Terry Pettus Park

Waterfront Escape

Found in Seattle's Eastlake neighborhood, Terry Pettus Park is a pocket-sized waterfront space with more to offer than its small size suggests. At just 0.9 acres, this little shoreline spot offers something increasingly precious in urban Seattle - direct access to the eastern shore of Lake Union with unobstructed views that'll make you forget you're in the city.

Like many of Seattle's best spots, there's a bit of a local secret quality to Terry Pettus. It's the kind of place you might walk right past if you didn't know it was there, but those who discover it often come to treasure its understated charm.

Get on the Water

If you're itching to get out on Lake Union, this is your spot. The park is a fantastic launch point for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. There's a public float that, while showing some signs of age, does the job just fine for those looking to slip into the water.

Not bringing a watercraft? No problem. The park provides a quiet spot to simply sit and take in the scene. Watch seaplanes gracefully touch down on the lake or take off into the sky - it's Seattle's unique brand of rush hour that never gets old.

Simple Pleasures

Don't come expecting elaborate facilities - that's not what Terry Pettus is about. The park embraces minimalism with a picnic table and a few seating areas where you can park yourself with a book or a coffee. There's street parking nearby, but you might need to circle the block once or twice during busy times.

You won't find restrooms or water fountains here, so plan accordingly. But what the park lacks in amenities, it balances with tranquility - something not always easy to find in the heart of the city.

A Legacy of Activism

More than just a pretty spot, this park tells a story of local activism. It's named after Terry Pettus, a passionate advocate who fought to save Lake Union's iconic houseboats and stopped direct dumping into the lake. When the park was dedicated in 1985, a year after Pettus passed away, it cemented his legacy as a guardian of this unique urban ecosystem.

Pettus wore many hats - journalist, community organizer, and environmental champion. His work extended beyond the lake, advocating for the working class and marginalized communities. He helped orchestrate a cleanup of Lake Washington that exposed the City of Seattle's pollution problems, contributing to the relatively clean waters we enjoy today.

Looking Ahead

Seattle Parks and Recreation has Terry Pettus on their radar for improvements. Future plans include renovations with more durable materials, better accessibility, and important shoreline restoration work. The park is also set to grow with the addition of a 4,000 square foot shoreline parcel, expanding this small community space for future visitors.