Picnic in Seattle: A must-do activity for a perfect sunny day

Kind Reader, are you looking for a fun and enjoyable way to spend your weekend in Seattle? Why not plan a lovely picnic in Seattle’s beautiful parks? With its lush green spaces and stunning views, Seattle makes for a perfect picnic destination. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing time with family, hang out with friends, or have a romantic date, a picnic in Seattle is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. From the towering Space Needle to the picturesque waterfront, there are plenty of spots in Seattle where you can enjoy a lovely picnic surrounded by nature. So, pack a basket, grab a blanket, and let’s explore some of Seattle’s best picnic spots!
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle

Seattle is famous for its breathtaking parks and green spaces where one can have a perfect picnic. These parks are not only well-maintained but also offer a range of activities besides providing a great atmosphere for picnics. Some of the top picnic spots in Seattle include:
1. Gas Works Park
Located on the north shore of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is famous for its stunning views of the lake and the city. The park offers a large grassy area that is perfect for picnics with family and friends. Besides, the park has many other attractions such as a play area for kids, hiking trails, and a unique industrial sculpture built from the remnants of an old gas plant.
2. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is a popular picnic spot situated in the heart of Seattle. The park offers a 2.8-mile paved path around the lake where visitors can take a leisurely stroll after a hearty meal. Furthermore, the park has many other facilities like tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields, and a wading pool for kids.
Picnic Supplies – What to Bring

A successful picnic depends on the preparation and the supplies you bring. Here are some essential items to consider for your next picnic in Seattle:
1. Picnic Basket or Cooler
The most crucial item for a picnic is a basket or cooler to store your food and beverages. Choose a basket or cooler size that fits your needs and make sure it’s portable and easy to carry around.
2. Blanket or Waterproof Mat
Bring a comfortable blanket or waterproof mat to sit on. It should be large enough to accommodate your group and sturdy enough to withstand any dampness or rough terrain.
3. Utensils and Plates
Don’t forget to pack plates, utensils, cups, and napkins. Disposable items are the best because they are easy to bring along and discard after use.
4. Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by bringing along some sunscreen and insect repellent to keep pesky bugs away.
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle

If you’re planning to have a perfect picnic in Seattle, the first and foremost thing you need to consider is the location. Here are some of the best spots where you can have a great picnic in Seattle:
1. Gas Works Park
Located in the Wallingford neighborhood, Gas Works Park offers a picturesque view of downtown Seattle. The park is known for its big, open spaces where you can enjoy a BBQ picnic with your family or friends. Gas Works Park is also a great spot for kite-flying and watching the seaplanes land and take off. However, the hill can be steep, so make sure to bring comfortable picnic blankets and chairs.
2. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is a 534-acre natural park located in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle. The park features beautiful meadows, wooded areas, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. You can enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many grassy areas or hike on one of the trails before settling down for lunch with a view.
3. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a small park located in the Queen Anne neighborhood that offers a stunning panoramic view of the Seattle skyline. This is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic as you can watch the sun go down and the lights of the city come alive. The park is relatively small, so seating may be limited, but it is worth the view.
4. Volunteer Park
Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park is a perfect spot for a picnic with friends or family. This park features a large open field, a water tower with an observation deck, and a beautiful conservatory filled with exotic plants. You can spread out your picnic blanket on the lawn, or reserve one of the picnic tables available for rental.
5. Magnuson Park
Magnuson Park is a 350-acre park located in the Sand Point neighborhood of Seattle. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities including sports fields, an off-leash dog area, and even a kite hill. You can find picnic tables and BBQ grills located throughout the park, making it a perfect spot for a large picnic with friends and family.
6. Alki Beach Park
Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach Park is a beautiful sandy beach that overlooks the Seattle skyline. The park features a boardwalk, volleyball courts, and a bike path. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day at the beach with your loved ones.
7. Olympic Sculpture Park
The Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre public park located on the waterfront in Seattle. The park is famous for its collection of sculptures and artwork, but it also offers beautiful views of Elliot Bay. You can enjoy a picnic on the sprawling lawn while taking in the artwork and the scenic views.
No | Important Information about Picnic in Seattle |
---|---|
1 | Picnicking is a popular activity in Seattle |
2 | There are many parks and beaches in Seattle suitable for a picnic |
3 | Seattle has a maritime climate, so it can be rainy at times |
4 | Popular food and drink options for a Seattle picnic include coffee, seafood, and locally brewed beer |
5 | Some popular picnic spots in Seattle include Discovery Park, Gas Works Park, and Golden Gardens Park |
6 | Before heading out for a picnic, it’s important to check the weather forecast and pack appropriate gear and supplies |
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle: Enjoy Nature with Delicious Food

