Seattles deep history of outdoor recreation has led to some truly amazing city parks. It feels like there’s a park with beautiful walking trails in every neighborhood. In this post I will be talking about the best parks in Seattle. I go over everything you need to know before you visit Golden Gardens, Magnuson, and Discovery.
Golden Gardens
Overview
Golden Gardens is my favorite park to visit if i’m searching for views of the Puget Sound. It sits on the west end of Seattle and overlooks the Puget Sound as well as the Olympic Mountains. You’ll find hiking trails, beach access, and an amazing Seattle dog park.
As you drive down to the beach, you’ll pass the off-leash dog park and a large parking area. If you park in this lot there are walking trails that will lead you down to the beach. This first parking lot is where you park if you are planning on heading to the dog park.
If you’re planning on going straight to the beach keep driving past the first lot. You’ll see a few parking areas along the drive, and eventually you’ll reach the large lot along the beach. Once you get there you’ll be able to spend hours exploring!
Popularity
Since its establishment in 1907, Golden Gardens Park has been a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. Its popularity stems from its location on the Puget Sound. There are panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the waters of the Sound. During the warmer months, these beaches are some of the busiest in Seattle. Packed with sunbathers, beach volleyball players, and families enjoying picnics by the water. In the evenings, you’ll see people by the fire pits or watching the sun go down over the mountains.
What to Do at Golden Gardens
Golden Gardens Park offers a wealth of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. You’ll see a lot of people playing beach games or swimming. I’m often surprised by how many people are swimming, even during the cold months! You’ll also see many people out on paddle boards and kayaks year round. The park’s trails are perfect for hikers to explore. Its wooded areas and meadows provide opportunities to spot plants and animals.
Amenities
To enhance visitors’ experiences, Golden Gardens Park offers a range of amenities and facilities. Picnic tables and barbecue grills are scattered throughout the park, providing the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings and cookouts. Restroom facilities and outdoor showers are available for convenience, while ample parking ensures easy access for visitors arriving by car.
The park’s designated fire pits are a popular feature. These are open on a limited basis. You’ll have to make sure that there isn’t a fire ban when you’re visiting. This allows visitors to cozy up around flames and enjoy a beach bonfire experience. Additionally, the nearby Golden Gardens Bathhouse offers public restrooms and a concession stand, providing refreshments and snacks for hungry beachgoers.
Warren G Magnuson Park
Overview
Warren G Magnuson Park spans 350 acres, ranking as Seattle’s second largest park after Discovery Park. With a diverse range of amenities it offers something for everyone. My personal favorite activity is visitng the Warren G Magnuson dog park! The northern section features bustling activity with soccer and ballfields encircling the dog park, a popular spot for dog owners and sports enthusiasts alike. Additionally, a sizable playground provides entertainment for children, creating a vibrant atmosphere in this part of the park.
Nestled within the park’s central expanse are captivating natural wetland areas, providing an immersive experience reminiscent of forested hiking trails. Amidst these serene trails, visitors can encounter a variety of bird species and ducks, adding to the park’s allure. Conveniently located restrooms and scattered benches enhance the comfort of exploration. Moving towards Lake Washington’s shoreline, an abundance of benches and picnic tables beckon, offering a tranquil retreat on balmy summer days.
Towards the south end of Warren G Magnuson Park, the wetland expanses continue. Along the shores of Lake Washington you’ll see views of Mount Rainier on clear days. On rainy days you’ll still be able to see glimpses of Kirkland and the lake’s bridges. Whether you’re seeking nature or scenic views, the park’s landscapes and amenities cater to diverse preferences. This all makes Magnuson a popular destination for locals and visitors.
Popularity
Warren G Magnuson park is usually pretty busy. If you plan on visiting on a warm summer day, expect crowds. It is often hard to find beach access due to crowds in the summer. If you’re searching for some privacy, plan to visit on a rainy day. The rain tends to keep lots of the tourists away so you will likely have more freedom to explore without the crowds.
There are a lot of sporting events at Magnuson park. From recreational sports to children’s teams, there’s almost always something going on. This can make it difficult to find parking on the north end of the park.
The History of Warren G Magnuson Park
Warren G. Magnuson Park boasts a rich history as vibrant as its sprawling grounds, evident in its various memorials and historical artifacts. Originally established as a naval air station during World War II, the park brimmed with military activity until its decommissioning in 1975. Named after Washington’s longest-serving senator, Warren G. Magnuson, the park underwent a transformative journey, evolving into a community space that beautifully showcases Seattle’s essence.
Reflecting the city’s growth and evolving needs, Magnuson Park stands as a testament to Seattle’s commitment to preserving green spaces and fostering recreation. Its historic hangars repurposed into community centers and iconic sandpoint naval barracks remind visitors of the park’s significance in shaping Seattle’s history. Today, Magnuson Park remains a cherished destination, intertwining the past with modern amenities, offering a diverse range of recreational opportunities for all ages and interests. Whether enjoying family picnics, exploring scenic trails, or partaking in cultural events, each visit to Magnuson Park is a celebration of its rich tapestry of history and heritage, embodying the resilience and spirit of the Seattle community.
