Freeway Park
Just southeast of the Seattle Convention Center Arch building sits a brutalist jungle called Freeway Park, a series of concrete plazas full of evergreen plants that spill over I-5 and around several buildings. Exit through Arch’s third level en route to other downtown adventures, and you may pass street musicians, book carts, and fire pits. Keep an eye out for the nearby Urban Garden, a cheery flowerpot sculpture on Seventh Ave and Union St.
Cedar Hall
This recently renovated lobby on Pike St is a literal green space, coated in soft, sage-colored tile, and an instant favorite gathering spot for local workers and residents. If you want caffeine while you’re in town, make this your destination. The popular Olympia Coffee window offers spice-forward options like mulled coffee and sugar plum lattes in addition to the classics, and there’s plenty of cozy seating to relax indoors on a chilly day.
Mr. West
If you’re looking for a bite out, travel just a few blocks to Mr. West, a cool modern café that swings subtly from brunch to bar service. Healthy options abound, including several bowls and salads, along with comfort food you can enjoy while surrounded by houseplants for sale.
The Spheres
Amazon’s conservatories need no introduction. What you may not know is that the Spheres are open to the public the first and third Saturday of each month. Make a reservation early to explore the Spheres’ 40,000 plants—and if you’re hungry afterwards, enjoy a pizza at airy and adjacent local favorite Willmott’s Ghost.
The Tropical Butterfly House at Pacific Science Center
It’s easy to hop on the Seattle Center Monorail at Westlake Station and take a quick trip over to Seattle Center, where you can surround yourself with hundreds of butterflies and tropical plants at Pacific Science Center’s Tropical Butterfly House. A longtime favorite for kids and adults alike, this humid and sweet-smelling spot is also a nice way to warm up on a cold winter’s day. If you’re looking for a photo op on this adventure, check out the plant-inspired sculptures on the Seattle Center campus, including Grass Blades next to MoPOP and Sonic Bloom near the foot of the Space Needle.
Olympic Sculpture Park
Nestled on the north end of the waterfront is Olympic Sculpture Park, a nine-acre green space that is an extension of Seattle Art Museum with great views of the Puget Sound, a nearby pocket beach, and a collection of eye-popping sculptures from. The park features native plants as well as design features which help reuse rainwater and restore local salmon habitats. It’s a great space to see Seattle’s creative approach to sustainability in action.
Thirsty? Head across the pedestrian bridge and grab a brew at beloved local favorite Queen Anne Beer Hall. It’s easy to take the monorail back to Westlake Station from there.
If you’re in the mood for more exploring, wander south past the piers on Alaskan Way to the Seattle Aquarium and Overlook Walk (more on that below).
Pike Place Market
Now is the time of year to grab one of Pike Place Market’s signature bouquets. More hidden green spaces in the Market include the aptly named Secret Garden, where residents and staff grow fresh herbs and vegetables for neighbors experiencing food insecurity, and KUBODE on Western Ave, whose unique designs make plant-shopping feel like touring an art gallery. Thirsty plant lovers should try Rachel’s Ginger Beer in Post Alley, who sources fresh ginger and lemons from local farms to create fragrant beverages with boozy and non-alcoholic options that people line the block for. Want to feel like you’re in a greenhouse? Enjoy cocktails and Portuguese food at much-praised hidden gem the Lonely Siren.
Overlook Walk
On the western side of Pike Place Market is the recently opened Overlook Walk, an incredible public space offering expansive views of the Puget Sound and multiple paths down to Waterfront Park. If you haven’t been downtown in a while, this is a must-do. Bring food or a drink to enjoy among growing native species specifically planted to honor the region’s biodiversity. If you have kids with you, stop at the play area, which possibly has the greatest view of all playgrounds in the Pacific Northwest. Under the Overlook Walk, you’ll find Seattle Aquarium’s stunning new Ocean Pavilion and its 3,500 plants and animals. Pro tip: enjoy half off admission to the Aquarium and several of Seattle’s top museums during February when staying in a participating downtown hotel as part of Seattle Museum Month.
Pioneer Square
Hop on the light rail from Westlake Station or wander a mile down the waterfront to Seattle’s original neighborhood, where nature continues to find a way amongst the cobblestones. Pick up a dish from vegan-friendly OHSUN Banchan and Deli and eat at Habitat Beach or Waterfall Garden Park, two water-centric pocket parks. Floral art creations Dreaming at Midnight and Moth & Myth border the raised sidewalks around the corner from charming and tree lined Occidental Square.
Capitol Hill
Hike up Pike or Pine streets, hop in a rideshare, or take the bus or light rail up to vibrant Capitol Hill if you’re looking for a creative twist on nature-inspired experiences. This neighborhood—known for its restaurants and nightlife—is home to the historic Cal Anderson Park, whose pools and cone water feature make for a great, quick visit on a cold day. Fans of upscale, organic food should experience the stylish Terra Plata, whose covered rooftop garden terrace is heated all winter long. Wine lovers will enjoy the sustainability-focused Footprint Wine Tap, which features all regional wines. And whether or not you wear makeup, Glossier Seattle’s whimsical, forest-floor-inspired installation is worth a visit.
Light rail pro tips: day passes are only $6, and youth ride free!
It’s no surprise that green spaces abound in the Emerald City—and these are just some of the highlights. Enjoy your visit to Seattle’s growing downtown and its beloved adjacent neighborhoods.