Frequently Asked Questions

Show Gardens / Garden Video / Seminars / Exhibitors / Features / FAQ


Need help finding other information? Peruse the Frequently Asked Questions below or visit our Table of Contents.

What are the dates and hours of the show?
Where can I purchase tickets and how much are they?
What is the best way to get to the show?
Are there hotels near the show and do they offer special show rates?
Can I go in and out of the show during the day?
Do tickets allow multiple entries over a few days?
How do you purchase tickets for the Preview Party?
What are the dates of the 2001 show?
Is photography allowed (still and video)? In the seminars?
What is the most comfortable time to attend the show?
Are strollers allowed at the show?
What dining options are there at the show?
Is the Convention Center handicapped accessible?
If I live in Canada, how can I purchase plants and take them home?
Is there a place to leave plants and other purchases during the day?
Are advance reservations or tickets available for the seminars?
How can I get more information about attending or exhibiting at the show?


What are the dates and hours of the show?
Feb. 2-6, Wed.-Sat. 9am to 9:30pm, Sun. 9am to 7pm

Where can I purchase tickets and how much are they?
Visit our Tickets page for information about purchasing tickets next fall. Prices for 2000 are: $14.50 Regular price (Feb. 2-6), $12.50 Advance (through Feb. 1) and Evenings (Feb. 2-6, 5-9:30 p.m.), and $11.50 Group (20 or more tickets).

What is the best way to get to the show?
For directions, parking information, and other transportation options, visit our Transportation page. Be sure to make note of the convenient show shuttle, which saves the money and stress of parking downtown.

Are there hotels near the show and do they offer special show rates?
Yes, there are a number of hotels near the Convention Center that offer a discounted show rate. In addition, there are five hotels offering special Flower Show Packages. Visit our Hotels page for a list of participating hotels and rates.

Can I go in and out of the show during the day?
Yes, if you get your hand stamped before you leave. Hand stampers are located at the main exit on the fourth floor.

Do tickets allow multiple entries over a few days?
No, tickets are good for one day only.

How do you purchase tickets for the Preview Party?
You can purchase tickets by contacting the Arboretum Foundation at 206-325-4510. Visit our Preview Party page for more information.

What are the dates of the 2001 show?
February 7-11, 2001, at the Washington State Convention Center

Is photography allowed (still and video)? In the seminars?
In the garden and other main exhibit areas, both still and video photography are allowed. In the seminars, only still photography is allowed.


What is the most comfortable time to attend the show?
The most comfortable times to see the show are weekdays and evenings (after 3pm).

Are strollers allowed at the show?
Strollers are allowed, but discouraged. It can be difficult to navigate through the show during peak hours with your stroller, and it can be troublesome to other visitors. A child backpack is preferable. If you bring your stroller and decide not to use it, you may check it for free at the Will Call booth near the show entrance on the 4th floor.

What dining options are there at the show?
There is a large cafe with a variety of food and beverages and lots of seating on the 6th floor. If you chose to leave the show, there are many restaurants in and around the Convention Center (just be sure to get your hand stamped before you leave!).

Is the Convention Center handicapped accessible? Are there wheelchairs available to rent? Is there a way to bypass the long lines for those who have trouble standing? Where is there handicapped parking?
The Convention Center is handicap accessible with parking available in the main garage. They should be able to accommodate you even if it says the garage is full. The Convention Center does not have wheelchairs available, so if you need one you should bring your own. Keep in mind that it can be difficult to navigate through the show during peak hours, 9am to 3pm, especially on the weekend. There is an elevator available for those who need it just beyond and to the right of the escalators.

If I live in Canada, how can I purchase plants and take them home?
The Washington State Dept. of Agriculture and United States Department of Agriculture will be on hand to inspect and approve plants for transport to Canada. They are located in the Plant Market and will be present between 11:00a.m. and 6:00p.m. to do inspections and issue Phytosanitary certification and CITES validation for a small fee (U.S. funds only).

Is there a place to leave plants and other purchases during the day?
Yes! There is a free package check located in the main fourth floor lobby underneath the grand staircase near the information booth.

Are advance reservations or tickets available for the seminars?
Seminars are strictly on a first come first served basis. Many do fill quickly, so be prepared to arrive at least 30 minutes early for popular speakers. Be sure to check out the complete Seminar schedule and plan ahead!

How can I get more information about attending or exhibiting at the show?
Click here to request more information about attending, exhibiting in a booth (educational or commercial), creating a garden, or participating in any other part of the show.