Kabota Gardens between Renton and Seattle is kind of cool, haven't seen it this spring but Japanese style gardens with the maples and rhody/azaleas are usually interesting by now.

South Seattle Community College has a very nice conifer garden.

Here is a link that might be useful: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Seattle_Community_College_Arboretum

Thanks!

Does anyone know about the Washingtonpark Arboretum? I notice the website says there is "no general admission charge" but I wasn't able to find hours that it's open to the public. Then again I have been shut in with a screechy, clingy toddler all afternoon, so it's possible my brain is just sludgy.

Kristin

Here is a link that might be useful: Wa Pa A

The arboretum is open from dawn to dusk - it's a very nice stroll. That reminds me that I have to get over there!

The Japanese garden in the arboretum does have an admission charge - not sure how much but it's a few bucks. Anyway, that's one small section of the garden and I think the price is worthwhile.

The Bellevue Botanical Garden has something of interest in all seasons. Flowering trees, shrubs, bulbs and early season perennials should be looking pretty good right now.

Here is a link that might be useful: BBG

I second the Bellevue Botanical Garden. I was there last week and couldn't believe how many beautiful things were growing.

Laura

Thank you all so much. We ended up going to the Arboretum -- actually, we meant to look at the greater Arboretum itself but I ended up spending the whole time in the Japanese garden. It's absolutely amazing. When we left it felt like no time had gone by at all!

Kristin