Myrtle Edwards Park
A stunning urban park on Seattle's waterfront, offering breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Myrtle Edwards Park
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning urban park on Seattle's waterfront, offering breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
"This is one of the best urban parks in the country, offering iconic views and a beautiful shoreline trail."
🌅 Sunset Spot
Arrive early for prime sunset viewing spots over the Olympics. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, perfect for a scenic walk. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elliott Bay Trail
Park-wide
A scenic 10-mile path perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying Puget Sound views.
Olympic Mountain Views
Western edge of the park
Unobstructed vistas of the Olympic Mountains, especially magical at sunset.
Mount Rainier Vista
Eastern edge of the park
On clear days, catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Rainier.
Public Art Installations
Adjacent to Olympic Sculpture Park
Explore unique sculptures that blend art with the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Trail
Sunset Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spot
Arrive early for prime sunset viewing spots over the Olympics. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, perfect for a scenic walk. :athletic_shoe:
🚴 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike to easily traverse the park's length and enjoy the waterfront.
Picnic Perfect
Grassy areas and driftwood logs offer great spots for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spot
Arrive early for prime sunset viewing spots over the Olympics. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, perfect for a scenic walk. :athletic_shoe:
🚴 Bike Rentals Available
Rent a bike to easily traverse the park's length and enjoy the waterfront.
Picnic Perfect
Grassy areas and driftwood logs offer great spots for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Connect to Sculpture Park
Easily walk or bike to the adjacent Olympic Sculpture Park for a combined experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Myrtle Edwards Park, calling it one of the best urban parks with stunning waterfront views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The well-maintained trails for walking and biking, along with the adjacent sculpture park, are frequently praised. While beautiful, some note it can be windy and cold outside of summer.
"This is one of the best urban parks in the country. It's not a "beach" in the sandy sense, but a long, beautiful shoreline trail that gives you some of the most iconic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The path is split for walkers and bikers, which is a huge plus. It’s perfect for a long walk, a run, or just sitting on a driftwood log and watching the ferries go by. It connects seamlessly to the Olympic Sculpture Park, making it a great way to combine art and nature. A top-tier city park."
Yue & Alex (Mindful Coffee App)
"This beautiful park is perfect for enjoying the outdoors. It features a small beach, plenty of grassy areas for picnics or lounging, and a jogging and biking path that runs along the bay.
This park is half of what used to be Elliott Bay Park and is an amazing spot for taking photos."
Anthony Schmitz
"Beautiful long narrow park along the waterfront near downtown Seattle, west of the Sculpture Park and far more impressive. It somehow is not very well known among many Seattlites. It has a long walkway and bike paths, amazing views of the city as well as the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier - on a clear day. Best enjoyed in the summer as it can be dark, windy, and cold other times of the year."
Heather Morgan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Myrtle Edwards Park is accessible via public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking can be limited, especially during peak times. The park is also a key part of the Seattle Waterfront, so walking or biking from downtown is a great way to arrive.
Yes, there are parking lots available, but they can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during summer. Consider rideshares or public transit if you're visiting during busy periods.
Absolutely! The park is connected to the extensive Elliott Bay Trail, making it a fantastic destination for cyclists. Bike rentals are available nearby.
Yes, several King County Metro bus routes serve the area around Myrtle Edwards Park, providing convenient public transit access. Check their schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors enjoy walking or biking the length of the park along the Elliott Bay Trail. This allows you to take in all the different viewpoints and connect to the Olympic Sculpture Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Myrtle Edwards Park is a public park and is free to enter and explore.
Myrtle Edwards Park is generally open from dawn until dusk, offering ample time to enjoy the waterfront and views. Specific hours can vary slightly, so it's always good to check local listings if you plan a very early or late visit.
No advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you plan to rent bikes or visit specific attractions nearby, booking those separately might be advisable.
