Kind Reader, if you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend a day in Seattle, you should consider going on a picnic! Seattle offers a variety of beautiful parks and scenic locations where you can enjoy a delicious meal in the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing or a family-friendly activity, a picnic in Seattle is sure to be a memorable experience. From Gas Works Park to the Arboretum, there are many great places to enjoy a picnic in this vibrant and diverse city. So pack up your basket, grab a blanket, and get ready for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun!
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle
Seattle is home to a plethora of beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a picnic. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot or a family-friendly location, there’s something for every type of picnic-goer in the Emerald City.
Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a popular picnic spot in Seattle because of its breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Space Needle. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a sunset picnic with friends.
Discovery Park
Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle, covering 534 acres. It has a variety of picnic areas, including open grassy fields and secluded forests. It also has access to two miles of beautiful beaches.
Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park has a unique industrial charm that makes it a popular picnic spot in Seattle. It has stunning views of Lake Union and the city skyline, as well as plenty of open grassy areas for picnicking.
Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is a popular spot for swimming and beach activities, but it also has several picnic areas with breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
The Best Picnic Foods in Seattle
The key to a successful picnic is having delicious food to share with your loved ones. Here are some of the best picnic foods to enjoy in Seattle:
Seattle Dogs
Seattle dogs are a unique twist on the classic hot dog, made with cream cheese and grilled onions. They’re a local favorite and perfect for a picnic in the park.
Pike Place Market Treats
Pike Place Market is a foodie’s dream, and there are plenty of treats to enjoy for a picnic. Some popular options include Beecher’s cheese, fresh fruit from the market, and Le Panier’s French pastries.
Grab-and-Go Sandwiches
Seattle has several fantastic sandwich shops that offer a variety of options that are perfect for a picnic lunch. Some of the best places to grab a sandwich include Paseo and Salumi.
| No | Park | Location | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Green Lake Park | N.7201 East Green Lake Dr. N. Seattle, WA 98115 | Swimming Beach, Fishing, Boating, Sports Fields, Walker, Jogging |
| 2 | Seward Park | 5895 Lake Washington Blvd. Seattle, WA 98118 | Swimming Beach, Fishing, Boating, Walker, Mountain Bike Trail, Playground |
| 3 | Lincoln Park | 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW Seattle, WA 98136 | Swimming Beach, Saltwater Pool, Hiking Trails, Sports Fields, Walker, Playground |
Note: Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket, sunscreen, and plenty of water for your picnic in Seattle’s beautiful parks. And always remember to leave your picnic spot cleaner than you found it!
Best Spots for Picnic in Seattle
If you are looking for a perfect picnic spot in Seattle, you won’t be disappointed. The city has a number of beautiful parks and gardens, offering breathtaking views and serene environment that is ideal for spending some quality time with your loved ones over a picnic. Here are some of the best spots for picnic in Seattle:
1. Kerry Park
Kerry Park offers stunning views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic with its sloping lawn, benches, and picnic tables available.
2. Gas Works Park
This park is one of Seattle’s most popular parks for picnics. Gas Works Park offers stunning views of Lake Union and Downtown Seattle and plenty of open space for a picnic.
3. Golden Gardens Park
This park is located in Ballard and is an excellent place for a summer picnic. Golden Gardens Park offers spectacular views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. It also offers a sandy beach, fire pits, and picnic tables.
4. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park and is a great spot for a picnic with family and friends. It is situated on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound, and it contains beaches, forests, meadows, and historical landmarks that ensure a memorable experience.
5. Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park is located in the heart of Seattle and is known for its historic Water Tower and Volunteer Park Conservatory’s greenhouses. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic, offering beautiful scenery and several picnic tables available for use.
6. Carkeek Park
This park offers stunning views of Puget Sound, beach access, and a lush forest. Carkeek Park is a great place to spend the day, with picnic areas, and plenty of space to explore.
7. Seattle Japanese Garden
This garden is a stunning and tranquil place to enjoy a picnic. Situated in the Washington Park Arboretum, it features a central pond, waterfall, and a tea house designed by renowned architect Kiyoshi Yasui.
