Lake Union Park
A vibrant 12-acre park on Lake Union, offering seaplane views, historic boats, and city skyline vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Lake Union Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 12-acre park on Lake Union, offering seaplane views, historic boats, and city skyline vistas.
"Lake Union captures a whole different side of Seattle that's well worth experiencing."
🎯 Watch the Seaplanes
Don't miss the unique sight of seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake!
🛶 Rent a Boat or Kayak
Enjoy the calm waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard for a leisurely experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seaplane Spectacle
Lake Union
Watch seaplanes take off and land against the city skyline – a unique Seattle experience.

Center for Wooden Boats
Waterfront
Explore historic wooden boats and learn about maritime heritage. Free to visit!

Gas Works Park Views
North Shore of Lake Union
Iconic park with industrial remnants and stunning city skyline views, perfect for picnics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Watch the Seaplanes
Don't miss the unique sight of seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake!
🛶 Rent a Boat or Kayak
Enjoy the calm waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard for a leisurely experience.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic views, especially from Gas Works Park.
☕ Grab a Local Coffee
Try Fonte Coffee at the MOHAI cafe for a taste of local roastery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Watch the Seaplanes
Don't miss the unique sight of seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake!
🛶 Rent a Boat or Kayak
Enjoy the calm waters by renting a kayak or paddleboard for a leisurely experience.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic views, especially from Gas Works Park.
☕ Grab a Local Coffee
Try Fonte Coffee at the MOHAI cafe for a taste of local roastery.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll want to explore the waterfront paths, so wear comfy shoes!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Union Park is praised as a scenic and peaceful urban oasis, offering unique sights like seaplanes and historic boats. Visitors appreciate the waterfront activities and views, though some note challenges with parking and limited public restrooms. It's considered a welcoming and vibrant spot for families and those seeking a relaxed Seattle experience.
"Scenic Escape in the Heart of the City
Lake Union is a fantastic Seattle destination for anyone who loves outdoor activities with a mix of urban charm. The area offers plenty of convenient parking, including free parking on Sundays and holidays—a major perk in the city.
Summer is the perfect time to visit, whether you're looking for a great running route along the water or just want to relax and watch seaplanes take off and sailboats glide across the lake. While kayaking is available, the water stays calm and peaceful, making it ideal for beginners or a leisurely paddle.
When you need a break, stop by the Starbucks or the cafe inside MOHAI for a refreshing drink or snack. Between the beautiful views and the laid-back atmosphere, South Lake Union is a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors. Highly recommend spending an afternoon here to enjoy the best of Seattle's outdoor scene."
Wandering Hart
"Parking is limited and not free. The park is fairly small, though it offers nice views of seaplanes—that's really the main highlight. The museum requires paid admission, and the historic boats along the waterfront were either closed or required a donation to access. Goose droppings were all over the paths, making it unpleasant to walk. Also, there are no public restrooms available."
Kelly Lee
"A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Seattle!
Lake Union has a completely different energy than the rest of the city, it’s like a peaceful oasis tucked right into Seattle. It feels cleaner, brighter, and overall just happier. It’s one of those spots that makes you pause and truly appreciate the beauty of where you are.
Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love Seattle. But if you’re downtown or near Pike Place, it’s easy to wander into a block that feels a little chaotic or uncomfortable. Lake Union, on the other hand, feels consistently welcoming, open, and family-friendly.
I love coming here with my family to just unwind. Watching the seaplanes take off and land, boats cruising in and out, people sailing, it’s such a calming, lively scene. You can rent a boat, hop on a community ride, learn to sail, swim, or just relax on the little beach area. There’s always something going on, but it never feels overwhelming.
Don’t miss the coffee shop at the Museum of History & Industry, it’s right on the water and it’s where I discovered Fonte Coffee, a fantastic local roastery I now buy from every week!
Parking can be a bit tricky depending on the time of day, but with a little patience and a couple laps around, you’ll usually find something.
Highly recommend visiting, whether you’re a local or just passing through, Lake Union captures a whole different side of Seattle that’s well worth experiencing."
Daniel Nyiri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Union Park is easily accessible by public transport, ride-sharing, or car. Several bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be prepared for limited and potentially paid parking, especially on weekends.
Parking is available but can be challenging. Some reviews mention free parking on Sundays and holidays, but it's not guaranteed. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, the park is connected to the Burke-Gilman Trail, making it a great destination for walkers and cyclists.
Yes, several King County Metro bus routes serve the South Lake Union area, providing convenient access to the park. Check their website for specific routes and schedules.
