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Shakespeare Garden turns poetry into petals. Hidden in Seattle’s core, this lush oasis blooms with flowers from Shakespeare’s plays—roses for Romeo and Juliet, rosemary for Hamlet. Stroll among them and time slows down. It’s not just a garden; it’s a living tribute to literature. Perfect for reading, reflection, or stealing a quiet moment beneath the vines.
Everything you need to know about Shakespeare Garden
The Edgewater Hotel is the top choice near Shakespeare Garden, offering a prime location just a short walk away. This iconic hotel boasts breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the distant Mount Rainier, with elegantly appointed rooms blending modern luxury and classic charm. Complimentary shuttle service to downtown Seattle and major attractions enhances convenience. Guests can also enjoy exquisite Pacific Northwest cuisine at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's cultural and natural highlights.
From Shakespeare Garden, take a 15-minute walk to the Seattle Public Library and transfer to Metro Bus 41 or ride the Link Light Rail to Westlake Station, reaching downtown in about 20 minutes. Several bus lines, including Bus 36 and Bus 47, pass near the garden, connecting directly to key attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. Use an ORCA card for discounted fares and check real-time schedules via Google Maps to ensure smooth transit planning.
Beyond strolling through the beautifully landscaped Shakespeare Garden featuring literary sculptures and English-style horticulture, visitors can attend outdoor performances by the Seattle Theatre Group during summer at Fremont Park, bringing Shakespeare’s classics to life under the open sky. Nearby Seward Park hosts children’s literature workshops and weekend poetry readings and art markets, offering immersive cultural engagement. These events highlight Seattle’s vibrant literary scene and creative community spirit, making the area a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Public transit access to Shakespeare Garden is excellent, with multiple bus lines such as Bus 36 and Bus 47 stopping nearby, and the Link Light Rail Seward Park Station just a short walk away. However, free public parking is unavailable in the immediate vicinity. Visitors are encouraged to use public transit or rent a bike via Cyclists’ Bike Share. If driving, the Seward Park Parking Lot offers paid parking at $2.50 per hour. To avoid congestion, especially during peak hours, plan your visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
The Edgewater Hotel is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Shakespeare Garden along Puget Sound. Renowned for its elegant Victorian architecture and prime waterfront location, the hotel offers panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding nature. Guests enjoy complimentary shuttle service to downtown and nearby attractions, enhancing convenience. The property also features a signature afternoon tea experience and a rooftop bar serving cocktails inspired by Shakespearean poetry, perfectly blending literary charm with modern luxury.
Yes, Shakespeare Garden is located within the University of Washington campus, making it highly accessible. Visitors can take the Link Light Rail from King Street Station to the "University Street" stop, a mere 8-minute walk away. Multiple bus routes, including 504 and 512, also serve the area, while rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer easy access. The garden features clear signage and is adjacent to key cultural sites such as the Seattle Public Library and museum district, ideal for planning a full-day cultural itinerary.
The garden hosts outdoor theatrical performances annually, especially during the summer Shakespeare Festival, featuring free productions of classics like Romeo and Juliet by UW drama students on the lawn. Scattered throughout are poetry benches and literary stone markers, perfect for quiet reading or photo opportunities. Monthly themed gardening workshops—including classical flower planting and antique book restoration—blend horticulture with literary heritage, offering immersive, hands-on cultural experiences.
Yes, adjacent to Shakespeare Garden is Foster Pavilion Park, featuring expansive lawns, child-friendly play areas, and shaded pavilions—perfect for family picnics. Interactive maps guide kids through scavenger hunts that teach them about Shakespeare characters and botanical species. Weekend events often include community markets and outdoor concerts, allowing parents to relax under the trees while children enjoy safe, engaging activities in a welcoming environment.
Beyond the main garden, don’t miss the University of Washington Museum of Art, a 15-minute walk away, housing an impressive collection of Western classical sculptures and Renaissance paintings. A secret viewpoint lies along the eastern trail, offering sweeping vistas of the Olympic Mountains and dense forest—especially magical at sunrise when mist blankets the valley. Also worth exploring is the historic library building, with its striking Gothic architecture and intricate wood carvings, a favorite spot for photographers seeking academic elegance.
Start your day with a guided tour of Shakespeare Garden, exploring the plant-life connections to Shakespeare’s works. Head to Pike Place Market for a local seafood lunch and browse artisan stalls. In the afternoon, visit the University of Washington Museum of Art, then relax at Foster Pavilion Park with a picnic. Before returning to your hotel, reserve a table at a rooftop bar to enjoy sunset views over the Seattle skyline and distant city lights, blending literary inspiration with urban romance.
See what other travelers say about Shakespeare Garden
Staying at this century-old hotel was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by timeless elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The interior is impeccably maintained—every detail feels cared for, with no signs of wear despite its rich history. The service truly stood out; the doorman personally carried my luggage all the way to my room, making the arrival seamless and stress-free. The room itself is spacious and beautifully designed, offering plenty of room to move around. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day exploring Seattle. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities here. If you’re looking for a memorable stay in the city, this hotel delivers on every level. Highly recommended.
