Just for Fun November 29, 2018

5 Alternatives to a New Year’s Resolution

The pressure to come up with resolutions and improvements always mounts near the end of the year, but everyone knows that statistically speaking, most of us won’t stick to our New Year’s resolutions much past February. So rather than give in to societal pressure, guilt, and feelings of hopelessness, I propose a shift in perspective this year.

Rather than viewing the New Year as catalyst for sweeping lifestyle and character changes, let’s instead take this opportunity to renew our sense of purpose and determination. Here are five ideas to make some positive changes in a different way this year.

  1. Express Gratitude

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” -William Arthur Ward. You will be amazed at the ways your life will begin to change simply by expressing gratitude regularly. It will help you maintain a fresh perspective day in and day out, and will help to keep stress at bay. Make a list of all the things you are thankful for in your life, big and small. Take some time to really lean in to this list and reflect on each one. Especially focus on why you are thankful for each of those things.

  1. Create a list of things to look forward to

This goes hand-in-hand with gratitude. What are you looking forward to this year? A vacation, a family member getting married, a new restaurant opening, a new novel or a new season of your favorite show. By focusing on the good things coming your way, it will be easier to keep a positive and hope-filled attitude.

  1. Pick a word for the year

Before the year starts, take some time to look at the big picture of the coming year. Find the theme of what you would like to accomplish or focus on and choose a theme word to guide you. This will give you clarity and focus. Maybe your word for the year is Intentional. Simplify. Peace. Discipline. Fun. When you have your theme word for the year, share it on oneword365.com

  1. Schedule a quarterly retreat

Life happens, and trying to balance work, family, social life, friends, and other commitments often results in very little time for you. Take some time before the new year starts and schedule yourself a quarterly one-day (or weekend!) retreat to focus on YOU. Remember, if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of anyone else.

  1. Try a 30-day challenge

A 30-day challenge consists of setting a small goal that can be achieved in 30 days, as well as a small, specific action that you will take each day to achieve that goal. For example:

Declutter: every day for 30 days, choose 3 items to donate, sell, give away or throw away.

Random acts of kindness: every day for 30 days, perform a random act of kindness such as: leaving change in a vending machine; buying the coffee of the person behind you at Starbucks; send a thank you email to a coworker who deserves more recognition. Spreading kindness will always come back to you.

 

 

Happy New Year!

Just for Fun November 29, 2018

Where to Celebrate NYE

New Year’s Eve 2018 is almost upon us, and if you are still looking for something to do, read on! There are lots of options in the greater Seattle area, whether you are looking for the biggest blow-out bash or an earlier, family-friendly event.

  1. New Year’s Eve Celebration at Seattle Center

There are actually two parties that will converge at midnight for the iconic Seattle fireworks show.

The Armory Stage will host rock band SWAY from 8pm until midnight. And at the International Fountain, you can dance the night away with live electronic music and video projection show (starts at 10pm). Tickets are required for both parties, however the big fireworks show is free to enjoy.

  1. SPECTRA: New Year’s Eve Under the Arches

The Pacific Science Center transforms on NYE with fire sculptures, drinks and live music. There will be special entertainment throughout the night, as well as the standard Science Center exhibits. At midnight, head outside for the Space Needle fireworks. Purchase tickets in advance.

  1. New Year’s Eve pARTy at Chihuly Gardens and Glass

Watch the Seattle Center fireworks from under the glass of Chihuly Gardens. The evening includes appetizers, desserts, live music and a midnight toast. Purchase tickets in advance.

  1. INDULGENCE New Year’s Eve Bash at MoPOP

Another Seattle Center option, the Museum of Popular Culture offers four 21+ parties in one. With live music on three performance stages, comedians, party favors, special VIP areas, more than 20 bars, and a special singles-only cocktail hour, this is one of the largest parties of the year. Museum access is included in the price of the party, purchase tickets in advance.

  1. Tacoma’s First Night

First Night is an all-ages, family-friendly celebration in Downtown Tacoma’s Theater District. The affordable admission price includes museums, music, art, drama, dance, and a whole day and night of activities. The cost of entry increases as the festival gets closer, so buy early to save!

