Olympic Sculpture Park

Olympic Sculpture Park is a 9-acre outdoor sculpture museum and public park located in downtown Seattle, Washington. Opened in 2007, it was created and is operated by the Seattle Art Museum on the site of a former industrial area.

The park features a unique Z-shaped design that connects the urban core to the waterfront, descending 40 feet from the city to the shore of Puget Sound. A 2,200-foot pedestrian path winds through the park, crossing over a major road and railroad tracks via pedestrian bridges. This allows visitors to walk from the city to the water's edge uninterrupted.

Throughout the park are permanent and rotating displays of large-scale contemporary sculptures by renowned artists. Some notable permanent works include Alexander Calder's "Eagle" and Richard Serra's "Wake". The sculptures are placed thoughtfully to interact with the surrounding landscape and views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

The park includes several distinct ecosystems representing the Pacific Northwest landscape, including a shoreline, meadows, and groves of trees. At the water's edge, a restored beach area provides habitat for native plants and marine life. The park's design emphasizes environmental sustainability, with features like rainwater collection for irrigation.

A glass-enclosed pavilion at the park's highest point houses a cafe, gift shop, and indoor exhibition space. The pavilion offers panoramic views of the park, city skyline, and Puget Sound. Educational programs, guided tours, and events are regularly held in the park and pavilion.

Olympic Sculpture Park is open daily and free to the public, providing Seattle residents and visitors with a unique space to experience art, nature, and stunning views in an urban setting. It has become a popular destination for both art enthusiasts and those simply looking to enjoy outdoor green space in the city.