Revisited Volunteer Park after hanging out in the Pike/Pine corridor of Capitol Hill to enjoy some late summer sunshine. Lots of park goers, picnicking, large wedding party from a stretch limo having photos taken, families, an active game of frisbee, flower enthusiasts, people soaking up some Vitamin D despite that the Conservatory and art museum were closed already. Reminded me of pleasant urban times spent here in the past. I learned though this afternoon that there's a sizable dahlia garden. Woodland Park Zoo and UW Drumheller Fountain has amazing roses, but I enjoyed gazing at these dahlias at Volunteer Park. Nice, easy going visit during the Labor Day weekend. read more

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A beautiful park with lots of space and plant life everywhere. Climbing the water tower is a must, and seeing the Isamu Noguchi sculpture is a must. There's an amazing playground towards the middle of the park and also amazing array of tree stumps that kids play with. This park is great for all. read more

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A great playground with a generous wading pool. It's in the shade for the most part so a good place to go on s sunny day. Lots of huge trees in the park, which makes me feel so relaxed! You can have a peak of space needle from the park as well. read more

Volunteer Park - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Beautiful park and wonderful summer activities. This is an amazing park that is well maintained! When the weather is nice this is a great place to chill and picnic. The crowd is a mixture of young and older folk making it friendly for families,couples, and even furry friends :) You also get a great view of the space needle from the circle sculpture ! read more

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Beautiful park in a residential area. Contains Asian Art Museum, which is currently under renovation. Although the museum is closed, this park has some incredible landmarks outside and hosts concerts on the banks of the reservoir. We were here specifically to see the "Black Sun" sculpture by Isamu Noguchi. This gigantic circle of granite is intriguing on its own but also offers a cool view of the Space Needle. It is rumored to be the inspiration for Soundgarden's hit "Black Hole Sun." read more

Volunteer Park - Currently closed for renovation - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Volunteer Park is a beautiful green space within the rolling landscape of Cap Hill. There are multiple different lawns and elements including the Asian Art Museum and the conservatory. If you also want a different view of the city, there is a look out right across from the museum with some art and a beautiful backdrop. If you are physically able, you can see beautiful sweeping 360 views to downtown and lake washington by climbing the stairs to the top of the water tower. The space is versatile and beautiful for everything from a quick walk, picnicking, or a full lazy day on the grass. read more

Extraordinarily beautiful. I've been going to Volunteer Park my whole life and whether it's the dahlia garden, the atrium, the watchtower, the rolling green hills--finally accessible with a ramp--or the now-legendary "black hole sun" sculpture, it's all ethereal. You're in the middle of the city but a million miles away. And, of course, the great Seattle Asian Art Museum is right there. Bring your dog, read a book in the shade, explore the less tread paths...it's a gorgeous place to spend the day. read more

Not much tourist traffic so easy parking and pretty quiet. Dog on leash friendly. Closes at 10pm. read more

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I always seem to make it to Volunteer Park whenever i am in Seattle. It is located up on Capitol Hill and has amazing views. What is not to like? The main view point is located above, and viewing, The resevour is in accross the parking lot from the art museum. There are lots of things to see and do. Besides the views of downtown there are statues, a water tower for higher views all around. There are lots of trees, lawns for games, picknics and catching some sun. There is a stage, the Asian Art Museum and finally my favorite, the conservatory. Many of these have their own listings. Like most parks it is best on a warm sunny day. On days like that the park packs out. Its not a huge park but big enough to usually find your own corner. Its nice and you can find either sun or shade depending on your taste. On any day climbing the water tower and seeing the views is nice. So is the conservatory. If fact it maybe best on rainy days when the contrast to the warm inside. Inside there are 5 rooms with different kinds of plants and different temperatures and humidity levels. As to the museum, its asian art but its been a while since I went inside. read more