  1. Nighttime Party for Families at Imagine Children’s Museum

The perfect NYE celebration if you have older kids, this pajama party features comedians, balloon makers, pizza, snacks, and educational, hands-on activities throughout the night. The fun culminates at 9pm with a ball drop.

  1. New Year’s Eve with Ivar’s Salmon House

Ivar’s on Northlake will host live music, tasty food and view of the fireworks without the crowds. Advanced reservations are required, and will range in price depending on your selections.

  1. Slamming’ Jammin’ New Year’s Eve Party

Ring in the new year with the latest in R&B, Old School, Jazz and Hip Hop music. This is a 21+, semi-formal event, and hotel packages are available with your ticket purchase.

  1. Resolution New Year’s Eve Party at WAMU Theater

A Seattle tradition for almost a decade, this 18+ party always brings a mixed crowd together for a night of dancing. This is one of the biggest EDM parties of the year.

  1. New Year’s at KidsQuest Bellevue

Celebrate the coming new year all day at KidsQuest! There are activities every hour from 10am to 4pm, including Bubble Wrap Stomp, New Year’s Hats, Storytime, glittery tattoos, and more. Admission is free with membership or museum admission.

Just for Fun June 16, 2018

Outdoor Movie Schedule: Summer 2018

Don’t forget your blanket and the popcorn! It is the time of year when it’s nice enough to grab a movie outdoors – how fun!  Here is a list of local outdoor movies planned for this summer.

South Snohomish

Arlington’s Old Time Movies

Terrace Park

7/6       Star Wars: The Last Jedi (at the Airport Fly In)

7/12     Early Man

7/19     Peter Rabbit

 

Edmond’s Outdoor Movie Night

Frances Anderson Center Field

7/27     Moana

8/3       Wonder

 

Everett’s Cinema Under the Stars

Thornton Sullivan Park, Camp Patterson Field

7/20     Early Man

7/27     Coco

8/3       Wonder

8/10     Moana

8/17     Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2

 

Marysville Popcorn in the Park

Jennings Park, Lioins Centennial Pavilion

7/14     Despicable Me 3

7/21     Jumanji

7/28     Cars 3

8/4       Wonder Woman

8/11     Star Wars: The Last Jedi

 

Sundquist Family Movies in the Park

Willis Tucker Park

7/12     Jumanji

7/19     Ferdinand

7/26     The Greatest Showman

8/2       Coco

8/9       Wonder

8/16     Beauty and the Beast

 

Eastside

Bellevue Movies in the Park

Downtown Park

7/10        Despicable Me 3

7/17        Boss Baby

7/24     The Lego Ninjago Movie

7/31     Goodbye Christopher Robin

8/7       Paddington 2

8/14     The Greatest Showman

8/21     Ferdinand

8/28     Ghostbusters

 

Crossroads Movies in the Park

Crossroads Park

8/2       TBD

8/9       TBD

8/16     TBD

8/23     TBD

 

Carillon Point Outdoor Movies

Carillon Point Plaza

7/7       Despicable Me 3

7/21     The Wedding Singer

8/4       Jumanji

8/18     Star Wars: The Last Jedi

 

Movies at Marymoor

Marymoor Park

6/28     The Goonies

7/5       Wonder Woman

7/11     Jumanji

7/18     Coco

7/25     The Greatest Showman

8/2       10 Things I Hate About You

8/8       Thor: Ragnarok

8/15     Ferdinand

8/22     Black Panther

8/29     The Princess Bride

 

 

Seattle Area

Bite of Seattle

Seattle Center Mural Amphitheatre

7/20     A League of Their Own

 

Cinema under the Stars

Columbia Park

7/14     Best of the Children’s International Film Festival

8/18     Coco

 

Movies at the Marina

Shilshole Bay Marina

8/3       Overboard

8/17     Moana

 

Movies at the Mural

Seattle Center Mural Amphitheatre

7/28     The Princess Bride

8/4       Get Out

8/11     Little Shop of Horrors

8/18     I am Not Your Negro

8/25     Wonder Woman

 

Seattle Outdoor Cinema

South Lake Union Discovery Center

6/16     The Goonies

7/21     Jurassic Park

8/25     Black Panther

 

West Seattle Outdoor Movies

Fauntleroy Triangle

7/21     Wonder Woman

7/28     The Secret Life of Pets

8/4       Star Wars: The Last Jedi

8/11     A Wrinkle in Time

8/18     Coco

8/25     Black Panther

 

 

 

 *Check websites for start times, pre-movie activities and to make sure your favorite movie hasn’t been canceled or changed!

