In 1977, Seattle renamed the park after Beer Sheva, Israel, to mark the new sister city relationship between the two cities. The gesture went both ways. Beer Sheva created a park of its own called Seattle Park in return.
The old name has not disappeared completely. The Atlantic City Boat Ramp, less than a tenth of a mile away, still carries it.
A Neighborhood Effort to Renew the Waterfront
Beer Sheva Park has become a focus for local organizing. Starting in 2017, the Rainier Beach community began improving the park through charitable work driven by neighbors.
In 2023, a broad coalition of community members, the Seattle Parks Foundation, local businesses and nonprofits began raising money for a $2.5 million renovation. The work is planned in phases, with this renovation as the first.
What the first phase includes
- Better access to the Lake Washington waterfront
- Art installations
- A boardwalk
- Lighted paths
- A stage for cultural performances
Later phases
As of 2023, future phases were planned to bring shoreline habitat improvements and a playground. Because the project unfolds over time, check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for the current status before you go.
Nearby Parks Along the South Lake Washington Shore
Beer Sheva Park makes an easy starting point for a walk along this part of the lake. Several green spaces and community spots sit within about half a mile:
- Atlantic City Boat Ramp, under 0.1 mile
- Pritchard Island Beach, 0.3 mile
- Chinook Beach Park, 0.4 mile
- Fletcher Place, 0.4 mile
- Rainier Beach Branch of the Seattle Public Library, 0.4 mile
- Rainier Beach Playfield, 0.5 mile
- Sturtevant Ravine, 0.5 mile
- Dunlap Elementary School, 0.5 mile
Distances are straight-line, so walking routes may run a little longer. For more on the area, see our guide to the Dunlap neighborhood, or browse all parks in Seattle to plan a longer day by the water.
Before You Visit
Beer Sheva Park's address is 8650 55th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118. For current hours, facilities and updates on the renovation, check the Seattle Parks and Recreation website before heading out.
