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Picnics with nice views in Washington

Spreading a blanket out to eat while looking at a wide-open view is the only way to spend the afternoon.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ella Bailey Park image 1
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City park offers panoramic city and water views with a quiet, calm atmosphere. It features playground and picnic areas alongside open grassy spaces for sports. The space feels kid-friendly and pet-friendly with a natural, integrated environment.

Plenty of picnic tables and two designated picnic areas offer good spots to sit. Wide open views of downtown and Elliott Bay add to the setting, alongside a nearby playground for kids.

Offers a panoramic view of the city skyline, including Rainier and the harbor on clear days. The spot is calm at night and provides a picturesque setting overlooking downtown.

People are saying

"You get a nice view of the city skyline and Puget Sound."

"I loved the sweeping views of the city and Elliott Bay from the picnic tables."

"The playground has great views of the city."

Good to know

1

The park lacks public restrooms, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking spots are limited, especially during busy times.

3

The playground is suitable for children of various ages.

02
Madrona Park image 1

Lakefront park offers stunning views of mountains, city, and water with peaceful walking paths through shady trees. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, attracting those seeking calm away from city bustle. Features include floating diving platforms and BBQ areas, enhancing outdoor leisure.

Open picnic areas operate on a first come, first served basis with tables available early in the day. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere suitable for picnics and nearby swimming.

Stunning views include Mount Rainier, the city skyline, and the lake. Walks along the coast offer peaceful paths and shady trees with beautiful vistas.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of Mt. Rainier and the water."

"The bathrooms here were clean and accessible."

"It's a lovely spot for a picnic with beautiful lake views."

Good to know

1

Madrona Park is free to access all day.

2

Parking at Madrona Park can be difficult to find.

3

There are no public restrooms at Madrona Park as advertised, since they have been closed.

03
Madrona Park Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of downtown and Mount Rainier. Small beach area includes grassy lido, picnic tables, and diving platform. Visitors enjoy wooded trails and a relaxed vibe ideal for walking, swimming, and family outings.

Small beach area includes grassy lido, picnic tables, and a diving platform. Docks lead to swimming spots near open grassy spaces for family picnics and play.

Massive views stretch across the water with clear sights of downtown Bellevue and Mount Rainier. The spot offers stunning scenery of the Cascades and a peaceful atmosphere for walking and relaxing.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of the Cascades and Mt. Rainier."

"There's plenty of parking available, and it's free."

"The picnic views are amazing, even on rainy days."

Good to know

1

Parking at Madrona Park Beach can be challenging, especially on weekends.

2

Restrooms at Madrona Park Beach were not open as of March 31.

3

Lifeguards are present during the summer months for safety.

04
Playground By The Sound image 1

Playground offers spacious play areas with varied climbing and balancing equipment for children of all ages. It features scenic water views and peaceful walking trails that create a calm atmosphere. Open spaces accommodate picnics and outdoor games, making it suitable for families and groups.

Gazebo and picnic tables provide spots for grilling and eating. Open space nearby offers room for kids to play.

Views include waterfront scenery and Chambers Bay. Benches face the water for watching sunsets. Walking trails run alongside the playground with fenced structures.

People are saying

"This playground is wonderful for kids of all ages."

"I loved the awesome view of the water."

"The playground here is nice and convenient for kids."

Good to know

1

The playground is suitable for both toddlers and older children.

2

Parking can be limited on sunny days, so arrive early.

3

The park is handicap accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

05
O. O. Denny Park image 1

Park offers stunning lake views and majestic Mt. Rainier backdrop with direct waterfront access. Atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil, ideal for picnics, swimming, and family outings. Features include playground, picnic shelters, and barbecue grills amid large trees.

Plenty of picnic tables line the water, offering many spots to relax and eat. A shelter and real restrooms add convenience for groups and families.

Views include Mount Rainier and Lake Washington on clear days. The park offers a peaceful setting with water views and a sheltered picnic area.

People are saying

"This park offers beautiful lake views and a nice beach."

"I had a perfect picnic with friends on the beach with Mt. Rainier visible."

"You get a nice view of Mt. Rainier from the park."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, so arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot.

2

The park is great for outdoor events and gatherings.

3

Expect the parking lot to be busy during the summer months.

06
Lake Sammamish State Park image 1

Lake Sammamish State Park offers spacious beach areas and beautiful lake views with a peaceful, serene atmosphere that feels like a private garden. It attracts families and groups for picnics, playground fun, and boating activities in a well-maintained, natural setting.