Seattle offers a variety of stunning picnic spots that provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a fun family outing, there’s a picnic spot in Seattle perfect for you. Here are some of the best picnic spots in Seattle:
1. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is a popular destination for picnics in Seattle. The park offers breathtaking views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline, making it a perfect spot for a romantic picnic. Make sure to bring a blanket and some snacks to enjoy while taking in the view.
2. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is a 534-acre park in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a popular spot for families and groups. Take a walk along the rugged trails or enjoy the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains while having a picnic.
3. Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a 135-acre park in West Seattle that offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as a playground, beach, and walking trails.
4. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is a popular spot for beach picnics in Seattle. The park offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and has several picnic areas with tables and grills. After your picnic, take a walk along the beach or watch the sunset over the sound.
5. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is a 323-acre park in North Seattle that’s perfect for a relaxing picnic. The park has several picnic areas with tables, and offers stunning views of Green Lake. After your picnic, take a walk or bike ride around the lake on the 2.8-mile path.
6. Carkeek Park
Carkeek Park is a 220-acre park in Northwest Seattle that’s perfect for a family picnic. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as a playground, beach, and walking trails. Kids will love exploring the park’s salmon stream and environmental learning center.
7. Kubota Garden
Kubota Garden is a hidden gem in South Seattle that’s perfect for a romantic picnic. The garden offers a tranquil escape from the city, with beautiful waterfalls, ponds, and walking paths. Pack a picnic and take a stroll through the gardens to find the perfect spot to set up.
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle

Seattle is a beautiful city with many parks and scenic spots to enjoy on a picnic. Let’s explore some of the best picnic spots in Seattle:
Discovery Park
If you’re looking for a picnic spot with breathtaking views, Discovery Park should be at the top of your list. Spread across 534 acres, this park offers stunning views of the mountains, beaches, and lighthouse. There are several picnic tables and benches to enjoy your food while taking in the views.
Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is another popular destination for picnic lovers. Located in the northern part of Seattle, it offers great views of the downtown skyline. There are many grassy areas to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal. Barbeque pits are available too if you want to grill up some food.
Green Lake Park
This beautiful park is situated around a lake and is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic with family and friends. There are many picnic tables around the lake along with a playground, paddle boats, and sports fields. The park has many trails to explore after your picnic.
Seward Park
This park is located on a peninsula next to Lake Washington and offers great views of the lake and the Cascade Mountains. It has many picnic areas with tables and grills, restrooms, and a playground for kids.
Golden Gardens Park
Located in the Ballard neighborhood, Golden Gardens Park is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the summer months. It has a sandy beach, hiking trails, a fishing pier, and barbeque pits. There are many grassy areas to lay out a blanket and enjoy your food.
Alki Beach Park
If you’re looking for a unique picnic spot, try Alki Beach Park. This park offers great views of the Puget Sound and downtown Seattle. There are many picnic tables to enjoy your food while taking in the views. After your picnic, take a stroll along the beach or rent a bicycle to explore the area.
Volunteer Park
This park is located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood and features beautiful gardens, a water tower, and a conservatory. There are many picnic areas to enjoy your food along with restrooms, a playground, and a wading pool for kids.
Best Places for a Picnic in Seattle

