Colman Park

A Glimpse into History

Tucked along Seattle's eastern edge, Colman Park has been a green area since 1907, when it was established and later woven into the Olmsted Brothers' visionary plans for Seattle's parks in 1910. In 2020, the park earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places - a nod to its role in Seattle's historic Olmsted-designed park system.

Nature's Canvas

Spread across 24.3 acres, this touch of tranquility sits right along Lake Washington, just a stone's throw south of the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge (that's Interstate 90 for the GPS-dependent among us). On clear days, the views are impressive - the Cascade Mountains rise in the distance, the Bellevue skyline appears across the water, and if you're lucky, Mount Rainier is visible too.

The land here doesn't just lie flat - it cascades from 31st Avenue S down to the lakeshore, with Lake Washington Boulevard winding its way through like a ribbon tying this green space to its neighbors.

Wild at Heart

The hillside features forests, walking paths, and open grassy patches where you can spread out a blanket and relax. Four pedestrian bridges span across Lake Washington Boulevard, connecting the different parts of this sloped sanctuary.

At the bottom of the hill, you'll find the lake. There's a sandy stretch that becomes a popular swimming spot when Seattle decides to turn up the heat. Just a heads-up: some trails can get a bit slick after rain - definitely not the place to break in those new suede shoes.

Get Moving

Colman Park isn't just pretty - it's practical too. The shoreline makes for an ideal launch point if paddle boarding is your thing, and the swimming area is a refreshing escape during those precious Seattle summer days.

If wheels or feet are more your speed, the park offers paved paths for walking and cycling. The trail along the southwest edge of the lake offers nice views of the surrounding area. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too - just keep them leashed as you explore together.

Community Spirit

Got a green thumb? The park houses a community garden area - a P-Patch - where locals grow everything from tomatoes to tulips. It's also where you'll find the starting line for a paved path that hugs Lake Washington Boulevard all the way southeast to Seward Park.

When nature calls (the other kind), restrooms are available near the swimming area along the lake. Scattered throughout are picnic spots complete with benches and tables - well-suited for anything from solo sandwich eating to full-on family reunions.

Mark Your Calendar

If you're in town during Seafair, Colman Park offers prime viewing for the Blue Angels air show and hydroplane races buzzing across Lake Washington. It's one of those local secrets that's not so secret anymore for catching Seattle's summer festivities.

While there's no flashy playground or sports complex here, Colman Park's charm lies in its simplicity. It's a place where you can walk, picnic, and soak in panoramic views that remind you why people put up with Seattle's rain for nine months of the year.