Lakewold Gardens
Explore 10 acres of stunning gardens designed by Thomas Church, featuring rare plants and a historic estate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peak floral bloom
Lakewold Gardens
Best Time
Peak floral bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 10 acres of stunning gardens designed by Thomas Church, featuring rare plants and a historic estate.
"Recent reviews highlight significant improvements in management and staff, leading to highly positive experiences."
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check your local library for free admission passes to Lakewold Gardens! :ticket:
🌸 Hydrangea Hotspot
Seek out the beautiful hydrangeas, especially if you're looking for stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rhododendron Collection
Throughout the gardens
Marvel at the vast and diverse collection of rhododendrons, a signature feature of Lakewold Gardens.
Thomas Church Design
Entire 10-acre estate
Explore the masterful landscape design by Thomas Church, blending artful design with natural beauty.
Historic Estate Home
Main house
Step back in time within the charming historic estate, offering a glimpse into the past.
Gravelly Lake Views
Along the lakefront
Enjoy serene views of Gravelly Lake, providing a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Peak Bloom
Free Admission Hack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check your local library for free admission passes to Lakewold Gardens! :ticket:
🌸 Hydrangea Hotspot
Seek out the beautiful hydrangeas, especially if you're looking for stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the 10-acre estate comfortably with good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The gardens offer a European-inspired backdrop, ideal for weddings and personal photoshoots. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check your local library for free admission passes to Lakewold Gardens! :ticket:
🌸 Hydrangea Hotspot
Seek out the beautiful hydrangeas, especially if you're looking for stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the 10-acre estate comfortably with good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
The gardens offer a European-inspired backdrop, ideal for weddings and personal photoshoots. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Load-in for events can be tricky; a cart is helpful for hauling gear. :truck:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lakewold Gardens for its stunning beauty, serene atmosphere, and European-inspired charm, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and events. While some past reviews mentioned issues, recent feedback highlights significant improvements in management and staff, particularly for weddings, leading to highly positive experiences.
"My husband and I got married here on August 30th and we had an amazing experience! We were a little nervous at first (from some bad reviews we read online), but we think Lakewold Gardens heard all the feedback and made amazing changes! We had a great experience and loved everything about having our wedding here. We had Kathryn Weber there on our big day and she was incredible. She was there for every little detail and made the day feel so seamless with all her helpful touches. Even my mom called the day after to rave on and on about how much she appreciated all of her help. She was kind, caring, and the calm energy everyone needs on their big day! Needless to say, Lakewold Gardens is beautiful and the best venue we could’ve asked for! I’d recommend it a million times over! We love you Kathryn! - The Sanchez’s"
Lena V
"Lakewold Gardens was such a gem to find for our wedding! Soon after we signed the contract last year, they had a new director and a whole new wedding team that was a dream to work with—night and day compared to the previous lady who was there. Jordan, Lori, Kathryn, and Neil were so responsive and accommodating and oh so sweet to us. The garden itself—nothing for us to say because it was a beaut!!! They maintain the place so nicely with beautiful verandah for the reception and a striking tea house for the ceremony. We had a party of 40 and that was perfect for the size of the place. They have also added lots of stuff in their inventory to help couples from renting from outside and save money too, like garden chairs and cocktail tables. Thank you Lakewold for such a wonderful wedding day—it was exactly how we imagined!"
Van Bui
"Lovely venue to work at as a DJ. Very scenic,open space for a ceremony. A few things to note as a DJ or considering this for your wedding:
-The home is old and there aren't many outlets, so extension cords need to bu used. To protect the original wood flooring, gaff tape is not allowed, so use rubber floor mats to cover cords.
-If the group eats outside under the wisteria, then an additional speaker may be required for people to hear announcements outside.
-The load in is a little tricky, since you can't drive up very close to where the main dancing area is, so a cart will be helpful, just make sure it can go over some brick pavers, or haul everything through the kitchen area."
Mark F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lakewold Gardens is located in Lakewood, WA, approximately a 45-minute drive from Seattle without heavy traffic. You can take I-5 South and then follow signs for Lakewood. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, parking is available on-site. For events, the load-in process can be a bit tricky, and a cart might be helpful for transporting equipment.
Absolutely! Lakewold Gardens is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery and unique flora.
The closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which is about a 30-40 minute drive from Lakewold Gardens.
