Lawton Park

A Tranquil Escape

Situated in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood, Lawton Park is that quiet green retreat you've been looking for. With views of Ballard and the Ship Canal, it's a nice spot to take a deep breath and escape the city bustle.

The park's winding pathway takes you through gentle hills, patches of woods, and open grassy spaces - excellent for those days when you just need to wander and clear your head.

A Slice of Seattle History

The city snagged this land back in 1952, naming it after the neighboring Fort Lawton Army Base. Dig a little deeper into history, and you'll find the fort itself honored Major General Henry Ware Lawton, who gained fame for capturing Chief Geronimo in 1886.

Play Ball and Play Around

At the heart of the park sits a well-kept baseball field where local softball teams and little league players regularly show off their skills. There's seating for spectators too, so you can kick back and cheer on your favorites without having to stand the whole time.

Kids gravitate toward the hillside playground with its collection of climbing structures, slides, swings, and a carousel that seems especially magical to the younger crowd. The playground's layout naturally encourages kids to run, climb, and explore - which usually means they'll sleep well that night!

Picnic Possibilities

There are several spots to sit down for a bite throughout the park. The shade trees scattered throughout make for cool, comfortable dining areas after you've worked up an appetite playing or watching games.

Connected to Community

Gravel paths weave through the park, connecting to nearby neighborhoods, schools, and transit routes. These connections make Lawton Park easily accessible from surrounding areas.

Just a heads-up: parking can be tight around here, so you might want to think about walking, biking, or public transit when planning your visit, especially for popular events.

Discovery Park's Friendly Neighbor

Sitting right next to Discovery Park (Seattle's largest public park) gives Lawton a special kind of appeal. While Discovery might have the grandeur and size, Lawton offers something more personal - a cozy outdoor space that feels intimate and welcoming within the larger urban landscape.