Unique and inspiring strolling gardens, fascinating artifacts and photos showcasing local history, historic buildings and an aviary are all in one idyllic setting at Soos Creek Botanical Garden & Heritage Center, 29308 132nd Ave. SE, in Auburn.

The new season to tour the center begins Wednesday, April 4.

Located on 22 idyllic acres, the gardens include rare perennials, native woodlands, meadows and a pond garden. Stroll the gardens and see sculptures on display from Green River College. Visit the Master Gardener Growing Groceries Demonstration Garden and the historic barns, built in the 1940s. Hike down to Soos Creek and look for the many Eagle Scout projects along the way. Along Soos Creek one will find more than 5 acres preserved just as the director’s great-grandfather found them when he purchased the land in 1891.

Visit the Heritage Center and see rare artifacts used by local pioneers at home and work, including an 1890s horse buggy. View photos and maps of the 70-square-mile Upper Soos Creek Plateau that date to the mid-19th century.

Red Barn Programs are presented on the third Wednesday of each month; workshops covering a variety of topics are also held periodically.

The garden-center is a non-profit organization. It is free to enter; donations are appreciated.

For further information, find the garden-center on Facebook, visit sooscreekbotanicalgarden.org, email info@sooscreekbotanicalgarden.org or call 253-639-0949.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.