Seattle's allure isn't just in its coffee shops or the iconic Space Needle. The soul of Seattle resides in its neighborhoods.

The City of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens jointly manage the arboretum. Activities in the arboretum include guided hourlong tours via tram and nonmotorized boating.

Inspired by the popular Seattle Reads, a “one book ... Witt Winter Garden at Washington Park Arboretum this month, and look for the large stand of mahonia at the north end of the garden.