Jack Block Park

From Industrial Site to Urban Oasis

Positioned in West Seattle, Jack Block Park spans 15 acres where industry meets nature in an unexpectedly harmonious way. This secluded area sits at the northwest corner of the Port of Seattle's Terminal 5, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's working waterfront.

The land has quite the backstory - once a busy wood treatment plant and shipbuilding facility, it fell into environmental trouble and was designated a Superfund site in 1994 due to creosote contamination. After thorough cleanup efforts, the area was transformed and opened as a public park in 1998 during Terminal 5's redevelopment. In 2001, it was named after Jack Block, honoring the former Port Commissioner's contributions to the area.

What Makes It Special

The 45-foot observation tower offers panoramic views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle's skyline, and the port operations below. You can watch the giant cranes and ships at Terminal 5 and Vigor Shipyards going about their daily business.

A winding shoreline walking path guides you through the park's diverse landscape, connecting its various attractions. If you're visiting with kids, they'll love the children's play area, while the walkable pier extends your journey out over the water for an even closer connection to Elliott Bay.

The beach area, which opened in 2011 after extensive environmental remediation, offers 600 feet of sand and pebbles where you can dip your toes in the water and enjoy a more natural connection to the shoreline.

Learning While Exploring

As you explore, take a moment to read the interpretive plaques at the observation tower. They provide fascinating insights into the Port of Seattle's activities and maritime shipping technology - perfect if you've ever wondered about those massive container ships or how the port actually works.

What makes Jack Block Park truly unique is this blend of natural beauty alongside industrial functionality. It's not just a pretty waterfront park - it's a window into Seattle's maritime heritage and working port, making it an interesting destination whether you're a local or just visiting the Emerald City.