Bhy Kracke Park: Queen Anne Hill Views of Lake Union

Frequently asked questions

Bhy Kracke Park is at 1215 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, on the southeast side of Queen Anne Hill. It runs between 5th Avenue North and Bigelow Avenue North.

The upper viewpoint looks out over Lake Union, downtown Seattle and the Space Needle. The Cascade Range is also visible in the distance.

The park is named for Werner H. "Bhy" Kracke, who left the property to the city shortly after his death in 1971. He also provided $20,000 to develop it.

The park has been considered for an off-leash dog area. Check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for the current pet rules before visiting.

Yes, Bhy Kracke Park is also known as Comstock Place Park.

Lake Union, the downtown skyline, the Space Needle and the distant Cascade Range all open up from the top of a quiet garden slope on Queen Anne Hill. That slope is Bhy Kracke Park, a small public park on the hill's southeast side at 1215 5th Ave N in Seattle's East Queen Anne area, and its upper viewpoint makes it one of the more rewarding short stops you can make on the hill.

A Gift to the City from Bhy Kracke

The park carries the name of Werner H. "Bhy" Kracke, whose property was deeded to the City of Seattle shortly after his death in 1971. His gift came with $20,000 set aside to turn the land into a park, so every step you take here traces back to that generosity.

Don't be surprised if you hear the site called Comstock Place Park, since some maps and residents still use that name. Both point to the same slope, stretching between Bigelow Avenue North and 5th Avenue North.

Read the full guide

Two Levels and a Winding Trail

Landscape architect Roy Lehner built the park around one simple idea: a winding path linking two distinct levels. You'll find the viewpoint at the top of the slope, while the park's other amenities wait at the bottom.

Treat the walk between the levels as part of the visit rather than a way to get somewhere. There is some climbing involved, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to start at the lower entrance and work your way up to the view.

Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Magnolias

Along the trail, you'll pass plantings of azaleas, rhododendrons and magnolias that give the hillside a garden feel. Come when they bloom and the slope fills with color as you climb.

Lake Union and Space Needle Views from Bhy Kracke Park

The upper level is the reason most people seek out this park. Step to the top and take in Lake Union, the downtown skyline and the Space Needle laid out before you, and on clear days, watch for the Cascade Range rising in the distance.

The park's upper edge borders Bigelow Avenue North, part of Queen Anne Boulevard. That makes the viewpoint an easy and worthwhile detour to fold into a stroll along the boulevard.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 1215 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Access points: 5th Avenue North at the lower level, and Bigelow Avenue North near the viewpoint
Terrain: a winding trail that climbs between the two levels
Managed by: Seattle Parks and Recreation

The park has been considered as a possible off-leash dog area. Before you bring a pet, check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for current rules, hours and park details.

More to See Nearby

Several small parks and historic homes surround Bhy Kracke Park, most of them about a quarter mile or less away in a straight line, so it's easy to string a few together into a longer wander.

Ward Springs Park and Highland Drive Parkway, both about 0.2 miles away
Observatory Courts, Trolley Hill Park and Highland Place, each about 0.3 miles away
Queen Anne High School and the Brace/Moriarty House, both local landmarks about 0.2 miles away
Gibbs House, another landmark, about 0.3 miles away

Keep exploring this side of the hill with our East Queen Anne neighborhood guide, or browse our guide to all parks in Seattle to find your next green space around the city.