Genesee Park and Playfield

Park Overview

Situated in Seattle's Rainier Valley neighborhood, Genesee Park and Playfield sprawls across a generous 57.7 acres. This spacious green haven extends about five blocks north from Genesee Street all the way to Stan Sayres Memorial Park on Lake Washington Boulevard. With its wide, open meadows set in a peaceful residential area, it's a wonderful escape from city life without actually leaving the city.

A Fascinating Past

Before becoming the park we know today, this land has quite the story to tell. Prior to 1917, you'd have found yourself wading through Wetmore Slough - a waterway that disappeared when the Lake Washington Ship Canal construction dropped the lake level by nine feet, revealing new land.

The City of Seattle scooped up the property in 1947, using it as a landfill until 1963. Talk about a transformation - what was once a dump began its metamorphosis into a community treasure in 1968. Now that's what we call upcycling!

Playground equipment featuring climbing structures

Photo: Cody Allison (CC BY 2.0)

What You'll Find Here

The heart of Genesee is its expansive grassy area that functions as a playfield - plenty of room to toss a frisbee, kick a soccer ball, or simply stretch out with a good book. The park's unique L-shape design offers a variety of landscapes to explore, from open meadows to winding walking trails that invite you to wander and discover.

The park doesn't exist in isolation either - it connects to other nearby green spaces, creating a network of parks that you can explore in a single visit.

For the Dog Lovers

If you've got a four-legged friend, you're in luck! One of the standout features here is the fully fenced 2.5-acre off-leash dog area. It's thoughtfully equipped with double gates (no escapees!), a doggie drinking fountain, and a community kiosk where you can check out local notices. Since 2018, even the more timid pups have their own space in the Small and Shy Dog Area - because everyone deserves to play comfortably.

Community Gatherings

When summer rolls around, Genesee Park really comes alive. It is the main gateway for the exciting hydroplane races and breathtaking aerobatics air show during Seattle's annual Seafair festival, typically held in late July or early August.

With its blend of natural areas and recreational facilities, Genesee Park and Playfield offers something for everyone - whether you're looking to play a pickup game, take a tranquil nature walk, or simply find a quiet spot to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city.