Just for Fun June 9, 2018

Local Splash Parks

It is that time of year when the sun comes out and the kids need to cool down and get their wiggles out outside. My blog has a list of local splash parks that are sure to beat the summer heat!

South Snohomish
Daleway Park
19015 64th Ave W, Lynnwood WA 98036

Edmonds City Park
600 3rd Ave S, Edmonds WA 98020

North Lynnwood Park
18510 44th Ave W, Lynnwood WA 98037

Rotary Centennial Water Playground
802 E Mukilteo Blvd, Everett WA 98203

Willis D. Tucker Park
6705 Puget Park Drive, Snohomish WA 98296

Seattle
Georgetown Playfield
750 S Home St, Seattle WA 98108

Northacres Park
12718 1st Ave NE, Seattle WA 98125

Pratt Park
1800 S Main St, Seattle WA 98144

Eastside
Crossroads Water Spray Playground
999 164th Ave NE, Bellevue WA 98008

Grass Lawn Park
7031 148th Ave NE, Redmond WA 98052

Sammamish Commons
801 228th Ave SE, Sammamish WA 98074

Just for Fun April 30, 2018

Veggie Planting in Seattle

It’s not too late! If you’re thinking about planting some fresh veggies but haven’t started yet, you still have time to get things in the ground for a late summer/early fall harvest. On average, the Puget Sound’s frost-free growing season is mid-March through mid-November, so with a little knowledge of when and how to start things, you can still see a bountiful harvest this year.

Some plants can be direct seeded into your garden, while others should be started indoors before being transplanted to your garden space. Deciding what to grow is the fun part! Plant what you like to eat, keeping in mind that some plants do better in our area than others.

Broccoli is arguably one of the most productive veggies you can grow in this area, although it can be vulnerable to root maggots and aphids. Giant Italian Parsley is easy to grow, highly productive, and expensive in the grocery store. Leeks are another that can be costly to buy in the store but trouble-free to grow in your own small space. Chard, Kale, Lettuce and Arugula are all full of vitamins and great for Northwest gardens. Carrots, Snap Peas, Snap Beans, Tomatoes and Basil all taste amazing fresh from the garden and grow relatively well in this area.

Check out the great resources at Garden.org for a full list of when to plant all these vegetables and more. They have detailed timelines for both spring and fall gardening; as well as information on transplanting seedlings vs. direct-sowing seeds.

 

Just for Fun April 30, 2018

Farmer’s Market Schedule – 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • South Snohomish County •

 

Arlington Farmers Market
Legion Park: 200 N. Olympic Ave
Saturdays. 10am-3pm | July 7 — Sept 29

 

Bothell Farmers Market
Country Village: 23718 Both-Evrt Hwy
Fridays 12pm-6pm | June 1—Sept 28

 

Bothell South County Community Market
Park Ridge Church: 3805 Maltby Road, Bothell
Wednesdays 4pm-8pm | June 6—Sept 26

 

Edmonds Garden Market
Historical Museum: Between 5th & Bell Street
Saturdays 9am-2pm | May 5—June 9

 

Edmonds Summer Market
Downtown: 5th St from the fountain
Saturdays 9am-3pm | June 16—Oct 6

 

Everett Farmers Markets
Boxcar Park: 615 13th Street
Sundays 11am-4pm | May 13—Oct 14

 

Everett Transit Center: 2333 32nd St
Wednesdays 4pm-8pm | May 23—Sept 26

 

Marysville Farmers Market
1035 State Ave
Saturdays 10am-2pm | June 23—Sept 1

 

Monroe Farmer’s Market
Lake Tye Park: 14964 Fryelands Blvd
Saturdays 8:30am-12:30pm | May 12—Nov 17

 

Mukilteo Farmers Market
Lighthouse Park: 609 Front Street
Wednesdays 3pm-7pm | June 7—Sept 27

 

Snohomish Farmers Market
The intersection of Cedar Ave & Pearl St.
Thursdays 3pm-7pm | May 3—Sept 27

