Point Defiance Rose Garden
A breathtaking free garden in Tacoma, WA, showcasing over 1200 rose varieties with intoxicating fragrances and vibrant colors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak rose bloom
Point Defiance Rose Garden
Best Time
Peak rose bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking free garden in Tacoma, WA, showcasing over 1200 rose varieties with intoxicating fragrances and vibrant colors.
"Intoxicating experience when all of the roses are in bloom. You'll never see another garden with more varieties!"
🎯 Check Bloom Reports
For peak beauty, aim for early to mid-July. Bloom status can vary yearly.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Weekday mornings are best for easier access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Rose Varieties
Throughout the garden
Explore over 1200 rose plants showcasing an incredible diversity of colors and forms. Each rose is labeled with its variety name.
Fragrant Atmosphere
Throughout the garden
Immerse yourself in the intoxicating scents of countless blooming roses, a truly sensory delight.
Central Gazebo
Middle of the garden
A charming gazebo offers a picturesque spot for photos or a moment of quiet reflection amidst the blooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bloom Season is Key
Free Entry, Parking Can Be Tricky
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Bloom Reports
For peak beauty, aim for early to mid-July. Bloom status can vary yearly.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Weekday mornings are best for easier access.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vibrant colors and labeled varieties make it a photographer's dream. 
♿️ Accessible Paths
The garden is well-maintained and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Bloom Reports
For peak beauty, aim for early to mid-July. Bloom status can vary yearly.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but can fill up. Weekday mornings are best for easier access.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vibrant colors and labeled varieties make it a photographer's dream.
♿️ Accessible Paths
The garden is well-maintained and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
🌸 Adjacent Japanese Garden
Don't miss the serene Japanese Garden located right next to the rose garden.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Point Defiance Rose Garden for its stunning beauty, vast variety of roses, and intoxicating fragrance. The free admission and accessible paths are significant draws, making it a well-loved spot for photography and peaceful enjoyment. Some visitors note that peak bloom is in early to mid-July, and parking can be challenging during busy periods or events.
"Biggest Aloe Vera plant I've ever seen. This place is very well taken care of. Beautiful flowers/gardens. Handicapped accessible. Wheelchair ♿️ accessible. My Wheelchair got through everything just fine. Wash state has Beautiful parks."
Buddah Gump
"Beautiful garden with a large variety of roses. There was an event going on so access was restricted. But I still don't manage to spend fifteen minutes walking between the rose of bushes. Parking isn't too far away."
Dan's Inferno
"Beautiful place, you will not be disappointed. I came around the 3rd week of July. Flowers are soon wilting. Best time would be 1st or 2nd week of July."
shiny yang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Point Defiance Rose Garden is located within Point Defiance Park at 5400 N. Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving Point Defiance Park.
Yes, there is free parking available near the Point Defiance Rose Garden. However, it can get busy, especially during peak season or events. Arriving early or on a weekday is recommended for easier parking.
Yes, several Pierce Transit bus routes serve Point Defiance Park. It's advisable to check the Pierce Transit website or app for the most current routes and schedules that go to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Point Defiance Rose Garden is completely free! It's a wonderful public space for everyone to enjoy.
The Point Defiance Rose Garden is part of Point Defiance Park, which is generally open from dawn to dusk. The garden itself is accessible during park hours.
The rose garden is typically in full bloom from June through September, with peak bloom often occurring in early to mid-July. For the most vibrant display, aim for this period.
While Point Defiance Park generally allows dogs on leash, it's always best to check the specific park rules regarding pets in garden areas to ensure compliance.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The Point Defiance Rose Garden is a photographer's paradise with its stunning array of colorful roses, labeled varieties, and charming features like the gazebo. It's perfect for portraits, nature shots, and capturing the beauty of blooms.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds. Golden hour can create magical shots.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, for commercial shoots or large events, it's advisable to check with park authorities for any specific permits or guidelines.
🎫 🌸 Onsite Experience
You can stroll through the beautiful rose beds, admire the vast variety of roses, take photos, enjoy the fragrant air, and relax in the central gazebo. It's a peaceful escape.
Yes, the roses are labeled with their variety names, which is a great feature for rose enthusiasts and those wanting to learn more.
Yes, the garden is very well-maintained and accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers can navigate the paths easily, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Point Defiance Park is vast and offers many attractions, including the Japanese Garden, the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Owen Beach, and numerous walking trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with other family-friendly attractions within Point Defiance Park, such as the zoo or the beach, for a full day of exploration. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings.
📸 Photographers and Instagrammers
+1Utilize the soft morning or late afternoon light for the best shots. The central gazebo also offers a classic backdrop. Don't forget to tag your photos with relevant hashtags like #pointdefiancerosegarden and #tacomaphotography to share your beautiful captures.
❤️ Couples and Date Seekers
+1Consider visiting during the late afternoon for a romantic sunset glow, or pack a small picnic to share. It's a simple yet memorable way to connect amidst natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tacoma Rose Society's Dedication
Their commitment extends to hosting an annual Rose Show in June, where growers and arrangers showcase their best work. This dedication is evident in the health and variety of the roses, making the garden a true testament to horticultural passion.
Visitors can appreciate the care that goes into maintaining each labeled rose variety, a detail that enhances the educational and aesthetic experience of the garden. The society's efforts contribute significantly to the garden's reputation as one of the most fragrant and beautiful places in the Tacoma area.
Experiencing Peak Bloom and Beyond
Many visitors rave about the sheer variety of roses on display, noting that they've never seen a garden with more types. The labels on each rose are a thoughtful touch, allowing enthusiasts to identify and learn about different cultivars.
While the peak bloom is spectacular, the garden still offers beauty outside of July. Even as some flowers begin to wilt in late July, the overall display remains impressive, and the adjacent Japanese Garden provides a serene complement.
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