There are many more beautiful spots for a picnic in Seattle, but these are some of the best spots that you should not miss. Some parks require reservations, and it’s always a good idea to check the park’s rules and regulations before planning a picnic there.
| No | Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Event Name |
| 2 | Promoter |
| 3 | Date and Time |
| 4 | Venue |
| 5 | Ticket Price |
| 6 | Age Restriction |
| 7 | Food and Drink |
| 8 | Activities and Entertainment |
| 9 | Transportation and Parking |
Best Picnic Spots in Seattle
Seattle is filled with incredible outdoor locations where you can enjoy the perfect picnic. Below are some of the best picnic spots in Seattle you should not miss:
1. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is a beautiful location in Seattle that affords visitors gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains. Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and shaded areas make this an ideal location for families. Visitors can stroll the playgrounds, hike trails, or enjoy the beach while picnicking.
2. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is a 534-acre park in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle. Its breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound earned this park the nickname “The Quiet Place”. The park has picnic tables throughout and is just moments from a restored Fort Lawton. Unique trails, beaches, and bird watching make this park especially great for picnicking.
3. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s most popular locations. This urban park features remnants of the city’s former gasification plant, giving the park its unique industrial aesthetic. With stellar views of Lake Union, Gas Works Park’s iconic hill is a favorite picnic spot for locals.
4. Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is the largest park in West Seattle, with 135 acres housing a fishing pier, a heated saltwater pool, and a historic bathhouse. Lincoln Park’s arboretum has 4,000 trees and dozens of different bird species, ideal for bird-enthusiasts. The park has plenty of picnic tables, grills, and stunning views of the Puget Sound.
5. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is one of Seattle’s most popular tourist spots and is known for its stunning panoramic views of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables, short walking paths, and well-maintained gardens, making it an ideal location for picnicking while viewing Seattle’s beautiful skyline.
6. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is a large park located in the heart of Seattle. This park houses two paved pathways, along with trails that lead through scenic wooded areas. Picnic tables scatter throughout the park, providing plenty of opportunities to have a great meal under the sun.
7. Alki Beach Park
Alki Beach Park is a 135-acre park in West Seattle. It offers visitors sandy beaches with a stunning view of the water and mountains nearby. Alki Beach Park’s beaches and picnic grounds are popular among joggers, cyclists, and beach enthusiasts.
| No | Best Picnic Spots in Seattle |
|---|---|
| 1 | Golden Gardens Park |
| 2 | Discovery Park |
| 3 | Gas Works Park |
| 4 | Lincoln Park |
| 5 | Kerry Park |
| 6 | Green Lake Park |
| 7 | Alki Beach Park |
Seattle has no shortage of amazing picnic spots. Visitors can find a spot that fits their preferences perfectly, with a range of parks, urban sites, waterfronts, and nature reserves to choose from that offer unforgettable picnic experiences.
Best Areas for Picnic in Seattle
Seattle is blessed with numerous public parks, beaches, and other outdoor spaces that offer excellent picnic spots. With stunning waterfronts, lush greens, and breathtaking landscapes, Seattle has an abundant picnic location. Here are some of the most popular places to have a picnic in Seattle.
1. Gas Works Park, North Lake Union
Gas Works Park is a favorite location for picnics with friends and family. It features the scenic view of the city skyline, the Lake Washington ship canal, and the iconic Gas Works Museum. The park has picnic tables with built-in grills, so you can bring your own food and cook up a feast.
2. Alki Beach Park, Alki
Alki Beach Park is another popular seaside location for picnics, with over two miles of sandy beach. It offers unbeatable views of the city, the Olympic Mountains, and the Puget Sound. The park has extensive grassy areas, picnic tables, and beach shelters, so you can set up your picnic anywhere.
3. Discovery Park, Magnolia
Discovery Park is one of Seattle’s largest parks, with over 500 acres of scenic vistas and natural beauty. It encompasses two miles of protected tidal beaches, sand dunes, and walking trails. The park features picnic areas with grills, hot tubs, and picnic tables.
4. Seattle Center, Queen Anne
Seattle Center is a central location that offers various dining options and picnic spots. You can choose to picnic on the lawns or benches, or opt for one of the plentiful picnic tables with available grills. Seattle Center also has plenty of games and activities that you can enjoy after your picnic.
5. Golden Gardens Park, Ballard
Golden Gardens Park is a fantastic location for beach picnics, with sandy shores and beautiful views of the Puget Sound. You can enjoy the scenic sunset by the beach and have a picnic at one of the picnic tables or areas with fire pits.
