North Northlake Way, Fremont

Originally a coal plant, Gas Works Park came into existence as a recreation center in the early 60s, just in time for the World Fair that Seattle hosted a few years later. The park sits at the north end of Lake Union and sports a magnificent view of the Seattle skyline across the water. Gas Works Park, itself, hosts many annual festivals and events, making it one of Seattle's most popular parks. It has a large play area for kids, including some of the original piping from the plant, giving the park its character. A huge sundial is one of the central focuses for visitors to the area.

The park has seen its share of crime, however, families don't let that negatively affect their use of it too much. The lush green of most Seattle parks isn't that evident at Gas Works, either. Consisting mostly of a single rolling hill, the park is basically a large yard for kids and families to play. There is no access to the lake, since it has been deemed toxic and uninhabitable by people. There is a pretty good sized parking lot for visitors, and a rather interesting array of walking trails throughout the west side of the park.

North Northlake Way is a waterfront street for the most part that travels along the northern portion of Gas Works Park. The street is great for viewing the lake as well as getting some picturesque photos of what everyone thinks Seattle looks like since the movie Sleepless in Seattle. There are a number of houseboats along N Northlake Way and some are true architectural gems. The nearby Fremont neighborhood offers a wide variety of wonderful restaurants, cafes, and shopping destinations. For your outdoor satisfaction, the Burke-Gilman Trail runs alongside the street and provides a nice trail to jog along, walk your pooch, or ride your bike. The park offers a green area that is a huge draw to Seattle residents.

One of Seattle's better kept secrets I think although most have heard of GasworksPark. Northlake Way offers some beautiful views of downtown Seattle and of the activity on Lake Washington so it's a good pplace to bring the camera. You can bicyle also (on the Burke Gillman Trail) using Northlake as your jump off pont. Kids (of most all ages) love Gasworks Park. Things to climb on, grassy areas, and good kite flying. Stop in at Ivar's for lunch. Ask for an outdoor table if the weather is nice. Northlake is kind of a nondescript street that nevertheless has much going for it.