Open picnic shelters provide good spots for family gatherings and group events. The park offers a safe, natural setting with lawns, trees, and birds, ideal for long walks and relaxed picnics.

Stunning lake views and a rocky beach create a peaceful setting. Walkways and bicycle trails offer scenic views that enhance any visit.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of clean, well-maintained areas."

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and sandy."

"The views here are stunning and peaceful."

Good to know

1

A Discover Pass is required or a day fee to access the park.

2

The park has a big beach that is perfect for summer water fun.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

07
Titlow Park Sprayground image 1

Sprayground offers warm water play areas and multiple playgrounds designed for kids of different ages. The setting includes a small beach and picnic spaces with plenty of room to relax while children play. The atmosphere stays clean and quiet, with safe distances from roads and convenient parking nearby.

Open fields and picnic tables create easy spots to eat outdoors. A nearby playground adds fun for kids during a picnic.

Small beach offers a great water view. Park provides beautiful scenery along the shore.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly place to cool off on hot days."

"The playground here is big, clean, and great for kids."

"It's a perfect place for a picnic with available picnic tables."

Good to know

1

Parking is very convenient with a lot right next to the spray area.

2

Restrooms are located nearby for convenience.

3

Expect the sprayground to be crowded during summer break.

08
Meydenbauer Bay Park image 1

Park offers lakefront views with sunset reflections over calm water. It maintains a peaceful atmosphere with lush greenery and a quiet vibe ideal for walks and relaxation. Facilities include a playground and watercraft rentals, supporting both family activities and water recreation.

Benches placed at ideal locations create comfortable spots for picnics. The park suits all ages and offers a family-friendly beach setting perfect for relaxing and eating outdoors.

Sunset views shine with lake and downtown skyline sights from a viewpoint bridge. The park offers a beautiful sandy beach and clear views of Mercer Island and I-90 in the distance.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful, scenic views of the lake and bay."

"This park is fantastic for kids, especially the playground."

"It's a perfect spot for a picnic with a view of the lake."

Good to know

1

During summer, boat rides and kayaking are available at the park.

2

Parking at Meydenbauer Bay Park is free.

3

The park has a small paddling beach, a swimming platform, and changing rooms.

09
Carkeek Park image 1
City park

City park offers beach access and well-maintained hiking trails through forested areas. It has a family-friendly vibe with playgrounds, picnic spots, and educational features like a salmon slide. Views include Puget Sound and Olympic mountains, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

Huge picnic areas with plenty of tables accommodate large groups comfortably. Easy wheelchair access, nearby bathrooms, and spots for BBQ make it family-friendly and convenient.

Views include Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and a city skyline. Trails wind through forest and river areas with salmon sightings. The beach offers tidepools and scenic train tracks along the water.

People are saying

"The beach here is perfect for watching a spectacular sunset."

"I loved the beautiful views with mountains in the background."

"It's a great spot with plenty of picnic tables and open grassy areas."

Good to know

1

The park offers plenty of space for group events.

2

You can dig for seafood at the park.

3

In November, the salmon come back to spawn, which is fun to watch.

10
Chism Beach Park image 1

Small city park with a beach and swimming dock offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere and clear, shallow water suitable for families. Open green spaces and a playground on the beach create a relaxed vibe away from busier local spots. Lifeguards are present during summer, enhancing safety for visitors.

Picnic spots include a few picnic benches and tables scattered around the park. Most tables tend to be occupied and the cleanliness of the picnic areas varies.

Beautiful view of the lake meets multiple levels of grassy areas and trails. The park offers a beach, a small trail, and plenty of spots for fresh air and scenic walks.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautifully maintained with clear water."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful park perfect for a picnic."

"I enjoyed the pretty view and fresh air at the park."

Good to know

1

The park closes at sunset.

2

Lifeguards are on duty from noon to 7 pm, May to September 4.

3

Motorized boats must stay 100 feet away from the swim line.

11
Mukilteo Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views with an old historic lighthouse adding character. The atmosphere stays peaceful and clean, ideal for relaxing walks or sitting by fire pits. Amenities include playgrounds, walking paths, and bonfire locations, attracting families and dog owners.

Open space with covered picnic areas and small BBQ grills suits group barbecues well. Facilities include picnic tables, restrooms, and a playground, making it family-friendly and convenient.

Waterfront scenery offers breathtaking views of the water and mountains. Fire pits add charm during sunset views. The lighthouse provides a stunning mountain outlook.

People are saying

"I loved watching the ferries and the sunset from the beach."

"The water and mountain views here are absolutely stunning, especially at sunset."

