Mini-Daytrip alert: West Seattle to the new waterfront revival

Mini-Daytrip alert: West Seattle to the new waterfront revival
Pier 58 grand opening is Friday with lots of activities 4 to 8pm

The centerpiece of the new playground at Pier 58 is a 25-foot-tall jellyfish-shaped climbing structure with nets, handholds, slide bars, and suspended seating An 18-foot slide winds through the jellyfish’s tentacles.Additional features include kelp-like climbing poles, “bubble” mounds, and ADA-accessible equipment.

Photo by John D. Skerratt

Wed, 07/23/2025

Seattle’s downtown waterfront has a fresh new look — and one of the most scenic ways to see it is via a breezy mini-daytrip aboard the King County Water Taxi from West Seattle. From Seacrest Dock in West Seattle, a quick 10-minute ride whisks you across Elliott Bay to a reimagined stretch of shoreline where the roar of the old viaduct has been replaced by gardens, art, and panoramic views.

Once you arrive, you can stroll through the newly completed Waterfront Park, take the Overlook Walk directly up to Pike Place Market, or explore the Ocean Pavilion—a stunning new addition to the Seattle Aquarium with immersive marine exhibits.

Families can unwind at Pier 58, where a jellyfish-shaped climbing structure and native plantings invite play and reflection. Bike lanes, wide pedestrian promenades, and interpretive Indigenous art turn the area into an accessible, story-rich loop that's perfect for coffee stops, photo ops, and discovery. And with more cafés, restrooms, and community events arriving before the end of summer 2025, it’s a day trip that only gets better.

pier 58
The new pier is cement, replacing the previously damaged wooden structure. It's directly adjacent to Seattle's Great Wheel. Photo by John D. Skerratt

 

Pier 58 is kicking off its first weekend with a splash of community celebration and waterfront fun:

Friday, July 25 (4–8 PM): Grand Opening Celebration

  • Live music and dancing

  • Face painting and lawn games

  • Meet-and-greet with beloved local mascots

  • Marine-themed costumes encouraged

  • Free and family-friendly event

 

new Pier 58 Play area
The new play area at Pier 58. Photo courtesy of Seattle Parks and Recreation

 

Playground Adventures

  • Explore the whimsical jellyfish-inspired climbing tower with an 18-ft slide

  • Interactive features like crab wobble boards, kelp forests, and magnetic bead panels

 

elevated lawn area
The new elevated lawn area, Photo by John D. Skerratt

 

Relaxation & Views

  • Chill on the elevated lawn with views of Elliott Bay

  • Enjoy shade in the tree grove with seating and tables

  • Stroll the plaza and check out restored public art like the Waterfront Fountain

 

Open water area
Open water section between the Park Promenade and Pier 58. Photo courtesy of Seattle Parks and Recreation

 

Eco Exploration

  • Discover the open water habitat zone designed to support marine life

  • Learn about sea creatures through metal inlays showing underwater topography

Pier 58 is located between Union and Pike streets, right next to the Seattle Aquarium. If you’re heading down, the free Waterfront Shuttle stops nearby at Stop D.

Waterfront fountain
The fountain is back. This same fountain was in place on the old pier. Photo by John D. Skerratt

 

Robinson Papers
West Seattle Herald