Overview:
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor recreation has surged in popularity across the United States, with millions of Americans engaging in outdoor activities and setting new participation records. Research indicates that such activities can enhance focus, alleviate stress, and boost energy levels. Despite this trend, urban residents often face challenges in accessing nearby outdoor spaces and activities. In response, Stacker has curated a list of top locations for popular outdoor activities in Seattle, utilizing data from Yelp.
Written by Stacker
Between America’s sprawling public lands system and our nearly universal love for road trips, outdoor recreation isn’t exactly a new phenomenon in the U.S. However, according to reports from the Census Bureau, millions more Americans have been getting outside since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, breaking records and generating billions of dollars in revenue for many outdoor industries.
It’s easy to understand why outdoor recreation has become so popular in a post-pandemic world—spending time outside can do so much more than just help you catch a tan. Studies show that participating in outdoor activities can improve focus, reduce stress, and lead to higher energy levels. That’s to say nothing of the physical benefits, like lower risk for cardiovascular disease.
Though more Americans are spending time outside than ever before, many people who live in large cities still struggle to find outdoor spaces and activities near them. But contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to drive far from home or spend hours prepping for a strenuous workout to enjoy the great outdoors. Instead, set aside some time to meander through your nearest botanical garden, or spend your lunch break picnicking at a local park. Adding even a few extra minutes of fresh air to your day can help boost your mental and physical health.
Whether you want to explore hiking trails, relax on a sandy beach, or try your hand at an unfamiliar sport, your new favorite outdoor destination could be right around the corner. To help you decide where to go and what to do, Stacker compiled a list of the best places for popular outdoor activities in Seattle using data from Yelp as of April 12, 2024. Locations and businesses were selected using Yelp’s ranking system, which calculates an adjusted rating value that takes into account the number of ratings as well as the rating score itself.
Read on to discover where you should plan your next day out, and don’t forget to grab that sunblock.
Beach: Discovery Park
– Rating: 4.6/5 (462 reviews)
– Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd. Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Parks, Beaches
– Read more on Yelp
Boating: Sound Mariner
– Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews)
– Address: Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Boating, Boat Charters
– Read more on Yelp
Fishing: A Spot Tail Salmon Guide
– Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews)
– Address: 7411 Seaview Ave. Northwest Ste Dock R Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Boat Charters, Fishing
– Read more on Yelp
Hiking: Seward Park
– Rating: 4.7/5 (58 reviews)
– Address: 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. South Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Hiking, Parks
– Read more on Yelp
Botanical Gardens: Washington Park Arboretum
– Rating: 4.7/5 (278 reviews)
– Address: 2300 Arboretum Drive East Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Parks, Botanical Gardens
– Read more on Yelp
Park: Ella Bailey Park
– Rating: 4.9/5 (35 reviews)
– Address: 2601 West Smith St. Seattle, Washington
– Categories: Parks, Playgrounds
– Read more on Yelp
This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Cu Fleshman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 170 metros.