"I found the picnic spot to be clean and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

All parking at Mukilteo Beach is pay-to-park.

2

Parking can get busy, so arrive early for a spot.

3

Bring your own firewood for the fire pits.

12
Golden Gardens Park image 1

Scenic beach park with breathtaking water and mountain views and picturesque sunsets. Open grassy areas and volleyball courts create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fire pits and picnic facilities alongside walking paths and an off-leash dog area.

Picnic tables with grills sit near a beautiful beach, making it easy to enjoy sandwiches and small fires. Numerous playgrounds and trails add to the space, perfect for relaxing and watching the sunset.

Views include Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Walking trails and a beach offer spots to enjoy sunsets and watch wildlife like ducks and turtles.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains."

"The views of the water and mountains were breathtaking."

"It's a great place for a picnic with beautiful beach views."

Good to know

1

Parking can be extremely difficult on busy weekends; arrive early to find a spot.

2

Restrooms are available at the park for visitor convenience.

3

The concession stand closes at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

13
Sunset Hill Park image 1

Small city park offers stunning sunset views over mountains, water, and marina. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for meditation or calm conversation. Features include shady benches and a walking path, with a vibe of old America from nearby colonial-style houses.

Well tended grassy areas and a few benches create a simple setup for picnics. Limited picnic tables exist, so seating options are mostly on the grass or benches.

Views offer stunning sunsets and clear sights of the Olympic mountain range and sound. The spot feels peaceful and often quiet, perfect for enjoying a picnic or cherry blossoms.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are beautiful and impressive."

"I loved the amazing view of the mountains and water."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a nice grassy area."

Good to know

1

Arrive at least 20 minutes before sunset for the best views.

2

Parking is available if you arrive about 45 minutes before sundown.

3

There are no restrooms available at the park.

14
American Legion Memorial Park image 1

City park offers gorgeous bay views and a large playground suitable for children of various ages. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with picnic areas shaded by big trees enhancing the calm setting. Scenic spots for watching sunsets and a tucked-away garden add to the park's charm.

Big trees provide wonderful shade for picnic blankets or tables. Plenty of picnic tables spread out with space between them. Restrooms and shelters support longer stays and small gatherings.

Views include beautiful water scenery and sunsets on clear days. The park offers great views of the Puget Sound and surrounding marine areas.

People are saying

"The waterfront views here are amazing, overlooking the sound."

"The playground here is large and great for kids."

"It's a vast, open park with plenty of space for picnics."

Good to know

1

Expect limited parking availability after dusk at the park.

2

There is only a honey bucket available for restroom facilities.

3

The park has a large playground suitable for children.

15
Lake Union Park image 1

City park offers beautiful lake views and an open, airy layout with a boardwalk and beach area. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with activities like kayaking, sailing, and watching seaplanes. Visitors enjoy scenic urban landscapes including views of the Space Needle and nearby headquarters.

Green space near the water offers plenty of room for picnics and relaxing. Lakeside views and trees provide a nice backdrop for a quick lunch break or a longer afternoon outdoors.

Stellar lake views surround the park, offering a beautiful sight of the water. The area also provides great city views from all sides along with excellent walking paths.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the lake and city skyline."

"I loved all the water activities, especially sailing and paddleboarding."

"It's a nice place to have a picnic and relax."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on weekends at Lake Union Park.

2

The park hosts free yoga classes on Wednesdays during the summer.

3

Cider Summit at Lake Union Park features local cider tastings and runs all day.

16
Juanita Beach Park image 1

Beachfront park offers stunning lake and city skyline views with a long boardwalk circling a swimming area. Atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, though it can get busy and lively on sunny days. Playground and water activities attract families, creating a communal vibe without feeling overcrowded.

Lots of picnic tables and spaces spread out near the beach and playground. Facilities include clean bathrooms, outdoor showers, and a concession stand, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors.

Views include a serene night scene and a pier extending into Lake Washington for skyline watching. The park offers scenic sights of mountains and downtown Seattle along the water.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with waterfront access and great views."

"You get a great view of the Seattle skyline from the pier."

"It's a great spot for picnics with plenty of space."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends and sunny days.

2

Expect large crowds during summer, particularly on hot days.

3

The Friday Market runs from June to September, featuring local produce.

17
Saltwater State Park image 1

State park offers sandy beach, forested campsites, and an artificial underwater reef for scuba divers. The atmosphere is generally spacious and peaceful, though noise from nearby jumbo jets can be loud. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and kayak rentals support family-friendly outdoor activities.