Visiting on a weekday morning is your best bet to avoid traffic and parking hassles. Consider using a ride-sharing service if you're visiting during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake Union Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, some attractions within or near the park, like the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), have separate admission fees.
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific attractions within the park may have their own hours, so it's best to check their individual websites.
For the park itself, no advance booking is needed. If you plan to visit MOHAI or take a seaplane tour, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, enjoying the waterfront, watching seaplanes, exploring the Center for Wooden Boats (exterior), and picnicking are all free activities.
A leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watching the seaplanes, and visiting the Center for Wooden Boats are highly recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss watching the seaplanes, visiting the Center for Wooden Boats, and enjoying the views from Gas Works Park. The park also features spray features for kids.
While some people do swim, there are concerns about water quality and algae blooms. It's generally advised to be cautious and check current conditions.
Public restrooms are not consistently available at Lake Union Park, which can be an inconvenience for visitors.
Families can enjoy the spray features, watch seaplanes, visit the Center for Wooden Boats, and have picnics. The park is generally welcoming to children.
Absolutely! The park offers great opportunities for photos, especially with the seaplanes, city skyline, and waterfront views. Gas Works Park is a prime spot for sunset shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and restaurants in the South Lake Union neighborhood, including a coffee shop at MOHAI. Food trucks are also sometimes present.
Absolutely! Lake Union Park is a great spot for picnics. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to enjoy by the water.
The coffee shop at MOHAI is a local favorite, offering Fonte Coffee. The South Lake Union area has various dining options, from casual to more upscale.
Food trucks can sometimes be found in the South Lake Union area, offering a variety of quick bites.
Yes, many spots around the park offer lovely views of the lake and city, making it a pleasant place to enjoy a meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers great shots of seaplanes and boats. Gas Works Park provides iconic city skyline and sunset views.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday is great for capturing the activity on the water.
It's ideal for landscape, cityscape, and action photography (seaplanes, boats). It's also a lovely spot for portraits.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful. A telephoto lens can be great for capturing seaplanes. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the skyline views from Gas Works Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families:
* Bring swimsuits and towels for the spray features.
* Pack snacks and drinks, as restroom availability can be limited.
* Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the park before it gets too crowded.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Solo Traveler Tips:
* Take advantage of the dedicated walking paths.
* Enjoy the calm atmosphere and unique sights like the seaplanes.
* Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.
📸 Photographers
Photography Tips:
* Bring a versatile lens to capture both wide cityscapes and close-ups of boats.
* Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light.
* Don't forget to capture the unique industrial elements of Gas Works Park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Seaplanes
For those seeking a more immersive experience, seaplane tours are available, offering breathtaking aerial views of the city and surrounding Puget Sound. While not part of the park itself, these tours depart from Lake Union and are a popular way to see Seattle from a different perspective. Even if you don't take a tour, simply observing these magnificent machines from the park's edge is a memorable part of any visit.
Tips for Seaplane Spotting
* Best Viewing Spots: The waterfront areas of Lake Union Park and Gas Works Park offer excellent vantage points.
* Timing: Seaplanes operate throughout the day, but mornings and late afternoons often provide beautiful light for photography.
* Sound: Be prepared for the distinctive sound of the engines as they take off and land.
Exploring the Center for Wooden Boats
The CWB also offers educational programs and opportunities to get out on the water. While the museum itself is free to visit, donations are greatly appreciated to support their ongoing preservation efforts. It's a peaceful and educational stop that provides a unique contrast to the bustling city. Many visitors find it a charming and worthwhile addition to their Lake Union Park experience, offering a quiet moment of reflection on Seattle's nautical past.
Key Features of the Center for Wooden Boats
* Free Admission: Explore the collection without an entry fee.
* Diverse Collection: See a wide range of historic wooden boats.
* Educational Programs: Learn about boat building and maritime traditions.
* Water Access: Opportunities for sailing and rowing experiences.
Gas Works Park: A Unique Urban Oasis
The park is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, especially during warmer months. It's an ideal location for kite flying, leisurely walks, and enjoying a sunset picnic. The Burke-Gilman Trail runs through the park, making it easily accessible for those on bikes or on foot. Despite its industrial past, Gas Works Park has been transformed into a beloved recreational space that embodies Seattle's innovative spirit and appreciation for its waterfront.
Why Visit Gas Works Park?
* Iconic Skyline Views: Unparalleled vistas of downtown Seattle.
* Unique Industrial Landscape: A visually striking and historic setting.
* Recreational Activities: Perfect for picnics, kite flying, and walking.
* Community Hub: A vibrant space for locals and visitors to gather.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit