Denny Park

What to know

Denny Park stands as the oldest park in Seattle, created in 1883 and influenced by the renowned Olmsted Plan. Located at 100 Dexter Avenue N, the park sits on the northern fringe of the central business district, serving as a tranquil green space surrounded by major city thoroughfares. The land has a complex history, having served as Seattle’s first municipal cemetery in the early 1860s. On July 10, 1884, the City of Seattle formally accepted a donation of approximately six acres from David Denny to establish the site as the city's first public park. To facilitate this transition, most of the 221 bodies previously interred there were relocated at city expense, primarily to Washelli Cemetery. In 1887, the space was officially named to honor David Denny. The park later became home to the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation administration building, which was constructed in 1948. This specific building was designed by Young and Richardson and earned top honors from the American Institute of Architects. Today, the park remains a functional urban oasis. It features a designated off-leash area for dogs and is fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors can enjoy the grounds daily, as the park remains open from 4:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m.

Visitor tips

• Visit between 4:00 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. to enjoy the grounds.
• If visiting with a dog, keep them on a leash unless you are inside the designated off-leash area.
• The park and off-leash area are wheelchair accessible for all visitors.

Nearby context

Denny Park is positioned at the north end of Seattle’s central business district on Denny Way, providing a quiet contrast to the high-traffic urban environment of the surrounding neighborhood.