Kruckeberg Botanic Garden

Kruckeberg Botanic Garden in Shoreline is a four-acre garden of native and rare plants with picnic spots, a children's play garden, nursery browsing, and an ADA boardwalk. Admission is free with a suggested donation of about $5 per person.

Hours are Thursday through Sunday (about 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March through October; shorter winter hours). Leashed dogs are welcome, which helps when the outing has to include the family dog.

Keep expectations to a gentle garden wander rather than a theme-park day. Bring a small picnic and let kids lead in the play garden while adults enjoy the plant geekery.