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!

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.
Cali4niahiker/Trip Advisor
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.
cali4niahiker/Trip Advisor
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!
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
There is also an assortment of azaleas from both China and Japan.
Management/Trip Advisor
And don't forget to check out the Alpine garden plants that thrive at higher elevations!
You’ll able to be to see western red cedar, Douglas fir, and hemlock trees.
Hayley B/Trip Advisor
And there are plenty of other beautiful flowers here, such as magnolias, camellias, and the incredibly beautiful and rare Himalayan blue poppies.
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
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.

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Like the Pond Garden! The pond is a lovely spot as well, filled with wildflowers, small animals, Japanese maples, and other pond-happy plants.
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
Be sure to check out the beautiful gazebo as well as the view of the garden that you can enjoy from it.
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
And the Victorian Stumpery too!
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
It's the biggest one open to the public in the world. Here you can admire hostas, ferns, stumps, logs, roots, and more within its half acre.
Stumpery
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
One of the coolest parts of this garden is that it's stunning no matter the season. You don't have to just visit in spring!
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden/Facebook
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.
Jim L/Trip Advisor
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.

18 Best Hikes in Washington: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails to Visit in 2024

 

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More to Explore

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

Jennifer | April 27, 2024

What is Washington's state flower?

By popular vote, the Coast Rhododendron (Rhododendron macrophyllum) became the state flower of Washington in 1892. How incredible, then, to have an entire botanical garden dedicated to this family of flowers!

What are the best botanical gardens in Washington?

Washington is often known for its seemingly-endless rainy season, but all that rain makes for some phenomenal foliage year-round. Here are just a few botanical gardens and arboretums in Washington worth visiting:

 

Of course, we would be remiss to overlook one of Washington's most spectacular natural wonders: the Hoh Rainforest! While not a "botanical garden," this slice of Olympic National Park is truly one-of-a-kind.

 

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Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, 2525 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003, USA