 

 

  • The Eastside •

 

Bellevue Farmers Market
First Presbyterian: 1717 Bellevue Way NE
Thursdays. 3pm-7pm | May 17—Oct 11

Bothell Farmers Market
Country Village: 23718 Both-Evrt Hwy
Fridays 12pm-6pm | June 1—Sept 28

 

Issaquah Farmers Market
Pickering Barn: 1730 10th Ave NW
Saturdays 9am-2pm | May 5—Sept 29

 

Juanita Friday Market
Juanita Beach Park: 9703 NE Juanita Dr
Fridays. 3pm-7pm | June 1—Sept 28

 

Mercer Island Farmers Market
Mercerdale Park: 7700 SE 32nd St
Sundays 10am-3pm | June 3—Oct 7

 

Redmond Saturday Market
Redmond Town Center: 7730 Leary Way NE
Saturdays 9am-3pm | May 5—Oct 27

 

Sammamish Farmers Market
City Hall Plaza: 801 228th Ave SE
Wednesdays 4pm-8pm | May 9—Sept 26

 

Woodinville Farmers Market
DeYoung Park: 13680 NE 175th St
Saturdays 9am-3pm | May 5—Sept 29

 

 

  • Seattle Area •

 

Ballard Farmers Market
Ballard Ave NW
Sundays. 10am-3pm | Year round

 

Capitol Hill Broadway Farmers Market
Seattle Central Comm College: Broadway & Pine
Sundays 11am-3pm | Year round

 

Columbia City Farmers Market
37th Ave S & S Edmunds St
Wednesdays 3pm-7pm | May 9—Oct 10

Fremont Sunday Market
Corner of 3410 Evanston Ave N
Sundays 10am-4pm | Year round

 

Lake City Farmers Market
125th St and 28th Ave NE
Thursdays 3pm-7pm | June 7—Oct 4

 

Lake Forest Park Farmers Market
Third Place Commons: 17171 Bothell Way NE
Sundays 10am-3pm | May 13—Oct 21

Madrona Farmers Market
1126 Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Fridays 3pm-7pm | May 18—Oct 12

 

Magnolia Farmers Market
Magnolia Village: 33rd Ave W & W McGraw
Saturdays. 10am-2pm | June 2—Oct 20

 

Phinney Farmers Market
Phinney Neighborhood Center: Phinney Ave N
Fridays 3:30pm-7:30pm | June 1—Sept 28

 

Pike Place Farmers Market
Pike Place & Pine St
Saturdays 9am-5pm | June 2—Nov 24

Queen Anne Farmers Market
W Crockett Street & Queen Anne Ave N
Thursdays 3pm-7:30pm | June 7—Oct 11

 

Shoreline Farmers Market
15300 Westminster Ave N
Saturdays 10am-3pm | June 9—Oct 6

 

University District Farmers Market
University Way NE “the Ave”
Saturdays 9am-2pm | Year round

 

Wallingford Farmers Market
Meridian Park: Meridian Ave N & N 50th St
Wednesdays 3pm-7pm | May 16—Sept 26

 

West Seattle Farmers Market
California Ave SW & SW Alaska St
Sundays 10am-2pm | Year round

KenmoreNeighborhood Profiles December 17, 2017

Your Guide to Enjoying the Lake Washington Waterfront in Kenmore

Here is your guide to enjoying the Lake Washington waterfront in Kenmore (as recommended by our locals):

Saint Edward State Park

  • Located at 14445 Juanita Dr. N.E. Kenmore, WA 98028

When it comes to enjoying the waterfront in Kenmore, Saint Edward State Park (“set on the eastern shore of Lake Washington,” according to Claudette M cannot be beat. “This is the highlight of Kenmore in terms of getting out into the woods and feeling like you’re miles from home, but you’re not,” shares Jen B. “Miles of hiking and wooded biking trails are found at this stunning state park. There’s a pretty hike from the top of the hill all the way down to Lake Washington (don’t forget good shoes since it’s a little steep). A huge playground next to the old seminary is a highlight for families.” Claudette seconds Jen’s recommendation, adding that “although we don’t get there often enough, my family and I love to explore the low forest hiking trails in Saint Edward State Park…Our more adventurous friends regularly go mountain biking on the many miles of trails in the park, with their 5 and 3-year-old in tow—there’s terrain for every skill level.” For a breath of fresh air the whole family will love, check out Saint Edward State Park today.

