Gas Works Park

Industrial History

Gas Works Park is a unique 19.1-acre public park located on the north shore of Lake Union in Seattle, Washington. The park sits on the former site of the Seattle Gas Light Company's gasification plant, which operated from 1906 to 1956.

Opened to the public in 1975, Gas Works Park was designed by landscape architect Richard Haag, who made the unconventional decision to preserve many of the plant's industrial structures rather than demolish them. This innovative approach to urban park design has made Gas Works Park one of the most distinctive parks in the United States.

Pathway along Lake Union offers beautiful waterfront views

Photo: mattk1979 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Park Features

The park's central feature is the remaining structures of the gasification plant, including several tall metal towers and other industrial remnants. These structures have been cleaned and painted, with some incorporated into a children's "Play Barn" area.

The park also features a large artificial hill known as "The Great Mound" or "Kite Hill," which was created using excavated soil. The top of this hill offers panoramic views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline.

Massive gas works machinery make the area unique

Photo: mattk1979 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Recreation Opportunities

Gas Works Park is a popular spot for picnics, kite flying, and outdoor events. It's particularly known as a prime location for watching Seattle's Fourth of July fireworks display.

The park also includes a portion of the Burke-Gilman Trail, a multi-use recreational trail that runs along its northern edge.

Geese gather near industrial structures on the grassy field

Photo: districtinroads (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Environmental Considerations

While the park offers access to the shoreline of Lake Union, swimming and boat launching are prohibited due to contaminated sediments in the lake from the site's industrial past. Ongoing environmental remediation efforts continue to address the site's industrial legacy.