If you’re looking for the perfect spot for a picnic with your loved ones in Seattle, you won’t be disappointed. Seattle is home to some of the most beautiful parks and green spaces in the country, each with their unique charm and features. Here are some of the best spots in Seattle for a picnic:
1. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of the most iconic parks in Seattle, featuring the remnants of an old gas plant that have been turned into a stunning park. This park offers stunning views of the skyline and Lake Union. There are plenty of spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. Don’t forget to take a walk up the hill for a better view and to take in the architecture of the old gas plant structures.
2. Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park is a great spot for a picnic with its sprawling lawns, beautiful flower gardens, and great views of the Space Needle. It’s also home to the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory, making it an ideal place for an after-picnic stroll.
3. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle and offers a range of activities for visitors, including hiking trails, a beach area, and a lighthouse. It’s also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of green space and beautiful views of the Puget Sound.
4. Kerry Park
If you want to enjoy a picnic while taking in stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Kerry Park is the perfect spot. This park is a popular tourist spot, and for a good reason – its view of downtown Seattle is breathtaking. However, be aware that this park tends to get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
5. Lake Union Park
Surrounded by water on three sides, Lake Union Park is a great spot for a picnic near the water while watching boats go by. This park is also home to some of Seattle’s famous landmarks, including the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) and the Center for Wooden Boats.
Best Parks for Picnic in Seattle

When it comes to a perfect picnic, a good location is essential. Fortunately, Seattle is packed with several beautiful parks, making it an ideal spot for an outdoor picnic. Below are some of the best parks for a delightful picnic in Seattle:
1. Discovery Park
Spread over 534 acres, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park providing a breathtaking view of Puget Sound. The park has multiple picnic areas and tables to choose from, or visitors can also opt for areas in the picturesque meadow.
2. Gas Works Park
This unique park is located on the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company. Situated on Lake Union with a stunning view, visitors can enjoy watching seaplanes taking off and landing as they enjoy their picnic.
3. Lincoln Park
The Lincoln park has the Salish sea lapping onto the shore and has a large grassy area for picnicking and barbecuing. The park also hosts a heated saltwater pool, making it one of the best spots for a picnic.
4. Golden Gardens Park
With a stunning beach, Golden Gardens Park is one of the most loved parks in Seattle. The park has multiple picnic areas with fire pits, making it an ideal spot for a BBQ picnic with family and friends.
5. Kerry Park
If you’re looking for a park with a stunning view of Seattle, look no further than Kerry Park. The small park area is perfect for a romantic picnic overlooking the skyline
6. Magnuson Park
Magnuson Park offers wide-open spaces for a well-spaced picnic. There are numerous picnic tables around the park, but visitors can also bring their blankets and set up wherever they like to enjoy a picnic.
7. Seward Park
Seward park borders Lake Washington and provides a beautiful view of Lake Washington and Mount Rainier. The lush forest and grassy fields provide ample picnic spaces to choose from with tables, benches, and grills.
No | Best Parks for Picnic in Seattle |
---|---|
1 | Discovery Park |
2 | Gas Works Park |
3 | Lincoln Park |
4 | Golden Gardens Park |
5 | Kerry Park |
6 | Magnuson Park |
7 | Seward Park |
Grab a Bite from Local Picnic Food Trucks

