Ten Reasons to Love Green Lake

As one of Seattle’s most popular neighborhoods, Green Lake affords a uniquely walkable lifestyle with easy access to cafes and eateries, breweries, and local shops. The 2.8-mile loop around Green Lake provides an excellent canvas for afternoon walks, biking, picnics, or kayak rentals. In addition to the lake’s recreational opportunities, the neighborhood has benefited from significant growth over the past twenty years. Here are ten of our favorite reasons to visit Green Lake.

Green Lake Park

Take advantage of approaching warmer days with a visit to Green Lake Park, a neighborhood oasis with endless possibilities for recreation. Explore the 2.8-mile path surrounding the lake and go for a stroll as you observe the variety of flora and fauna. The park’s exciting Green Lake Outer Loop project aims to expand the path even further, allowing for more connections to the surrounding neighborhoods for bikers, runners, and walkers!

Green Lake Boathouse

If you’re looking to get out on the water, then a visit to the Green Lake Boathouse is a must. There’s something for everyone with paddleboards, water bikes, sailboat rentals, and more. Plus, a portion of each rental goes towards the Seattle Parks Department, so your day of fun also supports the maintenance and preservation of Seattle’s beautiful parks.

Seafair Milk Carton Derby

The Seafair Milk Carton Derby is one of Green Lake’s most unique and quirky events. Participants engineer their boats using milk cartons and you won’t believe how creative they get! Whether you take part in the festivities as a competitor or look on as a spectator, you’re sure to be entertained by the variety of food trucks and activities.

Water Lantern Festival

Experience the magic of the Green Lake community as you marvel over hundreds of glowing lanterns floating in the lake during the Water Lantern Festival. Enjoy live music and food trucks while you design your lantern and prepare to launch it into the water as the sun goes down and the lanterns illuminate the lake.

Retreat

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in a restaurant that truly lives up to its name: Retreat. Look out over beautiful views of the lake as you explore their locally-sourced, organic menu. Some of their most popular items include their Retreat bowl, eggs and goat cheese toast, and their delicious and nourishing wellness lattes.

Woodland Park

Green Lake Park isn’t the only pocket of natural beauty in the neighborhood. Make a trip to Woodland Park if you’re looking for fun times at the zoo, a picturesque stroll through the manicured rose garden, or cool tricks at the skate park. The park boasts plenty of benches, barbeques, and scenic views for anyone looking to picnic.

Seattle Public Theater

After the past two years, supporting our local theaters is more important now than ever. Featuring entertaining and thought-provoking plays, Seattle Public Theater aims to put on productions that spark dialogue. They offer a range of ticket prices so that their plays are accessible to everyone in the community.

Shelter Lounge

For casual but stylish dining and drinks, make your way over to Shelter Lounge. Spacious, contemporary architecture, ample seating, and good vibes make this the ideal spot for meeting up with friends for a delicious cocktail. The varied menu means there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Menu standouts include wonton tacos, kale Caesar salad, and fried avocado!

Duke’s Seafood

Duke’s Seafood is an iconic Seattle fixture. With a plethora of fresh, delicious seafood dishes and top-quality service, it’s clear why. Try out their award-winning clam chowder or crab cakes to see what all the hype is about. Their outdoor patio is perfect for al fresco dining on gorgeous sunny days.

Green Lake Aqua Theater

Any history buffs should check out the Green Lake Aqua Theater to be transported back in time. Originally built over 70 years ago for the Seafair Summer Festival, the theater was used to put on “swimusicals” (ballet/comedy shows that took place in the water). Although it’s no longer in use as a venue, you can still visit it and walk the steps where concert-goers once jammed to Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead.

If you’re interested in discovering more of our favorite finds in Green Lake, please reach out. We’d love to connect with you.