Washington's Beautiful Botanical Garden Is A Tacoma Gem That Could Pass For Victorian England

From forests to wetlands, mountains to coastlines, Washington state has no shortage of captivating outdoor landscapes to explore. Wilderness abounds throughout the Evergreen State, making it a popular place for getting outside and connecting with nature. But it's also possible to experience nature without even setting foot outdoors, which can be especially useful during the state's damp, wet winters. One of the best places to do so is inside the fantastical glass walls of the W.W. Seymour Conservatory in Tacoma.

Located in Wright Park, a 27-acre arboretum close to downtown, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory stands in stark contrast to Washington's typically rugged, untouched outdoor spaces. Made from 3,000 panes of glass artfully arranged into an elegant dome flanked by two wings, this indoor botanical garden looks like it would be more at home on the manicured grounds of a grand English estate. And just like the facade, which conjures up images of Victorian gardens and estates from "Downton Abbey," the interior is equally transportive, whisking visitors from western Washington to distant corners of the globe with its collection of unique plant species. Lush palms, vibrant orchids, and carnivorous plants from around the world live together under the glass roof, making visitors feel like they've stepped into a faraway jungle or an ethereal forest.

Ornate and enchanting, the conservatory's dreamy design has made it a popular spot for weddings, special events, and photo sessions. It also serves as a community gathering place, hosting storytime events for children, holiday displays, craft hours, and flower shows. When not being used for events, it's free and open to the public, inviting anyone who appreciates architecture and plants to relax among them. In fact, in 2008, Tacoma Weekly readers voted it "the Best Place to Relax in Tacoma."

So how did a Victorian-style botanical garden conservatory come to be in a park at the southern end of Puget Sound? The story goes back to the late 1800s. In 1886, land was donated to the city of Tacoma for a public park that became Wright Park. Over 20 years later, along came William W. Seymour. A local businessman who served on the Metropolitan Park Board as a commissioner and president, Seymour donated funds to build a conservatory in the park. Designed by local architect Isaac J. Knapp, the conservatory opened in 1908, bearing the name of its benefactor.

Today, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is an architectural icon listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's also a rarity; there are only two other Victorian-style conservatories on the West Coast also open for public viewing. Its uniqueness, whimsical design, and fascinating flora make it a fun stop for locals and visitors exploring downtown Tacoma.

Design-wise, it recalls the grand, ornamental conservatories of England, like the Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, with its soaring dome, gleaming glass, and distinct white-painted frame. The 12-sided main dome is the centerpiece, rising like a vase and topped with a tile cap. From the central dome, greenery-filled wings branch out across the lawn. Short paths snake around the interior, with a handful of benches where visitors can sit and admire the plant life, which is just as captivating as the architecture. You may feel as if you've stepped into one of London's most gorgeous gardens as you take in over 250 plant species from around the globe, ranging from ornate orchids to pitcher plants. Over 200 orchids bloom year-round, so there are always colorful blossoms on display, while other plants bloom seasonally.

When it isn't rented for weddings or hosting community events, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (at the time of writing). Hours may vary for events and holidays. Entry is free, but a small donation is suggested. Once inside, guests can roam the walkways at their leisure; informational signage is on display to help visitors learn about the different plants. For those who want a more in-depth experience, both self-guided and guided tours are available. The space is small, but with over 200 different plant species to admire, visitors may want to take their time.

After exploring the indoor botanical garden, pop into the gift shop for a souvenir that supports the conservatory's operations. There's a wide range of nature-themed gifts on offer, including wind chimes and yard ornaments, plus take-home plants grown in the greenhouse. Then, visitors can branch out to explore the rest of Wright Park: Take photos at the nearby gazebo, roam the winding pathways, and seek out the art installations dotting the park grounds. Filled with over 600 trees, public artwork, and water features, the surrounding park is just as inviting as the conservatory, which truly completes the sensation of having stepped into a Victorian-era garden.

The W.W. Seymour Conservatory and Wright Park are just the tip of the Tacoma iceberg, as there's much more to enjoy in the area. Consider heading to the quiet island suburb of Fox Island for fishing and paddling, just 30 minutes away. Or, visit the scenic and uncrowded Vashon Island to dine at one of its charming restaurants, less than an hour from the conservatory.