Discovery Park
7.8Friend Score / 10#8 of 12 Parks & Outdoors in Seattle
Known fordiscovery parkwest point lighthouseseattle beachhiking trails
Seattle's largest park at over 500 acres, with forest, meadows, sea-cliff bluffs, and a beach trail down to the West Point Lighthouse. A genuine nature escape inside the city, free, and beloved by locals. The catch: it's in Magnolia, parking fills up, and beach access is restricted, so check the shuttle.
Key facts
| Hours | Daily 04:30–23:00 |
|---|---|
| Price | — |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Metro route 33 to the park entrance; limited service |
| Time needed | 2-4 hours |
| Best time to go | Clear day for Sound and mountain views; use the seasonal weekend shuttle for beach access |
| Last verified | July 12, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.8/10- Value8.5
- iconic7.5
- Freshness9.1
- Crowd level6.5
- Authenticity8.5
- Accessibility5.0
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get to Discovery Park on transit?
- Metro route 33 serves the park area in the Magnolia neighborhood, but service is limited, so check schedules. A car is more convenient, though the main lots fill on nice weekends.
- What are the hours?
- The park is open daily from 4:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The visitor center has its own shorter hours, which also affect beach parking permits.
- Can I drive to the beach at Discovery Park?
- Only with a beach parking permit or an ADA placard, and permits aren't issued when the visitor center is closed. Most visitors either walk down the Beach Trail or take the free weekend shuttle in season.
- How do I get to the West Point Lighthouse?
- It's at the westernmost point of the park, reached by the Beach Trail down from the main area or via the park's seasonal free shuttle. It's a scenic but steep walk, so factor in the uphill return.
- Is Discovery Park free?
- Yes, entry is free and it's open daily. There's no admission charge for the trails, beach, or lighthouse grounds.
- How long should I spend at Discovery Park?
- Give it 2 to 4 hours to enjoy the trails and get down to the beach and lighthouse. It's big and genuinely feels like nature, so it rewards a real visit rather than a quick stop.
- What's the best time to visit?
- A clear day for the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountain views from the bluffs. Weekends bring the free beach shuttle in season but also the most people, so early mornings are calmest.
- Is it good for a hike with kids or dogs?
- Yes, the Loop Trail is family-friendly and leashed dogs are welcome on trails. The Beach Trail is steeper, so gauge little legs, and note dogs are restricted from some sensitive areas.
Nearby in Ask Seattle
- Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks)Attraction1.06 km · 13 min walk
- Nordic MuseumMuseum1.53 km · 19 min walk
- BallardNeighborhood1.99 km · 25 min walk
- Ballard Farmers MarketMarket2.02 km · 25 min walk
- Un BienRestaurant3.46 km · 43 min walk
Where to stay near Discovery Park
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