Waterworks Gardens

Where Art Meets Ecology

Located in Renton, Washington, Waterworks Gardens is an 8-acre sanctuary that offers a different kind of park experience. This isn't your typical green space. Instead, it combines artistic vision, ecological function, and water treatment infrastructure into what resembles an environmental sculpture. Artist Lorna Jordan brought this concept to life when the park opened in 1996, creating what locals often call a "tranquil space" in the city.

More Than Meets the Eye

Situated at the King County South Treatment Plant, this park pulls double duty. Beyond being a peaceful retreat, it actually works for a living - filtering and purifying stormwater runoff before it rejoins Springbrook Creek. The series of constructed ponds and wetlands you'll see aren't just for show; they're actively removing contaminants and sediments from the water. Don't be surprised if you notice some of the holding ponds are empty during your visit - that's just part of the regular maintenance that keeps this natural filtration system running smoothly.

A Journey Through Five Spaces

As you explore Waterworks Gardens, you'll travel along the "Water Walk" path that connects five distinct garden "rooms." Each space - The Knoll, The Funnel, The Grotto, The Passage, and The Release - represents a different stage in the water treatment journey.

Start at The Knoll for an overview of the initial treatment pond, then wander down to The Funnel with its terraced, leaf-shaped pools. The Grotto features a large mosaic resembling a seed pod that creates an interesting focal point during your walk. Continue through The Passage, designed to evoke water dispersal, before reaching The Release, where you can witness the purified water returning to nature.

Nature's Artistry

Throughout the gardens, you'll encounter public art installations that complement the surrounding native plants and wildlife habitats. There's a subtle nod to Italian garden design here, an interesting marriage of classical aesthetics with modern environmental technology.

If you're lucky, you might spot some Great Blue Herons during nesting season. And if you visit in late summer, bring a small container - the blackberry picking here is excellent.

Waterworks Gardens feels more like an outdoor art gallery with a serene atmosphere than a conventional park. For a deeper dive into the thoughtful design behind what you're seeing, check out the audio tour mentioned on signs throughout the garden.

Finding Your Path

The paved trails here are well-maintained and popular with both walkers and cyclists. They provide a peaceful setting for your morning jog or afternoon stroll, and yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too - dog waste stations are available along the route.

What's nice is how these paths connect to a larger trail network in the surrounding area. Don't miss the secluded wooded section that links the top and bottom of the hill - it adds a different dimension to the walking experience.

Before You Go

A word of caution about parking - it's extremely limited. The main lot only fits about 4-6 vehicles, so you might want to use the Black River Riparian Parking lot across the street for easier access.

Also, there are no restrooms in the park, so plan your visit accordingly.

Waterworks Gardens is open year-round, showcasing the intersection of artistic design, natural processes, and sustainable water management.