9 Super-Cool Tree Houses, Forts and Lookouts Around Seattle to Explore With Kids

Fort Casey State Historical Park, a point in the former “Triangle of Fire” built to protect access to Puget Sound, is still home to two 10-inch and two three-inch historic gun emplacements. Kids enjoy running the expansive grounds and climbing the stairs around the gun emplacements, taking in the long view provided by these features. You'll need to exercise considerable caution here; there are many steep drops with no railings or barriers, but it makes for thrilling exploring for older kids (and parents). While some tunnels and bunkers now have lights, bring your own flashlight to explore the darkest and spookiest corners of this expansive fort.

Info: A Discover Pass is required to park in this and all state parks.

Don’t miss: Explore the saltwater shoreline of Admiralty Inlet or along Keystone Spit, which separates Admiralty Inlet and Crocket Lake. Or venture to nearby Fort Ebey State Park, another fun park in the Coupeville area. Fort Ebey was built as a coastal defense during World War II. There concrete platforms still mark the former gun locations and a dark tunnel makes for a short, chilly stroll.