Cal Anderson Park

Location: Central Seattle/Capitol Hill
Address: 1635 11th Ave.
Acreage: 7.37

I often talk about certain parks serving as hubs for their communities. I can’t help thinking it’s true about Cal Anderson park, too. Like its Capitol Hill neighborhood, this park buzzes with activity year-round.

On a weekday afternoon in November, I’m amazed at how many people are out enjoying this park. Some people are on their lunch break enjoying a brief sun break. One man is practicing what I think is Tai Chi. Some kids are playing on the playground with their moms watching. Two men and a dog are setting up for perhaps an impromptu performance of some sort. Others, such as myself, are just strolling.

This park creatively houses a reservoir that was built at the turn of the last century after the great Seattle fire. It was recently covered, but you’ll find a cool water feature in its place. Kids will love to follow the water as it runs off the cone-shaped fountain down a concrete stream bubbling and splashing over fake rocks, finally slowing as it enters a quiet pool. It’s a work of art.

Cal Anderson has a little bit of everything… tennis courts, ball fields, a nice playground, picnic tables and benches, plenty of grass, wading pool and even a large chess board.

What you won’t find is a lot of garbage. Surprisingly clean for an urban location that gets so much use, this park must be well-cared for by its neighbors. Another clue that it’s an important part of its community.

#48 (Visited 11/4/09)