Bellevue is French for “beautiful view” – unsurprisingly, when you leave your hotel, you are never more than a few blocks away from a park, nature trail, or that beautiful view. Outdoor splendor in Bellevue comes in all shapes and sizes, from local corner parks to the Downtown Park, Meydenbauer Bay to one of Bellevue’s crown jewels, the Bellevue Botanical Garden. Here you’ll find 53 acres of natural beauty sprawled across 11 distinct gardens and connected by multiple trails. Take any one of them and you will find yourself back at the modern visitor center. For example, the Ravine Experience includes a 1/3-mile nature trail that takes you to a 150-foot suspension bridge. Immerse yourself in the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden and you will forget that you are in the heart of one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Washington State.
Yao Garden
Looking for an authentic Pacific Rim experience? Take a visit to the Yao Garden. This garden is the bridge between Bellevue and Bellevue’s sister city, Yao, Japan. More than 60 plant species including Japanese Maples, azaleas, rhododendrons, viburnums along with Japanese lanterns will transport you across the Pacific without leaving the Garden.
Events in the Garden
In and among the various flora and fauna at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, you will find a wide variety of garden art. Art in the Garden is a marvelous way to experience works of art. Make it your mission to find the Owl’s Glare, the Sheepish Rabbit, or the Large Galaxy. During the holiday season, there is no grander visual splendor than Garden d’Lights. The Garden transforms into a different world - see for yourself.
Copper Kettle Coffee Bar
The Garden is also home to the Copper Kettle Coffee Bar which is filled with beverages and snacks for a quick energy boost or a calming way to decompress. You will also be able to visit Trillium, the gift store where you will find unique gifts for yourself or that discerning someone.
There are easy access and free parking to this memorable attraction. The grounds are open daily, including Holidays from dusk to dawn. Admission is free. A downloadable map, self-guided tour including a children’s tour is easy or turn the experience into an educational one, complimentary docent tours can also be arranged. Connect with the Bellevue Botanical Garden by visiting their website or by calling (425) 452-2750.
