Urban parks are perfect destinations for an easy day-trip. Check out these articles that describe the various parks around the Puget Sound Region.

HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF
YOUR URBAN PARK VISIT
6 easy steps

Have you ever noticed how you feel when surrounded by nature? It’s instantly soothing. That’s because nature and emotional well-being go hand-in-hand. To some of you that may seem obvious, but to others maybe not. But, it has been well researched and reported that nature has healing powers. To get the most out of your next visit to a local park, try some or all of these specific actions.

GAS WORKS PARK
A Seattle Icon

The view was impressive. Unexpected, as I climbed the grassy knoll to get a better look. Iconic views of the Seattle skyline in the distance and Lake Union just below. I was standing on the north shore of Lake Union in Gas Works Park. Off to the left down the hill stood a giant old structure. All I could think was gorgeous view but “what’s that rusty thing all about?”

HIRAM M. CHITTENDEN LOCKS
Quintessential Seattle

This 100-year old plus park features a little bit of everything Seattle. Locally known as the Ballard Locks, it features two locks that link Puget Sound to Lake Union and Lake Washington. Approximately 45,000 boats float through these locks per year and in summer hordes of people gather along the railings that surround the locks to watch the “big boat elevator” process. Also, it’s a great local scene.

MUKILTEO LIGHTHOUSE PARK
Beaching it on Puget Sound

The soothing, rhythmic roar of waves lapping on the shore. Salty, sea mist on your face. Watching shore birds create a rhythm all their own, scattering and regrouping every few seconds as waves crash across their feeding ground. A foghorn calling out its ominous warning to the giant ships silhouetted on the hazy horizon.

BELLEVUE BOTANICAL GARDENS
Get inspired on the Eastside

I'm in the middle of a tiny forest, feeling like I am miles from civilization. Surrounded by big old trees, singing birds, blooming plants and giant woodpecker holes, it is easy to feel calm and settled.

KUBOTA GARDEN PARK
Paradise in south Seattle

I climbed the narrow winding path curious of where it would lead. Excited too, because so far my exploration of this lush park was filled with nothing short of wonder at its amazing beauty.

WASHINGTON PARK ARBORETUM
Beauty for you

I was lost in the lush vegetation that surrounded me. Not physically, but sensually. No thoughts of me, no sense of self, only an awareness of the soft pink, filtered light surrounding me. Pink camellia blossoms everywhere.

RICHMOND BEACH SALTWATER PARK
Love the dune grass

It felt like a beach as soon as I crossed the gate. More wild and natural than other parks around the Seattle Metropolis. So much so that I was disoriented for just a few seconds, but soon delighted.

VOLUNTEER PARK
A jewel in the midst

Without a doubt, the Conservatory is a special part of Volunteer Park, which is located in the Capital Hill area of Seattle. The 6,300 square foot conservatory connects five unique greenhouses, lushly filled with plants from a variety of geographical areas.

GREEN LAKE PARK
Well-loved by Seattleites

I just walked the 2.8 mile footpath around Green Lake for the umpteenth time and it was worth every step.

When walking or spending time in this park there is an underlying feel-good energy. You leave feeling like you are part of something bigger than your sometimes not-so-exciting life.

CARKEEK PARK
A sound view

If you want easy access to the Puget Sound from the busy Seattle metropolis, Carkeek park is perfect. Although the entrance is somewhat hidden in a residential area about nine miles from downtown, you can easily navigate to it with a GPS and it's practically due west of the Northgate area.