Top 10 Beautiful Places in Seattle to Visit This Spring

The Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden is one of the area's most beloved hidden gems. This serene park, which is free and open to the public daily, covers 10.5 acres of display gardens, woodlands, and trails. It's easy to pass an hour or two strolling, relaxing on a bench, or admiring its many distinct spring blooms. Given its proximity to SEA Airport, many people like to stop here on their way in or out of town (or even on a long layover). The garden has several distinct sections, each with its own theme and backstory, which you can read about on signage at the garden. For instance, the Seike Japanese Garden was relocated from a local family's property and originally created as a tribute to their son, who was lost in battle during WWII. From about mid-march to early April, there are typically cherry blossoms blooming in this section. Next to this, see bright rhododendrons and azaleas that were donated by another local resident's private collection. There are hundreds of rare species, so they bloom at different times from early to late spring.

Saltwater State Park combines a rugged shoreline, lush Evergreen forest, and a campground-like feel. Located just a 15-minute drive south of SEA Airport, it's one of the best places to escape the bustle of city life without going far. Spring's mild climate makes it a great time to walk along the beach and look out for Puget Sound wildlife, such as seals and harbor porpoises surfacing in coastal waters. Shorelines and piers also come alive with bald eagles and migratory shorebirds, and colorful creatures during spring low tides. Just be sure to bring a waterproof coat and shoes in case of rain! (Learn more about tidepooling and local marine life). When you need a rest, take a seat on a smooth piece of driftwood or at one of many picnic tables. Then venture into the park to explore the wooded trails and streams.

If you’re craving a relaxed stroll, Redondo Beach is an ideal choice. This scenic Puget Sound beach features a welcoming boardwalk, where you can walk for about half a mile one way, taking in stunning views of the water the entire time. It's also popular with fishing enthusiasts, thanks to its well-known fishing pier (note: the pier is currently under construction). While you're there, take a moment to admire the Redondo Arch, a reflective piece of public art that blends in seamlessly with the natural setting. And if you visit on a Saturday, be sure to check out Highline College's MaST Center Aquarium, which holds hundreds of native species and is free and open to the public on weekly Discovery Days.

Angle Lake Park is beautiful in every season, but spring brings a special treat when the cherry trees bloom. It's one of the best places in the region to enjoy a hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnic. It's also one of the most family-friendly parks in the Seattle area, thanks to its grassy meadow, sandy beach, awesome playground, and mix of shady and sunny areas. On clear days, you can enjoy an incredible view of Mt. Rainier. Bonus: it's a 10-minute walk from the Angle Lake Link light rail station, making it more accessible than many of the region's parks. Once you're inside, you can't see any busy streets or traffic, making it a peaceful springtime retreat.

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the Pacific Northwest's destination events, held each spring throughout April. Hundreds of thousands of people come to enjoy the celebration of spring as millions of tulips burst into bloom. The exact timing varies year to year, but early blooms often appear in March, and some late blooms are visible in May. It's a cherished regional tradition that people of all ages can enjoy. Many of the farms offer kid-friendly activities, food, beverages, and souvenirs. There are also plenty of cute restaurants and cafes in La Conner and Mount Vernon to check out. See our Guide to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival for more information and ideas on turning this visit into a day trip from Seattle Southside.

See the beauty of Washington’s state flower on full display at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way (about a 25-minute drive south of SEA Airport). Home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of rhododendron species in the world, this 22-acre woodland garden features more than 10,000 plants set among peaceful forest paths and natural landscapes. In Western Washington, the flowering season begins as early as January and continues through late July, with the most vibrant displays typically peaking from March through May. During this time, the garden comes alive with color, making it an especially rewarding visit for plant lovers and photographers. If you’re planning a spring visit, check the garden's website for special events like the annual Mother’s Day Weekend festival, as well as the Blue Poppy Festival, which celebrates the rare and striking blue poppy when it blooms. While there, don't miss the tropical conservatory, which is wonderful to visit year-round.

The University of Washington campus is home to a stunning grove of 30 mature Yoshino cherry blossom trees, creating a true showstopper each spring when they burst into bloom. Set against the backdrop of historic campus architecture and open green spaces, the display draws visitors from across the region hoping to catch the peak of the blossoms. Just a short distance away, Washington Park Arboretum offers another scenic spot to enjoy the season. Azalea Way, located near UW, features a beautiful mix of flowering trees, including cherry blossoms, that typically bloom throughout May, extending the springtime spectacle. Check out our guide to the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seattle and beyond.

If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest wilderness, Mt. Rainier National Park makes for an unforgettable day trip that’s accessible for all ages. Located just a couple of hours from the Seattle Southside and SEA Airport area, it’s an easy escape from the city into a landscape of towering evergreens, alpine meadows, and glacier-capped peaks. For a stress-free experience, guided tours—such as those offered by Evergreen Escapes—provide convenient pickup directly from Seattle Southside hotels. The park features five developed areas—Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon/Mowich—each offering its own unique scenery, along with campgrounds, picnic areas, and trail access. In spring and early summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows in vibrant color, creating one of the most iconic and breathtaking sights in Washington State.

The Des Moines Creek Trail is a quiet, paved path that allows you to explore at your own pace in a peaceful Northwest setting. Extending for just over two miles, the trail showcases a variety of natural beauty, from seasonal flowers to leafy branches. Along the way, you’ll also pass a gentle stream that adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it an inviting escape for casual strolls, quick jogs, and short bike rides. One end of the trail can be accessed by parking at the Des Moines Marina, while the other end is located near the Angle Lake Link light rail station, with a few parking spots. (See our Urban Hiking Guide for more details on starting the trail). If you choose to start at the Marina, you'll start by passing through Des Moines Beach Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Puget Sound, a rocky shoreline, and picnic areas perfect for relaxing after a walk or ride. It’s an ideal spot to watch boats pass by or catch a colorful Northwest sunset.

Seahurst Park is an oasis within Burien. One moment, you're driving through town, and the next, you're transported into verdant, quiet woods that open into a peaceful beach along Puget Sound. This secluded park is the perfect place to unwind and take in a beautiful spring day. The playground is right on the shoreline, so you can admire the views while letting kids get their energy out. Or, arrive just before sunset to watch the sun set behind the Olympic Mountains across the waters of the Sound.