Is the Queen Anne walking route difficult?

Yes, it is considered challenging. The neighborhood is famous for some of the steepest streets in Seattle, so hikers should be prepared for a strenuous uphill walk during the first half of the route.

What is the best walking tour in Seattle for views?

The Queen Anne Heights route is widely considered the best for views. It includes Kerry Park for the city skyline and Marshall Park for the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

Can I see Mount Rainier from this walk?

Yes, on clear days, Mount Rainier is visible from Kerry Park. It appears directly behind the downtown skyline, providing the iconic 'postcard' image of Seattle.

Are the mansions in Queen Anne open to the public?

Most of the historic mansions on this route are private residences. While you can admire their architecture from the sidewalk, they are not open for interior tours.

When is the best time to visit Kerry Park?

Sunset is the most popular time to visit for photography. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, early morning offers beautiful light and a much more peaceful experience.

Is this walking route family-friendly?

It is suitable for active families, but those with strollers may find the steep hills very difficult. The parks along the way provide good spots for children to rest and play.

Where can I find food along the Queen Anne walk?

While the route is residential, Queen Anne Avenue North (just a few blocks away) is lined with local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants catering to all tastes.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Perched on the highest named hill in Seattle, the Queen Anne neighborhood offers a masterclass in urban evolution and architectural grandeur. This self-guided walk invites you to climb the steep slopes of the 'hill' to discover why it has remained one of the city's most coveted addresses for over a century. Your journey begins at the base of the Space Needle, a monolith of mid-century futurism that redefined the Seattle skyline during the 1962 World's Fair. From there, you will navigate the challenging but rewarding ascent toward the residential heights, where the neighborhood’s namesake Queen Anne-style mansions sit alongside Spanish Revival libraries and mid-century modern landmarks. This walking route is designed for those who appreciate both the scale of iconic monuments and the intricate details of historic preservation. You will explore the 'Postcard View' at Kerry Park, where the skyline and Mount Rainier often steal the show, before tucking into the quieter, more secluded corners of the hill like Parsons Gardens. Along the way, the narrative unfolds through the stories of the timber barons and city planners who shaped these streets. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast looking to spot ornate gables and wrap-around porches or a photographer seeking the perfect sunset over the Olympic Mountains, this neighborhood stroll provides a comprehensive look at Seattle’s high-society history. Prepare for a workout—the hills are legendary—but the reward is a collection of the most breathtaking vistas in the Pacific Northwest. This is not just a hike; it is a journey through the layers of Seattle’s identity, from the 'Age of Space' to the Gilded Age, all at your own pace.

Highlights

Panoramic views of the Seattle skyline and Mt. Rainier from Kerry Park

The futuristic architecture of the Space Needle and Seattle Center

Historic 1914 Spanish Revival-style Carnegie Library

Ornate Queen Anne-style mansions and historic residential architecture

Secluded serenity at the hidden Parsons Gardens

Breathtaking sunset vistas over the Olympic Mountains from Marshall Park

Tour Stops (6)

Space Needle

Standing at 605 feet, the Space Needle is the quintessential symbol of Seattle's forward-thinking spirit. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, themed 'Century 21,' it was designed to look like a flying saucer on a tripod. Architects Edward E. Carlson and John Graham Jr. collaborated to create this 'monolith' that once housed the world’s first revolving restaurant. As you look up, consider the engineering marvel of its time: it was built to withstand 200 mph winds and earthquakes. This landmark marked Seattle's transition from a regional timber and fishing town to a global city of tech and aerospace. Take a moment to appreciate the surrounding Seattle Center before beginning your climb up the hill.

Kerry Park

After a steep climb, you have reached Kerry Park, arguably the most photographed spot in the city. Formally known as Franklin Place, this small strip of land was donated to the city in 1927 by Albert and Catherine Kerry so that everyone could enjoy the view they loved. From here, the Space Needle aligns perfectly with the downtown skyscrapers, with the massive silhouette of Mount Rainier looming in the background on clear days. To the west, you can see Elliott Bay and the ferries gliding toward Bainbridge Island. The bronze sculpture in the center, titled 'Changing Form' by Doris Totten Chase, adds a touch of abstract modernism to this classic vista.

St. Anne Catholic Church

Moving deeper into the residential heart of the hill, St. Anne Catholic Church represents a shift in architectural style. The current structure, completed in the early 1960s, is a striking example of Mid-Century Modern ecclesiastical design. Its clean lines and unique roofline stand in contrast to the more traditional Victorian homes nearby. The parish itself dates back to 1908, mirroring the growth of Queen Anne as a premier residential district. The church serves as a community anchor, and its minimalist aesthetic reflects the era when Seattle was fully embracing the 'Space Age' vibes seen back at the Seattle Center.

Queen Anne Branch - The Seattle Public Library

This charming building is one of the historic 'Carnegie Libraries' in Seattle, funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie and opened in 1914. Designed by architect Harlan Thomas in the Spanish Revival style, it features distinctive terracotta ornamentation and red-tiled roofing. This was a departure from the more common Neo-Classical Carnegie designs, intended to give the neighborhood a unique cultural landmark. Inside, the library retains much of its original character, with high ceilings and large windows that have welcomed generations of Queen Anne residents. It stands as a testament to the neighborhood's long-standing commitment to education and the arts.

Parsons Gardens

Tucked away at the end of a residential street, Parsons Gardens is one of Seattle’s best-kept secrets. Once the private garden of Reginald and Maude Parsons, it was gifted to the city in 1956. Unlike the grand, sweeping views of Kerry Park, this is an intimate, walled oasis. It is a favorite for small weddings and quiet reflection, featuring a diverse collection of trees and shrubs that provide a lush canopy year-round. The garden highlights the more private, refined side of Queen Anne life, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle just a few blocks away.

Marshall Park

Your journey concludes at Marshall Park and the adjacent Betty Bowen Viewpoint. While Kerry Park looks toward the city, Marshall Park looks toward the horizon. From this western vantage point, you have an unobstructed view of Puget Sound and the jagged peaks of the Olympic Mountains. This spot is named in honor of Betty Bowen, a local journalist and arts advocate who fought to preserve Seattle’s scenic views and historic character. It is the perfect place to watch the sun dip below the mountains, reflecting on the mix of futuristic ambition and historic charm you have encountered across the heights of Queen Anne.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full walk typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This depends on your pace, as the initial climb from the Space Needle to Kerry Park is quite steep, covering an elevation gain of over 300 feet.