Get ready for an exclusive opportunity to discover some of Washington State’s most exquisite private landscapes. On Saturday, July 19, the Garden Conservancy's Open Days program invites garden lovers to step inside two breathtaking, hidden oases in Lake Forest Park and Woodinville, both accessible to the public for one day only. Prepare to be inspired by diverse horticultural artistry, with each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The Garden Conservancy has partnered with Seattle's Dunn Gardens for this special Open Days event. The featured gardens are:
Pheasant Ridge Garden, Lake Forest Park. This captivating 2.5-acre woodland garden began its transformation in the 1950s. This enchanting space features mature Douglas fir, diverse native and exotic plants, and a vibrant display of bulbs. As visitors wander its winding gravel paths, they'll encounter quirky art installations at every turn. While lacking a formal "style," Pheasant Ridge offers a peaceful escape, inviting guests to relax in shady nooks and observe local wildlife. Highlights include a charming lily pond and an impressive earthen dragon. This eccentric retreat, with its rich textures and colors, provides a serene antidote to daily stress, encouraging both children and adults to unwind amidst nature's beauty.
Lim Garden, Woodinville. This garden is a one-acre private oasis and micro-nursery showcasing over 2,500 species and cultivars. Established in 2017 from a burgeoning passion for plants, this serene space specializes in rare and uncommon varieties thriving in woodland shade. By 2022, the garden's dedication to propagation led to a thriving nursery. Today, it beautifully blends aesthetic charm with botanical wonder, emphasizing rare gems and new plant introductions. The Lim Garden stands as an inspiring example of what's possible beneath the Pacific Northwest's towering evergreens, inviting visitors to discover its rich foliage and natural density.
The gardens will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for registered guests. Tickets are $10 per person; $5 for members of the Garden Conservancy. Children 12 and under are admitted for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visitors are reminded that no pets are allowed. All registrations must be processed online through the Garden Conservancy's website. Visit gardenconservancy.org/opendays.
The July 19 Open Day in King County are presented in partnership with Seattle’s Dunn Gardens. The historic 7.5-acre site was founded in 1915 as part of the estate of the Dunn family as their summer home. The Olmsted Brothers firm was commissioned to emphasize the natural features of the land, taking advantage of the gradual slope of the property to emphasize sweeping views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Dunn Gardens is a member of the Garden Conservancy's Northwest Network, a recipient of a 2024 Garden Conservancy Garden Futures Grant, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open for public tours and special events. Learn more about Dunn Gardens at dunngardens.org.