Log Boom Park

  • Located at 17415 61st Ave. N.E. Kenmore, WA 98028

Whether you’re looking to cool off or explore the local waters, you can do that and so much more at Log Boom Park. “Log Boom Park, just off the north end of the Lake and right next to Burke Gilman Trail is an awesome place to take a dip in the lake off of a huge elevated dock,” says Jen. “Lots of places to launch kayaks or stand up paddleboards. Great views of Mount Rainier can be found here and fireworks on the Fourth of July. Also, it’s a great spot to watch Kenmore Air departures and arrivals.” For a day filled with fun and relaxation, Log Boom Park has you covered.

Kenmore Boat Launch

  • Located at 17150 68th Ave. N.E. Kenmore, WA 98028

For those looking to get out on the water, the Kenmore Boat Launch is a secret gem. “The Kenmore boat launch is a hidden access point to Lake Washington,” says Casey B. “While it lacks a dock, it’s one of the few public boat launches in the northern half of Lake Washington. Its 2 boat launches and about 30 parking spaces are popular in the summer.”

“Launch the boat in Lake Washington,” says Jen. “[This] is the only public boat launch at the north end of Lake Washington. Parking can be very tight, so best to get there early on sunny summer days. Also a good spot to launch the paddle board or kayak and head east towards downtown Bothell on the slough. Lots of bird watching and very calm waters along the slough.” So, if you’re quick enough when those sunny summer days roll around, you can take advantage of all that Lake Washington has to offer at the Kenmore Boat Launch.

Sammamish River

Finally, if you’re still looking for ways to enjoy Lake Washington’s waterfront, rent a kayak and take it along the slow-moving Sammamish River. “Sammamish River [offers] kayaking rentals, located at the mouth leading to the north end of Lake Washington,” says Michele K. Perfect for both beginners and more experienced kayakers, this river is one of the best ways to take in all of the beauty that makes the Lake Washington area such a popular warm-weather destination.

KenmoreNeighborhood Profiles December 15, 2017

4 Fun Family-Friendly Weekend Activities in Kenmore

Here’s a look at 4 fun family-friendly weekend activities in Kenmore, as recommended by our locals:

SAINT EDWARD STATE PARK

When it comes to family-friendly fun in Kenmore, one of the first things that comes to mind for both Jen B and Claudette M is the fabulous Saint Edward State Park.

“Although we don’t get there often enough, my family and I love to explore the low forest hiking trails in Saint Edward State Park, set on the eastern shore of Lake Washington,” Claudette says. “Our more adventurous friends regularly go mountain biking on the many miles of trails in the park, with their 5 and 3-year-old in tow—there’s terrain for every skill level.” Jen simply says that there is “too much good stuff to share about Saint Edward [State Park],” proving that this spot is an absolute must for any outdoorsy group.

BREWING & BIKING

What better way to spend a weekend with the gang than with a bike ride and some grub? “192 Brewing Co. and Cairn Brewing are right along the Burke-Gilman Trail and family-friendly,” shares Jen. “Very cool outdoor spaces at 192 Brewing and Cairn Brewing has a very ‘Fremont’ vibe without having to head into Seattle!” Michele K adds that 192 Brewing has “great outdoor seating in the summer [and a] wood stove inside for the winter. Great food and beer. Board games, pool table, kids are welcome and so is your pooch! Right on the Burke-Gilman trail…Cairn Brewery and Nine Yards [are] great places [too] but 192 is the best.”

“I’m also a big fan of 192 Brewing,” says Brian H. “Take a bike ride on the Burke-Gilman and stop in on Sunday afternoons for live music in the outdoor beer garden!” If you’re looking to relax after a day along the trail, these are your go-to spots.

BOWLING

A popular pastime for families everywhere, Claudette suggests spending a weekend with some bowling at Kenmore Lanes. “It’s one of only a few bowling alleys still remaining in all of north King County,” she shares. With good food and cheap prices, it’s an affordable way to get everyone out of the house and having fun (with a little healthy competition thrown in!).