Spacious areas with many picnic tables and covered shelters make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. Water access and scenic views add to the experience, along with nearby bathrooms for convenience.

Offers stunning coastal views and beautiful sound scenery. Great spot for relaxing, walking, and picnics with fantastic water access.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the park's beautiful trails and beach access."

"I loved the peaceful atmosphere and the amazing sound views."

"There was plenty of parking available for our picnic."

Good to know

1

A Discover Pass is required to access the park.

2

You can purchase a day pass at the kiosk machine at the entrance.

3

There are plenty of restrooms available throughout the park.

18
Chestnut Ridge Park image 1

Park offers stunning valley and mountain views with a spacious picnic shelter and charcoal BBQs. Playground suits toddlers and older kids with swings, slides, and monkey bars. Clean, well-lit grounds include walking trails and a large grassy area for pets and play.

Spacious picnic shelter offers at least 8 tables and 2 charcoal BBQs. Grounds stay clean and well-maintained with restrooms nearby.

Sunset views stand out with a clear sight of the Olympic mountains and the valley skyline. Nighttime offers a beautiful view including SeaTac Airport and the surrounding area.

People are saying

"I found the park to be very clean and beautiful."

"The playground is small but super fun for kids."

"I loved watching the sunset; it's a nice view."

Good to know

1

The park has trash receptacles and restrooms.

2

The bathrooms were not open on July 4th when I checked.

3

The parking lot is small, but street parking is available.

19
Liberty Bay Waterfront Park image 1

Waterfront park offers stunning water views and a peaceful atmosphere with open grass areas, benches, and a gazebo. The space supports family-friendly activities like picnics and bird watching, with occasional live music adding a vibrant touch.

Picnic areas include benches, tables, and grass spots for relaxing or eating. A large gazebo and a pavilion provide covered seating, while a nearby boardwalk offers water views.

Stunning water views surround the marina front and picnic areas. The park stays clean and green, making it a pleasant spot for a relaxing stroll or meal with a view.

People are saying

"The views of the bay and mountains are stunning."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with stunning water views."

Good to know

1

Free outdoor concerts occur every Tuesday night in the summer at the park.

2

A fireworks show takes place every year on the 4th of July.

3

Local vendors set up during the fireworks event, offering food and crafts.

20
Waverly Beach Park image 1

Park offers spectacular lake views with Mount Rainier visible from the dock. It features a well-maintained pier, playground, and swimming areas that create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. The setting is quiet and scenic, ideal for relaxing and enjoying sunsets.

Beachside setting offers a nice backdrop for picnics. The park has a dedicated picnic area suitable for families and groups.

Views include panoramic lake scenes, sunsets over the Olympic Mountains, and clear sights of Mount Rainier. A dock and paved paths offer spots for sunset watching and photography.

People are saying

"Parking for the beach fills up quickly on warm days."

"I enjoyed the gorgeous sunset views."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of nature and space."

Good to know

1

Parking at Waverly Beach Park is very limited, especially on hot summer days.

2

The restrooms are clean and well-maintained with supplies available.

3

Waverly Beach Park is great for family picnics and has a playground.

21
Harborview Park image 1

Park offers stunning water views and peaceful atmosphere with large grassy areas and plenty of benches. It stays quiet most of the time, making it easy to find a spot to relax or watch the sunset. Visitors often enjoy walking trails and open spaces for casual activities.

Lots of open grassy areas and picnic tables provide space for sitting and eating. Shady spots under trees offer a cool place to relax while kids play nearby on the playground or fly kites.

Views stretch over Everett Harbor, the Navy base, and Mukilteo Beach. Water scenes include Possession Sound from Whidbey to the marina, offering a stunning waterfront panorama.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing, beautiful views here."

"It's a nice, quiet place with plenty of room to relax."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with amazing water views."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy at the park with a large lot available.

2

There are no restrooms or playgrounds in the park.

3

The perimeter walking path is accessible for disabled visitors.

22
Idylwood Park image 1

Park offers quiet beach access with a spacious grassy area and wooden footbridge over a gentle stream. Visitors find it peaceful and uncrowded, ideal for relaxing or playing without disturbance. Facilities include playground, picnic spots, and dock extending into clear water.

Picnic spots include picnic tables, barbecue areas, and a sheltered event space. Water views and a playground sit nearby, with a secluded picnic shelter available for gatherings.

Lake views stand out with reflections on the water during sunset. The spot offers picnic tables and a playground nearby, making it easy to enjoy the outdoor scenery.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for picnics with nice water views."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a fun playground and shallow water."

