Garden D' Lights
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Bellevue Botanical Garden

4.7
·6k reviews·Bellevue, United States

A 53-acre urban oasis featuring diverse gardens, woodlands, and wetlands, offering free admission and seasonal beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Early Summer

Peak bloom season

CrowdMedium
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Garden D' Lights

Bellevue Botanical Garden

Best Time

Spring & Early Summer

Peak bloom season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 53-acre urban oasis featuring diverse gardens, woodlands, and wetlands, offering free admission and seasonal beauty.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"A beautiful and peaceful escape right in the heart of Bellevue!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Garden d'Lights Early

Tickets for the popular holiday light show sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot .

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking is available but can be limited. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Seasonal Blooms

Vibrant Seasonal Blooms

Throughout the garden

Experience a kaleidoscope of colors with stunning flowers and lush greenery that change with the seasons.

Garden d'Lights

Garden d'Lights

Throughout the garden

A dazzling holiday tradition featuring over half a million sparkling lights transforming the garden into a winter wonderland.

Suspension Bridge

Suspension Bridge

Woodland Garden

A charming bridge offering unique perspectives and a fun element for exploration.

Japanese Garden

Japanese Garden

Yao Garden

A serene and tranquil space with a pond and traditional structures, perfect for quiet reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While free year-round, spring and early summer offer peak blooms.Instagram For a magical holiday experience, book tickets well in advance for the popular Garden d'Lights event, as they sell out quickly.Instagram

Parking & Access

Free parking is available but can be tight during peak times.Reddit Consider public transport or arriving early to secure a spot. The garden is stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families.Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Early Summer
Why
Peak bloom season
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Fall
Why
Autumn colors
Crowd
Low
When
Nov-Dec Evenings
Why
Magical Garden d'Lights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Bellevue Botanical Garden 🪴 A place of beauty and serenity 💐 🗺️ Around 20-30min drive from downtown Seattle. ⌛️Needs 1 to 2 hours. 💰 Free Entrance 🚘 Plenty of free parking spots #bellevuewa #washington #washingtontravel #seattletravel #todoinseattle #exploreusa #exploreseattle #travellingblog #travelvlogs
mireynehme
487 likes • 7.3K views

🎟️ Book Garden d'Lights Early

Tickets for the popular holiday light show sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.Instagram

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking is available but can be limited. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot.Reddit

Bellevue Botanical Garden- Bellevue, WA This FREE garden is open year round, but really shines in the spring when everything blooms. There is a free parking lot and lovely coffee shop to fuel your walk through the garden. We’ve been visiting since my boys were little. The trails are an easy wide path and stroller friendly! + FREE (donations encouraged) + Free parking lot + Open Dawn to Dusk, year...
southsoundfamily
445 likes • 13.9K views
Nature therapy for the soul 🌿✨ Just a peaceful morning walk through Bellevue Botanical Garden — some days I crave a big hike, but when life gets busy, this tranquil spot is my sanctuary. Whether you’re here for a stroll among stunning flowers or a longer hike on connected trails, each season transforms this place. Spring and early summer? Absolutely my favorite with the vibrant blooms. Perfect f...
heykalsang
0 likes • 4.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

The garden is larger than it looks! Wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time to wander through diverse landscapes.Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee

A lovely coffee shop is available to fuel your strolls through the beautiful grounds.Instagram

✨Family traditions that don’t 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘬 ✨ 🔖 save for your trip to Garden d’Lights this year! 🪴 ✨ 𝘋𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘴: 📍 Bellevue Botanical Garden 🎟️ Must buy tickets in advance. Visit @bellevuebotanical to reserve the day and time you want. Tickets are $5/$8 depending on what night you go. Kids 10 and under are 🆓 🤩 🅿️ $5 to park at the garden’s lot. If you don’t mind walking, there’s a free lot behi...
bellevuewithkids
132 likes • 8.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Garden d'Lights Early

Tickets for the popular holiday light show sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot.Instagram

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking is available but can be limited. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

The garden is larger than it looks! Wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time to wander through diverse landscapes.Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee

A lovely coffee shop is available to fuel your strolls through the beautiful grounds.Instagram

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

From vibrant blooms to whimsical lights, this garden is a photographer's dream. Capture the magic! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Bellevue Botanical Garden as a beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained escape right in Bellevue. Its free admission and parking are significant draws, though parking can be challenging during peak times. The diverse landscapes, seasonal blooms, and the magical Garden d'Lights event are highlights, making it a recommended spot for all types of visitors.

