Seattle and the Eastside are home to an incredible array of public art that can transform a simple family walk into an imaginative adventure.
From sculptures nestled in gardens to stunning murals along major transit lines, these art installations are waiting to be discovered by art enthusiasts of all ages.
Families can create memorable experiences together by exploring the various art routes available throughout the region.
One of the standout destinations is the SODO Track, a remarkable 2-mile art walk that utilizes the transit corridor in Seattle’s SODO district.
This urban art gallery showcases over 60 artists from 20 different countries, displayed in vibrant side-by-side murals that will captivate children and adults alike.
Starting from 5th Avenue South, between Royal Brougham Way and Spokane Street, families can stroll or ride while enjoying this visual feast.
If your family prefers a guided experience, the Seattle Urban Art Tour is a fantastic option.
This tour allows participants to travel by foot and streetcar, immersing themselves in the diverse world of street art.
Participants will encounter everything from graffiti and sticker bombs to intricate brushwork and stencil pieces, revealing the dynamic art scene of the city.
For those who love nature alongside art, the Bellevue Botanical Garden offers a serene art walk.
A meandering path leads visitors to the stone “Friendship Circle” and the enchanting sculpture “Night Blooming.”
This particular piece offers a magical experience as kids can crouch through a door to see the sparkly light effect inside.
Families will enjoy searching for other unique sculptures in the forest, including an owl, rabbit, frog, and a throne-like stone chair.
Duvall, a charming town, also features its own public art walk along Main Street.
As families stroll, they can look up, down, and all around to discover a patchwork of public artworks.
Highlights include art panels attached to lampposts, salmon carvings embedded in crosswalks, and beautifully painted benches that depict local scenes.
Kirkland is another delightful destination for public art lovers.
The whimsical sculptures scattered throughout downtown are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Starting at the library, families can loop around Marina Park and the shopping core, encountering various playful sculptures, including animals, a carousel horse, and the iconic cow and dog sculptures that are often decorated for holidays and events.
To embark on a summer art project that could stretch across multiple seasons, families can seek out every piece of public art in the city using the Seattle Public Art Map.
This resource, created by Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture and 4 Culture, guides explorers to both well-known and hidden art pieces across neighborhoods.
For those interested in a more traditional art experience, Seattle hosts numerous art walks showcasing local artists’ work in various galleries and businesses.
These official art walks take place in vibrant neighborhoods, including Pioneer Square, Central District, Capitol Hill, West Seattle, Belltown, Greenwood, Ballard, Georgetown, Uptown, Hillman City, White Center, University District, and downtown Seattle.
Visitors can enjoy the benefits of gallery-quality art without the expense of museum admission.
With so much to explore, Seattle and the Eastside offer endless opportunities for families to connect through the joy of discovering public art.
image source from：seattleschild
