Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Seattle's best

Picnic spots in parks

A park that provides a comfortable setup for a picnic instead of just a patch of dirt.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Ella Bailey Park image 1
Ella Bailey Park image 2
Ella Bailey Park image 3
View all

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.

Offers panoramic views of downtown, Puget Sound, and the Space Needle. Features a kid-friendly playground with swings, slides, and monkey bars, plus a circular paved track and grills for picnics.

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.

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 parks here offer amazing city and skyline views."

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.

Beautiful lake views and peaceful walking paths create a quiet, calm atmosphere. Plenty of parking and good disabled access make it easy to visit, while benches spaced along the trails support all ages.

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.

People are saying

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

"This park offers beautiful lake views and shady trees."

"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
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.

A large, scenic park with sandy beach and railroad views along the ocean. It offers many lovely trails for walking, hiking, and jogging, plus picnic areas suitable for large groups.

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.

People are saying

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

"I considered this one of my favorite local parks."

"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.

04
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.

Offers great beach and water views with walking trails and stairs. Features a playground for kids, a pond with ducks and turtles, and plenty of free parking. Popular spot for picnics, family gatherings, and watching sunsets over Puget Sound.

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.

People are saying

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

"The park offers beautiful views of the Olympics and the water."

"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.

05
Carkeek Park Beach image 1

Beach with calm waves and quiet atmosphere offers beautiful mountain views and wooded trails nearby. Spacious parking and picnic areas support a relaxed, peaceful vibe where people enjoy nature and playgrounds. Dog restrictions on the small beach contrast with the rest of the park's openness.

Beautiful waterfront park with clean beach access, plenty of green space, and many great trails. Features include playgrounds, picnic shelters, restrooms, and spots to watch salmon and sunsets.

Spacious parking and many picnic tables make it easy to settle in. Picnic shelters, benches, and grassy open fields add variety for groups. Restrooms and amenities support longer stays.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and teeming with sea life."

"The beach at this park is beautiful and peaceful."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of picnic tables."

Good to know

1

The beach has a spacious parking lot, amenities, and many picnic tables.

2

Access to the beach involves a steep footbridge, not suitable for mobility issues.

3

Expect limited walking space during high tide, but plenty during low tide.

06
Warren G. Magnuson Park image 1

Large city park offers spacious open fields, off-leash dog areas, and beachfront access with scenic views of lake and mountains. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful during the day, turning lively with noise and activity late at night. Features include historic buildings, athletic fields, walking trails, and community spaces.

Offers a huge off-leash dog area with a trail leading to a dog beach and plenty of doggy friends. Features large open fields for sports, many trails, a beach, and free parking for easy access.

Plenty of space and picnic shelters accommodate groups up to 50 people. Beachfront areas include picnic tables and barbeques with ample parking nearby.

People are saying

"It's so Dog Friendly, with tons of room for pups to run."

"Parking at the park is easy and abundant."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with charcoal grills nearby."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for $12 for trailers, but free parking can be hard to find.

2

Restrooms at the beach are open, but facilities may be limited during events.

3

The hangar hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and thrift markets.

07
Meridian Playground image 1

Park offers classic rabbit-themed decorations and abundant apple trees that add charm. It feels peaceful and secluded with large picnic areas and plenty of green space for families and solo visitors. Playgrounds cater to all ages but feature some outdated equipment alongside basketball hoops and walking paths.

A beautiful park with an array of play structures and lots of green space. It has clean restrooms, a covered area for events, picnic tables, and is great for kids and families.

Large, open grassy areas provide plenty of space for picnics and parties. Several picnic tables sit near a play area, making it easy to eat and play in one spot.

People are saying

"The parks here are beautiful, especially with all the apple trees."

"It's a great playground for kids of all ages."

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

Good to know

1

A farmer's market occurs there on Wednesdays during the summer.

2

Parking is available on the streets and off Sunnyvale.

3

The restrooms at Meridian Playground are clean.

08
Volunteer Park image 1

City park offers stunning skyline views including the Space Needle and features big trees alongside a historic brick water tower. It maintains a peaceful, spacious atmosphere with well-kept green areas and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and water features. The park blends nature, art, and history in a quiet urban setting.

