Spring has sprung, and you know what that means: it’s time to get outdoors and take in the sights and sounds of nature. Below, we’ve chosen five standout gardens that are also open to the public. While some of these magical spots are just a hop, skip and a jump away, others make for the perfect excuse to take a day trip and get a change of scene. Wherever you choose to go, witnessing plants come back to life while you breathe in the fresh air is sure to add a little spring (sorry, couldn’t help it!) to your step this season.
📸: Getty Images
1
A ferry ride to paradise ⛴️
Named for environmentalist Prentice Bloedel and wife Virginia who resided there, the 140-acre Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island was donated to the public in 1988. One visit to this outdoor escape with its diverse gardens and plant life and you’ll instantly understand why Mr. Bloedel was such a big proponent of the therapeutic benefits of being in nature. Take your time and wander through one stunning space after another, such as the birch trail, Japanese garden, reflection pool and more. The reserve uses timed-ticket entry, so don’t forget to reserve your spot ahead of time.
📍 7571 NE Dolphin Drive, Bainbridge Island
🕙 Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
💰 $0-$22
📸: Getty Images
2
Maple leaves of spring 🍁
Nestled into the Rainier Beach neighborhood of Seattle is the gorgeously designed Kubota Garden. With 140 maple trees leafing out in various colors this season, this 20-acre oasis also boasts bright red bridges, ponds with koi as well as flowers in bloom. The space is the work of Japanese gardener Fujitaro Kubota (who also designed the Japanese garden at the Bloedel Reserve) and was saved from becoming condos by the community in the late 1980s. Now preserved by the Kubota Garden Foundation, the garden is free for all to enjoy.
📍 9817 55th Ave. S, Seattle
🕙 Everyday: Sunrise-sunset
💰 Free
📸: Getty Images
3
A spectrum of blooms 🌸
Adjacent to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, you’ll find a lovely collection of gardens at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, which offer several changing blooms starting with early spring rhododendrons to irises, roses, fuchsia, dahlias and more through summer. Should rain be part of your spring adventure, take a 15-minute drive over to the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory for a bright and lush indoor experience.
📍 5400 N Pearl St., Tacoma
🕙 30 minutes before sunrise-30 minutes past sunset
💰 Free
📸: Getty Images
4
State flower appreciation 🌼
Take a drive down to the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way and take in the vast array of colors that is our official flower of the state of Washington. Known as one of the largest collections of rhody species in the world, you’ll also find other stunners, such as peonies and magnolias. Bonus? Once you’re done checking out the flowers, take a short stroll over to the Pacific Bonsai Museum next door. Need more rhodies in your life? Meerkerk Gardens on Whidbey Island is also not to be missed.
📍 2525 S 336th St., Federal Way
🕙 Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
💰 $0-$12
📸: Getty Images
5
Art in nature 🖼️
Looking for a different type of garden experience? Hit the road and head to Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park on Camano Island. Over 150 sculptures occupy the beautiful outdoor grounds, scattered with flowers and trees. Displaying work from artists ranging from local favorites to internationally renowned sculptors, be sure to also keep an eye on shows and classes happening at the indoor gallery space on the property. Love a sculpture garden, especially on an island? Be sure to also check out Price Sculpture Forest on neighboring Whidbey.
📍 2345 Blanche Way, Camano
🕙 Friday-Sunday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
💰 Free