"Visited back in May of 2025 while waiting for our hotel room to open up. This is a fabulous place to spend some quality time if you like nature and plants and just being outdoors. We got there in the earlier morning hours as we wanted to be able to park, because I hear that parking can be tight during peak hours. The stroll around the garden was amazing and the place was a lot bigger than I thought it would be, our feet were getting tired so we turned back, otherwise, I could have stayed here for hours and hours. Free parking, donation at the door. Spectacular place! Will totally return in the future. Very nice grounds people and staff as well."

808TryWaitTryWait

"Such a beautiful and peaceful escape right in the heart of Bellevue!
The gardens are perfectly maintained with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and lovely walking trails. It’s a great place to unwind, take photos, or enjoy a quiet stroll surrounded by nature. The suspension bridge and seasonal blooms are must-sees! Free entry and parking make it even better. Highly recommend for families, couples, or anyone needing a nature break. 🌿🌸"

Sivan Travelholic

"Visiting the Bellevue Botanical Garden felt like stepping into a hidden pocket of peace in the middle of the weekend rush. The best part? It’s completely free to enter. Parking can be a bit tricky—I went on a weekend and felt lucky snagging a very tight spot—but once you’re inside, it’s worth it.
At noon, they offer free guided tours where volunteers walk you through the paths and share stories about the garden’s plants and history. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by the sound of a waterfall feature, setting the tone for the calmness ahead. Maps and brochures are available at the entrance, which makes it easy to wander without getting lost.
Every corner has something blooming, but the showstopper for me was a giant red hibiscus—so large I had to stop and just take it in. Families strolled by with kids, enjoying the open space and time together, while others found quiet spots to reflect or take photos.
For me, it was more than just looking at flowers; it was a place to slow down, think, and appreciate the little meaningful things life has to offer. I haven’t seen all of the garden yet, so I’ll definitely be back to explore more."

Thu L.

What People Like

Beautifully maintained gardens
Free admission and parking
Peaceful and serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited parking during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is located at 12001 Main Street, Bellevue, WA 98005.Instagram It's about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown Seattle.Instagram Many visitors opt to drive and utilize the free parking lot, though it can fill up quickly.Reddit Public transportation is also a viable option, with bus stops conveniently located near the garden.Reddit

Yes, there is a free parking lot available at the garden.Instagram+1 However, it's important to note that parking can be very limited, especially during peak seasons and popular events like Garden d'Lights.Reddit Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.

Absolutely! Taking the bus is a convenient way to reach the Bellevue Botanical Garden, and it can help you avoid parking hassles.Reddit Check local transit schedules for routes that stop near Main Street in Bellevue.

Yes, the trails within the Bellevue Botanical Garden are generally wide and well-maintained, making them stroller-friendly.Instagram This makes it an excellent destination for families with young children.

From Seattle, take I-90 East towards Bellevue. Take exit 11A for Bellevue Way. Continue on Bellevue Way and turn right onto Main Street. The garden will be on your left. The address is 12001 Main Street, Bellevue, WA 98005.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Bellevue Botanical Garden is free.Instagram+2 Donations are encouraged to help maintain the beautiful grounds.Reddit

Yes, tickets are required for the popular Garden d'Lights holiday event.Instagram It's highly recommended to purchase these in advance online, as they often sell out.Instagram

The garden is open daily year-round.Instagram+1 Specific hours for events like Garden d'Lights vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.

General admission tickets for Garden d'Lights are typically $10, with children 10 and under free.Instagram+1 There are also special discounted $5 nights available on select dates.Instagram+1

While general admission is free, tickets for special events like Garden d'Lights should be purchased in advance online.Instagram Availability at the gate is not guaranteed.

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a dream for photographers, offering diverse landscapes, vibrant seasonal blooms, and the magical Garden d'Lights display.Instagram Whether you're capturing nature, portraits, or event photos, you'll find stunning backdrops.

Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, for commercial photography or engagement sessions, it's advisable to check the garden's policies or inquire about permits, as some areas might have specific guidelines.Instagram

For natural light, early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer beautiful soft lighting.Instagram During the holiday season, evenings are essential for capturing the spectacular Garden d'Lights display.

You'll find opportunities to photograph everything from intricate flower details and lush greenery to charming bridges, tranquil water features, and the enchanting holiday lights. The changing seasons also provide a dynamic range of subjects.Instagram

Yes, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is a popular and beautiful location for engagement photos.Instagram The natural beauty and diverse settings provide a romantic and whimsical backdrop.

