Discovery Park Seattle
Although the city of Seattle
is home to a number of beautiful parks, Discovery Park is inarguably one
of the most special. It is also the largest, and occupies a vast 534
acres of the bluff located in the Magnolia neighborhood. Although it
offers your basic park commodities like tennis courts, playground
equipment, and picnic areas, Seattle residents love Discovery Park for
countless additional reasons. Its elaborate trail system makes it prime
territory for joggers, hikers, and dog walkers. It’s tidal beaches and
carefully maintained natural preservation make it popular for wildlife
lovers that lead an urban lifestyle. And its scenic appeal makes
Discovery Park a favorite muse for photographers and artists. High on
the bluff, Discovery offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views
of the Puget Sound available, as well as great shots of both the Olympic
mountain range, and the Cascades. Visit on a clear, summer day, and
watch the sailboats dart around the Sound. Visit on a drizzly, fall day,
and marvel at the amazing cloud formations over the water. This view
will not disappoint.
History buffs have a good reason to take a trip up to the park, as well.
The site was originally set aside as a military base in 1900 to protect
the Puget Sound from attack, and was known as Fort Lawton. The base was also
used as a point of departure in World War II, passing troops through Seattle
and overseas. Many of the original buildings still stand in the park today,
although Fort Lawton was passed over to Seattle Parks and Recreation in
1970.
Discovery Park
The Park is also home to the Daybreak Star Cultural
Center, the main base for the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation. The
center, founded in 1970 along with the park, consists of 20 acres and a
lodge built with beautiful cedar timbers. It is an urban base for the
Foundation, and operates on the mission to be a “cultural and educational
landmark to commemorate and celebrate Native customs, history, and
traditions.”
So, whether you’re in the mood to learn about military history, tribal
history, or just want a vacant meadow with a good headwind to fly a kite,
Discovery Park is a great place to do it all.