OUT & ABOUT TOWN (SHOPPING & RESTAURANTS)

For a simple weekend of shopping and food, don’t miss out on these top picks by Jen and Claudette. “I was introduced to Acapulco Fresh Mexican Grill by friends that lived just up the hill from this unassuming strip mall restaurant,” Claudette shares. “It is their regular go-to for take-out. The meals are fast, fresh, and authentic. Everyone raves about the salsa bar.” If you just need a quick pick-me-up, try Jen’s favorite, Espresso Works. “…Love Espresso Works for quick, independently owned drive-thru, family-friendly coffee along Bothell Way,” she says. “Daily drink specials and espresso bean on top of your cup! Love this coffee stand!”

If you’re looking for a gift, check out Ostroms Drug and Gift. “Ostroms Drug and Gift off Bothell Way has a really awesome gift shop…the perfect little gift is here,” says Jen. Whatever occasion you may need a present for, you are sure to find something fun, eclectic, and fitting. Finally, need something for a child, but don’t want to settle on something from a chain store? Then stop by Snapdoodle Toys. “Snapdoodle Toys is an independent, family-owned, specialty toy store located in the historic Schnitzelbank building along Bothell Way,” Claudette says. “We stop in for the specialty and innovative toys that one can’t find in chain stores.” Show you really care and support your community with a visit to these local spots today.

KenmoreNeighborhood Profiles December 15, 2017

Welcome to Kenmore! 

Nestled along the northern shores of Lake Washington, Kenmore is a small city that people love in part for its central location in the region. Whether you need to head toward Seattle or Bellevue for work, both are just to the south of Kenmore, and the many commuting options in the city (including seaplanes!) ensure you have a variety of choice to suit your own personal style.

Kenmore is home to a myriad of things to do, whether you need to enjoy some indoor activities with the family in the winter time, or want to get outside for some adventures in the sunshine when summer rolls around. Downtown Kenmore is brimming with up-and-coming amenities and attractions, and new developments (like the Lakepointe Development) offer even more opportunity for dining, shopping, housing, and more.


Getting Out & About

“St. Edward State Park is the highlight of Kenmore in terms of getting out into the woods and feeling like you’re miles from home, but you’re not. Miles of hiking and wooded biking trails are found at this stunning state park. There’s a pretty hike from the top of the hill all the way down to Lake Washington—don’t forget good shoes since it’s a little steep. [There’s also] a huge playground next to the old seminary is a highlight for families.” –Jen B

“Although we don’t get there often enough, my family and I love to explore the low forest hiking trails in St. Edward State Park, set on the Eastern shore of Lake Washington. Our more adventurous friends regularly go mountain biking on the many miles of trails in the park, with their 5- and 3-year-old in tow. There’s terrain for every skill level.” –Claudette M

“192 Brewing Co. and Cairn Brewing are right along the Burke Gilman Trail and family friendly. [There are] very cool outdoor spaces at 192 Brewing and Cairn Brewing have a very ‘Fremont’ vibe without having to head into Seattle!” –Jen B

“I’m also a big fan of 192 Brewing! Take a bike ride on the Burke Gilman and stop in on Sunday afternoons for live music in the outdoor beer garden!” –Brian H


Commuting From Kenmore 

“522 is the main drag in Kenmore and it connects commuters to [the] Eastside and Seattle. Bus stops are plentiful here! Also, the Burke Gilman trail runs between 522 and Lake Washington. Makes a VERY scenic route to work for cyclists who have a final destination in Redmond or Seattle (and places in between). [Also there are] seaplanes! Kenmore Air is a great options for chartering or taking scheduled flights to the San Juans, Canada, and beyond!” –Jen B


Homes in Kenmore

“New construction abounds in Kenmore. It’s Northshore School District, so get ready for a little sticker shock!” –Jen B

“[There are] many homes located on the river or up on the hill with lovely lake and sunset views. [There is also a] private golf community [called] Inglewood Country Club.” –Michele K

Lake Forest ParkNeighborhood Profiles November 16, 2017

Lake Forest Park: A Guide to the Best Parks & Outdoor Activities

If you’re an outdoor lover, you’re bound to love the opportunities that await in Lake Forest Park! Located right along Lake Washington, “the hilly topography …translates into many homes enjoying [views of the] Cascade Mountains, or verdant territorial views, and some with Lake Washington views, too,” shares Claudette M. From catching these stunning views to enjoying some local amenities, you’re sure to find something to suit your every mood, whether you want to go out for a day of adventure or simply relax with a pretty view.

