If you’re doing some urban exploring, you might be looking to park your Cabana in Seattle overnight. City parking can be difficult even for locals, but we are here to help! Keep reading for our favorite Seattle parking spots.
To be a good neighbor, there are a few simple rules to keep in mind when parking in the city:
- Find a spot that is legal. (That’s what our guide is for!)
- Avoid parking directly in front of someone’s home.
- Avoid using the kitchen in open city areas.
- Be discreet. (Draw your curtains.)
- Be neighborly! (Keep noise down after hours.)
Here are our picks for the best parking in Seattle:

Alki Beach
Fall asleep to the sound of waves, play some volleyball, and grab a beer. Is this Venice? No, but it’s Seattle’s version of Venice Beach.
North Alki
Views at night span across Elliott Bay, with the Puget Sound as a #MorningMotivation.

South Alki
Elliott Bay and the Puget Sound are in the distance. This is a popular place for walking and biking.
Ballard - Elliott Bay
The heart (or liver) of the beer scene. Tip: Grab a growler from a local brewery and watch the sunset over the Olympics.
Emma Schmitz
A spot often overlooked by tourists, lying near a commercial strip on California Ave. This spot feels like it was plucked out of 1950s Americana.
Fremont Canal
Find a free parking space on this hidden block. Nestled right up against the trail and the ship canal, watch sailboats and water fowl play in the canal between Seattle’s multiple working waterfronts.

Fremont - Northlake
A quiet spot offering water views. Tip: Take the trail over to the Fremont Bridge for dinner or drinks.
Fremont - Quiet Side
Paid lot near Gasworks Park & Burke Gilman Trail. Enjoy downtown views across Lake Union, blocks from the Fremont Trail
Westlake North
Right along Westlake Trail with views of Seattle houseboats. Walk or bike north on the Burke Gilman Trail.

Westlake South
At the edge of Lake Union with city and lakeside views. Tip: The meter has a 4-hour limit, so pay at 8 and move by noon.
Kerry Park
The iconic Seattle view, found in a small residential park. Tip: Park a few blocks up and walk to take in the view.
Madison Park
Located near a commercial strip. The grassy waterfront areas are what Seattleites call beaches on warm summer days.
Capitol Hill - Lake View
Located in a quiet neighborhood. This spot features fantastic views along with quick access to the northern end of Capitol Hill.
Capitol Hill - Cal Anderson
Sleep on the quieter side of the park, while still being close to the nightlife. Tip: Take the light rail into downtown.
Leschi
Nestled along the edge of Lake Washington, a rare site for visitors. Grab some dinner at a local waterfront restaurant while taking in the view of the Cascades.