4 Top Gardens to Visit This Summer

Before your summer schedule gets too busy, set aside some time to enjoy the many botanical gardens and conservatories near Sumner. If you’re not sure where to start, here are our top picks.

Soos Creek Botanical Garden

A stop at the Soos Creek Botanical Garden in Auburn can double as a local history field trip — or even a family photo session with a professional photographer. The garden is open from mid-March through November on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. On the grounds, you’ll find seasonal plants for sale, a vegetable demonstration garden, the Soos Creek Heritage Center, an aviary, an enclosed garden room, and several themed gardens and woodland areas.

Educational programs are held in the Red Barn at 12:30 p.m on the third Wednesday of each month for free. Summer topics will be “How Birds Find Love and Raise the Kids” on June 15, “The Importance and Healing Power of Honeybees” on July 20, and “Plant Origins” on August 17.

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

As its name suggests, the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden (RSBG) in Federal Way specializes in rhododendron conservation. In fact, with over 700 species on display, the garden boasts one of the largest collections in the world. It also claims the largest stumpery in the world, a nursery, and a gift shop.

Although the garden is closed on Mondays, you can visit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. any other day this summer. Children under 12 get in free, as do active and retired military personnel, RSBG members, and current Weyerhaeuser employees. Otherwise, general admission is $8 for adults or $5 for seniors (65 or older) and students (with a school ID).

Volunteer Park Conservatory

In the heart of Seattle, you’ll find Volunteer Park — home to the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory. For the best experience, time your visit to coincide with one of the many events, classes, or activities held in the conservatory. Plant sales, senior art classes, and a Valentine’s Day wine and cocktail hour are just a few examples.

Although the conservatory is closed on Mondays, it remains open for non-Monday holidays. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for youth ages 13 to 17, and free for children 12 and under. Annual passes are also available.

W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory

Located in Wright Park, the glass dome of the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory has become an iconic landmark in Tacoma. The conservatory hosts grand floral exhibits each season that feature 300-500 blooming plants. The summer “Vivid” exhibit will be on display from June 14 through July 17, making a visit during that window especially rewarding. Other public events are held throughout the year, including musical guests, children’s story hours, and lectures.

The park includes more than 250 individual plant species and over 200 orchids. It’s open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with hours extended to 7 p.m. on every third Thursday. Although admission is free, a $3 donation is suggested.

This summer, take the time to literally stop and smell the roses. Head to any of these nearby gardens for a relaxing afternoon.