Lakewold Gardens invites you to walk through a series of masterfully designed botanical sanctuaries that blend formal European garden design with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The public gardens are located within an historic 10-acre estate along the shores of Gravelly Lake. What began as a private, humble summer retreat has evolved into a year-round destination that welcomes visitors. With nearby freeway access, the gardens are closer than you might imagine.
What to Expect When You Visit Lakewold Gardens
If it’s been more than two years since you were there, you will discover the rerouted and more intentional entrance. Your immersive experience begins in the parking lot, where you are amidst second-growth forest. Continue to the sweet allée, a path under a growing canopy of tree limbs that will become fuller and more beautiful over time. More plants have been added along the way. The picturesque blooms and setting suggest jumping into the pastel-colored chalk sidewalk pictures in ‘Mary Poppins.’ Colors abound, and magic is just around the corner.
“Plants are like paints. Lakewold Gardens is creating spaces to gather and refresh,” says Justin Henderson, Executive Director and Lead Horticulturalist. He joined the Lakewold team two years ago, with restored vision and energy. This is evidenced by a variety of new plants with designs that flow along the pathways, bringing you into a world of quiet joy. “Now we are introducing summer colors to welcome another season,” explains Henderson. Lakewold was originally imagined as a spring garden. Soils are being amended to existing beds to invigorate the plants. On the day of my visit, the boxwoods and other shrubs were looking bushy and vibrant.
Major renovations have been underway in the Wagner House, a 7000 sq. ft. mansion, including a new cedar roof. Old, unsightly carpets were removed to reveal wooden floors that have been refinished. Walls have been repaired and painted. The home is being populated with French provincial and local antiques that bring to mind its former looks. Large windows offer delightful views onto the gardens.
Lakewold Gardens’ History Includes Families, Flowers and Fun
In 1908, Emma Alexander established a summer cabin on a 5-acre property. Her son H.F. Alexander and his wife Ruth bought the adjacent lot, doubling the size of the estate, and built the grand (now historic) house. The gardens gained local fame for beauty.
The property changed hands in 1925 with the purchase by Major Everett Griggs and his wife Grace. They named it ‘Lakewold,’ which means ‘lake-wood’ in Middle English. Ownership changed again in 1937 when G. Corydon and Eulalie Merrill Wagner purchased the acreage. They remodeled the main home into a Georgian-style mansion. Noteworthy is their hire of architect Thomas Church, who was to design new ‘garden rooms’ that would blend formal architecture with Pacific Northwest nature.
Eulalie began an extensive collection of rare plants that included rhododendrons, Japanese maples, and a massive dawn redwood. The intentionally situated gardens give strollers unique experiences in each one. Eulalie donated the estate to the specially formed non-profit Friends of Lakewold, which would protect the property for public enjoyment. In 2002, the City of Lakewood designated it an historic landmark. Lakewold has created a history of hosting educational programs, art exhibits, and community events. The property is also an exceptional venue for weddings and other private occasions.
The Lakewold Stroll Experience
Lakewold Gardens is not huge, and yet there is plenty to see. It’s a sensory experience marked by gravel crunching underfoot, towering old-growth canopies, and framed water views of the lake and Mt Rainier.
The Thomas Church Brick Walk is lined with boxwood hedges. At the far end of the lawn is the lattice teahouse with seating for quiet contemplation. “The teahouse is an oasis from everyday life,” says Henderson.
Off to one side of the main lawn is the famous quatrefoil pool. It’s four lobed shape invited former family members to take a dip. It is surrounded by white and pink rhododendrons, weeping Japanese maples, and a stone Lion Fountain. The scene captures Mid-century modern with a touch of classical romance.
The Shade Garden & Wolf Tree
As you transition away from the open lawns, the garden path winds underneath the Wolf Tree. The massive, ancient Douglas fir with gnarly, sprawling branches was once a play place for children. Thomas Church chose not to remove or change its unusual shape but to make it the centerpiece. It shelters a shade garden for delicate shade-loving flora. Climbing is not allowed, but the tree is great for photography.
The Gravelly Lake Overlook & Woodland Paths
The final transition takes you along the winding pathways that hug the shores of Gravelly Lake. Stone lanterns, mossy logs, and natural streams give this area a tranquil, Japanese-inspired aesthetic. Sit a moment and listen to wind rustling through the fir needles.
Lakewold Gardens keeps a calendar of events that appeal to families, the community, and people of all ages. There are opportunities to volunteer. Lakewold can accept tools in good condition and certain plants. Please get details before your delivery.
Lakewold Gardens is open year-round: Wednesday – Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lakewold Gardens
12317 Gravelly Lake Drive SW, Lakewood
253.584.4106
