Spring at the Seattle Arboretum:


Want to know a place that's bursting with color? The Seattle Arboretum is gorgeous in the spring! Reds, magentas, yellows, oranges and greens...you name it, it's got it. This garden has a dazzling array of colors from all the rhododendron and azalea flowers which is such a gift after a bare winter. The Arboretum is such a gem because it feels like you're miles away from the hustle and bustle of a big city (while still being in the heart of Seattle) and makes a beautiful backdrop for your spring family photos. Here are a few reasons why I love the Arboretum.

Family tickles daughter in front of the azaleas.
Family smiles for portrait in front of azaleas.
Family walking hand in hand at the Seattle Arboretum.

The Arboretum is great for an early bedtime.


If you don't want to sacrifice bedtime for good lighting, the Seattle Arboretum is a great option. Locations like the sunflower field or a grassy field are best at golden hour (the hour before bedtime) but because the Arboretum has giant trees that block the harsh sunlight, you can start your session earlier in the day! This is great for families with younger children.

Mom kissing daughter in front of rhododendron flowers.
Family looking at and touching purple and white rhododendron flowers.
Daughter hugging mom in the spring in Seattle.
Mom and daughter smiling at each other in front of the rhododendron flowers.

The Arboretum is kid friendly.


There's little side-trails, hidden nooks to explore and plenty of space to run around. The Arboretum is stroller friendly along the main pathway but if you want to wander a side-trail, feels wild enough to be a little adventure. There's cozy benches, a bridge, reflection pond (with frogs!) and so much color.

Family looking at the reflection pond in Seattle.
Mother swinging daughter in the air at a garden in Seattle.
Daughter twirling around while smiling.
Parents holding daughters hands while she does a flip in the air at the Arboretum.
Mom pregnant and smiling while daughter looks on.

Something is always in bloom.


The Seattle Arboretum has pink and white cherry blossoms in early April, rhododendrons and azaleas in early May, lush greenery throughout the summer and stunning fall colors in mid-October. Spring especially, is super colorful! Walk the peaceful trails and instantly feel calming vibes.

Daughter running towards the camera while mom and dad look on.
Daughter holding moms hands and looking back towards the camera.
Family cuddling and smiling in front of the yellow and orange rhododendron flowers.
Daughter twirling and playing with bubbles while parents look on.

A few things to note:


The Seattle Arboretum is beautiful any time of the year. A few things to note are:

  • Find your trail map here. I'd suggest parking at Graham Visitors Center and walking along Azalea Way to find the best color. The parking lot is free but fills up quickly so if you're going for fun and want to avoid the crowds, go on a week-day. If you go on a week-end, go in the early morning or later in the afternoon.
  • Make a day out of it! Bring a picnic and do one of many walks at the Arboretum. Some notable walks include walking to Foster Island where you'll get views of Lake Washington or walking to the Seattle Japanese Garden. Koi can be fed certain times of the year, which is super fun for kids!
  • Oxbow Bakery is a short walk away and serves delicious coffee and pastries.


I hope you can make it to the Seattle Arboretum this year! :)

Parents smile and hug in front of tall trees at the Seattle Arboretum.
Daughter running ahead while parents hold hands and look on as they cross a bridge in Seattle.