As March yields its cherry blossoms and April its tulips, May unveils yet another floral spectacle across the Seattle area. While the city basks in the glow of spring, rhododendrons, peonies, and an array of vibrant blooms come into their own. Venture just a stone's throw away from Bitter Lake Playfield in North Seattle, and you'll discover the enchanting Dunn Gardens, a 7.5-acre oasis designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers in 1915. This historic gem, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in a tapestry of nature's finest. Amongst towering Douglas firs and manicured lawns, rhododendrons steal the spotlight, their blooms a testament to the season's splendor. Executive director Carolyn Cox describes the garden's wisteria as a "showstopper," its purple cascade akin to walking through a floral curtain. Don't miss the majestic Magnolia kobus, a true marvel nestled in the southwest corner, its blossoms turning the space into a veritable "flower house." Dunn Gardens beckons from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, offering a tranquil escape for $10 per person for nonmembers, with special events like a poetry workshop on May 11.
For aficionados of rhododendrons, the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way stands as a haven. Spanning 22 acres, this botanical marvel boasts over 700 species of "rhodies" amidst a woodland sanctuary. Executive director of horticulture, Steve Hootman, describes the spring season as a "riot of color," where magnolias, camellias, and a myriad of other flora create a symphony of hues.
Rhododendron enthusiasts, prepare to be awestruck at the sight of the big-leaf rhododendron garden, where these majestic specimens boast leaves reaching up to an impressive 2 feet in length! Your $10 admission (or $7 for students and seniors) grants access not only to this botanical wonder but also to a plethora of other delights. Explore the visitor center, peruse the plant shop, and marvel at the Victorian stumpery—an intentional blend of wooden elements like stumps and logs, creating a haven for ferns and other flora. And that's not all; neighboring the garden is the Pacific Bonsai Museum, a haven for bonsai enthusiasts worldwide. With its collection dedicated solely to bonsai, this museum offers a captivating glimpse into the artistry of miniature trees. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, admission is by suggested donation of $12 per adult. Both destinations are hosting special events over Mother’s Day weekend, featuring bonsai-making demonstrations, live music, food trucks, and an art market.
For a serene urban retreat just east of downtown Bellevue, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Bellevue Botanical Garden. Spanning 53 acres, this oasis boasts 12 acres of meticulously cultivated gardens, as well as woodlands and natural wetlands for exploration. Among its 3,000-plus plant varieties, 138 different types of rhododendrons grace the landscape, with the Rhododendron Glen standing as a highlight. Venture further to discover the Asian-inspired Yao Garden, a serene enclave featuring azaleas, primroses, and a meandering stream lined with steppingstones. Garden director James Gagliardi recommends a May visit to capture the garden's peak beauty. Enhance your experience with a visit to the gift shop and coffee bar, or traverse the 150-foot suspension bridge for a unique perspective of the forest's topography. Admission is free, allowing visitors to enjoy the garden's splendor from dawn until dusk every day.
Embark on a cultural journey at the Sichuan-style Seattle Chinese Garden, a testament to the bond between Seattle and its sister city of Chongqing, China. Spread across nearly 5 acres, this garden harmoniously blends plants, stones, water, and architecture, offering a serene retreat in the heart of the city.
As May unfolds its splendor, interim general manager Mimi Chan invites you to revel in the beauty of blooming peonies and magnolias. Mark your calendar for May 11 and 12, when the garden hosts its 2024 Peony Festival, a celebration of vibrant blossoms and Mother’s Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the final program is still in the works, expect a lineup brimming with music, cultural demonstrations, and engaging talks. With past festivals attracting around 1,000 visitors daily, Chan recommends arriving early, especially if the weather is as inviting as it promises to be. And why rush back indoors? Nearby green spaces like West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails, Soundway Park, and Puget Park beckon, offering ample opportunities to prolong your nature-filled escapade.
Embark on a quintessential Seattle experience with a leisurely stroll along the downtown waterfront and through Pike Place Market. While this iconic destination dazzles year-round, spring ushers in an extra burst of color. Don’t miss the 16th Annual Flower Festival at Pike Place Market on May 11-12, featuring over 30 flower farms from King, Snohomish, and Whatcom counties. Browse through a cornucopia of seasonal delights, from tulips and daffodils to irises and peonies, alongside the market’s usual array of artisan vendors. Afterward, a short jaunt (either a 25-minute walk or a quick drive/bus ride) leads you to Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Center. Immerse yourself in the museum’s “Spring Bloom” exhibition, offering daily garden tours, mesmerizing ikebana demonstrations, and refreshing spring-themed cocktails. General admission ranges from $35 to $39, with discounts available for seniors and children, as well as bundled packages for access to the museum, Space Needle, and Climate Pledge Arena.
Beyond these enchanting excursions lie a myriad of parks and gardens bursting with seasonal splendor. From Rainier Beach’s Kubota Garden to Tacoma’s W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory, the Puget Sound region abounds with natural treasures waiting to be explored. For a comprehensive list of gardens to add to your bucket list, visit pugetsoundgardens.org/gardens.
As the vibrant blooms of spring paint the landscape with their kaleidoscope of colors, Seattle and its surrounding areas offer a tapestry of experiences to delight nature enthusiasts and flower lovers alike. Whether you find yourself captivated by the elegant peonies and magnolias at the Peony Festival or wandering through the bustling aisles of Pike Place Market's Flower Festival, each outing promises moments of wonder and discovery. And with the season in full swing, there's no shortage of green spaces and gardens awaiting exploration, each offering a glimpse into the beauty and tranquility of the Pacific Northwest. So, embrace the allure of spring, embark on these enchanting excursions, and let the blossoms of the season inspire your journey through the Evergreen State's floral paradise.