Offers a peaceful, well-kept green space with interesting landmarks like an art museum, conservatory, and observation tower. Features a playground and splashpad for kids and provides good views of the city skyline.

Lush, well-maintained greenery offers plenty of space for picnics and playing frisbee. The area feels safe and peaceful, perfect for relaxing or unwinding with a book.

People are saying

"The park offers an iconic, cinematic skyline view."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful meditation spot."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with open green spaces."

Good to know

1

Live shows occur every Thursday during the summer months.

2

Free outdoor concerts are held regularly at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events at the park.

09
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.

Beautiful views of the lake and smooth paved bike paths make this park a great spot for walking and relaxing. The park is well maintained with clean pathways and offers a tranquil atmosphere near the water.

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.

People are saying

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

"The parks offer gorgeous views of the lake and city."

"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.

10
Lowman Beach Park image 1

Small city park offers calm water views and grassy areas with swings. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, especially mid-week, attracting people who relax on the grass or launch kayaks. Less crowded than nearby spots, it provides a natural, neighborhood feel with scenic walkways and benches.

Small and well kept, this park offers almost 360-degree water views and easy access to the beach. It serves as a popular spot for launching paddleboards and kayaks, with plenty of space for picnics and watching sunsets.

Grass under a huge tree offers a shady spot for picnics. The beach setting creates a lovely atmosphere for a relaxed lunch outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a nice little beach park with a great view of the sound."

"I found the park to be lovely and beautiful."

"It's a great spot for a picnic on the grass."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at Lowman Beach Park.

2

Parking is very limited, especially on sunny days.

3

The park is great for launching water sports like paddle boarding.

11
Green Lake Park image 1

Massive park with amazing lake views and historic bathhouse offers a peaceful atmosphere and diverse recreational options like swimming, kayaking, and sports courts. Huge trees and well-maintained paths create a relaxing, walkable space in the city. The vibe is calm and inspiring, attracting people seeking both activity and tranquility.

A large park with dedicated paths for walking and riding circles a lake. It offers a serene escape with plenty of space for walks, skating, and picnics.

Expansive green spaces invite relaxing picnics and playing games. The park offers a calm setting ideal for spreading out and enjoying food outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with amazing lake views and stunning scenery."

"I found so many fun activities, from walking to pickleball."

"It's a great place for a picnic with plenty of grassy spaces."

Good to know

1

The Lantern Parade occurs annually and is a must-see event.

2

Summer brings boat races and music events at Green Lake Park.

3

Free dodgeball games are held every Wednesday night at the community center.

12
Gas Works Park image 1

Park combines historic industrial structures with expansive green lawns and lakeside views. It offers a spectacular city skyline panorama visible from open picnic areas and walking paths. Activities include paddleboarding, live music events, and lawn games, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere.

Views include the Seattle skyline, lake, and old gas works equipment. The park offers beautiful scenery and a jogging-friendly layout with convenient parking and restrooms.

Large grass spaces offer plenty of room for picnics and outdoor games. Views overlook the city and boats, making it a nice spot to relax and watch the activity.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view of downtown Seattle across the lake."

"I loved the beautiful views of the city skyline from this park."

"You can have a picnic with a beautiful Seattle skyline view."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available for up to four hours at Gas Works Park.

2

Gas Works Park is a great spot for viewing fireworks on the 4th of July.

3

I attended free DJ sets on Sundays near the concrete area by the water.

13
Seward Park image 1

Expansive park features old-growth forest, waterfront views, and rugged hiking trails. Serene atmosphere includes gentle sounds of lapping waves and peaceful spots for relaxation. Amenities support families and groups with playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater.

Offers walking trails, a kids' playground, and picnic areas with plenty of parking and restrooms. Features easy, flat hikes with stunning views of Mount Rainier and a coastal bay, making it a peaceful spot for nature and relaxation.

Lots of picnic tables and pavilions sit near a playground and open spaces. Views include a bay and Mt. Rainier, with paths leading to a forest preserve.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of Mt. Rainier and the lake."

