At the risk of sounding like another millennial obsessed with plants, Swansons Nursery in the Crown Hill neighborhood of Seattle is one of my all-time favorite places to visit. So much more than a simple garden store, walking onto their 5-acre property feels like stepping into a mythical, and heavenly green, world.
The number of plants and trees Swansons carries is remarkable, and simply browsing can feel like a visit to a botanical zoo. The staff are also all extremely knowledgeable and helpful, from finding specific plants to answering complex gardening questions.
Beyond the flora and fauna, Swansons has a gift shop and café, the latter being the perfect stop for a caffeine pick-me-up and delicious snack. Shaded by palm, fig and banana trees and nestled besides a koi pond, the ambiance couldn’t be any more relaxing.
HOLIDAY PRO-TIP: Whether you have kids or not, Swansons is the ideal place to visit in November and December, when they transform into a Christmas village. Decked out with Christmas trees, Santa photos, a massive model train set and live reindeer (yep, their names are Dasher & Comet), you’re quickly transported to the North Pole.
Find your way with 94 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Rocco's" in Seattle is one of my go-to places for a slice of pizza or a drink. I also like their garlic bread and Caesar's salad...
by
"Rachel's Ginger Beer" Seattle is where I go when I'm craving dessert-in a cup. Every day they have at least five different ginger beer flavors on tap...
by
"Tutta Bella" Seattle is one of the first places that crosses my mind when I can't decide where to eat. One of my regular choices is the pizza bianca...
by
"Biscuit & Bean" is my favorite biscuit and gravy breakfast place in Seattle. These people really know how to make great biscuits -- and lemonade...
by
Blaine St. Stairs/Streissguth Gardens Seattle is a beautiful garden that a local Seattle couple donated to the city almost 20 years ago...
by
"Dick's Drive-In" is how I like to imagine the 1950's were. Opened in 1954, Dick's is a local institution, and everyone has at least one special memory here.
by
"Frank's Oyster House" Seattle is a great neighborhood restaurant open for dinner and weekend brunch. I love coming here and indulging.
by
"Green Lake" Seattle is where I'll meet friends to catch up on life as we walk around the 2.8 mile loop. I enjoy people and dog watching here...
by
"Fran's Chocolates" Seattle is a local legend, much like Dick's Drive-In. Many stores in town carry her famous salted caramel chocolates...
by
"Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop" Seattle is one of my favorite trails within the city borders. It's a great place to observe the unlimited skyline views...
by
"Center for Wooden Boats" Seattle is my favorite place to go when I want to be on the water. I love renting a rowboat and hopefully soon a sailboat...
by
"E Olive Way Parklet" is my favorite green "parklet" space - min parks converted from parking spots. It's a fun place to hang out with friends...
by
94 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 94 Insider Tips