These are the most iconic city parks in Seattle.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Seattle resident, these are the Seattle parks that need to be on your bucket list. Each park has something special to offer: peaceful woodland trails, sandy beaches, stunning city views, children’s playgrounds, and hidden gardens are just a few of the attractions you’ll find. And once you’ve visited these, be sure to check out our picks for the most underrated parks in Seattle!
Here are the top 10 parks in Seattle to explore:
1. Discovery Park
At 534 acres, Discovery Park in Magnolia is the largest park in Seattle! The variety of nature here is huge as well. In one day you can explore a beach, forest trails, wide-open meadows, and bluffs with a scenic view of Puget Sound and distant mountains. If you’re coming here with kids, they’ll enjoy the playground (there’s a zip line!) and the tidal pools at low tide.
📍3801 Discovery Park Blvd
2. Waterfront Park
Seattle’s downtown waterfront area has been revitalized in recent years thanks to projects such as the newly-opened Overlook Walk (pictured above). One such improvement is the makeover of Pier 58 which is now called Waterfront Park. It is due to officially open in 2025. Ultimately the park will feature a marine-themed playground, a seating area with tables and tree shade, and a plaza where free events and programming will take place. And, of course, the waterfront park will have a stunning view of Elliott Bay and the Olympic mountain range—which you can also view from the Overlook Walk. And now it’s easier than ever to visit iconic downtown attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium while you’re there, thanks to the connecting pedestrian walkway.
📍1401 Alaskan Wy
3. Seward Park
Seward Park is a 300-acre park located in the Seattle neighborhood of the same name. It sits on a peninsula that juts into Lake Washington. You can jog or stroll the pathways while winding through forested areas and enjoying peaceful views of the lake and Mount Rainier. It’s especially gorgeous during cherry blossom season. This park also has a playground with a zip line for kiddos.
📍 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S
4. Lincoln Park
West Seattleites know about this gem. Lincoln Park in West Seattle features 135 acres of lush forest trails and scenic Puget Sound beaches. One of the coolest attractions at Lincoln Park is the heated saltwater pool that you must visit if you’re there in the summer months.
📍8011 Fauntleroy Wy SW
5. Alki Beach Park
Alki Beach Park in West Seattle was made famous by the 1993 film Sleepless in Seattle. Here you’ll find one of Seattle’s only sandy beaches, seasonal fire pits, volleyball courts, a wide paved walkway, and views of Puget Sound and the Olympic mountains.
📍2665 Alki Ave SW
6. Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill is a stunning 48-acre park that has several unique attractions nestled inside. The Seattle Asian Art Museum and Volunteer Park Conservatory are both free to visit on First Thursdays, and the Volunteer Park Water Tower is always free and open to the public. The latter is a hidden gem with a surprise 360-view of Seattle at the top. We also love visiting the nearby Volunteer Park Cafe & Pantry for coffee and yummy food.
📍1247 15th Ave E
7. Green Lake Park
Swimming, kayaking, and paddle boating on Green Lake are all popular summer activities in Seattle. If it’s too chilly for a dip, the paved path around the lake is approximately three miles—more than enough for a short workout that’s particularly scenic in the fall.
📍 7201 East Green Lake Dr N
8. Washington Park Arboretum
Hidden on the shores of Lake Washington in the Madison Park neighborhood, the Arboretum has 230 acres packed with trees and plants. Bike or stroll through the large swath of nature and enjoy the scenery of each changing season. Pro tip: The Japanese Garden at the south end has an entrance fee but it’s worth it, especially in fall and spring—or you can visit for free on First Thursdays.
📍2300 Arboterum Drive East, Madison Park
9. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park in Wallingford is another Seattle park that got the Hollywood treatment in 10 Things I Hate About You. This former gasification plant is now a popular picnic area, especially on warm days. Fly a kite, do some yoga, or just sit and enjoy the sunlight while looking out at the boats on Lake Union and a striking view of the city.
📍2101 N Northlake Way
10. Golden Gardens Park
Your body, mind and soul are asking for a beach day? Golden Gardens in Ballard is the only other park in Seattle that has a sandy beach (be prepared for that cold Puget Sound water though!). In addition to the scenic waterfront you’ll find forest trails, an off-leash dog park, volleyball courts, and picnic tables.
📍 8499 Seaview Place NW
Featured image from Shutterstock.