Welcome to Seward Park and Columbia City
SEWARD PARK
Seward Park is a large 300-acre park located on the Bailey Peninsula jutting into Lake Washington in southeast Seattle. It’s part of the larger Seward Park neighborhood but the park itself is its own major destination.
What makes it special:
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It has one of the city’s few remaining old-growth forest stands — some trees hundreds of years old.
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A paved 2.4-mile loop trail around the peninsula’s shoreline that’s excellent for walking, running, biking, or just taking in the views.
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Beaches and shoreline access for swimming, picnicking, launching a kayak or paddle board, fishing and just relaxing by the water.
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An environmental education center — the Audubon Center at Seward Park — which runs programs for kids and adults, located right in the park. Seward Park Audubon Center
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Picnic areas, grills, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a native-plant garden to explore.
Why you might love it (especially as someone new):
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If you want a quick escape from the “city” feel without leaving Seattle, this park delivers — you’ll feel immersed in nature.
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Great place for active recreation (walks, trails, swimming) and for more laid-back good times (picnics, lounging by the water).
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Because it’s less commercial than many parks, it has a relaxed, slightly hidden-gem vibe.
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If you’re thinking about where to live or hang out in southeast Seattle, Seward Park offers a strong “nature meets city” balance.
Things to consider / tips:
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Because it’s popular, on sunny weekends the parking lots can fill up — going early or using transit/biking can help.
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Some trails are paved and accessible; others are more rustic forest trails — pick what fits your comfort.
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The perimeter path is quite flat, making it good for strollers or casual strolls.
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If you’re less familiar with the area, check transit/bus options or parking availability depending on your transport mode.
COLUMBIA CITY
Columbia City is a neighborhood in the Rainier Valley area of southeast Seattle. It has a historic downtown business district (along Rainier Avenue S) and is quite walkable, with good transit access (including the light rail).
What makes it special:
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A strong neighborhood-vibe: With a mix of local cafés, bakeries, restaurants, bars, art galleries, shops.
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Diversity of culture: Historically and currently the neighborhood is noted for its ethnic and income diversity.
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Excellent transit link: The Link Light Rail has a station in or near Columbia City, giving good access to downtown Seattle and SeaTac Airport.
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Historic character: The business district is part of a designated landmark district, meaning there’s preservation of historic buildings, which adds charm.
Why you might love it (especially if you’re new to the area):
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If you enjoy a neighborhood where you can walk to things (coffee shops, restaurants, a neighborhood theater), Columbia City brings that.
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Because of the light rail and bus access, you can live here and commute relatively easily into downtown or airport, which is a big plus.
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For exploring Seattle culture beyond the “tourist” zones: this neighborhood has authentic local feel rather than just chain businesses.
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If you like a community-oriented vibe, this is the kind of place where you might bump into neighbors, explore local events, etc.
Things to consider / tips:
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While the business district is lively and walkable, like many urban neighborhoods there are areas around that may feel more “normal city-neighborhood” (less polished) — worth exploring at different times of day.
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If you’re relying on driving frequently (especially across the city or to suburbs), consider traffic and parking; but if you focus on walking/transit, it’s a strong pick.
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Keep an eye on local housing development and change: the area is evolving, so it may feel more dynamic than some more “settled” neighborhoods.