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This is one of my favorite parks in Seattle. It's humongous with so much space to offer. You'll find lots of trails to run or walk your dog, grassy fields to play soccer and space to sit for a picnic. It's a great park to get outside and enjoy the Seattle sunshine while you can. It's famous for the tower you can climb for a stellar view of Seattle. You have to hit that up if you visit the park. There's also a museum in the park if you're into that.. some sort of art museum. read more

There was some rare sun in Seattle recently so we made it to Volunteer Park, a verdant oasis of rolling hills, mowed lawns, huge trees, museums, a conservatory, grand views and weird old water tower. What a great park! We walked throughout the grounds appreciating the emptiness for the size of population here on Capitol Hill. We were not charged entry to either the conservatory or the Japanese annex of the Seattle Art Museum (SAM). We walked around the reservoir and up and down the water tower (several times). We took in the view through the big black donut, centered the Space Needle for the gratuitous photograph and saw ships plying the deep blue/green waters. This is a beautiful oasis full of calm and culture. And a weird old water tower. Caution says to avoid this park at night, though. read more

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Expansive park, dog friendly and trails to make it a short or long run. Everything is so green here and it is a nice respite from being among touristy sites like Pike Place Market. The park is nestled in a quiet neighborhood and one can walk to about a couple of local coffee shops. read more

Great park for a walk around the city. It's in the city but it doesn't feel crazy crowded or loud like the city. We wanted to visit the green house, but sadly they close on Mondays, DO NOT GO MONDAYS if you want to just visit the green house. Other than that it's a great park with plenty of parking. read more

I spent a leisurely couple of hours at Volunteer Park for a post-wedding picnic for my friends Cody R. and Allison V. They brought tables full of fruit and vegan pastries, and we hung out and nursed our hangovers. We all took turns playing with Charlie the blue tick hound. We were able to spread out over a big expanse of lawn, sunning ourselves on this blanket of beautiful green. It was peaceful and pretty and very relaxing, even with ultimate frisbee going on nearby. I guess the ultimate frisbee crew was having a good time too. I have a hard time rating and comparing parks, to be honest, but Volunteer was a great one. We had a lovely time, and I'd imagine this place is a boon to its Seattle neighbors. read more

I didn't realize there's such a great park with great view in Capitol Hill. I was going to check out the Asian Art Museum with my sister one day after eating fro yo at Yogurtland. And, somehow the sign led us to Volunteer Park. It was such a great spot to see sunset. The view to Space Needle from Volunteer Park was amazing! And, I was told Bruce Lee and his son live next door :-P read more

Volunteer Park - My sister, Karen, Laifu and Teddy - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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So many things to do here.... besides the glorious neighborhood that is serene and sports beautiful and unique architectural homes, there's that darn tootin' water tower that offers one priceless glimpses of the city from all angles... The SAM (Seattle Art Museum is also here). I've taken a primo nap on their greens and finished up Myla Goldberg's Time's Magpie (Prague) here. Too, a conservatory is also here... walk through that humid greenhouse...free partial facial! One of my favorite parks, second only to Gas Works. Capitol Hill... you lucky duck residents! read more

I love this place! Lots of tall trees for shade, plenty of places to sit, and WOW! Imagine the genius of placing the playground right next to the wading pool. Something for everyone, and now I can sit in one spot and watch it all go down. There is a lot of parking. After perusing other reviews, I only saw a fraction of what there is to see, so will be back! read more

If you're a fellow fan of the genre of music affectionately referred to as "grunge" like I am then you'll appreciate a visit to this park. Just across the entrance from the Seattle Asian Art Museum is the inspiration for Soundgarden's song "Blackhole Sun." It's a large dark donut-looking sculpture which, at the right angle, you'll be able to see Seattle's Space Needle through the middle of the hole. It's a pretty big park with a museum and a conservatory and also located adjacent to the cemetery for the final resting places of families of many of the founding fathers of Seattle as well as famous martial artists/actors Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee. read more

