Parsons Gardens is a small public garden on Queen Anne’s south slope in Seattle, at 650 W Highland Dr. Paths wind through planted beds and around a broad lawn, with a willow tree that provides a gentle setting for photos and intimate wedding ceremonies. Come for a quiet walk, a picnic or a pause among the flowers; blooms appear from late winter through summer. The garden was once the private grounds of Reginald and Maude Parsons, whose family gave it to the city in 1956.
A former family garden on Queen Anne
Parsons Gardens stands on Queen Anne’s south slope, at 650 W Highland Dr. The garden was once part of the home of Reginald and Maude Parsons. Their children gave it to the City of Seattle in 1956, turning the family grounds into a public place for the neighborhood.
The garden is compact, with a central lawn, planted beds and paths that curve around the space. Trees provide shade, and the variety of plants gives the grounds color as the seasons change. Flowers can be in bloom from late winter through summer.
Paths, lawn and the willow tree
Take the winding paths around the main meadow to see the planting beds and find different angles for photos. The willow tree is a distinctive backdrop for ceremonies, while the lawn provides room to sit or spread out a picnic. Benches offer another place to pause among the greenery.
The setting is quiet and residential, but the garden is small, so it may not feel secluded when other people are there. It works best as a short, calm stop or a place to sit outdoors, rather than a destination for a long day of activities. Kerry Park is nearby for a separate viewpoint stop.
Planning a visit or ceremony
For a simple visit, bring food if you want to picnic and leave time to wander the paths. Late winter through summer is the suggested period for seeing flowers. The grounds are also used for intimate wedding ceremonies, with the willow and garden beds providing a natural setting. If you are arranging an event, plan for setup time and check facility availability beforehand; portable toilets have sometimes been locked.
Perguntas frequentes
Where are Parsons Gardens?
The garden is at 650 W Highland Dr in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood.
When is the best time to see flowers at Parsons Gardens?
Blooms appear from late winter through summer.
Can you have a wedding ceremony at Parsons Gardens?
The garden is used for intimate wedding ceremonies. If you are planning an event, arrange setup time and check facility availability beforehand.
How long should I spend at Parsons Gardens?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for a walk and a pause on the lawn.