Here is our guide to the best parks & outdoor activities in Lake Forest Park:


PARKS ALONG LAKE WASHINGTON

*NOTE: All parks are open from dawn-dusk daily.*

Grace Cole Nature Park

  • Located at 30th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

For a peek at the wildlife that makes up Lake Forest Park, check out the Grace Cole Nature Park. A wetland teeming with native plants, birds, and amphibians, it is a crucial habitat and a valuable resource for nature lovers.


Pfingst Animal Acres Park

  • Located at 17435 Brookside Blvd. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Another great spot to catch nature in action is at the Pfingst Animal Acres Park. If you stop by the edge of the park, you’ll have a perfect view of the salmon as they swim through McAleer Creek. With unique amenities like a metal dogwood flower drinking fountain, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

 


Horizon View Park

  • Located at 19845-20099 47th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Affectionately nicknamed “Choo-Choo Park,” Horizon View Park is your all-purpose space. Enjoy a picnic, hike through the wooded areas, or join your kid for a ride on the play train.


Lyon Creek Waterfront Preserve

  • Located at 17337 Beach Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

For a moment of quiet contemplation, nothing beats looking out at the waters at the Lyon Creek Waterfront Preserve. Containing 100 feet of Lake Washington shoreline and 250 feet of Lyon Creek, it’s one of the most peaceful parks around.


Eagle Scout Park

  • Located at 3715 N.E. 180th St. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Owned by the Lake Forest Park Civic Club, Eagle Scout Park is perfect for those who are looking for a good workout. Take a break from running and stretch your muscles on their exercise bars while you let the little ones run wild on the play toy!


Blue Heron Park

  • Located at 17043 Brookside Blvd. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

A hidden gem at a busy intersection, Blue Heron Park is filled with lush native landscaping and primitive pathways lined with lovely plants. Stop by to view the salmon and look out for herons; you may see them fishing for lunch!


Whispering Willow Park

  • Located at 17038 44th Ave. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Acquired in 2011, Whispering Willow Park is in the perfect location to help restore the water quality and habitat of Lyon Creek. Located right next to Lake Forest Park’s Town Center, this park is a diamond in the rough that cannot be missed.


BEACH CLUBS

Lake Forest Park Civic Club

  • Located at 17301 Beach Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA  98155

With gorgeous scenic views and events the whole family will love, the Lake Forest Civic Club is definitely worth checking out. “The Civic Club is well known with plenty of surrounding homes being deeded in,” says Casey B. If you’re interested in all the Civic Club has to offer, submit a membership application today.

Sheridan Beach Community Club

  • Located at 16500 Shore Dr. N.E. Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

With a swim team, water polo, and other aquatic programs, the Sheridan Beach Club is perfect for those who love the water and want to be more involved. “[The] lesser known…Sheridan Beach Club…provides excellent amenities, shore access, a pool and most importantly, a heightened sense of community,” says Casey. “If you’re looking for it all in LFP, the Beach Club is where you should start.”


THE BEST WAYS TO GET AROUND

Burke-Gilman Trail

When it comes to commuting through Lake Forest Park to surrounding communities, the preferred method of travel may not be what you’d expect. “Lake Forest Park residents predominantly rely on car & bus for their commutes to Seattle or the Eastside,” Claudette shares. “However, with convenient access to a 2-mile stretch of the Burke-Gilman Trail that passes through the city, there is a robust population of residents that commute into Seattle by bicycle, and particularly work centers such as the University of Washington & Children’s Hospital.”

If you’re looking to cut down on gas costs, help the planet, and enjoy some great views on your way to work, grab your bike and start pedaling!

McKinnon Creek Trail

If you’re in the mood for getting around on foot, the McKinnon Creek Trail is going to be the best spot to check out. A 0.5 mile forested trail located about half a mile northwest of City Hall, it’s perfect for everything from a short jog to a slow-and-steady hike.

For more tips on how you can enjoy the outdoors in Lake Forest Park, click here.