Volunteer Park - Blackhole Sun - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Between the large, open spaces, the water tower, conservatory, Asian art museum, tennis courts, and playground, it's pretty easy to spend the entire day in Volunteer Park! The Asian Art Museum is free on the first Thursday of each month, and the conservatory is only $4 for adults (I'm guessing they also have free days, I just don't know their schedule). This park is a great place to play outside when the weather is nice! read more

This was one of the first places that I visited on my first trip to Seattle and I simply fell in love at first glance. Hidden away in Capitol Hill, you can find the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory. And that's not all, there's plenty of places to explore and relish on a sunny day. Plus there's an awesome kids area with a wading pool during the warmer months. Parking isn't too difficult unless its a gorgeous day... then be prepared to circle like a shark until someone decides to leave. Or park outside the area and walk in! Definitely check out the Water Tower and climb the 100+ steps to the top... the view is free and on a clear day, you can see 360 around the city! I echo my friend Amara's sentiment. I think you're keen, Volunteer Park... you're made of pure win. read more

Volunteer Park - Grounds at the park. - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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The Dahlia garden at Volunteer Park actually made me want to become a member of some Dahlia association or start growing them for a living... Point being? It's a fantastic addition to an already breathtaking park! In my opinion, a must-see for everyone. :) read more

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In a neighborhood filled with great restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, it's nice to be able to relax in a nice park that doesn't sketch you out (Cal Anderson, am I right?). Volunteer Park is where I like to run in Cap Hill, and it's also a great place to take a stroll by yourself or with loved ones. I've heard the water tower described as the "Poor Man's Space Needle," and that's a pretty apt description. You have to hike up the handful of stairs to the top of the water tower, but it's not a bad view up there. There are some informative panels describing the history of parks in Seattle, which I enjoyed reading about. It stinks that the Conservatory is no longer free admission, but it's still not a bad deal if you want to check out the greenery they have. The Asian Art Museum is unfortunately underwhelming. The only time it's worth checking out is on the first Thursday of every month, when it's free. I'm not sure I'd be willing to pay money to walk around in that museum. It's small, and somewhat lacking in its display items. In the summertime, the outdoor amphitheater will have some cool plays or festivals pretty much every weekend, and occasionally on a weeknight as well. In the springtime, some of the outdoor flowers are in bloom, and they are gorgeous. My favorite park in Cap Hill, even though there aren't too many of them, unfortunately. read more

Volunteer Park is one of those areas that provide a nice vantage point of Downtown Seattle. Parking is available all over. Not sure if you have to pay though. The green areas are pretty nice. The structures - not so much, as many of them are beaten up and made of old concrete. There's a reservoir up there too. Be sure to take a picture of the Space Needle through the donut-shaped sculpture. It's a rite of passage for everyone I bring here. read more

This place is awesome! It's a huge park with a great view of the Space Needle. Super fun to ride your scooter around this park too! I was surprised that you can actually go inside the water tower. How cool is that!? However, don't attempt if you're in a hurry and just ate a huge meal. Side ache city. Plus, I can come here and check out all the nice butts on the gay dudes. What else could you want from a park? read more

Volunteer Park - My favorite place to sit at the park. - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Looks like review #300, a height of Seattle. I love big old trees and this place has scads of them--in some ways more breathtaking than the arboretum. The water tower a fun & informative spot to visit, wish the sky'd been clearer but this is seattle. Wide open lawns, reservoir. Didn't visit the conservatory but so much going on in this place, including the big playground. And plant sale today. read more

This is my favorite park!! The trees are large and beautiful, and many provide a good resting spot to nap. Lots of squirrels in the area - I've seen people gathering acorns to feed them (bless these good people). Ducks hang out in the little ponds. Such a magical area! read more

