Volunteer Park

Historic Origins

Found in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park spreads across 48.3 acres of green space with a story dating back to 1876. The city initially bought this land for municipal use, and it briefly served as a cemetery before finding its true calling as a public park in 1887.

The name Volunteer Park came along in 1901, honoring the brave souls who stepped up to fight in the Spanish-American War.

The water tower is located in south section of the park

Photo: Nikky (CC BY 2.0)

Olmsted Design Legacy

When you wander through this park, you're experiencing the vision of the legendary Olmsted Brothers landscape architecture firm, who designed the space in 1904. Many consider it the crown jewel of Seattle's Olmsted park system, and it's easy to see why. The design embraces a naturalistic, pastoral American romantic style that feels both planned and wonderfully wild - think irregular open lawns bordered by thoughtful shrub and tree plantings, carefully framed views, and winding paths that invite exploration.

The park's central concourse runs along the ridge top, connecting the water tower and the Conservatory.

The park has several large fields for activities

Photo: yancy9 (CC BY 2.0)

Notable Attractions

You can find several standout features that make Volunteer Park special. The Victorian-style Conservatory, built in 1912, houses an impressive collection of exotic plants that transport you to faraway climates as soon as you step inside.

The Seattle Asian Art Museum has called the park home since 1933, occupying what was originally the main Seattle Art Museum building. For one of the best views in Seattle, climb the distinctive water tower built in 1906. The 360-degree observation deck at the top rewards your effort with sweeping vistas of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains.

The picture shows the Black Sun sculpture with the Seattle Space Needle in the background

Photo: Steve Johnson (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Recreational Amenities

The park's reservoir wasn't just practical - it was incorporated into Olmsted's design as a striking visual element. Beyond this, you'll discover wading pools for cooling off on warm days, play areas for the kids, tennis courts for the sporty types, and gentle walking paths that meander around the grounds.

If you visit during the right season, you can't miss the vibrant dahlia display, a colorful tradition planted annually by the Puget Sound Dahlia Association since 1984.

Visitors enjoying the snow-covered landscape

Photo: Nikky (CC BY 2.0)

Community Significance

Volunteer Park functions as both a citywide destination and a neighborhood green space. The grounds have hosted everything from Easter services and parades to early Seattle Pride festivals, making it an important gathering place for the community.

In recognition of its historical importance and remarkably intact Olmsted landscape design, Volunteer Park earned designation as a Seattle Landmark in 2011 - a fitting honor for this urban oasis.