6. Lincoln Park, West Seattle
Lincoln Park is a beautiful park with incredible views of Vashon Island, the Olympic Mountains, and the Puget Sound. The park features numerous picnic areas with tables and fire pits, playgrounds and sports fields, and a large pool that you can take a dip in after your picnic.
7. Kubota Garden, Beacon Hill
Kubota Garden is a hidden gem located in the south end of Seattle, with Japanese-style gardens that feature waterfalls, streams, and beautiful landscapes. The park offers numerous picnic areas, making it an ideal location for picnics with family and friends.
Best Parks for Picnic in Seattle
Seattle is famous for its green scenery and the city parks. There are plenty of parks around Seattle that have fabulous picnic spots. Here are some of the best parks for picnic in Seattle:
1. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of the most popular places to picnic in Seattle, located in the Wallingford neighborhood. An old gas plant was transformed into a park, and the picnic area is situated on a hill that provides stunning views of Lake Union and Seattle’s skyline.
2. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is situated on the south side of Queen Anne Hill and provides a picturesque view of Seattle’s skyline, including the iconic Space Needle. This park has a small picnic area, perfect for a quick lunch break or spending an afternoon enjoying the views.
3. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is one of the largest parks in Seattle and has over 500 acres of forest, meadows, and tidal beaches. The park is home to various picnic areas, including a sheltered picnic spot with an outdoor grill close to the beach.
4. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park, situated in the Ballard neighborhood, is a popular location for swimming, birdwatching, fishing, and of course, picnicking. This park has several picnic tables and grills available to make the most of your outdoor picnic experience.
5. Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park is a lush green park situated in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, covering 48.3 acres. This park has a unique picnic area where visitors can enjoy a picnic in a beautiful glass greenhouse.
6. Ravenna Park
Ravenna Park is a forested park situated in the Ravenna neighborhood and is a popular destination for walkers and hikers. It has a small picnic area with picnic tables, a playground for children, and a sheltered picnic spot under the trees.
7. Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is situated in West Seattle and covers over 135 acres, featuring walking paths, forest trails, picnic areas, and an outdoor heated saltwater pool. This park has many picnic tables, and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and Vashon Island.
| No | Seattle Parks for Picnic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gas Works Park |
| 2 | Kerry Park |
| 3 | Discovery Park |
| 4 | Golden Gardens Park |
| 5 | Volunteer Park |
| 6 | Ravenna Park |
| 7 | Lincoln Park |
These are just a few of the best parks for picnic in Seattle. No matter where you go, you will be able to find a perfect spot for your picnic with your loved ones.
Picnic Spots in Seattle
Seattle is a beautiful city with several picturesque outdoor locations for picnic enthusiasts, from sandy beaches to lush green parks. Here are some of the best picnic spots in Seattle:
1. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle with 534 acres of stunning open space. The park features a breathtaking view of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound, and it’s perfect for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and picnicking. The park has several picnic tables and benches spread across the meadow and beach, and the Elliot Bay Trail is a great place for a picnic while watching the sunset.
2. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is a unique place to have a picnic in Seattle. The park is located on the site of a former gas plant, and it offers an amazing view of the city skyline, including the Space Needle. There are plenty of grassy knolls and picnic areas available at the park, and you can rent a paddleboat or a canoe to enjoy the stunning view of the city while on the water.
3. Alki Beach Park
If you’re looking for a beach picnic in Seattle, Alki Beach Park is one of the best places to go. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea while having a picnic. The park also offers beautiful views of downtown Seattle and the Olympic Mountains. There are several fire pits and picnic tables available for use, and you can rent a kayak to explore the Puget Sound.
4. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a popular spot for picnickers to catch the best view of Seattle’s skyline. The park is located on Queen Anne Hill, and it’s easily accessible by car or public transportation. The park has plenty of picnic tables available for use, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy the sunset while having a picnic with your friends and family.
5. Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park is another great picnic spot in Seattle. The park features a beautiful sandy beach with an amazing view of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. There are plenty of picnic tables and fire pits available for use, and you can rent a paddleboard or a kayak to explore the water.
| No | LSI Keywords |
|---|---|
| 1 | Discovery Park, picnic tables, Elliot Bay Trail, stunning views, Puget Sound, outdoor locations |
| 2 | Gas Works Park, skyline view, Space Needle, paddleboat, canoe, grassy knolls |
| 3 | Alki Beach Park, beach picnic, fire pits, sand, sea, downtown Seattle, Olympic Mountains, kayak |
| 4 | Kerry Park, sunset, picnic, Queen Anne Hill, skyline, friends, family |
| 5 | Golden Gardens Park, sandy beach, Puget Sound, fire pits, paddleboard, kayak |
Best Places for a Picnic in Seattle
Seattle is a city that is blessed with numerous picturesque parks and waterfront locations which provide idyllic spots for picnics. Here are some popular destinations that are perfect for picnics:
1. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is located on the North shore of Lake Union and is home to the iconic Gas Works turrets and remnants of the city’s gasification plant. The park is said to offer one of the best views of Seattle and is popular for its sprawling green lawn overlooking the lake. Picnic tables and grills are also available across the park.
2. Green Lake Park
The Green Lake Park is a large public park in north-central Seattle that offers ideal sites for picnics, barbeques, and outdoor games. The park features a 2.8-mile trail around its circumference, sports courts and athletic fields, a golf course, and a boat rental facility. It’s a great place for families and friends to spend a fun, outdoorsy day!
3. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is located on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill and offers some of the best views of the city, including the iconic Space Needle, Elliott Bay, and the downtown skyline. The park is smaller in size compared to other parks in Seattle, but it’s a popular spot for a picnic and a quiet afternoon spent watching the city pass.
4. Alki Beach Park
Alki Beach Park is situated along the shores of the Puget Sound and offers a scenic spot for picnicking, swimming, biking, and kayaking. The park also invites visitors to enjoy the beach bonfire pits during the summer nights, where friends can gather around and have a delightful barbecue.
5. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park and provides an escape from the city’s hustle, thanks to its diverse natural landscapes—wooded trails, open meadows, and striking cliffside views of the Puget Sound. The park offers a range of picnic sites like the north meadow, the west point picnic shelter, and secluded spots on South Beach.
6. Magnuson Park
Magnuson Park is a 350-acre park in Seattle and offers a range of amenities, including sports fields, bike trails, beaches, and picnic areas. The park is home to a unique art sculpture “The Finâ€, an outdoor amphitheater, and playgrounds. The picnic sites offer access to electric power and water.
| No | LSI Keywords |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gas Works Park, Lake Union, picnic tables, grills |
| 2 | Green Lake Park, sports courts, athletic fields, boat rental facility |
| 3 | Kerry Park, Queen Anne Hill, Space Needle, Elliott Bay, skyline |
| 4 | Alki Beach Park, Puget Sound, swimming, biking, kayaking, beach bonfire pits |
| 5 | Discovery Park, natural landscapes, wooded trails, meadows, cliffside views, Puget Sound, North meadow, West Point Picnic shelter, South beach |
| 6 | Magnuson Park, sports fields, bike trails, amphitheater, playgrounds, electric power, water |
Picnic Seattle FAQ
Find answers to some of the common questions and concerns about having a picnic in Seattle.
1. Can I have a picnic in any park in Seattle?
Most Seattle parks allow picnics. However, some parks require a reservation or permit for picnics. Check the park’s website or contact the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department to find out their policies.
2. Are barbecues allowed in Seattle parks?
Barbecues are allowed in most Seattle parks. However, some parks may have restrictions on the type of grill allowed, or require a permit for barbecues. Check with the park or Seattle Parks and Recreation Department for their policies.
3. Are dogs allowed at Seattle parks for picnics?
Dogs are usually allowed at Seattle parks, but some parks may have specific areas where dogs must be on-leash or are not allowed at all. Make sure to check the park’s website or signage to know the dog regulations for the particular park.
4. What should I bring for a picnic in Seattle?
You should bring a picnic basket with food and drinks, utensils, plates, cups and napkins. Additionally, don’t forget to bring a blanket, chairs, sunblock, insect repellent and garbage bags. You may want to consider bringing other leisure activities or games with you too.
5. Can I consume alcohol in Seattle parks during a picnic?
Observe the park’s signage. If it is legal to consume alcohol, you need to have an alcohol permit for your group. Check the park’s website or contact the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department for policies regarding alcohol consumption in the park.
6. Is it safe to have a picnic in Seattle during summer?
Seattle weather during summer is usually mild and cool, which makes it perfect for picnics. But be prepared for sudden changes in weather by bringing jackets, hats, or rain ponchos.
