Seattle Parks – The Best Green Spaces and Attractions

Seattle parks are havens of green space, the kind of parks that visitors love. In this article. When looking for the best things to do in Seattle, we’ve rounded up the best green spaces and outdoor attractions all over the city for you to enjoy the next time you need a breath of fresh air.

Top Parks to Visit in Seattle

Go ahead, step outside. Whether you’re looking for some green space to explore, these are the top parks to visit in and around Seattle.

Discovery Park – Seattle’s Largest Green Space

Discovery Park spans 534 acres, holding the distinct honor of being Seattle's largest park. This jewel of the city offers stunning views overlooking majestic Puget Sound and the sprawling Olympic Mountains. Breathtaking? You bet. More than just a place of postcard-worthy natural beauty, it holds true to its name, offering visitors a whole new world to discover.

Discovery Park happens to be a hub of activity. Whether you’re looking to lounge on its beach, explore the trails, take in the views of Puget sound, or simply stroll along the waterfront, you'll see that there's lots to do here.

💡 Fun fact: Discovery Park celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. Cheers to many more!

Gas Works Park – Industrial History Meets Nature

Gas Works Park seems like an unlikely spot to bring the kids for an afternoon. After all, this urban park is located on the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company. Like a dystopian novel, the ruins of the U.S.’s last coal gasification plant in the United States serving as the backdrop.

In 1962, the grounds were purchased by the city. The area was later converted into a park that opened to the public in 1975. While some of the plant’s structures have been left as-is, others have been restored and transformed into a type of “barn” for curious children to explore.

Despite its industrial setting, Gas Works Park is enveloped by green space, making it a popular spot for picnics and kite flying. The views are quite a sight to see, too: overlooking Lake Union, Gas Works Park is a great park to visit if you want to experience all that nature has to offer without straying too far from an urban setting.

Kerry Park – Iconic Views of Seattle

Kerry Park is, without a doubt, one of the most photographed spots in all of Seattle. Though it’s a small park, it’s one with a big reputation. In fact, the skyline as seen from this park is often used as an establishing shot in TV shows and movies (Frasier, anyone?).

With its impressive cityscape views, with the snow-capped peak of Mount Rainier off in the distance, this park is a must-visit for any newcomers to Seattle.

If you want that perfect shot of the skyline—with the Space Needle in full view—hike up Queen Anne Hill, and you won’t be disappointed.

A word to the wise: It can get a little crowded at sunset, so plan accordingly, or visit off hours if you want the views all to yourself.

Green Lake Park – A Recreational Hub

Green Lake Park is one of the most beloved parks in all of Seattle. Its main attraction, the eponymous Green Lake, welcomes a wide range of recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

There’s tons of fun to be had around the lake too: a 2.8-mile-long trail bordering its shores is a favorite path among walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

Because it’s located in the heart of an urban neighborhood, Green Lake Park is a community hub—people from all over town come here to enjoy all it has to offer. If an afternoon spent outdoors is what you want, this inviting park delivers.

Volunteer Park – Cultural and Historical Charm

Volunteer Park is well-located in the heart of the city. More than a park, it’s the location of two main attractions in the Seattle: the Volunteer Park Conservatory botanical park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. You can’t miss the museum—it’s the big Art Deco building among the trees. It’s home to an extensive art collection.

Parks with Unique Attractions

These Seattle parks’ unique attractions make them one-of-a-kind locales just waiting to be explore.

Washington Park Arboretum – A Botanical Haven

Washington Park Arboretum sits along the shores of Lake Washington, and is a botanical garden like none other. Its 230 acres are brimming with over 4,000 rare, exotic plant species that you won’t find anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring this botanical haven.

Olympic Sculpture Park – Where Art Meets Nature

Olympic Sculpture Park merges the sophisticated world of art with the untamed beauty of nature. Operated by the Seattle Art Museum, the park features a stunning array of contemporary statues and carvings along the 9-acre waterfront. It’s open all day and year-round. Love an affordable activity? Admission is free.

If you want to get up close and personal with some mighty artworks along the Seattle waterfront, there's no better place in town to do it.

Alki Beach Park – A Waterfront Retreat

You might recognize Alki Beach Park from its role in “Sleepless in Seattle,” when Meg Ryan’s character Annie watches Sam (Tom Hanks) and his son play on the beach before they drift off in their motorboat.

Fame hasn’t gotten to Alki Beach Park’s head—it remains an idllyic gathering place for Seattleites and tourists looking to rent a stand-up paddleboard, go kayaking, or stroll along its two-mile-long beach. As one of the city’s most beloved waterfronts, you’ll find plenty of space to do as you please here, whether that’s havinge a picnic, playing volleyball, or cozying up alongside one of the spot’s fire pits.

Family-Friendly Parks in Seattle

Seattle is home to many family-friendly parks, with plenty of space for fun activities that everyone can enjoy. Here are a few standouts.

Seward Park – Forest and Lake Adventures

Seward Park is located in the neighborhood of the same name. The park spans roughly 300 acres, and covers the entirety of the Bailey Peninsula. There’s a parking lot here, so you can drive up at your leisure and explore everything Seward Park has to offer.

