PARK your ass - A Guide to Seattle's Parks

Alki

Seattle’s only excuse for a beach, Alki feels as if you’ve stepped out of the Seattle rain and into the California sun. Located in West Seattle (a fairly quick drive from downtown), Alki hosts a sandy beach, volleyball courts, and a “boardwalk” perfect for running, cycling, or my personal favorite, roller blading.

If the sun is out you can guarantee this place will be busy. Don’t bother driving over if you can, try taking the water taxi from downtown and simply walking down the boardwalk. Cactus one of my favorite restaurants in the city, is located right at the end of the park; a perfect place to relax after a day out in the sun.

Counterbalance

Recently opened at the bottom of Queen Anne Hill, Counterbalance Park is a beautiful little corner park perfect for a coffee break or a quick moment to re-energize. Surprisingly enough, not too many know this park even exists though it’s located at a popular intersection.

Come here in the evening so you can experience the changing lights (as pictured above). It’s a very quaint park, so there isn’t much more to do other than take a quick moment to relax or enjoy a quick snack before continuing on with the rest of your day.

Gas Works

Gasworks is yet another wonderful place to soak in the views of Seattle. Located in between the UDistrict and Fremont, Gasworks is a wide open space predominately known for it’s abandoned tank structures.

From the top of the hill located at the park (a quick little hike up, if you can even call it that), Gasworks boasts an incredible view of the Seattle skyline. Each 4th of July Gasworks hosts a fireworks show, but you’ll need to get there early if you want to stand a chance to get a spot.

Magnuson

For all you dog lovers out there, Magnuson Park is for you. Formerly an old military compound, Magnuson Park is home to many things: a boat launch, beach, playfields, and of course, one of the largest dog parks in the city. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Magnuson is a great place to be.

For me, I love Magnuson because I’m a huge dog lover. I have yet to experience a larger dog park, or dog beach for that matter, and since I’m canine free myself, I enjoy watching others have a good time.

Olympic Sculpture Park

If you’re looking for outdoor art look no further than the Olympic Sculpture Park. Located right on the waterfront, the Sculpture Park is a wonderful space for relaxing and soaking up the incredible views that Seattle has to offer.

I personally enjoy the Sculpture Park because of it’s proximity to the water as well as the views from all angles of the park. If you’re like me, you’d enjoy coming to the park towards the late afternoon to take in the sun setting over the Olympics.

Cal Anderson

Cal Anderson Park is a fairly recent addition to the city located just one block from Broadway – the heart of Capital Hill. The main focal point is the water feature in the middle of the park, but many come here to relax on the grass, soak up some rays, and to do one of Seattle’s favorite hobbies: people watching.

I love Cal Anderson for its proximity to everything. It’s so nice to be able to walk down the street and grab a quick bite with friends before spending a day on the lawn checking out the eye candy making way through the park.

Cal Anderson feels best when it’s busy (yet not too busy), so don’t bother coming here in the dead of winter. I’d recommend leaving work early during the week to enjoy the sun before continuing on to your evening festivities.

Discovery

On the westside of Magnolia (read: a quick jaunt from downtown), Discovery Park is great for so many different outdoor activities: running, hiking, cycling, frisbee, enjoying the beach, and the list goes on.

I personally enjoy going to Discovery when I feel like taking my running off of the streets of Seattle and into the countryside. Discovery is big enough that I never get bored running down the same strip.

Though Discovery Park is larger than life, try avoiding a trip here during the weekends. Unless of course, you enjoy strollers and dogs.

Kerry

Even if you’re not from Seattle, you’ll surely enjoy Kerry Park. Located off Highland Drive on the top of Queen Anne, Kerry Park is the most iconic viewpoint for our Seattle skyline. Because of it’s breathtaking and picturesque view, it is almost certain you’re destined to stumble across a photographer or camera crew when you stop by.

I love Kerry Park for its incredible view, and the serenity that is felt from the viewpoint. Not only is it easy on the eyes, but the location is considered very romantic. If ever anyone is on the fence about whether or not they like Seattle, Kerry Park will certainly sway them back.