Our overall experience was wonderful. The garden is immaculately clean, and the trails are well-maintained, offering both short and long hikes to cater to different preferences and fitness levels.
Although we didn't participate in any guided tours, we found plenty to explore on our own. The location is conveniently close to downtown, making it easily accessible. Additionally, there are several restaurants nearby, which made it easy to grab a bite to eat after our visit.
Rested in the heart of Bellevue, Washington, the Bellevue Botanical Garden offers a serene escape from the urban bustle. Spanning over 53 acres, this horticultural gem showcases a diverse collection of plants from around the world, arranged in thoughtfully designed themed gardens. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or simply seeking a peaceful stroll, the garden provides a tranquil retreat for all.
The garden's history dates back to the 1980s when a generous donation of land sparked the vision of a public botanical garden. Today, thanks to the efforts of numerous organizations and volunteers, the garden continues to thrive. Its mission is to cultivate a love of plants, provide educational opportunities, and conserve plant diversity.
A stroll through the garden reveals a stunning array of plant life. From the vibrant colors of the seasonal flower beds to the towering trees of the forest garden, there is something to delight every visitor. Some of the highlights include:
Beyond its horticultural displays, the Bellevue Botanical Garden offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. Guided tours, workshops, and classes provide opportunities to learn more about gardening, botany, and environmental stewardship. The garden also hosts special events, such as plant sales, art exhibitions, and music performances.
We enjoy walking through this free gardens when in the Seattle area. It is beautifully maintained and has a wide variety of plants and flowers to see. They have many benches scattered around to sit on and soak in the sights. I love the dahlia garden which is in full bloom late August. There was a barred owl who posed so nicely for us in the Japanese garden section! You could easily spend one to two hours here. They also have flush toilets which is a plus 😁