Woodland Park

History and Layout

Nestled between Seattle's Phinney Ridge and Green Lake neighborhoods, Woodland Park spreads across a generous 90.9 acres of urban greenery. The park has quite the backstory - it started as the private estate of Guy C. Phinney, a lumber mill owner with an eye for real estate development back in the late 19th century. In 1902, the city brought in the Olmsted Brothers firm to transform the space into part of Seattle's growing park system - who helped shape it into the space we know today.

Aurora Avenue N. (State Route 99) cuts right through the middle of the park, creating a natural division. On the western side, you'll find the Woodland Park Zoo with its impressive collection of over 1,000 animals from nearly 300 species, plus a baseball field and a playground where the little ones can burn off some energy.

Lower Woodland Park

Cross to the eastern half - commonly called Lower Woodland Park - and you'll discover a different vibe altogether. This section feels more like a traditional park with its winding trails that meander through wooded areas, meant for when you need a moment of peace among the trees.

When the weather's nice (yes, Seattle does have sunny days!), the picnic areas come alive with the smell of barbecue from the public grills. Planning something bigger? Several covered picnic shelters are available to reserve through Seattle's Parks Department during the warmer months.

Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home here. The tennis courts see plenty of action, and the pitch and putt golf course offers a more casual alternative to a full round of golf. For dog parents, the off-leash dog area provides a secure space where your four-legged friends can socialize and play. Soccer fields, ultimate frisbee spaces, lacrosse pitches, and baseball/softball diamonds round out the athletic offerings.

Special Features

One of the park's quiet retreats is the Woodland Park Rose Garden, established in 1922. This tranquil space showcases a variety of beautiful rose hybrids and reaches peak bloom between May and August - definitely worth timing your visit to catch this floral display.

The park caters to more niche interests too, with horseshoe pits, a popular skate park, BMX dirt jumps, and lawn bowling facilities. The skate park particularly draws local skateboarders looking to practice their tricks in a dedicated space.

Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo deserves special mention as a major draw within the park boundaries. It's known for its naturalistic habitats that give animals space that resembles their native environments. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss Zoomazium, an indoor playground that offers a welcome respite on Seattle's numerous rainy days. During the year, the zoo hosts special events, with the Wild Lanterns festival being particularly magical - illuminated displays transform the grounds into a glowing wonderland.

Amenities and Access

You can find restrooms open year-round during park hours (4AM-11:30PM), however some areas only have portable facilities. Water fountains and bottle filling stations are conveniently scattered throughout the grounds - handy after a jog or playtime with the kids.

Woodland Park sits adjacent to Green Lake Park, creating an impressive continuous green space in the heart of the city. Together, they form one of Seattle's most valuable outdoor resources - a place where you can connect with nature, get some exercise, or simply take a break from urban life without ever leaving the city.