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City Light Employees Share Their Favorite Outdoor Spaces

Around the time of the summer solstice, the Seattle area experiences up to 16 hours of daylight. These long, sunny days (and evenings) are perfect opportunities to get outside and enjoy the weather. Think of the energy you can save by entertaining yourself in the sunlight instead of staying indoors and engaging with electronic forms of amusement!

Whether it’s a scenic hike, public art display or favorite local park, there are so many places to get outside and explore. We rounded up a few City Light employees to share some of their favorite outdoor spaces in and around Seattle.

Alki Beach

Photo: Andrew E. Larson

“Alki Beach is beautiful and one of my favorite places in the city. There’s no better view of the Seattle skyline.” — Apprenticeship Coordinator Tauna Hood

Farmers Markets

Photo: HMPinnsvinet

“The Farmers Market is a favorite family outing. South Lake Union (our neighborhood) has a nice market with a good mix of food, crafts and entertainment. It’s constantly changing which keeps our 3-year old entertained. With the Ballard and Capitol Hill markets, it’s not uncommon to visit more than one in a weekend.  Depending on what we have planned for the day and where those plans take us, there’s usually a market close enough to check out and explore.”— Strategic Advisor, Regional Affairs and Contracts Josh Walter

Golden Gardens

Photo: Miguel Hermoso Cuesta

“Golden Gardens is the best place in Seattle to watch the sunset while keeping cozy by a fire pit.” – Communications Manager Tony White

Green River Trail

Photo: Joe Mabel

“My favorite outdoor spot in Seattle is the city’s portion of the Green River Trail which is one of the longest contiguous regional trails in the Puget Sound Region. It has 19 paved miles from the south edge of Seattle to the city of Kent. The trail passes through Cecil Moses Park and Fort Dent before converging with the Interurban Trail (a 14-mile-long alignment following the historic Interurban Rail Line). I like to bike the combined 33 miles each way, but only in the summer!” – Apprenticeship Manager Michiko Starks

Woodland Park Zoo

Bennett’s daughter Ida at the zoo

“Seattle is the perfect place to get outdoors, at least during the summer. One of my favorite places is Woodland Park Zoo. There are great exhibits, winding paths, quiet spaces and soft, forgiving lawns when your toddler finally takes her first steps.” – Sr. Public Relations Specialist, Human Resources Bennett Barr

Other honorable mentions included Discovery Park, Magnuson Park, Olympic Sculpture Park and Seward Park. What’s your favorite outdoor space? Sound off below!