Green Lake is one of Seattle’s most beloved parks. The lake was formed by the Vashon Glacial Ice Sheet 50,000 years ago and is now a natural preserve for hundreds of species of trees, plants, birds and water life.
Located less than 4 miles west of our apartments in Ballard at AMLI Mark24, you will find Green Lake, Woodland Park and the adjacent Woodland Park Zoo. Enjoy the vast green space, go on a walk or spend the day on the water. Here’s everything you can do while spending the day at Seattle’s Green Lake.
Long walks
Green Lake is known for its three-mile paved loop that runs around the lake. There are two lanes on the path—the inner path is for pedestrians and the outer path is for wheels, such as bikes or rollerblades. The park is well-manicured and clean, and just generally a lovely place to go a stroll at any time of day. Woodland Park, which is accessible from Green Lake, is a 90-acre public park with hiking trails, gardens, off-leash dog parks, grassy fields and picnic areas. There are tons of different areas to explore by foot and view the changing scenery.
Watersports
The Green Lake Boathouse offers hourly boat rentals (or for purchase) such as paddle boards, kayaks, rowboats, sailboats, water bikes and more. Experience Seattle’s favorite park by venturing out on the lake. Green Lake’s beaches are also fine for swimming, but be prepared to for the lake’s natural green color. The coloration is just due to the native algae. Don’t worry, though, it’s safe and clean. The water quality is great.
Bring the dog
Spending the day in nature with your dog will make Fito one happy pooch. While there are plenty of areas for on-leash walking or running at Green Lake, there is also an off-leash dog area to explore with your four-legged friend(s) right within the adjacent Woodland Park. The entire area is fenced in to ensure the safety of your pet and offer a lot of space for running, playing and taking in nature.
Relax
Green Lake the perfect spot to slow down and relax outdoors. People-watch on the benches near the lake, sit on the beach and watch the waves or find a secluded spot to set up your hammock for a nap. It’s best if you can visit the park on the weekdays or in the early mornings on weekends so you can enjoy some quiet time as the park tends to get busy during the day on warm weekends.
Nearby neighboorhood bistros
The quaint area to the west of Green Lake is filled with a number of cafes, restaurants and bars to enjoy after spending time outdoors. Right off of Green Lake Way, you can find Lunchbox Laboratory which serves burgers and milkshakes with a view of the lake. Have a drink at Shelter Lounge or a slice of pizza at Turnpike Pizza.
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