Lake Union Park — Attraction in Seattle

I loved this park. There was so much to see but it wasn't so big that you had to walk all over the place. You can sit on a bench and people watch. If you get hungry, there is a bistro. The fire and rescue boat is there and people are allowed to tour it. There are always seaplanes coming and going and you can take a tour in the air if you like being in tiny planes that take off and land in water. There are boats that offer tours. One is a pirate boat and from what I was told, it is very family friendly during the day, but more adult friendly at night. We went on the Virginia V which is a historical ship and the oldest wooden ship at least in Seattle. If I recall correctly, it was built in the 1920's. They do tours and you can rent it out for events and while you are dining you can see out the windows where you are going. Or, if you would simply like a glass of wine or something to drink, you can enjoy that while standing on the bow of the ship and just enjoy the weather so long as it isn't cold and rainy. I'm not sure if they are contracted through a catering company, but I do know that you can have your event catered. They allow no more than 4 passengers in the Bridge and you can get some great views and talk to the crew. Just be sure to stop talking if they start talking to eachother because they need to give direction and you don't want to get in the way or be the reason the ship goes off course. There are quite a few hotels right across the street that are nice and in the middle of everything. Just always be prepared for rain or damp weather at all times and you...

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...

Beautiful lakeside park in downtown. It is a must stop for locals and tourists alike.

The park is right beside the Kenmore Air seaplane dock and the Argosy Ship Lake tours and is the launch pad for other smaller (check out the pirate and ice cream-themed cruises) lake tours in the area.

Lots of open space for playing frisbee, getting a tan, or lounging by the water as you watch the seaplanes land and depart, kayaks and all shapes and sizes of boats.

Bring cash if you'd like to explore some of the boats docked (for donation). The Sea Shepherd boat is there this summer to promote their mission and sell merch to raise funds. It's a beautiful boat for a noble cause.

Plenty of pay parking though you are limited to maximum of four hours (you can just move your car to another spot to start the 4 hour clock over again).

There is a small strip of beach for swimming though you have to share the water with the seaplanes arriving and departing - so keep an eye out. You can also launch your kayak from the beach.

There is a Starbucks nearby, and a cafe at the MOHAI. Otherwise, food and drink options...