7 Best Family & Dog-Friendly Parks in Greater Seattle and Suburbs

Like many families with children and/or dogs, a lot of times it is just easier to get out of the house and burn off some energy out so everyone can have a peaceful evening. While it started a chore to find a place for everyone, it soon became a bit of adventure for our family to go trial out parks at different places. There are many great parks in the Greater Seattle area, including some more neighborhood parks; some are preferred over others on some days. This list is the bigger parks that we have enjoyed, both dog-friendly and family-friendly.

Tips for Visiting the Parks

• Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen before you hop into the car and don’t forget to do that on yourself; some of these playgrounds are open to 100% sun exposure, and sitting under the sun for just 30 mins is going to burn your skin. Also remember hats and sunglassess.
• Towels and Extra Clothes: Both dogs and kids will get wet and muddy at some of these nice parks with river/lake access. You might also need a towel to wipe down the playground equipment too.
• Timing: While you cannot always plan your schedule ahead, avoid event days at Marymoor Park, and visits the parks earlier to avoid crowds and brutal summer sun rays.
• Water (and Snack): Although none of the parks is at a remote area, it never hurts to bring water and some snack so you don’t have to abandon your plan prematurely.
• Discover Pass: Currently the Day Pass is $10, and the Annual Pass $45. Might as well get prepared.

Quick Comparison: Top Greater Seattle Family & Dog Parks

Our Top 7 Picks of Dog & Family-Friendly Parks Breakdown

Marymoor Park (Redmond)

The Pup Appeal: A massive off-leash paradise with river access points for water-loving dogs to splash safely. They also have a self service dog wash station by the parking lot so if you don’t have to worry about your pups getting too excited in the field or water.

The Kid Appeal: There is a playground with bathrooms and a snack shack. Not much shade in this area though.

Tip: Parking is $1. Check if there is an event because it can get crazy.

Crossroads Park (Bellevue)

Close to the malls, a very convenient spot for families that want to have everything at one place.

The Pup Appeal: Dogs are allowed on leash. I want to say they used to have seasonal off-leash areas, but not sure if it is still a thing.

The Kid Appeal: Pretty decent playground for all ages of kids. Not much shade but they do have seating area that is sheltered. They also have seasonal water spray which is a huge hit among kids.

Tip: Despite how big the park is, it can become very crowded especially at the playground on the weekends.

Farrel-McWhirter Park (Redmond)

The Pup Appeal: Especially friendly for senior dogs that can enjoy low incline trails. Dogs allowed on leash but not in the farm animal area.

The Kid Appeal: Park + farm animals. Nothing can beat that! The very cute Barnyard has goats, sheep, pigs, bunnies, ponies, chickens, ducks and many more. There are also small playgrounds for little ones to spend some time at. Trails are also very friendly for kids.

Tip: Many sheltered rest areas for picnics or just a quick rest. They also have a lot of activities going on at the park, definitely work checking out!

Magnuson Park (Seattle)

The Pup Appeal: Very big off-leash area with water access!

The Kid Appeal: The playground is unfortunately under renovation at this time. The anticipated opening time is early 2027 on the official website. Do not be discouraged though, kids will love getting close to the lake or to walk around the community garden there.

Tip: There are many entrances and parking lots depending on what you want to access at the park. Highly recommend to make sure you park at the right place especially if your little ones do not fancy a long walk.

Park at Bothell Landing and Blyth Park (Bothell)

These are two separate parks in Bothell but both along Sammamish river and you can walk from one to the other if ever so inclined.

The Pup Appeal: Dogs are allowed on leash and there is seasonl off-leash area at Park at Bothell Landing. They usually have two areas, one for bigger dogs and the other for smaller ones.

The Kid Appeal: Decent playgrounds at both parks, but the one at Blyth Park is bigger and not as crowded unless there are birthday parties.

Tip: Neither park has a ton of parking but Park at Bothell Landing is more likely to get flooded with cars on a busy day. Parents also want to be more attentive to where their kids are walking at Landing because there can be many bicyclists on the trail there.

Saint Edward State Park (Kenmore)

The Pup Appeal: Dogs allowed on leash. There are some trails from easy to more steep ones, so choose accordingly if your pup is with you.

The Kid Appeal: Nice, big playground with fun structures. *Because of the layout and crowd, parents might not be able to sit at one spot to monitor their kids. *

Tip: Discover Pass required. Parking can get tricky. Earlier in the day or avoid weekends if you can.

Big Finn Hill Park (Kirkland)

The Pup Appeal: Like Saint Edwards State Park, there are trails with moderate incline for dogs that enjoy a bit more exercises, while there are some easier walking paths.

The Kid Appeal: There is a small play area, but kids will enjoy the chances of seeing wildlife animals along the trails.

Tip: Be choosy if your kiddo or pup cannot do more than easy trails.

Other PNW Dog-Friendly and Family-Friendly Trips

• Dog Friendly Day Trip from Seattle: Easy Trails & Best Eats for Families in Summer: Within 1-2 hrs of drive from Seattle. Dog and Family Friendly trails, strolls in towns, and restaurant recommendations.
• Dog Friendly Trip Along Columbia River: A Guide for Vancouver and Portland: With focus on Vancouver, WA and PortlandOR if you feel like a weekend trip in the nature with your pups.
• The Ultimate Dog-Friendly & Family-Friendly North Cascades Highway Itinerary: Itinerary designed for relaxing and dog friendly trips along North Cascades Highway.