"I enjoyed the nice lake view and the outdoor scenery."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at the park.

2

Dogs are allowed at Idylwood Park.

3

The park has a playground for children.

23
Cottage Lake Park image 1

Small lake with wide paved walkways and a spacious playground creates a peaceful, family-friendly setting. Calm atmosphere suits canoeing, fishing, and jogging while open spaces invite relaxation. Quiet mood shifts to mild traffic noise during peak hours.

Sheltered picnic areas and picnic tables near the playground make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. The park supports group gatherings with ample space for celebrations.

Large grassy areas offer lake views that create a beautiful backdrop. The spot also features spectacular natural scenery ideal for photos.

People are saying

"The playground with picnic tables was great for kids."

"I found the park to be peaceful and charming."

"I loved the nice view of the lake and the boardwalk."

Good to know

1

The park has a pool, playground, walking trails, picnic shelters, and lake access.

2

Parking can be difficult during peak times, with limited handicap spaces.

3

Swimming is permitted in the lake, but check for toxicity levels.

24
Newcastle Beach Park image 1

Expansive sandy beach meets green grass fields and a small shaded playground in a peaceful, clean atmosphere. Calm waters and breathtaking sunset views create a relaxing setting for families and quiet walks. Facilities support swimming, kayaking, and picnicking, making it a versatile urban oasis.

Spacious picnic areas with barbecue grills and shaded shelters create a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Picturesque views provide a great backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

Panoramic views of the lake and surrounding scenery create a breathtaking backdrop. Open fields and refreshing trees add to the picturesque setting, perfect for a stroll or picnic during sunset hours.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, clean, and well-maintained with great views."

"I loved the beautiful views of the water and the sunset."

"I loved the green grass and stunning water views for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park hosts outdoor concerts and movie nights during the summer months.

2

Restrooms are available on-site for visitor convenience.

3

Parking is ample, but arrive early as it fills up quickly.

25
Lake Sammamish Sunset Playground image 1

Playground offers varied play equipment including swings, slides, climbing frames, and a zip line for children of all ages. Surrounding area features spacious picnic spots and benches, with stunning sunset views over a sandy beach. Atmosphere remains peaceful and family-friendly even during multiple birthday parties.

Picnic tables under covers sit in the grass area near the beach, offering a nice spot to eat. Parking on the east side puts you close to many picnic spots and the playground, which is a peaceful place for families and kids.

Sunset views stand out with great colors and stunning scenery. The spot at the playground offers a clear view of the lake during sunset.

People are saying

"The playground has swings, slides, and fun equipment for all ages."

"I found the parking lot to be spacious and convenient."

"The picnic tables are conveniently placed in the grass area near parking."

Good to know

1

A Discover Pass is required to access the park.

2

Parking costs $10 for a day or $30 for a yearly national park pass.

3

The playground equipment is in disrepair, with many structures closed off.

26
Gene Coulon Park Playground image 1

Park offers playground and beach areas with a protected swimming zone and walking paths featuring diverse wildlife. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing with spaces for family activities and picnics. Strict no dogs allowed policy and ample kid-friendly equipment set it apart.

Ample space supports picnics, sunbathing, and swimming. The setting feels nice and suitable for outdoor meals and relaxation.

Offers a beautiful view of Lake Washington with a walking path nearby. The area is spacious and good for relaxing while enjoying the water views.

People are saying

"I loved the park's waterfront views and vibrant fall colors."

"It's a perfect place for a picnic with ample space."

"It's a nice view of the water, perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Dogs are not allowed except for service dogs.

2

Parking at Gene Coulon Park Playground can be challenging during events.

3

Restrooms are located far from the playground area.

27
Myrtle Edwards Park image 1

Long narrow park along the waterfront offers sweeping views of Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier. Peaceful paths invite walking, biking, and jogging with scenic waterfront access. Expansive grassy areas and picnic tables create a calm setting for relaxation near the water.

Expansive grassy spaces offer plenty of room for picnics and lounging. Picnic tables and sea views add to the relaxing atmosphere.

Sweeping waterfront views showcase the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, and the city skyline. The path along the bay offers picturesque sunsets and a peaceful setting for jogging or biking.

People are saying

"The sunset views over the bay were amazing."

"I found the beach here to be a great urban park gem."

"I loved the gorgeous waterfront views, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

The park is currently undergoing construction, limiting access to certain areas.

2

Bike trails are open, providing a scenic route along the waterfront.

3

Expect beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier on clear days.

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