What to Do at Warren G Magnuson Park
Walking and running
There is ample opportunity for walking and running at Warren G Magnuson park. The trails flow seamlessly through the wetland area, the popular fields, and along the shores of Lake Washington. No matter how long you want to run for or what views you are searching for, Magnuson has it all.
Swimming and paddling
If you’re planning on getting in or on Lake Washington, I recommend parking in the south east parking lots. Those will bring you as close to the lake as possible. From there, you will find many different access points to get in the lake. If you are planning on swimming on a hot day expect crowds. The locals in Seattle flock to these beaches on warm days.
Sports
As shown in the overview above, there are many different sport fields at Warren G Magnuson park. Whether you are playing tennis, soccer, baseball, or most other sports – there’s a spot for you here.
Biking or blading
There are many paved trails weaving throughout the park that you can take wheels on. If you are roller blading or roller skating, I would stay on the trail near the lake. That one seems to be the best kept trail in the park. If you’re biking you will have more options. The trails in the middle of the park are paved but have not been maintained very well. Expect it to get bumpy in some places but it is a fun and beautiful spot to bike.
Bird watching
With the many benches scattered in the park and the wetland restoration area, you will see a lot of birds when you visit Warren G. Magnuson park.
A few of the birds you might see include –
- Great Blue Heron – These majestic wading birds are a common sight along the shores of Lake Washington and in the park’s wetland areas, often seen stalking fish or standing motionless as they hunt.
- Bald Eagle – As apex predators, bald eagles can often be spotted soaring overhead or perched in trees around the park, particularly near the lake where they hunt for fish.
- Mallard Duck – These colorful ducks are abundant in the park’s wetland areas and can often be seen swimming in the ponds or foraging along the shoreline.
- American Coot – With their distinctive white beaks and black bodies, American coots are frequently seen swimming in the ponds and marshy areas of the park.
- Songbirds – Warren G. Magnuson Park is home to a variety of songbirds, including black-capped chickadees, American robins, song sparrows, and varied thrushes. Look and listen for them in the wooded areas and along the park’s trails.
- Waterfowl – In addition to mallards, you may also spot other species of waterfowl at the park, such as Canada geese, wood ducks, buffleheads, and hooded mergansers.
- Osprey – These fish-eating birds of prey can often be seen circling above the lake or perched on tall structures like light poles and trees, scanning the water for their next meal.
- Red-winged Blackbird – Look and listen for the distinctive call of male red-winged blackbirds, particularly in the marshy areas of the park where they often perch on cattails and sing to establish territory.
Warren G Magnuson Off-Leash Dog Park
Visit the dog park for 8.6 acres of off-leash fun! This is my personal favorite dog park in Seattle, and worth the visit if you have an active dog. There are multiple separate areas for you to play in, and a separate enclosed area for small or shy dogs. For detailed information on Warren G Magnuson dog park, view my blog post on it here.
Amenities
- Bathrooms – There are bathrooms scattered around the park for public use. Some of these are port-a-potties.
- Parking – There are multiple free parking lots in Warren G Magnuson park. If you enter on the north or the south end, you will quickly see signs leading you to the free parking lots.
- Beach access – If you park at the south east end of the park you will find many different access points to Lake Washington.
- Dog Friendly – The entire park is dog friendly, but dogs must be kept on leash. There is an 8.6 acre dog park located on the north end of the park. Read below for more information on the dog park at Magnuson park.
Discovery Park
Overview
Nestled on the breathtaking shores of Puget Sound lies Discovery Park, a sprawling urban oasis spanning over 500 acres in the heart of Seattle, Washington. Established in 1973, this expansive park stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty and providing residents and visitors alike with a sanctuary amidst the urban landscape. From its rugged coastline to its lush forests and meadows, Discovery Park offers a diverse array of landscapes to explore and enjoy. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Salmon Bay and the Ballard Locks makes it a crucial habitat for numerous plant and animal species, adding to its ecological significance.
Popularity
Discovery Park’s popularity is undeniable, drawing in crowds of nature enthusiasts, families, and outdoor adventurers year-round. Its vast size and diverse range of activities make it a beloved destination for locals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without having to venture far from home. On any given day, visitors can be seen hiking along its network of trails, picnicking on its grassy knolls, or simply soaking in the stunning views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. Its accessibility, combined with its natural beauty, ensures that Discovery Park remains a favorite among Seattleites and tourists alike.
What to Do at Discovery Park
With over 11 miles of trails winding through varied terrain, Discovery Park offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Hikers can choose from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging routes that lead to panoramic viewpoints and secluded beaches. Birdwatchers flock to the park to catch a glimpse of the diverse avian species that call it home, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. Meanwhile, beachcombers can spend hours combing the shoreline for shells and driftwood, while kayakers and paddleboarders take to the water to explore the park’s coastline from a different perspective.
Amenities
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Discovery Park boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance visitors’ experiences. Picnic areas scattered throughout the park provide the perfect spot for enjoying a meal with family and friends, while playgrounds offer entertainment for younger visitors. Ample parking ensures easy access to the park, while restroom facilities and drinking fountains provide added convenience. For those looking to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history, the Discovery Park Environmental Learning Center offers educational exhibits and programs led by knowledgeable staff, providing visitors with valuable insights into the park’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong visiting any of these amazing parks. There’s something special about each of them, and if you have the time I recommend you check them all out. Locals will rave about each and every one of these parks!