Seattle is not only known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities but also for its innovative and widespread food truck culture. When it comes to picnicking, why not indulge in something unique, delicious, and budget-friendly from the local food trucks? Head down to South Lake Union Saturday Market to catch some of the best food trucks in the city. You will find a wide range of cuisines to choose from, including tamales, pasta, burgers, and more. Enjoy your food while sitting in the pretty picnic area by the lake.
Local Food Trucks for Picnic in Seattle
No | Food Truck Name | Food Type | Contact |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Cheese Pit | Grilled Cheese Sandwiches | cheesepit.business.site |
2 | Napkin Friends | Gluten-Free Latke Sandwiches | napkinfriends.com |
3 | Bread and Circuses | Comfort Food | breadandcircuseseat.com |
These food trucks don’t just serve food, they offer an experience. A visit to one of Seattle’s food trucks could satisfy not only your taste buds but jump-start your love for locally sourced and sustainable foods. So go out, support small business, and indulge in a delicious picnic with organic and finger-licking good food from Seattle’s local food trucks.
Pro-Tip: Arrival Time
It’s important to get to these local picnic food trucks early as the lines can get quite long. Try to aim for a weekday or plan for an early weekend picnic.
FAQ on Picnic in Seattle
Get all your questions answered before planning a perfect picnic in Seattle.
1. Where can I have a picnic in Seattle?
Seattle is home to many parks such as Golden Gardens Park, Magnuson Park, Seward Park, and Discovery Park where you can have a picnic.
2. Can I bring my own food to a Seattle Park?
Yes, you can bring your own food to any Seattle park.
3. Are there any restrictions on alcohol consumption in Seattle parks?
Yes, alcohol consumption is restricted to designated areas in Seattle parks, and it is not allowed in some parks. Check the park rules before carrying any alcohol with you.
4. Are there BBQ grills available in Seattle parks?
Yes, many Seattle parks have BBQ grills available for public use. Some parks require reservations.
5. Can I bring my pet to a Seattle park?
Yes, you can bring your pet to Seattle parks, but you must follow the park rules. Usually, leashes are required, and pets cannot be left unattended.
6. Can I reserve a picnic spot in Seattle parks?
Yes, many Seattle parks offer picnic spot reservations to the public. Contact the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department for more information.
7. Can I play music in Seattle parks?
Yes, you can play music in Seattle parks, but it cannot be disturbing to other picnickers and not exceed the noise limits mandated by the park.
8. Can I have a campfire during my picnic in Seattle parks?
No, open flames, including campfires and charcoal grills, are not allowed in Seattle parks.
9. Is there any parking available at Seattle parks?
Yes, most Seattle parks offer parking spots for visitors. Some parks also offer free parking while others charge a fee.
10. Are there any food vendors available in Seattle parks?
Some of the Seattle parks have food vendors available on-site, but not all of them. It’s recommended to bring your food and drinks with you.
11. Are there any toilets available in Seattle parks?
Yes, Seattle parks offer public toilets for visitors to use.
12. Can I ride bicycles in Seattle parks?
Yes, you can ride bicycles in Seattle parks, but the park rules mandate that cyclists must stay on designated trails to ensure safety.
13. Can I bring my own sport equipment to Seattle parks?
Yes, you can bring your own sports equipment like soccer balls, frisbees, volleyball, etc. to Seattle parks.
14. Are there any water activities available in Seattle parks?
Yes, some Seattle parks offer water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Check with the park for more details.
15. Can I fly a drone in Seattle parks?
Seattle parks prohibit the use of drones without prior permission from the park management.
16. Are there any first aid facilities available in Seattle parks?
Yes, Seattle parks offer basic first aid facilities for public emergencies. In case of an emergency, call 911 immediately.
17. Are there any picnic shelters available in Seattle parks?
Yes, some Seattle parks offer picnic shelters for visitors to use. Check with the park for more details.
18. Can I bring my own chairs and tables to Seattle parks?
Yes, you can bring your own chairs and tables to Seattle parks.
19. Are there any electric car charging stations available in Seattle parks?
Yes, some Seattle parks offer electric car charging stations for your convenience.
20. Can I swim in any Seattle parks?
Some Seattle parks offer swimming facilities. But it’s recommended to check with the park management about the water quality and conditions before deciding to swim.
21. Can I bring my children to Seattle parks?
Yes, Seattle parks are suitable for children to enjoy with their families, and many of them offer playgrounds, sports facilities, and other child-friendly activities.
22. Can I camp overnight in Seattle parks?
No, camping overnight is not allowed in Seattle parks.
23. Are there any restrooms for disabled visitors?
Yes, Seattle parks offer restrooms for disabled visitors.
24. Can I light candles in Seattle parks?
No, candles and incense are prohibited in Seattle parks because of the fire risk.
25. Are Seattle parks safe?
Seattle parks are generally safe, but it’s recommended to use common sense while picnicking as in any public place. Keep your valuables in sight, and do not leave them unattended.
If you’re planning a picnic in Seattle, check out Picnic in Seattle to find the perfect spot for your outdoor meal. They offer custom picnic packages and can even set up your picnic for you.
Until Next Time, Kind Reader
I hope this article about a picnic in Seattle gave you a taste of what it’s like to spend a lazy afternoon surrounded by nature, good food, and great company. Whether you live in Seattle or plan to visit soon, a picnic is an excellent way to enjoy the city’s stunning parks and panoramic views. So pack a basket, grab a blanket, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to sharing more adventures with you soon. Cheers!