Westlake Park
Westlake Park Map
About Westlake Park in Seattle
Westlake Park is a 0.1-acre (400 m2) public plaza located in the heart of Downtown Seattle, Washington, United States. Designed by Robert Mitchell Hanna, the park was established in October 1988 and serves as an important urban gathering space.
The park extends east from 4th Avenue up to and including a former portion of Westlake Avenue between Pike and Pine streets. It is situated across Pine Street from the Westlake Center shopping mall and Westlake station, a major monorail and light rail hub. The park and mall are named after Westlake Avenue, which now terminates north of the mall but once ran two blocks farther south to Pike Street through the present site of the mall and park.
Westlake Park is considered Seattle's unofficial "town square" and often serves as a central gathering place for events, demonstrations, and public activities. The park features a fountain, which adds to its aesthetic appeal and provides a focal point for visitors.
In recent years, efforts have been made to enhance the park's appeal and functionality. The Downtown Seattle Association, in partnership with Seattle Parks and Recreation, manages and activates the park, offering extensive programming throughout the year. Visitors can find outdoor games, tables and chairs, and a children's play area in the park. The space is also used for various events, including concerts, food truck festivals, and holiday displays.
As part of ongoing improvement efforts, plans are underway to renovate Westlake Park. The project aims to create a more open gathering space, modernize the art and play infrastructure, and provide amenities to encourage people to spend more time in the heart of the city. The renovation is expected to be completed before the 2026 World Cup.