The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk to downtown Seattle and minutes away from public transit, making it super convenient for exploring the city. The room was spacious with a smart layout, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a great night’s sleep. The bathroom features a well-designed separation between wet and dry areas, which is such a practical touch. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Overall, this place offers excellent value for money—highly recommend for anyone visiting Seattle.
Staying at Staypineapple Hotel Five in downtown Seattle was a fantastic experience. Despite its compact size, the hotel’s location is unbeatable—walking distance to the Space Needle and other top attractions makes exploring the city effortless. From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere felt welcoming and comfortable. The pineapple-themed design elements and modern interior decor added a fun, vibrant touch that made the space feel joyful and unique. I also appreciated the nearby large parking lot, which offered significantly lower rates than the hotel’s own garage—great for travelers driving their own cars. Overall, it’s a well-designed, convenient, and stylish stay with excellent value, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle.
Staying at the Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Pioneer Square was an absolute pleasure! We arrived earlier than check-in time, but the front desk team happily accommodated us with early check-in—no hassle at all. The checkout process was just as smooth and efficient. Our room was spotless, well-maintained, and comfortably furnished. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of downtown, steps away from Pioneer Square, shopping, dining, and major attractions. Walking to the waterfront or public transit was a breeze. This hotel offers excellent value for the quality and convenience. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to any traveler visiting Seattle.
I stayed at Staypineapple-Watertown Hotel in the University District, Seattle, and was thoroughly impressed. The room was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—minimalist but functional with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. While basic toiletries like toothbrushes and toothpaste weren’t provided (which I actually appreciate for hygiene and sustainability), the room came equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker—perfect for grabbing a quick snack or brewing a morning brew. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk to the University of Washington campus, and within easy reach of local restaurants, cafes, and shopping spots. Public transit is convenient too—getting around the city is a breeze. It’s a great choice for students, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a no-frills yet stylish stay in a vibrant neighborhood. Highly recommend!
Absolutely perfect stay from start to finish! The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to help. My room was stylish, clean, and incredibly comfortable with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The location is fantastic, just steps away from downtown Seattle’s best spots. Breakfast was delicious and varied—fresh pastries, local coffee, and healthy options. I loved the unique vibe of the hotel; it feels like a cool hangout spot rather than just a place to sleep. Every detail was thoughtfully done. Would book again in a heartbeat and highly recommend to anyone visiting Seattle.
I chose to stay near the University of Washington because I’d heard the downtown area isn’t the safest, and honestly, this was one of my best decisions. The College Inn Hotel feels just like a college dorm from an American TV show—clean, cozy, and full of charm. The European-style decor adds a nice touch, and it’s super convenient for exploring campus and nearby spots. The only thing to note is that our luggage was quite bulky, and without an elevator, carrying it up the stairs was a bit of a challenge—definitely need some stamina! But overall, the experience was fantastic. Great value, excellent location, and a really welcoming vibe. I’d definitely book here again.
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Space Needle, Seattle Center, and other major attractions. You can easily explore the city on foot without needing to rely on transportation. While the hotel isn’t brand new, it’s been well-maintained with a clean, inviting atmosphere and a unique, stylish vibe that gives it character. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay—always smiling, ready to assist, and making us feel welcome. It’s clear they take pride in their guest experience. Comfortable rooms, thoughtful touches, and a central spot in one of Seattle’s most vibrant areas make this a top choice. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle who wants convenience, charm, and great service.
Staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Seattle Center was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a 10- to 15-minute walk to the Space Needle, with a safe and quiet neighborhood that made evening strolls enjoyable. A large supermarket is within steps, offering everything you’d need, and within a 1-kilometer radius, I even spotted the Gates Foundation and the Discovery Center—both well-known institutions that added extra charm to the area. What truly stood out was the front desk staff: every single one, regardless of background, was friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful. When I expressed concern about potential noise from an air conditioning unit outside my window, they immediately offered to switch me to a quieter room without hesitation. That kind of service goes above and beyond. This hotel delivers comfort, convenience, and exceptional hospitality—highly recommend for any traveler visiting Seattle.
The cleanliness has definitely improved—clearly some thoughtful updates were made based on guest feedback. Breakfast was refreshed with small daily variations, so it never felt repetitive and the options were fresh and satisfying. The room amenities are well-maintained and comfortable, making for a relaxing stay. Location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass, perfect for exploring downtown Seattle. Easy access to public transit and nearby attractions makes this hotel a top pick. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
The staff at the front desk were incredibly welcoming and made our stay feel so warm and personal. I’d absolutely stay here again—location is perfect for exploring downtown Seattle, with everything within easy walking distance. The room was adorable, spotlessly clean, and had such a cozy, modern vibe. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the cleanliness stood out. It’s rare to find such a charming hotel with such great value. If you’re visiting Seattle, this is a top pick—I’ll be back!
Staying at Hotel Max was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a 5-minute walk from the metro station, making it super easy to explore downtown Seattle or nearby attractions. The bed was spacious and comfortable, perfect for one person to stretch out freely without feeling cramped. The room felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice balance of modern touches and cozy comfort. Staff were friendly and helpful, adding to the overall great experience. For the price and quality, this hotel offers amazing value. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle.
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