First Hill Park
Rate this placeNearby: Plymouth Pillars Park Freeway Park
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
First Hill Park is a popular public park located in Seattle, Washington.
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Summary
It is a great destination for visitors looking for a serene and scenic space in the heart of downtown Seattle. The park covers an area of about 0.4 acres and features several amenities and attractions.
One of the main reasons to visit First Hill Park is its beautiful and well-maintained landscape. The park's lush greenery, colorful flowers, and tall trees provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also an excellent spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and quiet contemplation.
One of the main points of interest in First Hill Park is a bronze statue of Chief Seattle, a prominent leader of the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes in the 19th century. The statue is a tribute to his legacy and contribution to the city of Seattle.
Another noteworthy attraction in the park is the "Poetry Bench," a unique public art installation that features poetry engraved on a wooden bench. The bench offers visitors an opportunity to sit and reflect while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Interesting facts about the First Hill Park include its history as a site for a hospital and a church before it was transformed into a public park. The park is also located in a neighborhood known for its rich cultural diversity and historic landmarks.
The best time of year to visit First Hill Park is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the flowers and trees are in full bloom. The park is open every day from dawn to dusk and is free to the public.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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