In addition to its amphitheater, winding forest hiking trails, and old-growth forest, birdwatchers enjoy coming here as they try to spot eagles’ nests—which are in no short supply on the island. If you love jogging or long-distance running, the lakefront trail offers amazing views while you work on your pace.

Magnuson Park – A Playground for All Ages

Magnuson Park is Seattle’s second largest park and makes use of its space by giving visitors plenty to do. Perhaps what it’s best known for is its four miles of walking trails that border breathtaking Lake Washington.

Not just any park, a visit to Magnuson Park is like a trip to the museum. It’s the site of numerous brick and metal structures that were installed in the 1930s and 1940s. Fitting, considering the park was once a Naval airfield during times of war.

Beyond being a park rooted in history, today, Magnuson Park is a great place for family activities in Seattle and is also dog-friendly. With so much space to roam and play, a day spent here is sure to be a day well spent.

Myrtle Edwards Park – Waterfront Strolls

Myrtle Edwards Park is an idyllic spot for taking waterfront strolls. The park’s 1.25-mile-long pedestrian and bike path borders Elliot Bay, offering snapshot-worthy views of the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. Part of what makes it so popular is just how easy it is to get to from downtown. If you’re looking to escape the city for an afternoon and see all the natural beauty Seattle has to offer, Myrtle Edwards Park has your name on it.

Exploring Hidden Gems

Off the beaten path, and into the wild. Seattle’s hidden gems are sure to make your trip to the city memorable as can be.

Carkeek Park – Nature and Wildlife

Carkeek Park features six miles of trails that run deep into its lush forests, along the creeks, meadows, and wetlands found here. As you explore the park’s natural beauty, you might even encounter a beaver bond.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Carkeek Park features diverse habitats that all sorts of critters and wildlife call home. Not only is it a favorite spot among ornithologists, but visitors venture here for the salmon run. The park’s numerous creeks fill with salmon travelling upstream just in time for mating season.

For little ones, there are playgrounds, picnic areas, shelters, beach access. Oh, and have we mentioned you’ll see spectacular views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains? It’s all here at this hidden gem.

Jefferson Park – Scenic Views and Community Vibes

At first, Jefferson Park is a public park. But it’s actually so much more. Its 137.4 acres of sprawling land is ideal for pedestrians, skateboarders, even golfers—anyone from the community is sure to find something to do here. Beyond that, Jefferson Park offers scenic views of the Seattle skyline, making it a great spot to spend your weekends enjoying the view and vibes.

Tips for Visiting Seattle Parks

Seattle parks have something for everyone—the outdoor explorer, dog lovers, families with little kids, you name it.

Plan your visit around the weather

Seattle’s climate is hard to predict. Summer is the best time to visit if you’re looking to spend your days outdoors by the water, having a picnic, or tossing around a football. If cooler weather is your thing, be sure pack extra layers and rain gear.

Check park hours and accessibility

Most Seattle parks are accessible year-round, but opening hours can vary. Be sure to consult the a park’s website ahead of your visit so you're not left disappointed upon arrival.

Pack the essentials

Especially if the weather is scorching hot, make sure you have enough water, sunscreen, and snacks. If you’re planning to hike, keep a map handy so you don’t get lost on your journey.

Respect and know your surroundings

Pay attention to park signs and keep an eye out for wildlife. If you're exploring remote areas, let someone know your plans and always keep a basic first-aid kit in your backpack.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Parks

What are the largest parks in Seattle?

Seattle is home to many sprawling parks, but at 500 acres in size, Discovery Park tops the list. It’s a rich landscape featuring lush forests, mountain views, and a lake. If you’re a fan of outdoor settings, it’s a must-visit park.

Are there any dog-friendly parks in Seattle?

Yes! There are many dog-friendly parks in and around Seattle. While most kindly request that you keep your four-legged friend on leash, there are several off-leash areas (OLAs) popping up in and around Seattle worth looking into.

Are there any parks in Seattle with skyline views?

Perhaps one of the most iconic views of the Seattle skyline can be found at Kerry Park. Hike up Queen Anne Hill and cozy up to the viewpoint where you’ll find a breathtaking view of the cityscape, with Mount Rainier off in the distance. Gas Works Park is another favorite offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Union.

What parks in Seattle are accessible?

Seattle has made efforts to ensure many parks are accessible. Discovery Park offers ADA-accessible trails like the Wolf Tree Nature Trail, and Seward Park has paved paths that are wheelchair-friendly. Additionally, Magnuson Park and Alki Beach Park provide accessible features, including parking and restrooms, for an inclusive experience.

Discover Seattle’s Best Parks

Seattle is know better than anyone: the magic of this city has a lot to do with its outdoor space. Whether you’re hiking along lush trails, biking along winding paths, or soaking up the Seattle scenery on a picnic blanket, there’s really no shortage of ways to connect with nature in this city.

Why let your adventuring end as the sun sets? After a day spent exploring the outside, head indoors—we’ll save you a seat.

Check out one of our shows in Seattle! With jaw-dropping, dizzying acrobatics, our stage is a source of beauty rivalled only by the city’s natural scenery and architectural feats. We’d say an evening at the circus is the perfect way to end your day in Seattle—so join us, and let your imagination soar as high as the Pacific Northwest peaks.