How long does it take to walk through Seattle's secret parks?

The full self-guided walk typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This includes time to enjoy the fountains at Freeway Park and the views at Pike Place, covering approximately 2 miles of walking distance.

Is Freeway Park in Seattle worth visiting?

Yes, it is an architectural landmark. As the first park ever built over a freeway, its brutalist design and massive water features offer a unique sensory experience right in the middle of downtown.

Can I see the UPS waterfall for free?

Yes, the Waterfall Garden Park is free and open to the public, though it is privately maintained. It features a 22-foot waterfall on the site where UPS was founded in 1907.

Is this walking route in Seattle difficult?

The difficulty is moderate. While the paths are paved, Seattle is known for its hills, and this route involves some elevation gain, particularly when moving from the waterfront up toward First Hill.

What is the best time to visit the Pike Place Urban Garden?

Morning is the best time to visit to avoid the peak market crowds. The garden offers a peaceful spot to view Elliott Bay before the midday rush begins.

Are there public restrooms along this walking route?

Yes, you can find restrooms at the Washington State Convention Center near the start, at Pike Place Market mid-way, and at the Waterfall Garden at the end of the route.

Is this urban walk suitable for families?

Yes, children often enjoy the large fountains at Freeway Park and the 'secret' nature of the gardens. However, be prepared for some uphill walking if you have a stroller.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Seattle is famously known as the Emerald City, but its most fascinating greenery often hides in plain sight, tucked between soaring skyscrapers or suspended directly over interstate highways. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the "concrete jungles" of downtown, where brutalist architecture meets lush vegetation in a series of surprising urban oases. Starting at the iconic Freeway Park—a masterpiece of landscape design that bridges the gap over I-5—this neighborhood stroll reveals how the city has reclaimed industrial and transit spaces for public peace. You will discover secret gardens overlooking the Salish Sea and quiet plazas where the sound of rushing water drowns out the roar of city traffic. It is a perfect way to experience the urban fabric of Seattle beyond the usual landmarks. As you follow this walking route, you will encounter the Pike Place Urban Garden, a community-led oasis with stunning views of Elliott Bay, and the historic Waterfall Garden, located on the site where a global delivery giant was founded. This audio walk is designed for those who want to see the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for unique angles of the skyline or a local seeking a quiet escape, this urban exploration offers a fresh perspective on the city's layout. Discover the stories behind these pocket parks at your own pace, learning about the civic movements that saved these spaces from development. This walking tour Seattle highlights the resilience of nature in an ever-growing metropolis, providing a serene backdrop for your Pacific Northwest adventure. By choosing this self-guided adventure, you can linger at the fountains or skip ahead as you please, truly immersing yourself in the hidden side of the city.

Highlights

Freeway Park's brutalist architecture and cascading concrete fountains

Panoramic Sound views and sustainable herbs at the Pike Place Urban Garden

The 22-foot man-made waterfall at the historic UPS founding site

Historic church columns at Plymouth Pillars Park

The iconic Chief Seattle statue at Tilikum Place

The unique history of the Denny Regrade at Regrade Park

Tour Stops (6)

Freeway Park

Welcome to Freeway Park, a five-acre masterpiece of brutalist architecture completed in 1976. Designed by the visionary Lawrence Halprin, this park was the first of its kind in the world—a park built on a bridge over an active interstate highway. As you walk through the canyon-like concrete walls, listen to how the massive fountains were designed to create white noise, effectively drowning out the sound of the I-5 traffic below. It’s a stunning example of 'capping' a freeway to reconnect neighborhoods that were once divided by asphalt. Explore the various levels and hidden nooks that make this one of the most unique urban spaces in America.

Plymouth Pillars Park

Perched on the edge of First Hill, Plymouth Pillars Park offers a unique blend of history and views. The four iconic columns you see here are remnants of the 1911 Plymouth Congregational Church, which once stood at 6th and University. When the church was demolished, these pillars were saved and relocated here to serve as a gateway between the residential Hill and the bustling Downtown. This spot is a local favorite for its panoramic views of the city skyline and its dog-friendly atmosphere. It serves as a quiet reminder of Seattle's architectural past amidst its rapidly changing modern landscape.

Pike Place Urban Garden

Most visitors to Pike Place Market never realize there is a lush community garden hidden on the rooftop of the LaSalle building. The Pike Place Urban Garden is a volunteer-run space where organic produce is grown specifically for the Market’s Senior Center and Food Bank. As you wander between the raised beds of kale, herbs, and flowers, take a moment to look out over the Elliott Bay waterfront. You'll see the Great Wheel and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. This garden represents the heart of Seattle’s community spirit—combining sustainability, charity, and one of the best views in the city.

Regrade Park

You are now in the heart of Belltown at Regrade Park. The name 'Regrade' refers to one of the most ambitious engineering projects in Seattle's history: the Denny Regrade. In the early 20th century, the city literally washed away a massive hill using high-pressure water cannons to make the land flat for development. This park sits on that reclaimed earth. Today, it serves as a vital community hub and one of the few off-leash dog areas in the dense downtown core. It’s a perfect spot to observe the local urban lifestyle and the modern high-rises that now define this former industrial district.

Tilikum Place

Tilikum Place is a small but significant triangular plaza that marks the intersection of five streets. At its center stands a life-sized bronze statue of Chief Sealth, the Duwamish leader for whom the city of Seattle is named. The statue was commissioned in 1912 and is the city's oldest public monument. The word 'Tilikum' comes from Chinook Jargon and means 'people' or 'family.' This area is a cornerstone of the local arts scene and is surrounded by historic buildings. The nearby cafe has been a neighborhood staple for decades, embodying the bohemian spirit that Belltown is known for.

Waterfall Garden

Your journey ends at one of Seattle's best-kept secrets: the Waterfall Garden Park. This private park, open to the public, is maintained by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. It marks the exact spot where the American Messenger Service—now known as UPS—was founded in 1907 by two teenagers with a bicycle and $100. The centerpiece is a magnificent 22-foot man-made waterfall that pumps 5,000 gallons of water per minute. It is a peaceful sanctuary in the historic Pioneer Square district, offering a moment of complete tranquility amidst the brick architecture and tech hubs of the south end.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Hidden Concrete Jungles' route is highly recommended for those seeking off-the-beaten-path urban oases. It focuses on secret parks like the Pike Place Urban Garden and the historic Waterfall Garden that many tourists miss.