Cal Anderson Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground
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Cal Anderson Park

4.3
·3k reviews·Seattle, United States

A dynamic urban oasis in Capitol Hill, known for its sports, community art, and lively atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Cal Anderson Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground

Cal Anderson Park

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dynamic urban oasis in Capitol Hill, known for its sports, community art, and lively atmosphere.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"Iconic Cal Anderson Park is where it all happens in Capitol Hill."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Woes

Parking is paid and can be scarce. Consider public transit or ride-sharing to avoid hassle.

🎨 Art Appreciation

Keep an eye out for the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural and other community art installations.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hot Rat Summer Mural

Hot Rat Summer Mural

Capitol Hill

A beloved, vibrant mural that has become a symbol of community art and resilience in the park.

Sports Facilities

Sports Facilities

Various locations within the park

From intense soccer matches and basketball games to a dedicated skate park, there's action for every sports enthusiast.

Community Events

Community Events

Open spaces and fields

The park frequently hosts pop-up fitness classes, protests, and community gatherings, offering a dynamic visitor experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibe

Cal Anderson Park is a vibrant hub in Capitol Hill, known for its community art, sports facilities, and lively atmosphere. Be prepared for a mix of activities, from organized sports to spontaneous gatherings. It's a place where culture and daily life intersect.

Navigating Capitol Hill

Parking in Capitol Hill can be challenging and expensive. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to reach Cal Anderson Park. The park is a popular spot for events and protests, so check local listings for potential disruptions.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Active sports, community events
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant weather, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

June 14th 12PM -Cal Anderson Park
@alexkhosieyo
54.4K likes • 299.7K views

🚗 Parking Woes

Parking is paid and can be scarce. Consider public transit or ride-sharing to avoid hassle. Reddit

🎨 Art Appreciation

Keep an eye out for the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural and other community art installations. Instagram

It’s Hot Rat Summer in Seattle. #seattle #hotratsummer #fleabag #calandersonpark
@raccoongela
5.7K likes • 32K views
HOT RAT SUMMER, the beloved mural in Cal Anderson park is back. The day after Seattle city council voted to approve a new civil fine of $1500 for taggers, two council members took it upon themselves to clean up the mural. Council member Alexis Mercedes Rinck was the only one to vote against the new fines. One neighbor asked, is it legal for them to clean it up? #hotratsummer #seattle
pablogaviria
0 likes • 7.7K views

👟 Active Pursuits

Bring your gear for soccer, basketball, or skateboarding – the facilities are top-notch. Reddit

💧 Public Restrooms

Public restrooms are available but may not always be in the best condition. Reddit

Earlier today, I joined Councilmember Hollingsworth and some lovely community volunteers to clean up the Saint Rat mosaic in Cal Anderson Park. Thanks to everyone who emailed my office, and to those who stopped by to help, chat with us, and/or dropped off supplies and water. It may seem silly, but I truly believe that community driven art projects like Saint Rat add character and charm to Seattl...
councilmember.amr
484 likes • 7.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Woes

Parking is paid and can be scarce. Consider public transit or ride-sharing to avoid hassle. Reddit

🎨 Art Appreciation

Keep an eye out for the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural and other community art installations. Instagram

👟 Active Pursuits

Bring your gear for soccer, basketball, or skateboarding – the facilities are top-notch. Reddit

💧 Public Restrooms

Public restrooms are available but may not always be in the best condition. Reddit

☀️ Fitness Fun

Check for pop-up fitness classes like barre for a unique park experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cal Anderson Park is a culturally significant and lively urban park in Capitol Hill, praised for its sports facilities, community art like the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural, and role as a gathering space. However, some visitors express concerns about public safety and the presence of unsheltered individuals, suggesting a need for caution.

"Cal Anderson Park, wow! Seattle has legendary parks (Discovery and Volunteer are examples.) Cal Anderson is also a great park.

It’s an institution.

You have serious soccer games, hardcore basketball, a real skate park, and room to run your dog. Add the walking paths, the vast picnic possibilities, people watching, and just chilling - and you see why this park is so culturally important.

Check it out!"

Dale Burks

"Iconic cal anderson park is where it all happens in Capitol Hill. Also a great place to protest of violence your views about politics or anything else. Good soccer field and fun tennis courts that double as a skate park. Come as you are parking can be spendy!"

Christopher “CiViLX” Riley

"Seattle Urban setting, walking trails, water fountain, great for family picnic, swing sets make this park wonderful for the visitors"

T Seth

What People Like

Vibrant community hub
Excellent sports facilities
Iconic public art

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Cleanliness of restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cal Anderson Park is located in Capitol Hill. The easiest way to get there is often by public transportation, as parking can be difficult and expensive. Several bus routes serve the area. You can also use ride-sharing services. Reddit

Yes, there is paid on-street parking available near the park, but it can be limited, especially during peak times or events. Reddit

Capitol Hill is a very walkable neighborhood. You can easily explore shops, restaurants, and other attractions on foot from Cal Anderson Park. Public transport is also readily available for longer distances. Reddit

Yes, biking is a great option. There are bike racks available, and the park is accessible via various bike routes within Seattle. Reddit

Absolutely! Cal Anderson Park is well-served by Seattle's public bus system, making it a convenient destination for those relying on transit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cal Anderson Park is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy. Reddit

