Denny Park

A Walk Through History

Located in the heart of South Lake Union, Denny Park is Seattle's oldest park. Dating back to 1884, this full city block has quietly witnessed the transformation of Seattle from a frontier town to the bustling metropolis it is today.

What's fascinating is that before becoming a peaceful green space, this land actually served as Seattle's first cemetery in the 1860s. David and Louisa Denny donated the plot to the city in 1864, and by 1883, they rededicated most of it as a public park, with the city taking care of relocating the graves. Talk about a dramatic change of purpose!

Colorful floral display in a garden bed at Denny Park

Photo: Seattle Parks and Recreation (CC BY 2.0)

From Hill to Haven

The park you see today looks nothing like its original self. Originally perched on the north slope of Denny Hill, the entire landscape was dramatically altered during the Denny Regrade projects of the early 1900s.

By 1930, the park had been lowered a whopping 60 feet to its current elevation, and given a complete makeover with a formal design. Now, you'll come across broad pathways flanked by vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, all leading to a central circle surrounded by mature trees. The collection includes maples, pines, and a towering redwood tree that has witnessed decades of city life.

These mature trees provide welcome shade on sunny days while creating a natural sound barrier against the urban noise. Through gaps in the leafy canopy, you might catch glimpses of the iconic Space Needle and the South Lake Union skyline - a fantastic blend of nature and city.

Vibrant pink and purple flowers in the park's central clearing

Photo: Seattle Parks and Recreation (CC BY 2.0)

What You'll Find Today

If you're bringing little ones, there's a children's playground suited for the 2-5 age group, with a popular zip line that kids seem to love. Dog owners will appreciate the fenced off-leash dog area where four-legged friends can run free and make new acquaintances.

Need a moment to yourself? The park offers plenty of seating areas with bistro tables and chairs scattered throughout, ideal for reading a book, enjoying takeout from nearby eateries, or simply watching the world go by. In the evening, string lights illuminate the pathways as darkness falls.

On the western edge stands the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation central offices, built in 1948. This isn't just any administrative building - designed by Young and Richardson, it earned an American Institute of Architects Grand Honor Award and continues to serve its purpose today.

View of the park's playground area

Photo: Seattle Parks and Recreation (CC BY 2.0)

Beyond Green Space

Denny Park functions as a community gathering place throughout the year. From May through September, a lively Saturday Market takes over the space, bringing food trucks, local artists, musicians, and vendors selling handcrafted goods.

Spring and summer bring colorful blooms to the park, making it a pleasant spot for nearby office workers and residents. Keep an eye out for the park's population of friendly squirrels that have become unofficial mascots of sorts.

Though it's faced its share of challenges in recent years, community dedication has helped maintain Denny Park as a clean, welcoming oasis. In this rapidly developing area of Seattle, it offers a green space and a connection to the city's past.