Have you ever been scuba diving? Given its location, it's not surprising that Washington happens to be a fantastic place to dive. Our local waters are full of colorful sea anemones, sea cucumbers, squid, and so much more.
The concept of scuba diving can be intimidating, but all it takes is a little knowledge and a guided dive or two and you'll feel excited to explore Washington's undersea world. Octopus Gardens Diving is the perfect place to start.
Octopus Gardens Diving is located in Port Townsend, Washington's Victorian seaport.
This may seem like an odd spot for such a shop, but the truth is, divers love Port Townsend. Antique bottles are often found on the seafloor, and giant Pacific octopus sightings are common.
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Octopus Gardens is owned by Don Peterson and his wife, Diane.
There are so many great local spots to dive, from Point Hudson to Fort Worden to Salt Creek (pictured here).
Many people are surprised by how much light is at the bottom of the sea, how different things look from season to season... and of course, how fun diving is.
Are you looking for a family-friendly activity to help you beat the heat this summer? Outdoor swimming in Washington is a great way to get outside while staying cool, and Tenino's quarry swimming pool is a fantastic day-trip destination if you're in the Olympia area.
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As one of the only quarry pools in the state, this Tenino park offers guests of all ages a completely unique outdoor experience. It's one of small-town Tenino's gems, drawing 5,000 people from all over Washington each summer.
But the picturesque setting isn't the only thing that makes this quarry unique. If you're curious, interpretive signs explain the Tenino pool's history. Here's a quick rundown: Before it was a public pool, this spot was a sandstone quarry, operating from the late 1800s into the early 20th century. In the 1920s, workmen abandoned the site when they unexpectedly tapped an underground spring, causing the 100-foot well to fill. To this day, work equipment remains at the bottom of the pool.
For years, it was an unofficial hang-out spot for locals on warm summer days. In 1946, the town decided to purchase the property, adding amenities over time and implementing rules for public safety. A recent four-year renovation breathed new life into the park, adding inclusive upgrades like a splash pad and kiddie pool. The pool has just reopened for the season!
Safety comes first, and the pool has lifeguards on-site to supervise merrymakers. Speaking of merrymakers, this park can get crowded. As many as 700 people can show up on a hot day.
Those wanting to swim in the deep area must take a test. But don't be spooked by the dark-colored water. While this pool isn't chemically treated, the deep hue results from the water's depth. This depth also means that the water is cold, typically 50–54 degrees. As such, I recommend visiting on a hot day!
If you're bringing kids or are disinterested in the deep end's inky water, Tenino's quarry pool offers plenty of other fun options! Work up an appetite? The park allows guests to bring in outside food, meaning picnics in the sunshine.
Are you looking for a place to do some outdoor swimming in Washington? Check out Tenino's quarry pool! This unique spot has been a local favorite for years. Pack your to-go snacks and sense of adventure for a day of al fresco fun!
This Washington Botanical Garden Houses Plants From All Over The World
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way, Washington, offers a stunning collection of rhododendrons and other plants, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Washington is already full of natural beauty, but it somehow manages to get even more lovely when you add in all of the state's many man-made gardens and preserved natural areas. And what better way to spend a day than strolling through acres and acres of lush foliage and vibrant flowers? If you find yourself heading between Seattle and Tacoma (Federal Way, to be exact) and are on the hunt for a gorgeous detour to one of the best gardens in Washington, consider making a pit stop at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. This 22-acre woodland garden actually contains the biggest compilation of rhododendrons in the entire world!
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The nonprofit that manages this garden was formed in 1964. The origin of the collection began in 1968 in Eugene, Oregon. After another move to Salem, Oregon, the growing collection was moved to its current spot in 1975. The main purpose of the garden is to acquire, maintain, conserve, cultivate, and distribute an extensive collection of different species of rhododendron.
While many plants are grown and housed here, several of them have actually been brought in from far-off places like Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, Borneo, and other areas of Southeast Asia as well as Europe and parts of Australia.
Of course, the main attraction here is within the name: rhododendrons. The garden is home to more than 700 different species of rhododendrons.
For example, the Big-Leaf Garden contains an assortment of species, such as grandia and falconera. They are accented by gorgeous native PNW trees and other colorful wildflowers.
Not all of the species here look like traditional rhododendron. But that's part of the fun!
Among the other things you can do in this enchanting garden include visiting the nursery to purchase plants and exploring the 5,000-square-foot conservatory.
Like the Pond Garden! The pond is a lovely spot as well, filled with wildflowers, small animals, Japanese maples, and other pond-happy plants.
But whatever season you visit, before you head out to the exhibits and get your dose of outdoor beauty at this botanical garden in Washington, make sure you stop at the visitor’s center first. Learn all about the area and its flora as well as peruse the available crafts and other gardening knick-knacks and merchandise for sale.
You might even find a few classes, tours, events, or workshops happening when you visit. If so, you will definitely want to join in!
Visit the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden website for all the latest info on hours, admission prices, and all the incredible exhibits and special events available.
Have you ever visited the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden? What are your favorite places to enjoy Washington's natural beauty? Tell us in the comments!
While you're out and about, take in seven more phenomenal scenery on one of our favorite hikes in Washington. But if you really want to take your time exploring the garden (and the beautiful surrounding area!), consider these accommodations in Federal Way. I know I like to take it nice and slow when it comes to being within nature.
