Wright Park Arboretum

Wright Park Arboretum is a 27-acre botanical garden in Tacoma that contains over 700 mature trees representing around 100 different native and exotic species across its grounds. The site includes walking trails, lawns, a pond, playgrounds, and basketball courts.

Charles Barstow Wright donated the initial 20 acres in 1886 with the requirement that the land serve only as a public park for Tacoma residents. The greenhouse was later constructed in 1907, further strengthening the site's focus on botanical collections.

The W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory displays rotating floral arrangements with hundreds of blooming plants and sculptures reflecting African traditions. Visitors can experience these changing installations as they move through the greenhouse.

The park offers freely accessible walking trails and open lawns year-round for exploring various tree species. Wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are gently rolling, and the best time to visit is during blooming seasons.

The greenhouse built in 1907 features a distinctive twelve-sided central dome with approximately 3,500 glass panes, an architectural detail many visitors overlook. The structure houses over 550 plant species and represents a remarkable engineering achievement from that era.

Location: Tacoma

Architects: E. O. Schwagerl

GPS coordinates: 47.26030,-122.44800

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11