12 Secret Gardens for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Kubota Garden  located near Rainier Beach, is an enchanting 20-acre Japanese garden that was designated a historic city landmark in 1981. So it’s not quite the secret garden it once was, and is now counted as a favorite backdrop for family photos.

But there are still some days when you can have the lovely winding paths, ponds, waterfalls and hidden red bridges all to yourself. Kids are almost magically pulled along by the paths that slope downhill from the entrance, and the garden is just big enough that they’ll feel like they’re getting a little lost. It’s delightful in all seasons, offering blooms in spring, shade in summer, color in fall and opportunities to skitter rocks across icy ponds in winter.

Location: 9817 55th Ave. S., Seattle

Next stop: City farm