Cal Anderson Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms or sports courts may have their own hours. Reddit

For most community events or spontaneous gatherings, no tickets are needed. However, if a specific organized event is taking place, check its individual listing for ticketing information. Instagram

General park rules apply. Alcohol is typically restricted, and while dogs are allowed, they must be leashed in most areas. Reddit

While there are many open spaces for informal picnics, formal reservations for specific areas are usually not required for small groups. For larger organized events, you may need to contact the city parks department. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy jogging paths, watch or play soccer and basketball, utilize the skate park, have picnics, people-watch, and admire community art like the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural. InstagramReddit

Yes, public restrooms are available, though reviews suggest their cleanliness can vary. Reddit

While the park offers amenities like a wading pool and swing sets, some reviews mention concerns about unsheltered individuals and drug activity, suggesting caution for families. Reddit

It's a popular and vibrant piece of community art located in Cal Anderson Park, often celebrated for its unique style and local significance. Instagram

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Cal Anderson Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Cal Anderson Park itself does not have restaurants, but it's surrounded by numerous dining options in Capitol Hill, from casual cafes to diverse eateries. Reddit

Capitol Hill offers a wide culinary spectrum, including international cuisine, trendy cafes, bakeries, and bars, catering to all tastes and budgets. Reddit

Absolutely! The park has plenty of grassy areas perfect for picnics. You can grab food from nearby delis or grocery stores. Reddit

Yes, Capitol Hill is known for its excellent coffee culture. You'll find many independent coffee shops within walking distance of the park. Reddit

Popular spots include diverse options like Dick's Drive-In for classic burgers, or exploring the many international restaurants along Pike and Pine streets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Hot Rat Summer' mural offers a colorful backdrop. The open fields, sports courts, and the general urban park setting provide diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram

Yes, the park and its surrounding Capitol Hill neighborhood are dynamic and offer plenty of interesting subjects for street photography, capturing the local culture. Reddit

Drone usage in city parks is often restricted or prohibited. It's best to check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for current regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting. Weekday afternoons might provide fewer distractions for capturing candid shots. Reddit

While not directly in the park, the Jimi Hendrix statue is nearby, and the vibrant street art and architecture of Capitol Hill itself are great photo subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cal Anderson Park offers some family-friendly amenities like a wading pool and swing sets, making it a potential spot for a casual outing. However, it's important to be aware that some visitors have expressed concerns about the park's atmosphere, citing issues with unsheltered individuals and drug activity. Reddit If you choose to visit with children, staying aware of your surroundings and perhaps visiting during busier daytime hours might be advisable. The park's vibrant community art, like the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural, can also be an engaging visual experience for kids. Instagram

For a more relaxed family experience, consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas. While there are restrooms, their condition can be inconsistent, so plan accordingly. The park's central location in Capitol Hill means there are many nearby cafes and casual eateries if you need a break or a snack. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

As a solo traveler, Cal Anderson Park offers a fantastic glimpse into the local Seattle scene. It's a place where you can observe daily life, from intense sports matches to community gatherings and artistic expression. The 'Hot Rat Summer' mural is a must-see for its unique local flavor. TikTokInstagram

Be prepared for a dynamic environment. While the park is a hub of activity, some reviews mention safety concerns and the presence of individuals struggling with homelessness or addiction. Reddit It's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting during quieter hours. The park's location in Capitol Hill also means you're surrounded by a wealth of cafes, shops, and restaurants to explore before or after your park visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Capitol Hill: Cal Anderson Park's Role

Cal Anderson Park is more than just a green space; it's a vital community hub in Seattle's vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood. Its history is intertwined with the area's evolution, serving as a gathering place for recreation, social events, and even political expression. The park's diverse facilities, including soccer fields, basketball courts, and a skate park, cater to a wide range of active pursuits, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Reddit

The park is also known for its dynamic public art scene, most notably the 'Hot Rat Summer' mural. This artwork, and others like it, reflect the creative spirit of Capitol Hill and have become points of pride for the community. The presence of these murals, often subject to community efforts for preservation, highlights the park's role as a canvas for local expression. TikTokInstagram

However, like many urban parks, Cal Anderson Park faces challenges. Some visitors have noted concerns regarding public safety and the presence of unsheltered individuals. Despite these issues, the park remains a significant landmark, embodying the energetic and diverse character of Capitol Hill, and is a place where community activism and daily life converge. Reddit

Sports and Recreation at Cal Anderson Park

For sports enthusiasts, Cal Anderson Park is a prime destination. The park boasts well-maintained soccer pitches that host everything from casual games to organized leagues. Adjacent to these are basketball courts that are often buzzing with activity, providing a space for pickup games and competitive play. Reddit

Beyond the traditional courts, the park features a dedicated skate park, offering a challenging environment for skateboarders and BMX riders. This diverse range of athletic facilities underscores the park's commitment to providing recreational opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking to play or spectate, the energy on the fields and courts is palpable. Reddit

In addition to these core facilities, the park includes a jogging path that winds through the green spaces, perfect for a morning run or a leisurely stroll. The presence of a wading pool also makes it a family-friendly spot during warmer months, adding another layer to its recreational appeal. Reddit

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