While direct public transport is limited, you can explore bus routes that go to Lakewood and then potentially use a rideshare service for the final leg of your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $10. Seniors (65+), students, and military personnel pay $8. Youth aged 6-17 are $5, and children 5 and under are free.
Yes! Many visitors recommend checking with your local Tacoma Public Library to see if they offer free admission passes.
During the summer, Lakewold Gardens is typically open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, especially outside of peak season.
While not always mandatory for general visits, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to ensure entry. Check their website for ticketing options.
Information on group discounts is not widely publicized, but it's advisable to contact Lakewold Gardens directly to inquire about rates for larger parties or organized tours.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. The gardens provide a stunning backdrop for personal photos, and have been featured in styled wedding shoots. +1
For commercial photography or professional photoshoots (like engagement or wedding sessions), it's best to contact Lakewold Gardens in advance to understand their policies and potential fees.
The gardens are filled with picturesque spots, from the vibrant rhododendron collections and manicured lawns to the serene lake views and the historic estate. 
Drone usage is typically restricted in garden settings to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. It's advisable to check with the venue directly regarding drone policies.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light. However, the gardens are lovely throughout the day, with different areas offering unique lighting conditions.
🎫 💍 Weddings & Events
Yes, Lakewold Gardens is a popular venue for weddings and events, offering a beautiful, European-inspired setting.
The venue is well-suited for intimate affairs, with one review mentioning it was perfect for a party of 40.
The venue offers a beautiful verandah for receptions and a striking tea house for ceremonies. They have also added inventory like garden chairs and cocktail tables to help couples save money.
For DJs, note that the historic home has limited outlets, requiring extension cords. Gaff tape is not allowed on original wood floors; use rubber mats. An extra speaker might be needed for outdoor receptions.
Recent reviews indicate a significant improvement in the wedding team, with new directors and staff being responsive, accommodating, and sweet to couples.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the gardens are beautiful year-round, visiting during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom can be particularly engaging for younger visitors. Keep an eye out for the diverse plant collections, which can spark curiosity and learning about the natural world. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little ones as they explore the winding paths.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond admission savings, consider packing your own snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds. This significantly reduces food expenses compared to dining out. Visiting on a weekday, especially a Wednesday or Sunday, can also offer a more serene experience with potentially fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and cost-effective visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing the vibrant colors of the rhododendrons and other seasonal blooms, the intricate details of the landscape design by Thomas Church, and the charming architectural elements of the historic estate. The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are ideal for soft, flattering light, but the gardens offer unique photographic potential throughout the day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Landscape Design of Thomas Church
Visitors can appreciate Church's signature style through the thoughtful placement of pathways, seating areas, and the careful selection of plants. The design encourages exploration, with winding paths leading to hidden nooks and stunning vistas. The artful design creates a sense of discovery, making each visit a unique experience. The grounds are meticulously maintained, reflecting the enduring principles of Church's influential work.
This historic estate is not just a collection of plants; it's a living work of art. The collaboration between the estate's owners and Church resulted in a garden that is both beautiful and enduring. It's a place where visitors can experience the harmony between human design and nature, a hallmark of Thomas Church's legacy.
A Haven for Flora Enthusiasts
Beyond the rhododendrons, the gardens feature a diverse array of plant species, carefully curated to thrive in the Pacific Northwest climate. Visitors can discover unique specimens and learn about their origins and care. The landscape design by Thomas Church further enhances the display of these plants, creating harmonious and visually stunning arrangements throughout the 10 acres.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, Lakewold Gardens offers a rich and rewarding experience. The changing seasons bring new blooms and colors, making it a destination worth revisiting throughout the year. It's a place to connect with the natural world and admire the dedication to horticultural excellence.
An Idyllic Wedding Venue
+1Recent couples and vendors have praised the venue's dedicated wedding team, noting significant improvements in responsiveness and accommodation. The availability of a beautiful verandah for receptions and a striking tea house for ceremonies adds to the venue's charm. Furthermore, the addition of essential inventory items like garden chairs and cocktail tables helps couples manage costs.
While the historic nature of the estate presents some logistical considerations for vendors (such as limited power outlets and specific tape restrictions), the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. Couples consistently describe their wedding days as seamless, beautiful, and exactly how they imagined, making Lakewold Gardens a truly memorable choice for a special occasion.
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