Lake Union is a freshwater lake in the city of Seattle. Eastlake and Westlake are located on its east and west shores respectively, and the northern shore of the lake is home to Gas Works Park. Lake Union's scenic views and adventurous activities make it a popular recreational spot. From houseboats to paddle boards, fireworks, and city lights, Lake Union offers something for everyone. We have compiled the best of the best in and around Lake Union – check out the top things to see during your stay here.
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Center for Wooden Boats: A museum dedicated to preserving the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest area. It features more than 170 vessels, mostly small sailboats and rowboats. Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a living museum, where you can build, sail, and learn boating. You can take classes for sailing from experienced sailors at CWB.
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Lake Union Park: A 12-acre park located at the south end of Lake Union in Seattle. The park has been designed in a way to provide access to water and green space. The Park features restored shoreline, a pedestrian bridge, a history trail, a fountain of water jets, a beach for launching boats, a grove of trees, a Great Lawn, footpaths, and much more. The park also includes a Historic Ships Wharf that consists of several historic vessels.
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Other Parks: North Passage Point Park is a 0.8 acre park located on the north side of Lake Union. South Passage Point Park is a 0.9-acre park located in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle. Fairview Park is a 0.8-acre park located on the eastern shoreline of Lake Union. Fairview park includes a P-Patch and a boat launch. Terry Pettus Park is a 0.9-acre park located on the eastern shoreline of Lake Union and offers shoreline access and a public float.
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Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI): MOHAI is a history museum located in South Lake Union. Started in 1911, it is the largest private heritage organization that houses nearly 4 million artifacts, photographs, and archival materials. This is just a portion of the museum's gallery focus at the historic Naval Reserve Armory. Visitors can enjoy a diverse program of temporary exhibitions that basically focus on Seattle-based topics. The museum is open for public daily and children aged 14 and under can get entry for free.
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Northwest Native Canoe Center: Northwest Native Canoe Center at Lake Union Park is a cultural center that focuses on indigenous maritime heritage, provides unique access to the Lake Union waterfront and offers a hands-on canoeing experience. It also organizes special events such as canoe blessings, dancing events, art markets and special occasion feasts.
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Activities to Enjoy: Lake Union is a perfect place to enjoy sailing and boating on board your own private yacht or boat charter. You can enjoy beachcombing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. If you happen to visit Seattle in the month of July, be sure to attend the Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival. Book a sunset charter to enjoy amazing sunset views and the Seattle skyline during your cruise on the waters of Lake Union. Don't forget to check out the beautiful floating homes on Lake Union. These iconic floating residences have been featured in the movie “Sleepless in Seattle.”
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Dining Options: Lake Union and its neighborhoods hold a wealth of glorious lakefront restaurants and bars. Some of the best restaurants in and around Lake Union include Daniel’s Broiler, The Wurst Place, Novilhos Brazilian Steakhouse, Cactus Restaurant, Cask & Trotter, Feierabend, Nollie’s Café, Ten on 9th, and Pam’s Kitchen to name a few. On the Eastlake side, you can visit Serafina, Eastlake Bar & Grill, Little Water Cantina, Grand Central Bakery, and Pomodoro Ristorante. Westlake neighborhood also boasts some popular restaurants such as China Harbor, Koibito Sushi & Teriyaki, Mollusk, and Boathouse Deli among others.
Make the most of your Seattle trip by visiting Lake Union along with Lake Washington, Ballard Locks and Puget Sound islands on board your own fully crewed private luxury yacht. At Pacific Northwest Yacht Charters, we have experienced staff who would help you explore the beauty, grandeur and history of Seattle and its lakes. To find out more about the type of yachts that you can charter on your next trip to Seattle, click on the link provided here.