I took my dog-godson here once. It was one of the best days I had had in a long time. He's bigger than I am and he actually broke out of his leash and started doing laps next to the retaining pond. Normally, in any other park, I get one or two high-horse busy-bodies who say, "don't you know there are leash laws?" This park, there was enough room for him to not be a nuisance to anybody, and everyone around us chose laughter and pity over being an asshole. Also, lots of people work out in tight yoga pants here. It's an all-around win. 10/10 would park here again. read more

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Gorgeous, vibrant and peaceful - something for everyone! I basically grew up here (born a few blocks away) and favored running around the jungle gym/kiddie pool as a child. In High School I also liked the gym, but more in a sitting around talking to my friends about nothing for hours after sunset way. Now I make a walk through the park a must every time I'm home to visit and it consistently brings a smile to my face. Make sure to visit the conservatory, water tower, asian art museum and watch the sunset through the 'Donut'. Added bonus: there are frequently outdoor plays and festivals on the weekends in the summer to enjoy. read more

Volunteer park is a vibrant, beautifully conceived and designed park, hosting great places for Shakespeare in The Park, great flower gardens, play areas, ample place for frisbee, making out with your sweetheart or reading. Take a few minutes to explore the water tower and fountain areas, you won't be sorry. One word of caution. Volunteer Park has a reputation for seedy activity for same-sex activity. Don't be shocked if you accidentally stumble upon humming birds (if you know what I mean) while walking along the trails. Just keep walking and pretend you didn't see anything. I say this because it's really not always great to bring your toddlers old only to have them see people scurrying around in the bushes. I have no problem with my toddler seeing couples of any orientation kissing - totally support that. I do have to say it's not at all cool to have my kid see hanky-panky in the park. Hopefully, that stuff mostly happens at night when kids are home. :) read more

Volunteer Park - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This is the most fantastic park. Really. And I've spent of time at Marymoor. While Marymoor is huge, and has some features like the dog park and climbing wall, its pretty bland. Volunteer Park is a constant feast of interest! There's the Conservatory, the Seattle Asian Art Museum, of course, but even better, there are all sorts of little paths, niches, interesting trees, lily ponds, a kids wading pool, flower gardens, benches, sculptures... I have walked it quite a bit and know I haven't seen half! read more

Seattle really has some great parks. Hands down. Bellevue park is my favorite, but if you're stuck in Seattle, this park is definitely up there. Tons of more space here than other parks. Great place to hang out and visit. Great for bringing others. Nice open space. Nothing more to really ask for read more

Volunteer Park is hidden away from the craziness of the Capital Hill area, yet still very accessible and sprawling! I think my favorite part about Volunteer Park is that, even on the sunniest of days, there is still enough room to spread out a blanket on the green lawn and bask without being stepped on or bothered. This park offers so many options. There is a beautiful conservatory that is free to the public where you can enjoy many tropical plants. The Seattle Asian Art Museum is also housed here, which is both fun to see and a great learning opportunity. There is a water tower that you can climb and get great views of Seattle. There is a playground area for kids and a wading pool, which is great for them when it gets hot in the Summer. It's all topped off with paths, gardens, koi ponds, and artwork such as Black Sun (If you are a music fan: Seattle's Soundgarden named their song after this sculpture. Another random fact: the band gets its name after the Sound Garden sculpture located by Magnuson Park, however it is difficult to get to...but I ramble). The nice Spring weather is approaching, so check out this park if you haven't already! read more

Volunteer Park - Black hole sun, won't you come and wash away the rain? - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This is one of my favorite parks in Seattle. It's beautiful year round, but it's at its best in the summer. This park has so much to offer: great for running/walking, tennis courts, tons of green grass (great for picics, laying out in the sun, tossing a frisbee, etc), cute little ponds with either koi or goldfish (not sure which one), gigantic trees that line the main road, the greenhouse, a small amphitheater, the Asian Art Museum, the water tower, and even a kiddie pool. It's also a wonderful place for photography. Every time I'm there I always see something that inspires me to capture it with my camera. A lot of the time its of the brave little squirrels that venture out to the ground. Even though it has a ton to offer, its never over crowded. And that's always a plus. read more