"I found the park's scenery to be beautiful, with stunning forest and lake views."

"I found the picnic scenery stunning with trees, trails, and water views."

Good to know

1

Parking is busy on weekends, but free parking is available.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

The park has trails suitable for running and walking dogs.

14
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.

A long narrow park along the waterfront offers sweeping waterfront views and a peaceful path. It features amazing views of the city, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier on clear days, plus water access with beaches suitable for swimming and kayaking.

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

People are saying

"The sunset views over the bay were amazing."

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

"The parks here offer gorgeous waterfront views and a peaceful place to lounge."

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.

15
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.

Small and quiet, this park offers plentiful parking and a peaceful atmosphere away from city noise. It features stunning sunset views over the bay and mountains, making it ideal for relaxing, meditating, or walking a dog.

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.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are beautiful and impressive."

"I loved the beautiful views of the bay and mountains from this park."

"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.

16
Salmon Bay Park image 1

Playground features a mix of older and newer equipment with a zip line and large play structure in a quiet, forest-like setting. Families and dogs frequent the park, enjoying the shaded picnic areas and hilly grassy spaces. The park maintains a low-key, neighborhood vibe without drawing large crowds.

A huge playground with all new equipment offers tons of things to climb on and play with. The park includes bathroom facilities, picnic tables, and a dog park, making it great for families and pets.

Plenty of picnic tables and benches make it easy to set up meals outdoors. Bathroom facilities add convenience for longer stays. The park suits gatherings like birthday parties and casual hangouts with kids.

People are saying

"The playground here is huge with tons of things to climb on."

"The bathrooms here are nicely maintained and have soap."

"It's a nice park with plenty of picnic tables."

Good to know

1

The playground equipment is newly upgraded and safe for kids.

2

Bathrooms are available but may be closed at times.

3

Street parking is easily accessible around the park.

17
Bhy Kracke Park image 1

Small terraced park offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Lake Union, and the Space Needle. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere with meandering paths and grassy nooks invites relaxation and picnics. Playground and open grassy areas provide space for children and dogs to play.

Small size meets stunning views of downtown, Lake Union, and Capitol Hill. Quiet, peaceful paths and a spacious grass area create a perfect spot for picnics or letting dogs play.

Several quiet grassy nooks and open grass areas offer peaceful spots for picnics. Covered picnic benches and nearby playgrounds add convenience and options for groups.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of the Seattle skyline."

"The park offers amazing views of the Seattle skyline."

"It's a perfect place for a quiet picnic with spectacular views."

Good to know

1

The park has limited parking space, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect steep trails, so wear appropriate footwear for hiking.

3

The park offers stunning views of downtown Seattle and the Space Needle.

18
Ravenna Park image 1
City park

Forested ravine below street level creates a secluded urban forest with tall majestic trees and quiet trails. The park offers playgrounds and splash pads amid natural scenery, attracting families and hikers. It feels like a hidden gem providing peaceful escape within the city.

Several well maintained trails wind through a large, forested area that feels like a pocket of wilderness in the city. The park offers playgrounds, sports courts, and safe spots for dogs to splash around, making it a versatile urban escape.

Picnic spots include about 8 picnic tables and benches with plenty of open space for games and kids to run. Limited seating means bringing a blanket or hammock works well for comfort.

People are saying

"I found the parks beautiful with majestic trees and lovely views."

"It's a pretty secluded hidden gem right in the city."

"It's a beautiful, quiet place for a picnic among tall trees."

Good to know

1

The park has a playground, dog play area, and picnic spots.

2

Bring your own seating as limited seating is available.

3

All restrooms are currently closed; plan accordingly.

19
Roanoke Park image 1
City park

Spacious city park with beautiful landscaping and large trees offers a quiet atmosphere and ample seating. Small playground and basketball hoop provide simple recreation options. Popular for picnics and casual gatherings, it attracts families and dog walkers in a peaceful setting.

Quiet and well maintained, this park offers a spacious grass field and a small walking path. It features a playground with beauty bark, picnic tables, benches, gardens, and a basketball hoop for shooting practice.

