Seattle Parks and Outdoor Activities

Whether you're interested in seeing a spectacular sunset, snapping a shot of the Space Needle, soaking in the sea spume, or sauntering through Seattle's scenic sites, you'll find all you want and more in the Seattle parks. Exploring the vast acres of Seattle parks, packing a picnic, and swimming in the parks with your pooch are just a few of the great option available to park goers. Get out your sunscreen, an extra layer, and some water—your Seattle parks adventure is about to begin.

Best Seattle Parks for Sunsets

Seattle has amazing views at sunset in many parks. Be sure to bring your camera and fast lens, because you'll want to remember the amazing views. Visit Kerry Park for the most picturesque view of the Space Needle. During the day, you'll have a clear view of the Space Needle with the Seattle cityscape in the background. At sunset, you'll observe a bright light on Mount Rainer and gorgeous array of crimson colored sky behind the needle. Kerry Park is one of the most picturesque of Seattle Parks.

For a more natural sunset without the buildings and cityscape obstructing the view, visit Golden Gardens Park, a beach paradise park. During the day, stroll along the beach and let the sand slip through your toes. Pack a small picnic and some drinks so you can relax and watch the small waves wash up on shore while snacking and sipping your favorite beverage. At night, the western sky explodes into a bright orange glow—making this one of the best views and parks in all of Seattle.

Best Seattle Parks with Beaches

Many Seattle parks have beaches, lakes and ponds. Golden Gardens Park, as mentioned before, has fantastic beaches for all ages. In the early morning, joggers and elderly couples pass through the park and along the beach. During the day, families and kids build elaborate sandcastles and splash in the sea. After dark, teenagers huddle around bonfires to the wee hours of morning. Golden Garden Park has something for everyone.

Madrona Park Beach on a shore along Lake Washington serves as a great daytime beach. Relax on the grassy, green hills and play in the water. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch!

Best Seattle Parks for Sports

Carkeek Park, a favorite among many Seattle natives, takes up a huge area and offers something for any active person. Visitors can hike along the miles of trails or play on one of many recreation fields. Carkeek Park also offers great views of Puget Sound. Be sure to bring good shoes and an extra layer if you plan on extensive explorations!

Lincoln Park also offers great hiking areas and a great open beach. Not too far from downtown, Lincoln Park has the amenities of any great park, playgrounds, BBQ pits, trees and fields. If you forget a lunch, don't worry; you'll find many great restaurants in the surrounding area.

Best Seattle Parks for Relaxation

You'll find many great relaxing nooks in Seattle Parks. Some parks tend to be quieter than others, though. If you'd like to slip away from the world for a while, read a book and revel in the natural world, visit some of the gorgeous garden parks in Seattle. Visit Washington Park Arboretum, a nature reserve and wildlife park, to slip away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the over 230 acres by canoe or foot. Home to over 4,000 species of plants, scrubs and trees, you're sure to find beautiful nature to observe.

The Japanese Garden inside Washington Park Arboretum boasts an authentic, 3½ -acre, formal Japanese garden. As you wander along the intricate system of paths or lounge beneath the blooming cherry trees in spring, you'll feel as though you've been transported across the Pacific Ocean.

Best Seattle Parks for Kids

As mentioned earlier, Carkeek Park offers great activities for people of all ages. Park patrons can play in the waves, build sand castles, or go for a nice walk through the rest of the park.

For great playgrounds and green grass, take your kids to Cal Anderson Park. The city renovates the large playground often and takes good care of the grass. Let the kids explore the playground area and socialize with other youngsters or bring sport gear for playing on the grass.

Best Seattle Parks for Dogs

For the most part, Seattle parks are dog friendly. Most dog lovers prefer to bring their pooches to Warren G. Magnuson Park, which has over 9 acres of areas to run as well as an area for small, shy pups. At Magnuson Park, you and your dog can also play in the water. Other dog-friendly options are Dr. Jose Rizal Park, Genesee Park and Playfield, Golden Gardens Park, Northacres Park, Plymouth Pillars Park, Regrade Park, Sam Smith Park, Westcrest Park and Woodland Park. As you can see, dogs are welcome throughout the city.

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