Volunteer Park - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Lovely place to come and get away from the business of Seattle. Beautiful trails, picture-perfect conservatory, and dog friendly :) Bring friends for a yummy picnic while watching the sun set or bring your whole family for a eye-catching photo shoot! read more

Volunteer Park - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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A pretty cool park, I must admit. Located in Capitol Hill, we decided to stop here on a recent weekend trip to Seattle. We managed to find some street parking, and walked to the park. It's a nice park, with wide open spaces. I had read about the Water Tower, so we had ventured inside it to check it out. The day of, there was also a bike race going on, so we were able to catch a glimpse of that too. It was beautiful Spring day, but we didn't have too much time to explore the park. Still have yet to check out the Asian Art Museum and the Conservatory too. I will be back for sure! read more

Volunteer Park - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Excellent park right in the crowded downtown area. Big trails to walk. Child play area is huge too. Ample place to just rest in the greenery around, good music events and small pathways of well maintained flower gardens. This is one of the parks where I found decent crowd, not any shady homeless crowd. Safe and entertaining place to be. As if the above were not enough, parking is free too. A must see. Do not miss a visit here if you want to relax yourself or take your family around. More than one visits may be warranted to completely explore the park as it has a botanical garden, and long stretches of jogging tracks. Enjoy... read more

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I walk this park about 3 times a week. It is perfect any time of day depending on what you are looking for... The view...of the Seattle Space Needle across the reservoir - through the beautiful sculpture- Black Hole Sun. So that is a three for one easily! Then directly behind you is the Seattle Asian Art Museum - if you have time to visit - I highly recommend- the main collection is incredible and the featured work is always intriguing. Then to right is the Volunteer Conservatory. Also worth your time to take in orchids, and so much more in this glass building. And to the left is the water tower.... Also - taking a quick walk to the top (stairs inside the building that hug the water tower itself). Great photo ops to see the surrounding area. And there's more..... You can drive by and spend 5- 10 minutes or take your time and take it all in. read more

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I mainly like going to this park for its location. It's in a peaceful (and my favorite) part of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, so you're away from the hustle and bustle of where everything happens, but are still in walking distance for when you're ready for that hustle and bustle! It's a huge space to walk around in. I like visiting the conservatory when I'm here. There are always so many wonderful, blooming plants to see. And they've even allowed me to bring my dog on non-busy days. There's also the water tower that I recommend going up if you haven't yet. You'll be able to see views of Downtown Seattle and can sit awhile on one of the provided benches. read more

Very nice and simple park. Plenty of parking and an Art museum! Cool art right outside and next to what I believe to be some sort of water reserve. There are all sorts of other attractions that I haven't visited yet, but will when I have a little more time. read more

Volunteer Park - Black sun hidden by the shadow. - Parks Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Volunteer Park itself is truly a gem in Capitol Hill neighborhood. I couldn't believe that I hadn't been to Volunteer Park over my past 2 years in Seattle. Well, this weekend I finally got a chance to walk my friend's dog there and, honestly, I love this park! The park is a free, beautiful, serene, expansive park (relative to the rest of Capitol Hill parks like the Cal Anderson Park) with many, many big trees. There's so much fresh air being released from this place into the ever-busy Capitol Hill area! :) There are also many things to explore...Seattle Asian Art Museum, 100+ years old Park Conservatory, Water Tower, picnic tables, tennis courts. On a clear weather day, you can get a view of the Space Needle from the park, too. Overall, it's just a nice, uncrowded place to go for a leisure walk, forget the busy moments that we often get ourselves caught up with... Bonus points: after finishing your walk in a park, it's kind of neat to walk around a cute sub-neighborhood of many beautiful millionaire homes south of the park, too. read more