoyable but also enriching. With picnic areas and plenty of benches scattered throughout the grounds, the arboretum is an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a quiet moment of contemplation amid nature. For those interested in photography, the arboretum provides countless picturesque settings, especially during the spring when cherry blossoms and rhododendrons are in full bloom. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this botanical haven. Whether you’re looking to explore, relax, or learn, the Washington Park Arboretum is an essential stop that showcases the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the Pacific Northwest.
Local tips
- Visit during spring to see the stunning cherry blossoms and azaleas in full bloom.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the many scenic spots around the garden.
- Don't miss the Japanese Garden for a serene experience and beautiful landscapes.
- Check the schedule for guided tours to learn more about the diverse plant species.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are many trails to explore throughout the arboretum.
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
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Bellevue, head to the nearest bus stop. Take the King County Metro Bus Route 556 toward Seattle. Stay on the bus for about 25-30 minutes until you reach the 'Montlake Blvd & E. 24th Ave' stop. From there, transfer to Bus Route 48 towards 'University District'. After approximately 10 minutes, get off at 'E. Madison St & Arboretum Dr E'. Walk about 5 minutes down Arboretum Dr E to reach the Washington Park Arboretum at 2300 Arboretum Dr E.
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Light Rail
From Bellevue, make your way to the nearest light rail station, which is the Bellevue Transit Center. Take the Sound Transit Link Light Rail towards Seattle. Disembark at the 'University of Washington Station' after about 20 minutes. From there, catch Bus Route 48 towards 'University District'. After about 10 minutes, get off at 'E. Madison St & Arboretum Dr E'. Walk about 5 minutes down Arboretum Dr E to reach the Washington Park Arboretum at 2300 Arboretum Dr E.
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Walking
If you are close to the downtown Bellevue area, you can walk to the Washington Park Arboretum. Start on 106th Ave NE heading north, then turn right onto NE 4th St. Continue straight until you reach 4th St & Bellevue Way NE. Cross the intersection and continue on Bellevue Way NE. Follow the signs that guide you towards the Arboretum. The walk is approximately 4 miles and will take about 1.5 hours. Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
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Rideshare
Use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Enter 'Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your current location in Bellevue and take you directly to the Arboretum. The ride will typically take around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