Many picnic tables and benches sit among gardens and a playground. The space suits small picnics and casual games.

People are saying

"It's a gorgeous, neat park, a lovely place to behold."

"It's a nice neighborhood park with a small playground."

"I found the park to be a beautiful, lovely little paradise."

Good to know

1

Roanoke Park has a great playground for kids with a soft landing made of beauty bark.

2

There is abundant street parking available near Roanoke Park.

3

The park is a nice spot for a small picnic.

20
Kerry Park image 1
Tourist attraction

Small terraced park offers breathtaking skyline views including city, mountains, and landmarks. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and scenic to busy and lively depending on time. Features include benches, coin-operated telescopes, and a playground for families.

Small park offers panoramic views of the city skyline and bay. Access is easy with no ticket required and parking is often available nearby.

Great views and seating areas make this spot ideal for a picnic. Limited grass space fits a few families, with room to relax in a hammock or enjoy simple snacks like sandwiches and chips.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous city view, especially at night."

"The views from this park are spectacular, especially the skyline."

"I enjoyed the great views and picnic spot."

Good to know

1

Parking at Kerry Park is free with no time limits.

2

The road can be slippery on rainy or snowy days.

3

Bring a jacket just in case the weather changes.

21
Centennial Park image 1

Park features breathtaking waterfront views of mountains, islands, and the bay with a dramatic industrial backdrop. Expansive green spaces and separate bike and pedestrian paths create a calm, peaceful atmosphere often quieter than nearby areas. Visitors enjoy picnic tables, benches, and a small rose garden amid a well-maintained, family- and dog-friendly setting.

This park offers breathtaking views of the bay, Mt. Rainier, and downtown. Well-maintained paths make it great for jogging, walking, and cycling along the waterfront. It feels calm and peaceful, perfect for picnics or relaxing by the water.

Expansive green spaces create a perfect setting for picnics and leisurely strolls. Picnic tables sit towards the north end of the park, offering convenient spots to relax and eat.

People are saying

"I loved the spectacular views of the mountains and water."

"The park offers beautiful views of the water and mountains."

"It's a fantastic spot for picnics with expansive green spaces."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available in the park.

2

The park has a dedicated biking lane for cyclists.

3

Walking and biking paths are separate for safety.

22
Yesler Terrace Park image 1

City park offers new playground equipment, a splash pad, and fenced-in soccer field within a well-designed layout. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly, with plenty of space for picnics and play. Inner city setting provides great views and easy access by public transport.

Spotless and well maintained, the park offers a unique playground with many slides and climbing options, plus a spray park that cools things down on hot days. It has a fenced-in soccer field, exercise equipment, and plenty of space for picnics and play.

Lots of picnic tables spread across a spacious area make it easy to set up a picnic. The park also features a water play area that adds fun for everyone.

People are saying

"The park has a fun spray park and playground for the kids."

"The playground has unique, new equipment and lots of play areas."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of tables."

Good to know

1

The restroom inside the community center is easily accessible.

2

Parking is available in the small lot of the Yesler Community Center or on the street.

3

The park has a splash pad, but water availability is inconsistent.

23
Kubota Garden image 1

Garden combines scenic views, winding trails, and Japanese-style landscaping with a natural, less manicured feel. Atmosphere stays peaceful and lush, offering quiet spots with benches and picnic areas. Visitors find it a hidden gem for calm strolls amid ponds, bridges, and diverse plant life.

This park offers winding trails, water features like ponds and waterfalls, and spots for quiet walks. It highlights Japanese influences and provides a serene setting for relaxation and photography.

Scenic spots with cozy benches and an uncovered picnic area invite peaceful afternoons. Quiet surroundings without loud music make it ideal for a relaxed picnic or a calm walk.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to relax."

"I found this park to be a beautiful and peaceful hidden garden."

"I enjoyed having a picnic in this beautiful, spacious garden."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter.

2

Parking is free, but there are reports of break-ins.

3

Dogs must be on leashes in the garden.

Discover more

Seattle, Washington

Area guide
Loading Map...