Seattle Parks
The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan statistical area is considered the 15th largest in the United States and the largest in the Pacific Northwest region. Within this region, Seattle is the largest city, and is without a doubt one of the best tourist attractions on the coast. Amongst its many attractions are the picturesque parks and gardens that add to the lush greenery of the Emerald City.
The innumerable parks that scatter the region are administered by the Seattle city department, the Seattle Parks and Recreation. As a part of their green initiative, a few parks deserve special mentioning, for the blend of beautiful flora and fauna displayed.
Situated in the southeast area of Seattle, the Bradner Gardens Park is a sprawling 1.6 acres of lush greenery. Although it is relatively new in comparison to some of the other parks in Seattle, this park is certainly not lacking in any department on which a 'green' park is assessed. Within the large park there are sub parks with interesting themes such as the children's garden, the 61 p-patch plots with bees, the Seattle Tilth and Urban Food demonstration gardens, native plant habitat for birds, and an area displaying special plants to be planted in confined spaces. The seven theme parks in the Bradner Gardens Park are butterfly & hummingbird, fragrance, sensory, shade, xeriscape, winter interest and northwest native. There are recreational activities for those interested, and benches for those intent on relaxing. Additionally, promoting sustainable gardening practices that are environmentally friendly, as opposed to pesticide use, the Bradner Gardens Park is a place for anyone to relax and enjoy themselves, either alone or in a group.
The Japanese Garden as the name indicates is an eye catching array of the finest Japanese flora and fauna that could be found outside of Japan. Designed in 1960 by renowned Japanese garden designer, Juki Iida, these gardens are not the epitome of a conventional 'park'. Given the extreme rarity of the plants found here, this garden restricts all forms of social gathering, including picnics, and pets. Located on the southwest corner of the Washington Park Arboretum, this exquisite garden is a tribute to its designers and an unbeatable spot to connect with nature.
Katie Black's Garden is a romantic garden park nestled by birch, cedar, fir, and elm trees that divide it from the bordering property. Totaling a mere 0.6 acres of land, this garden houses 2 small ponds, a bridge and beautiful plants, making it an ideal place for a tranquil 'walk in the park'.
Ever wondered what a western garden fused with oriental plants would look like? Look no further than the Kubota Gardens in South Seattle. This breathtaking garden is the ultimate fusion of Japanese and native northwest plants. This historic landmark is the product of Fujitaro Kubota to whom this initially belonged. 34.2 acres of hills, valleys, colorful and eye-catching plants, mesmerizing footpaths and lush greenery in every direction this park is not only a place to relax in but is also an ideal venue for weddings, as many a couple would attest.
There are 24 certified American Rose Test Gardens in the United States. One of those is in Seattle. The Woodland Park Rose Garden covers 2.5 acres of land and is a paradise for any rose lover. Since its inception in 1924, this garden attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually. Not surprising at all. The dewy climate that envelopes Seattle most of the year is ideal for growing roses, and the best time to visit this picturesque venue is during the months of May to August.
The parks mentioned afore make up only a small fraction of the many constituting Seattle. However, although small in number, their sheer beauty, unique blend of culture, flora and fauna and breathtaking atmosphere rank these parks as probably the best in Seattle.
