We chose to enjoy a soothing and revitalizing Memorial Day at the Washington Park Arboretum with the little ones. After a long week, we all deserved this break. Afterwards, we headed out for a stroll and some delightful dessert on Capitol Hill. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
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- Seattle to the Washington Park Arboretum: 15 minutes
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to the Washington Park Arboretum: 40 minutes
- Kitsap County to the Washington Park Arboretum: 1 hr and 15 minutes, depending on traffic
- Graham Visitors Center, Arboretum
- Address: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112
- Parking: Free
- Admission: Free
- Restroom and diaper changing station are available
If the visitor is open, consider asking about any scavenger hunts for little ones or current free activities.
The main entrance is the Graham Visitors Center, which is where we started and parked. This public park is expansive, so you have to plan accordingly, especially with little kids. We needed access to the restroom, so we started at the visitor center.
What To Expect
Expect to witness vibrant spring flowers from March to May, and the breathtaking fall foliage from September to November—these are the peak months for visitors. We chose to visit in May to escape the crowds, and we found the place to be nearly empty. The temperature was perfect, with just enough sunshine to bring everything to life, making the entire area radiate with beauty.
Arboretum Stone Bridge
I like the Arboretum Stone Bridge; it's old, mossy and makes you feel like you're walking back in time.
Pinetum
There’s a small playground at Pinetum, and right across from it, make sure to take a moment to appreciate the incredible tree. As my little one pointed out, it resembles an octopus with its sprawling branches reaching up high.
We crossed back over the bridge to visit the Japanese Maple section.
Japanese Maple
A Japanese maple is located along Azalea Way, right next to the woodland garden sign, both sharing the pond's beauty. Opposite the Japanese maple sign, you will find the Crab Apple Nalus sign.
We followed the paved path to the visitor center from this point, which is much easier when you have a stroller with you. We absolutely loved this place and wish it were located closer to home.
Japanese Garden
We wanted to visit the Japanese Garden, but it's not located on this side; it’s at the southern end of the park along Lake Washington Boulevard E. Take note that the admission fee is 10 USD to enter the garden.
For our next visit, we will park in the lot located between the Japanese Garden and Washington Park Playfield. After that, we’ll take some time to explore the Japanese Garden—just a friendly reminder that it is closed on Mondays.
Capitol Hill: Seattle's Colorful Neighborhood
Afterwards, we drove 10 minutes to Capitol Hill from Washington Park Arboretum.
Capitol Hill, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, is home to numerous LGBTQIA businesses and cute cafés. There are lots of rainbow flags and rainbow-colored pedestrian lanes, which my little one really likes. He said, “We’re crossing the rainbow again, Mommy!” That was very entertaining for us and made all our crossings fun!
Where to Park
- Parking at Belmont Ave
- Payment: Pay per parking, free on Sundays and holidays
- Distance: Just 5-10 minutes to nearby dining options
We were lucky to find street parking, and it was a good thing we went on Memorial Day, as parking was free. It felt a little quieter; I can’t imagine how busy this place is on a regular day, especially with a school nearby.
Dining on Capitol Hill
- Menya Muso Tsukemen & Ramen
- Take note for families with a baby: No diaper-changing station in the restroom
They’re quite busy; we waited around 15-20 minutes to be seated. Happy hour starts at 3 p.m. The crunchy roll had just the right amount of rice, and the eel sauce was perfect. The pork gyoza was flavorful, and both were delicious. The ramen was just okay. There’s also a nearby cat cafe for cat enthusiasts.
- Pinoyshki Bakery, Cafe & Bar
- Address: 715 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
From Belmont Avenue, where we parked, it was just a 3-minute walk. I was looking forward to visiting this Filipino-Russian cafe, but it was closed for the holiday. I really wanted to try it. If you've been there, let me know in the comments below if it’s worth the hype.
- Atulea
It’s a 13-minute walk to this cute tropical cafe. The mango matcha latte felt more suitable for summer. I mistakenly ordered it iced, but it tasted refreshing. I still feel like ube and matcha are the perfect match.
Must-Try Dessert!
- Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream
- Address: 917 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
We walked 7 minutes and found this cute and busy ice cream place. It was the highlight of our stroll. The triple chocolate cake was delicious!
- Salt and Straw
Just two minutes away, you'll find Salt and Straw. We enjoyed it when we were still in Los Angeles, making it another fantastic spot to check.
- Despi Delite Bakery
- Address: 2701 15th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
- Limited parking:15 minutes only
This bakery isn’t located on Capitol Hill; it’s just a 15-minute drive away in North Beacon Hill. We wanted to grab some bread to take home, and we loved their Mini Pan de Sal. It's soft and delicious, especially when warmed!
You might also like: Day Trips with Little Kids
A Memorial Day well spent with family at the Washington Park Arboretum! We’re certainly looking forward to returning for another nature walk with our little ones.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Explore Washington:
- Seattle: Discover the Vibrant Capital of Washington
- Leavenworth – The Bavarian Village That Brings a Touch of Europe Right Here in the U.S.
- Poulsbo - Discover Washington’s "Charming Tiny Slice of Norway"
- Port Orchard - Charming Waterfront: A Perfect Weekend Getaway from Seattle
- Cherry Blossoms - Discover Less Crowded Spots in Seattle
- Oscar the Bird King - Meet His Royal Majesty on Vashon Island
- Pia the Peacemaker - Explore Bainbridge Island, try Washington's first coffee roaster!
- Frankie Feetsplinters - Located at the National Nordic Museum in Ballard
- Bruun Idun: Found in Lincoln Park, West Seattle.
- Jakob Two Trees: Located along the Rainier Trail in Issaquah.
Do you want more adventure?
Where am I going next?
- For my next adventure, we're hunting for the Best Asian Foods in Kitsap County, Washington.
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