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Seattle, Washington / Parks and outdoors

Seward Park

A lush 300-acre municipal park occupying the Bailey Peninsula, featuring old-growth forests, a scenic 2.4-mile shoreline path, and serene Lake Washington views.

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Seward Park
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What is Seward Park known for?

Seward Park is a 300-acre municipal park that occupies the forested Bailey Peninsula extending into Lake Washington. It is known for containing one of Seattle's last surviving tracts of old-growth forest, as well as eagles' nests, a native plant garden, and a swimming beach.

What are the hours for Seward Park?

The park is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

What activities can I do there?

Visitors can use a 2.4-mile paved shoreline path for biking and walking, go upland hiking, visit the swimming beach, or use the playgrounds and picnic sites.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the park features playgrounds and a swimming beach.

Who designed the park and when was it established?

Seward Park was established in 1911 and was designed by the Olmsted Brothers.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Seward Park is a sprawling 300-acre municipal park located in the neighborhood of the same name in Seattle, Washington. Established in 1911 and designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the park occupies the entirety of the Bailey Peninsula, a forested peninsula that juts into Lake Washington. This unique geography creates a serene escape from the city's urban center. The park is renowned for containing one of the last surviving tracts of old-growth forest within the city limits of Seattle. Visitors can explore these ancient same-age forests through upland hiking trails and a paved 2.4-mile shoreline path that circles the peninsula. The landscape is designed to provide a naturalistic same-age experience, a hallmark of the Olmsted Brothers' vision for public spaces. Beyond the forest, the park offers a variety of recreational facilities. It features a swimming beach, an amphitheater, and a native plant garden. For those interested in arts and nature, the park hosts an art studio and the Seward Park Audubon Center, which focuses on birdwatching and environmental education. The park is named after U.S. Secretary of State William Seward, providing a historical link to American diplomacy.

Visitor tips

  • The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Visit the Seward Park Audubon Center between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for birdwatching education.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for the 2.4-mile shoreline path and upland hiking trails.

Nearby context

Seward Park is the centerpiece of the Seward Park neighborhood, occupying the peninsula that extends into Lake Washington, providing a natural sanctuary for eagles' nests and native plant gardens.

Sources

Evidence and links