Seattle – The City of Seattle is getting excited about the Overlook Walk, a stunning new elevated park that will officially open to the public on October 4. This remarkable addition marks a significant milestone in the ongoing multi-billion dollar transformation of Seattle’s waterfront, the largest civic project since the 1962 World’s Fair.
Construction of Overlook Walk commenced in earnest in the summer of 2022, where the former Alaskan Way Viaduct once stood, creating the first-ever pedestrian connection between downtown Seattle and the waterfront. This innovative park bridges the nearly 100-foot elevation difference between Pike Place Market and the new Park Promenade adjacent to Elliott Bay.
Visitors to Overlook Walk will be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views that encompass downtown Seattle, Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, Elliott Bay, the majestic Olympic Mountains, and the iconic Mount Rainier. The park will also feature ample seating for guests to relax and take in the stunning scenery, as well as a new concessionaire space highlighting local small businesses, set to open in 2025.
The City’s Seattle Center will oversee the maintenance and safety of Overlook Walk, ensuring the space is well cared for and secure from day one. Additionally, Friends of Waterfront Park, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, will collaborate with the community to fundraise, steward, and program the Waterfront Park, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for all.
As part of the celebration, the City is gearing up to welcome the public to Overlook Walk, with more details about special public activation events on the opening day to be shared soon. This iconic park is a centerpiece of the City of Seattle’s efforts to rebuild the waterfront, a once-in-a-generation project that aims to reshape public spaces and strengthen the city’s identity.
The initiative includes the creation of 20 acres of new parks and public spaces, alongside significant multi-modal transportation improvements that will enhance accessibility, create a greener environment, and provide diverse recreational opportunities. The full transformation is expected to be completed and fully accessible by 2025.
In anticipation of the grand opening, the Office of the Waterfront will host a media preview walk on October 2, giving attendees a first look at this landmark project. Overlook Walk is poised to become a beloved symbol of Seattle, joining the ranks of other iconic attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Great Wheel, reflecting the vibrant spirit and identity of the city.