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The garden features diverse areas like the Woodland Garden, Japanese Garden (Yao Garden), and various themed plant collections. You'll find tranquil ponds, a suspension bridge, and beautiful seasonal blooms.Reddit

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the main areas.Instagram However, you could easily spend longer if you wish to deeply explore all the paths or attend an event.Reddit

Yes, free guided tours are often offered by volunteers at noon, providing insights into the garden's plants and history.Reddit

Yes, there is a coffee shop on-site that can be a great spot to refuel during your visit.Instagram

While beautiful year-round, spring and early summer offer the most vibrant blooms.Instagram+1 Autumn provides stunning fall colors,Instagram and winter brings the magical Garden d'Lights.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, the garden does have a coffee shop where you can grab a drink and a snack.Instagram

Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's always a good idea to check the garden's specific rules regarding food and beverages to ensure you're following guidelines.

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is conveniently located near downtown Bellevue, offering a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from after your visit.Reddit

Yes, there is a coffee shop available within the garden premises.Instagram

The coffee shop typically offers beverages and light snacks, perfect for a quick refreshment during your garden exploration.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a fantastic destination for families. Its stroller-friendly paths make it easy to navigate with little ones,Instagram and the sheer variety of plants and natural features keeps children engaged. The suspension bridge offers a bit of adventure, and the open spaces are perfect for kids to explore. During the holiday season, the Garden d'Lights event is a magical experience that children will adore.Instagram+1 Remember to book tickets in advance for this popular event!

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

For photographers and content creators, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The diverse landscapes, from manicured flower beds to woodland areas and the tranquil Japanese Garden, provide endless backdrops.Instagram Seasonal blooms offer unique subjects throughout the year,Instagram and the Garden d'Lights event presents a spectacular opportunity for capturing festive, illuminated scenes.Instagram Consider visiting during golden hour for the best natural light.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers

If you're looking for a peaceful escape, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is ideal. Its serene atmosphere and well-maintained trails offer a perfect setting for a quiet stroll and reflection.Instagram You can find secluded spots to sit, read, or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. The free admission makes it an easy and accessible way to de-stress and recharge amidst beautiful surroundings.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Garden d'Lights

The Bellevue Botanical Garden transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with its spectacular Garden d'Lights event.Instagram This beloved tradition features over half a million sparkling lights that illuminate the garden's natural beauty, creating a truly magical atmosphere.Instagram It's a must-see event for families, couples, and anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit.

Planning your visit for Garden d'Lights is crucial. Tickets are date- and time-specific and must be purchased in advance online, as they frequently sell out.Instagram The event typically runs from late November through December, with varying hours and pricing. Special discounted nights are often available during the first two weeks of the event.Instagram+1 Children aged 10 and under are usually free, making it an accessible holiday outing for families.Instagram

Visitors can expect a mile-long stroll through the illuminated garden.Instagram The experience is designed to be enchanting, with lights woven through trees, along pathways, and highlighting various garden features. It's a perfect opportunity for memorable photos and a festive evening out.Instagram

Exploring the Diverse Landscapes

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a sprawling 53-acre oasis offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore.Instagram From the tranquil Woodland Garden with its lush canopy to the serene Japanese Garden (Yao Garden) featuring a pond and traditional structures, there's a unique atmosphere in each section.Reddit The garden also boasts wetlands and various themed plant collections that showcase a wide array of flora.

One of the charming features is the suspension bridge, which provides a fun and unique vantage point for exploring the garden's topography.Reddit The Yao Garden is particularly noted for its peaceful ambiance and simple wooden structures, offering a moment of quiet contemplation.Reddit Throughout the garden, well-marked trails guide visitors, ensuring an easy and enjoyable exploration.Reddit

Each season brings a new palette to the garden. Spring and early summer are renowned for their vibrant floral displays,Instagram+1 while autumn paints the landscape with stunning fall colors.Instagram Even in winter, the garden offers a peaceful retreat, especially when adorned with the festive Garden d'Lights.Instagram

A Year-Round Free Escape

One of the most appealing aspects of the Bellevue Botanical Garden is its free admission.Instagram+2 This makes it an accessible and wonderful destination for everyone, whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the Seattle area. The garden is open daily, allowing for spontaneous visits and regular returns to witness its seasonal transformations.

While entry is free, donations are highly encouraged and play a vital role in maintaining the garden's beauty and upkeep.Reddit This community support helps ensure that the garden remains a pristine and welcoming space for all to enjoy. The availability of free parking, though sometimes challenging during peak times, further enhances its accessibility.Instagram+1

This commitment to free access means the garden serves as a valuable public resource for relaxation, recreation, and connecting with nature. It's a place where families can enjoy time together, couples can find romantic strolls, and individuals can seek a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.InstagramReddit

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