7. Are there any popular places for picnics in Seattle?
Popular places for picnics in Seattle include Gas Works Park, Golden Gardens Park, Magnuson Park, and Kerry Park. But, remember there are over 400 parks with picnic areas located all over Seattle.
8. Is it possible to have a picnic by the beach in Seattle?
Yes, it is possible to have a picnic by the beach in Seattle. Seattle has several beach parks including Alki Beach Park, Golden Gardens Park and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park.
9. What are the best restaurants providing packed picnic baskets in Seattle?
Some of the best restaurants in Seattle providing packed picnic baskets include The London Plane, Gourmondo, and Beecher’s Handmade Cheese. These restaurants also take a catering order for special events.
10. Do Seattle parks have restrooms?
Major Seattle parks have restrooms, but smaller neighborhood parks may not have them, or they may close during the fall-winter months. Check the park’s website before planning your picnic, so you are prepared for the restroom facilities there.
11. Is there something I have to keep in mind regarding COVID-19 precautions in Seattle parks during picnics?
Seattle park goers are required to follow the COVID-19 guidelines provided by the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department including wearing masks when indoors. Check their website to know the latest COVID-19 guidelines to follow.
12. How can I make a picnic reservation in Seattle parks?
You can make a picnic reservation through the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department website. You may have to pay a fee for the reservation which depends on the park and size of the picnic group.
13. Can you suggest some less crowded parks in Seattle for picnics?
Less crowded parks for picnics include Ravenna Park, Lincoln Park, Discovery Park, and Magnuson Park Beach.
14. What Seattle parks have grills for picnics?
Many Seattle parks have grills for barbecuing, including Matthews Beach Park, Colman Park, and Jefferson Park. However, it is good to ensure that the grill is available and working fine before planning your barbecue.
15. Are there any restrictions on the items that can be brought to Seattle parks for picnics?
Seattle parks may have some restrictions on the items brought to a park. For example, certain parks may not allow glass bottles, gas grills, or powered audio equipment. Make sure to check the park’s website or signage for restrictions.
16. What website can I look at for the latest updates on Seattle parks?
You can check the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department website for updates on parks and facilities.
17. Can I have a picnic at Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo?
Yes, Woodland Park Zoo has an area specifically designated for picnics.
18. What is the best way to dispose of garbage after a picnic in Seattle parks?
You should pack out everything that you brought in from your picnic. However, even though most parks have garbage cans, some may not have recycling bins. So, be prepared to carry recyclable items back with you.
19. Can I swim at Seattle parks during picnics?
Seattle has a few parks with beaches, which allow swimming. Always check the park signage for any restrictions or safety hazards before swimming.
20. Is there camping available in Seattle for picnics?
No, camping is not allowed in Seattle parks. You can find camping options outside the city, such as in state parks or private camping sites.
21. Are there any good indoor picnic locations in Seattle?
Seattle has several indoor picnic locations, including The Atrium Kitchen, The Nest at Thompson Seattle, and The Foundry by Herban Feast.
22. Can I bring my own grill for cooking during a picnic in Seattle parks?
Yes, you may bring your own grill for cooking if the park allows barbecues. However, some parks may only allow you to cook in a designated area or may not allow grills that produce smoke or ash, or that use charcoal.
23. Is there a fee for parking in Seattle parks during a picnic?
Most of the Seattle parks have free parking. However, some parks may require a paid parking pass. Check the park’s website or signage to know if there are any parking fees.
24. Can I have a picnic at the Seattle Center?
Yes, Seattle Center has several picnic areas including the lawn around the International Fountain, the South Fountain Lawn, and the Broad Street Green. But, note that there are areas where picnics are not permitted.
25. What should I do if there is an emergency during my picnic in Seattle parks?
In case of an emergency, dial 911. Know the park’s address or ensure you’re aware of your location in the park. Some park websites also provide the nearest hospital contact information.
Looking for a place to have a picnic in Seattle? Check out these picnic spots in Seattle for an enjoyable outdoor experience in the city.
See You Soon, Kind Reader
Thanks for taking the time to read all about picnics in Seattle! We hope that this article has inspired you to pack a basket, grab your friends, and head out into the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a park with a view of the city, a beach with crashing waves, or a hidden gem that only the locals know about, Seattle has something for everyone. Remember to bring sunscreen, a blanket, and plenty of snacks, and you’re sure to have an amazing time. Don’t forget to come back soon for more tips on exploring this vibrant city. Happy picnicking!
