Gas Works Park in Seattle

Seattle is a city packed full of parks waiting to be explored, and Gas Works park is one that cannot be forgotten. Gas Works was the first park that I visited after moving to Seattle, and I’ve been back many times since! In this blog I will talk about why I like visiting Gas Works park and help you to plan your time in Seattle.

The History of Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park in Seattle has a fascinating history that mirrors the industrial rise and transformation of the city. From the early 1900s until the mid-20th century, the plant produced gas by heating coal. This was then distributed to light the streets and homes of Seattle. This industrial facility played a crucial role in powering the city’s growth and development during the industrial era.

However, as the city evolved and technologies advanced, the coal gasification process became obsolete and the plant shut down in 1956. The site was left abandoned and contaminated. Then, in the 1960s, plans emerged to repurpose the site for other business ventures. However, these proposals faced strong opposition from environmentalists and community members who wanted to preserve the area and transform it into a public park.

In 1970, landscape architect Richard Haag won an international design competition with his plan to convert the area into a park for the people. Haag’s design retained many of the original structures, including the iconic gasification plant’s skeletal remains, which were repurposed as striking architectural features within the park. Gas Works Park in Seattle opened to the public in 1975 and has been a local favorite ever since.

Getting to Gas Works Park

Getting to this Seattle park is quite easy. Google and Apple maps have been extremely reliable when it comes to directing me to Gas Works. Parking at Gas Works Park is also very convenient. There is a large parking lot just north of Gas Works, and it’s not typically full. If you visit on a busy night like the 4th of July or New Years, you might have to take advantage of nearby street parking.

Click here for a link to directions to Gas Works Park.

Gas Works Park Seattle WA: The Most Unique City Park

Gas Works Park in Seattle WA shows the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in urban design. Opened to the public in 1975, the park integrates remnants of the gas plant’s industrial infrastructure with expansive green spaces and panoramic views of the city skyline. It is a great reminder that we can reclaim industrial spaces and turn them into something that the community can cherish for years.

As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter towering rusted structures, including the iconic Gas Works Tower, which once housed the gasification process. These industrial relics, now repurposed as climbing structures and observation points, serve as poignant reminders of the site’s industrial heritage, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the city’s past.

In contrast to the industrial remnants, lush meadows, picnic areas, and walking trails offer opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re flying kites on the expansive lawns, picnicking with friends and family, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, Gas Works Park provides a tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle.

Preserving History, Embracing Sustainability

Gas Works Park in Seattle WA is more than just a green space—it’s a testament to Seattle’s dedication to historic preservation and environmental stewardship. The park’s innovative design incorporates sustainable features such as biofiltration swales and wetlands, which help mitigate stormwater runoff and enhance habitat for native wildlife.

Furthermore, the park’s transformation from industrial wasteland to beloved public space serves as a model for adaptive reuse and urban renewal projects worldwide. By embracing the site’s industrial past and reimagining its future, Gas Works Park embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Seattle as a city.

If you’ve read any of my other blog posts about Seattle you may have already heard me say this, but the Seattle’s parks are one of the main reasons why I fell in love with this city. Gas Works stands as yet another reminder of how dedicated Seattle has been to preserving outdoor recreation, even within city limits.

Activities at Gas Works Park

Like many of the other parks in Seattle, Gas Works is filled with different activities for you to enjoy. From walking trails to sledding hills – this park has it all. Below is a list of my favorite activities to do at Gas Works park in Seattle.

1. Go for a walk on the walking trails. There is an expansive trail system that goes around the park, and it is a wonderful place to go for a long walk. You’ll see planes landing on Lake Union, families gathered enjoying nice weather, and birds roaming around. These trails are also ideal for a bike ride on a nice day!
2. Arrive on a snowy day and enjoy some of Seattles best sledding hills. It doesn’t snow often in Seattle, but when it does I head straight to Gas Works Park. The rolling mounds in this park make for the perfect sledding hills. Each hill is located far away from the trees, so you have long open spaces to sled down these hills in Seattle.
3. Have a picnic. The large grassy areas are perfect for picnics on a summer day. The only thing is that if you arrive on a nice day, expect a crowd. This is a very popular location for tourists and locals to visit.

Holidays at Gas Works Park

One thing that Gas Works is known for is it’s amazing views of downtown Seattle. There is a clear view from the park to the Space Needle, making this a great place to sit and watch Seattle firework shows. You’ll find hundereds of Seattle locals gathering at Gas Works on the 4th of July and New Years to watch this show. If you’re planning on catching the holiday views of Seattle from Gas Works park make sure you arrive early in order to get your spot!

Food Near Gas Works Park Seattle WA

Luckily, Gas Works is very close to the University District. This area holds some of my favorite restaurants and coffee shops in Seattle. I’ll start with some locations that are walking distance from the park, but if possible, head over to ‘The Ave’ and treat yourself to my favorite Seattle food.

Walking distance from the park:

1. Mas Cafe: I LOVE Mas Cafe. It’s right next to Gas Works and very convenient if you’re looking to grab something and eat at the park. You’ll find delicious coffee, smoothies, and my personal favorite breakfast burritos.
2. I Love Teriyaki: This is a short walk from Gas Works Park in Seattle WA. If you’re looking for a full meal near the park this would be my recommendation. While you shouldn’t expect a fine dining experience, you can expect a delicious meal.
3. Ivar’s Fish Bar: Ivar’s is a Seattle classic. If you’re a tourist visiting and hoping to knock off as many Seattle spots as possible, head to Ivar’s. It’s a bit of a walk from Gas Works, about a 20 minute walk to be exact. You’ll be able to get some of the most delicious fish and chips in Seattle here.

My favorite food in Seattle:

• Aladdins Gyro-cery & Deli: I’ve eaten at Aladdins countless times since moving to Seattle. If you’re a fan of gyros, gyro fries, or shawarmas go to Aladdins. A local tip is to bring cash! They prefer cash over card and will give you a free drink if you pay in cash. Aladdins is just a short drive away from Gas Works. You can also visit this delicious restaraunt by walking along the Lake Union Waterfront until you reach UW. This just might take close to an hour but it’s a beautiful walk.

Conclusion

Gas Works Park is a great destination for anyone in Seattle looking for views or a relaxing hang. When you’re spending time at this park it’s easy to imagine this space before it was transformed into a park. Don’t forget to soak up the views and let tell your friends a little about the history of Gas Works park. Pack your favorite snacks and a blanket and head over to Gasworks today!