Name: Kerry Park
Address: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119
Telephone: (206) 684-4075
Rating: 4.8

Panoramic views of Downtown & the Space Needle draw visitors to this small neighborhood park.

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Kerry Park

Kerry Park, perched atop Queen Anne Hill, offers a meticulously framed panorama of Seattle, a view so iconic it has become synonymous with the city itself. The Space Needle anchors the scene, often appearing to float ethereally above the city's sprawling landscape. Beyond the Needle, the downtown skyline rises, a jagged silhouette against the backdrop of Puget Sound. On clear days, Mount Rainier looms majestically in the distance, completing the quintessential Seattle vista. What many overlook is the deliberate composition of this viewpoint. The park's layout, though seemingly natural, was carefully designed to maximize the impact of the panorama. The Olmsted Brothers, renowned landscape architects, consulted on the park's development, ensuring the view was not merely a happenstance, but a curated experience. Furthermore, the park's popularity has inadvertently created a unique social phenomenon, a shared moment of awe experienced by locals and tourists alike, all captivated by the same breathtaking scene.

Introduction

Kerry Park, nestled in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, serves not only as a scenic viewpoint but also as a safe haven and community space for diverse groups. The Queen Anne neighborhood is known for its inclusive community, and Kerry Park reflects this welcoming atmosphere. Notably, Kerry Park has become a gathering spot for Seattle's LGBTQ+ community. During the annual Seattle Pride Parade, the park is adorned with rainbow flags and symbols of LGBTQ+ pride, demonstrating the city's support and acceptance. This tradition underscores the park's role as a visible symbol of resilience and strength for a community that has faced historical struggles.

Beyond its symbolic importance, Kerry Park provides a physical space where individuals can feel secure and accepted. The park's open and public nature allows for community members to gather, express themselves, and find solidarity. Kerry Park's transformation from a private estate to a public park in 1928 reflects a commitment to providing accessible spaces for all residents. This commitment continues today, as the park remains a place where everyone is welcome to enjoy its views and find a sense of belonging. The park's enduring popularity and its role as a safe space highlight the importance of preserving such areas for future generations.

Safe Haven and Community Space

"Changing Form," also known as Kinetic and Volumetric Space Frame, is an abstract steel sculpture by Doris Totten Chase, permanently installed in the center of Kerry Park since 1971. The sculpture, a gift from Mr. and Mrs. Kerry’s three children, stands 15 feet tall and has become an integral part of the park's identity. Its smooth, black curves are a popular subject for photographers, who use it to frame the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier. Children frequently interact with the sculpture, crawling around and playing within its hollow structure.

The installation of "Changing Form" marked a significant enhancement to Kerry Park, adding an artistic element to the already iconic viewpoint. The sculpture's presence has contributed to the park's reputation as a must-visit destination, drawing both tourists and locals. Its central location within the park ensures that it is a focal point, complementing the panoramic views. The Kerry family's donation of "Changing Form" reflects their continued commitment to the park's development and its role as a public space for art and recreation. The sculpture not only serves as a visual landmark but also as an interactive piece that enhances the visitor experience.

Changing Form Sculpture

Kerry Park owes its existence to the generosity of Albert S. Kerry and his wife, who donated their land to the City of Seattle in 1927. This donation was made with the express purpose that "...so that all who stop here may enjoy [its] view," thus establishing the park as a public space. Albert Kerry, a prominent figure in Seattle's community, had a diverse career ranging from lumberman to local politician. Kerry's initial venture into the lumber industry led him to establish the Kerry Lumber Company with his brothers. Despite facing setbacks, including fires that destroyed the company mill, Kerry remained committed to the Seattle area.

Before its donation, the land that now constitutes Kerry Park was part of the Kerrys' private estate, specifically the location of their family home at 421 W Highland Drive. The park's establishment transformed this private property into a public viewpoint. The donation occurred within a context of a quiet, affluent residential neighborhood on Queen Anne Hill, with the park intended as a peaceful retreat for local residents. The park officially opened to the public in 1928, fulfilling Kerry's vision of providing a scenic overlook for all to enjoy.

Park's Origin and Donation

Kerry Park, perched on Queen Anne Hill, has secured its reputation as an iconic Seattle viewpoint, offering arguably the most postcard-worthy views of the city's skyline. This vantage point showcases the Space Needle, Elliott Bay, and, on clear days, the majestic Mount Rainier. The view from Kerry Park has been featured in numerous movies, national publications, and media depictions of Seattle, solidifying its status as a quintessential image of the Emerald City.

Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit, as both tourists and locals gather to watch the city lights begin to twinkle and ferries glide across Puget Sound. The park's western orientation is ideal for capturing the best views, especially in winter when the trees have shed their leaves. The view also incorporates the Port of Seattle, West Seattle, and Bainbridge Island.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Kerry Park also serves as a safe haven for marginalized groups, including Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community. During the Seattle Pride Parade, the park is adorned with rainbow flags, symbolizing inclusivity and resilience. The park's view has appeared in the opening credits of the film "10 Things I Hate About You" and in the television series "Frasier". Kerry Park demonstrates how a small act of generosity can significantly impact a city, becoming a cherished landmark for both residents and visitors.

Kerry Park

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