Seattle is famous for iconic, scenic spots that offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity for fun in the sun (or rain) amid some quintessential PNW sights. From the striking Space Needle to recognizable parks that have been featured in films, like Gas Works, to the bustling wharf, there are plenty of famous spots around the city that bring in big crowds daily. These spots are all must-sees for anyone exploring the city for the first time, but for Seattle residents who have had their fill of the fun tourist destinations in their neighborhood, it’s nice to venture out and discover some lesser-known places to spend an afternoon relaxing or recreating. Read on for some insight into ways to avoid a crowd as the days warm up and more and more people are out and about in our beautiful city.

It's amazing how much green space we have throughout the bustling city. Seattle seems to offer the best of both worlds: urban amenities/entertainment and accessible nature. Whether you’re looking to cruise on your bike on a tree-lined path or take advantage of the beautiful sunny summer months heading our way, you’re probably hoping to do so without a ton of people crowding the space and making parking impossible. If you’re in it for the views, make a sunset trip to Rainbow Point for panoramic views of the downtown skyline and snow-capped Olympics.

If you’re looking for a photo op that’s a little more unique than the often-posted Sculpture Park or Fremont Troll, put Thomas C. Wales Park on your list. This 1.3 acre-park features towering art installations that pay homage to the gravel quarry that used to sit on the site in the early 20th century. More public art awaits at Bradner Gardens Park in the Mt. Baker neighborhood, with seven themed gardens, an old windmill, vibrant mosaics, and even a basketball court for those who want to shoot a few hoops.

Now that spring is in full swing and the trees are back to their leafy glory, a place like Frink Park which offers lush, green trails and less crowds (and more shade) than Discovery Park, is another option for recreation. Tide-pool enthusiasts should check out Me-Kwa-Mooks, meaning “shaped like a bear’s head” in Nisqually, this rocky beach reveals pools hosting everything from crabs to sea stars to slugs during low tide. Birders will enjoy the variety of avian friends that fly through the park, including screech owls. If you want to do something a bit more active on the water, launch your paddleboard from Lowman Beach Park—pack a lunch for a picnic on the grassy lawn after working up an appetite on the water.

From concerts to new restaurants serving local fare to the myriad of festivals, farmers markets, and street fairs that make our city so vibrant and exciting, Seattle offers residents a chance to connect with their community every single day in so many enriching ways. However, for those days when you want to stray from the beaten path and find a little quiet and space within the city, there are still plenty of lesser-known attractions to escape to for a scenic walk, family picnic, or water recreation.

Seattle's Best Kept Secrets: Hidden Gems for Recreation and Leisure