Belltown Cottage Park & P-Patch

Historic Cottages

Tucked between Seattle's towering high-rises are three charming cottages from 1916, originally built to house maritime workers. These humble dwellings barely survived the wrecking ball in the 1960s and now stand as quiet witnesses to Belltown's working-class heritage, a fascinating contrast to the sleek modern architecture surrounding them.

A Garden with Soul

Next to these historic cottages lies the Belltown P-Patch, a community garden that breathes color and life into this urban corner. Since the 1970s, the P-Patch program has given city dwellers a chance to get their hands dirty and grow their own produce and flowers in rented plots.

This particular garden took root in the 1980s when local artists and community activists started planting in spots where three other cottages once stood. Today, it's evolved into what some describe as a magical flower sanctuary - a patchwork of plants creating an almost storybook atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Community Living Room

More than just a historical landmark, this little park is Belltown's outdoor living room. It offers a pocket of calm amid the urban hustle, where you can take a moment to admire the lovingly tended gardens, rest on a bench, or simply appreciate this unique blend of Seattle's yesterday and today.

Local artists have left their mark too, with intricate mosaics and thoughtful sculptures scattered throughout the space. The distinctive vibe, especially with the Seattle piers just a stone's throw away, has prompted comparisons to scenes from Alice in Wonderland.

Preserved by Passion

The park survives and thrives thanks to a partnership between Seattle's city government and dedicated neighborhood volunteers. It's an example of grassroots conservation in action within a rapidly developing urban landscape.

When to Visit

Daylight hours offer the best experience when the garden's colors truly pop and the details of the cottages are visible. Like any urban space, it's smart to exercise typical city awareness if you're stopping by during evening hours.