Hidden beneath the Ship Canal Bridge lies a secret gem. It is North Passage Point Park. Most people don’t even know it exists. This 0.8-acre park offers unique views and a surprising escape. North Passage Point Park was dedicated in 1977. It provides a special connection to Seattle’s maritime history.
We are standing at the intersection of NE Northlake Way and Pasadena PL NE. This is right under the Ship Canal Bridge. The park entrance is just west of the Seattle Boat Company. It is also east of the three-way stop.
The path leads us along a small lawn. There are two picnic tables here. We continue down to a concrete bulkhead at the water’s edge. Look at the path itself. Notice the art squares. They are constructed with embedded glass and small objects.
Down by the water, we see four benches and steps leading down. A ship’s propeller stands as an art installation. It honors the working boats and marine history of this area. The main draw of North Passage Point Park is the view. You can see Lake Union and two bridges from here.
Look across the water. You will see North Passage Point’s sister park. It is South Passage Point Park. The view includes the Space Needle and Queen Anne. You might even spot floatplanes landing on Lake Union.
Keep an eye out for ducks and Canada geese. They often visit the park. But please do not feed them. The water here is shallow. So you can wade in to cool off.
The sounds of I-5 traffic overhead are quite impressive. It adds a strange cacophony to the experience. Don’t expect long conversations here.
If you visit on a Tuesday evening from May to September you might see the Duck Dodge. It takes place on Lake Union. Also consider that the University Drawbridge won’t open during rush hour. This is from 7-9 am and 4-6 pm. Sunny afternoons, evenings and summer weekends have the most boat traffic. So there is a higher chance of seeing the bridge open then.
North Passage Point Park is open from 4 am to 11:30 pm. There are two picnic tables and four benches for seating. You can also sit on the cement steps. There are no bathrooms in the park.
North Passage Point Park provides a unique Seattle experience. It is a place where you can reflect on the city’s maritime past. You can also enjoy the beauty of Lake Union. It’s a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.