Back To Nature in Seattle: The Essential Guide To Seattle’s Best Parks

Seattle is located in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest region of the United States, which puts it in the heart of some stellar nature. There are plenty of mind-blowing day trips you can take from the city, but there are also plenty of parks preserving and repurposing green spaces right here. For the best places to venture out in town on a sunny summer day, check out our essential guide to Seattle’s best parks.

Washington Park Arboretum UW Botanic Gardens

Set on the shores of Lake Washington, this arboretum and botanic garden is among the most memorable parks in Seattle. The 230-acre space is highlighted by an extensive collection of rare trees, and an expertly designed Japanese garden.

Washington Park Arboretum. 2300 Arboretum Dr. E

Discovery Park

The largest green space in all of Seattle, Discovery Park is a must-see for travelers visiting the city for the first time. The 534-acre space is set right on the shores of the Puget Sound, and features several miles of walking and biking trails to explore.

Discovery Park. 3801 Discovery Park Blvd.

Olympic Sculpture Park

For those looking to incorporate some art into their exploration of Seattle’s best parks, Olympic Sculpture Park is the place to go. Created and operated by the Seattle Art Museum, this free-for-all sculpture park features nine acres of outdoor artworks and beaches.

Olympic Sculpture Park. 2901 Western Ave.

Seward Park

Seward Park is a 300-acre park in Seattle with plenty to enjoy. Come here to lay out on the beach and get a tan, take a hike or walk on one of many trails and paths, or to take the kids to the playground. Located on Bailey Peninsula, the park has many different outlooks from which you can enjoy the majesty of Lake Washington.

Seward Park. 5900 Lake Washington Blvd.

Volunteer Park

Located in Seattle’s highly sought-after neighborhood of Capitol Hill, Volunteer Park is an eclectic space and designated landmark. Art and music lovers can come check out the conservatory located here, and the nearby Seattle Asian Art Museum.

Volunteer Park. 1247 15th Ave. E

Gas Works Park

Once the site of an oil plant, Gas Works Park has now become a gorgeous public park. The nearly twenty acres of green space feature picnic grounds, brilliant overlooks of the Seattle skyline, and fun events like dance parties and 5K runs.

Gas Works Park. 2101 N Northlake Way

Magnuson Park

This 350-acre park is also located on Lake Washington in the neighborhood of Sand Point. The second largest park in Seattle behind Discovery Park, it features beaches, walking trails, and events throughout the year. Adding some historical intrigue, it’s also located on the grounds of the former Naval Station for Puget Sound.

Magnuson Park. 7400 Sand Point Way NE

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is a beautiful space in West Seattle located right on the Puget Sound. At 135 acres, it is home to a number of attractions including tennis courts, baseball fields, a heated saltwater swimming pool, and beach.

Lincoln Park. 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW

Kerry Park

Those of you looking for a smaller, more intimate public park experience in Seattle should definitely visit Kerry Park. Located on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill, it is home to some of the best panoramic viewpoints of Seattle. Sunrise trips to Kerry Park are highly recommended.

Kerry Park. 211 W Highland Dr.

Golden Gardens Park

This public park in Ballard is another eclectic and spacious outdoor destination in Seattle. Come here to explore preserved wetlands, beaches, hiking trails, and playgrounds. The dog off-leash area is also a favorite attraction for canine lovers.

Golden Gardens Park. 8498 Seaview Pl NW

Discover More of Seattle

Explore the Emerald City with our insider’s guide online. Find our recommendations for the best Seattle experiences on the Pan Pacific blog!