The main restriction is that dogs must be leashed. Otherwise, the park is open to all visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Yes, Myrtle Edwards Park is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering plenty of space to relax, walk, and enjoy the scenery. You can easily spend several hours here.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk, jog, bike, have a picnic, enjoy the sunset, spot wildlife like seals, and explore public art. It's a versatile urban oasis.
Yes, restrooms are available within Myrtle Edwards Park, making it comfortable for longer visits.
It's an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunset, with stunning views of the water, mountains, and city skyline.
While there's a small beach area, swimming is generally not recommended due to cold water temperatures and currents in Puget Sound. It's more for relaxing by the water.
The paved Elliott Bay Trail is generally flat and smooth, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Myrtle Edwards Park itself. However, numerous dining options are available along the Seattle Waterfront nearby, and you can bring your own food for a picnic.
Absolutely! Myrtle Edwards Park has plenty of grassy areas and driftwood logs perfect for picnics.
The nearby Seattle Waterfront offers a variety of dining, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale restaurants.
While not a permanent fixture, occasional food vendors might be present, especially during events. It's best to check local listings or bring your own provisions.
Packing a picnic is a popular and convenient option, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a view. Alternatively, explore the diverse culinary scene on the nearby waterfront.
📸 📸 Photography
The western edge offers stunning Olympic Mountain views, especially at sunset. The waterfront trail provides great shots of the Sound, ferries, and city skyline.
Late afternoon and sunset are ideal for capturing the park's beauty with warm, golden light.
Yes, keep an eye out for seals near the shore and various seabirds.
The park connects to the Olympic Sculpture Park, which features numerous unique sculptures perfect for creative photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is helpful for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the open space and natural elements offer plenty of imaginative play opportunities. Packing a picnic is a great way to make a day of it, and the chance to spot seals or seabirds can be a highlight for younger visitors. The park's connection to the Olympic Sculpture Park also offers a unique way to introduce children to art in an outdoor setting.
🐶 Dog Owners
Many dog owners frequent the park, making it a social environment for both pets and their humans. The open grassy areas are great for a game of fetch, and the proximity to the water means your dog can enjoy a refreshing dip (though be mindful of currents and cold temperatures). Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
🚴 Cyclists
The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for all skill levels. It's a fantastic route for a leisurely cruise, a more vigorous workout, or for connecting to other bike routes in the city. The views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains make every pedal stroke a pleasure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Elliott Bay Trail
This trail isn't just about the views; it's also a vital connection to other key Seattle attractions. It seamlessly links Myrtle Edwards Park with the Olympic Sculpture Park, creating an extended recreational corridor. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a casual walker, or a family with a stroller, the Elliott Bay Trail offers a smooth and accessible way to immerse yourself in Seattle's stunning waterfront environment.
Key features of the Elliott Bay Trail include:
* Paved and well-maintained surface
* Dedicated lanes for walkers and cyclists
* Continuous waterfront views
* Seamless connection to Olympic Sculpture Park
* Accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs
The Magic of Sunset at Myrtle Edwards Park
Visitors often describe the experience as serene and awe-inspiring. The sounds of the waves lapping against the shore and the gentle breeze create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection. Many recommend arriving at least an hour before sunset to secure a good vantage point and fully appreciate the changing light. The park's open spaces and driftwood logs provide comfortable seating for enjoying this daily natural masterpiece.
Tips for the best sunset experience:
* Check the weather forecast for clear skies.
* Arrive early to find your preferred spot.
* Bring a camera to capture the stunning colors.
* Consider bringing a blanket or comfortable seating.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
The park is also a haven for various seabirds, which can be observed soaring overhead or resting along the shoreline. The diverse plant life within the park, including native trees and shrubs, further contributes to its ecological richness, attracting smaller terrestrial wildlife as well. It's a reminder that even within an urban setting, nature thrives.
Wildlife to look out for:
* Seals
* Seagulls and other seabirds
* Various marine life visible from the shore
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit