Centennial Park

Waterfront Escape

Once known as Elliott Bay Park, this 11-acre waterfront green space was rededicated in 2011 to mark the Port of Seattle's 100th anniversary, earning the name Centennial Park. It sits along Elliott Bay in Seattle, flowing right into Myrtle Edwards Park to the south to create one continuous stretch of shoreline to explore.

The location near the Pier 86 Grain Terminal gives it an interesting character - you can watch ships and port operations while surrounded by trees and water, quite the Seattle experience.

Winding paths lead visitors along the shoreline

Photo: Peter Abrahamsen (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Stunning Views

With 4,100 feet of shoreline, the park offers gorgeous vistas of Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. On those rare clear Seattle days? Pure magic. It's easily one of the best spots in the city to catch a sunset - the kind that makes you stop mid-conversation and just stare.

A well-maintained paved trail winds through the park as part of the larger Elliott Bay Trail network. What's thoughtful is how they've split the path to keep walkers and cyclists in separate lanes - no need to constantly look over your shoulder for speeding bikes!

If you're lucky, you might spot seals and sea lions playing in the bay. Various birds call this place home too, and occasionally rabbits hop around the grassy areas. It's a nice example of nature within the city.

Tiered strips of grass and concrete offer scenic views

Photo: Robert Ashworth (CC BY 2.0)

Park Features

The rose garden is a standout feature, especially when in bloom. It creates this perfect foreground with the Space Needle visible in the distance - a quintessential Seattle photo op. Colorful dahlias complement the roses, adding splashes of color throughout the growing season.

Great grassy spots for picnicking are scattered throughout, along with wooden tables if you prefer not to sit on the ground. The waterfront benches are great for those moments when you just need to sit, breathe, and watch the boats go by.

There's a public fishing pier that's part of the park, though note that it's currently closed indefinitely due to safety concerns. When it was open, it was a popular fishing spot that even had a tackle shop for equipment rentals and licenses.

A cyclist rides along the tree-lined Elliott Bay Trail

Photo: Robert Ashworth (CC BY 2.0)

Getting Active

The flat, smooth paths are suitable for various activities, whether on wheels or foot. Regardless of whether you're walking, jogging, cycling, or rollerblading, you'll come across plenty of space to move.

Fitness enthusiasts can use the calisthenics area with pull-up and dip bars while enjoying views of the water and mountains. While weekends can draw crowds, the park generally maintains a peaceful vibe even during busy times.

You'll come across a few beach access points along the way where you can get closer to the water. Swimming isn't really a thing here though - Puget Sound stays pretty chilly year-round, even for the most cold-tolerant among us.

The Shipmates Light Memorial along the Elliott Bay Trail on a sunny afternoon

Photo: Peter Abrahamsen (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Practical Stuff

The park is wheelchair friendly with smooth pathways and appropriate ramps. Restrooms are available at the north end, including facilities in the Paccar Pavilion.

Dog lovers, rejoice! Your four-legged friends are welcome here, and there's even a dog water station along the trail. Just remember to keep them leashed and clean up after them - standard park etiquette applies.

Centennial Park is open daily from 6AM to 11PM. It offers an urban retreat that feels somewhat removed from city life while being just minutes from downtown.