Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Bellevue Botanical Gardens Review

This beautiful 53-acre public area next to Wilburton Hill Park and just a short drive from Downtown Bellevue is encircled by spectacular perennial borders, brilliant rhododendron displays, and patches of alpine and rock gardens. A new area, the Ravine Experience, encompasses a 5-acre area in the heavily forested southwest corner of the gardens with a 1/3-mile nature trail. A 150-foot suspension bridge crosses a deep ravine in one of the most pristine spaces, allowing visitors to observe unique topography and soaring conifers without disturbing the forest floor. Docents lead tours of the gardens Saturdays and Sundays (April through October), beginning at the visitor center at 2 pm. The Yao Japanese garden is especially beautiful in fall. One of the most interesting features of the park is the Waterwise Garden, which was planted with greenery that needs little water in summer. During the holiday season (late Nov.-late Dec.), the gardens are lit up nightly from 5 to 10 pm for Garden d'Lights, one of the area's most popular seasonal attractions. From downtown Bellevue, head south on 116th to SE 1st St. and take a right on Main Street.