Christie Park

History and Origins

Tucked away in Seattle's bustling University District, Christie Park sits quietly at the corner of Northeast 43rd Street and 9th Avenue Northeast. This little green retreat wasn't always known by its current name - it started life as NE 43rd St. Mini Park before being renamed in May 1981 to honor James Christie, the adventurous soul who led an expedition through the Olympic Mountains back in 1889.

Recent Renovations

In 2020, Christie Park got a serious glow-up. Seattle Parks and Recreation snagged an additional 0.11 acres right next to the existing space, making the park not just bigger but better equipped for community use.

The refreshed design brings an open lawn area, thoughtfully selected new plantings and trees, plus a versatile plaza space. Rather than filling it with playground equipment, the renovation created something perhaps more valuable in a busy urban area - a peaceful spot for quiet contemplation and a moment of calm.

Art and Recreational Features

One of the park's standout elements is the "Explorer Voyage" art installation created by artist Paul Sorey. This beautiful addition wasn't funded by the city but by the Friends of Christie Park, a group formed by the Taiwanese American Community in Greater Seattle. The installation features three gleaming stainless steel boat sculptures that you can actually sit in.

These artistic boats do double duty - they celebrate the explorer spirit while symbolizing friendship between Seattle and Taiwan. Each vessel is modeled after the Taiwanese Aboriginal "Tatala" boats, offering both cultural significance and practical seating.

For those feeling more active, there's a stainless steel ping pong table and outdoor fitness equipment including pull-up bars. Not bad for such a compact space!

Amenities and Facilities

The park includes a modest picnic area with cafe-style tables and chairs, plus a barbecue space for grilling. There's also a drinking water fountain to keep you hydrated.

The large grassy lawn is a flexible space - great for sprawling out with a book, having a picnic, or just soaking up some rare Seattle sunshine. The lawn provides a welcome patch of green in the University District's urban environment.

Accessibility and Purpose

Accessibility was clearly a priority in the design, with features that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including exercise equipment that accommodates wheelchair users.

In an area as densely packed as the University District, Christie Park fulfills an important role - offering a momentary escape from urban life for neighborhood residents and University of Washington students alike. Sometimes the smallest parks make the biggest difference in city living.