Opening Date Announced for Much-Anticipated Pier 58 Playground

Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell, and the City of Seattle’s Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects and Sound Transit announced the opening of the new Pier 58, formerly Waterfront Park. Since renderings of the visually stunning playground were shared in 2021, families have been anxiously awaiting its opening. As of July 25, 2025, the wait is finally over. 

Whether you plan your visit around the opening day celebration or wait for the crowds to dissipate, this new city playground should be on your family fun list this summer. 

Family-friendly design 

Pier 58 was built with families in mind. In 2020, the City of Seattle’s Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects developed an online survey to gather feedback from local children and adults on the park’s design. Close to 200 completed it. 

Now, five years later, their thoughts are reflected in the stunning new space, being unveiled at the end of this month. “After years of public engagement to design the space – including inspiring input from Seattle’s youth – and years of construction, we are thrilled to return Pier 58 to the people of Seattle,” says Angela Brady, director of the Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects and Sound Transit. 

Joy Shigaki, president and CEO, Friends of Waterfront Park, explains, “This new family-friendly space — with its playful design and stunning views — is an open invitation to gather, explore and build lasting memories. We look forward to bringing it to life through programming and community partnerships that reflect the heart of Seattle.” 

Seattle’s newest playground 

The centerpiece of the new play space is the eye-catching 25-foot jellyfish climbing structure, with its swooping tentacles and attached 18-foot tall slide. The views across Elliot Bay, from inside the jellyfish’s body, are something to behold. Climbing nets, bars and plenty of hand holds will keep kids climbing up, down and all around the structure for hours. Seating around the edges helps parents and grown-ups keep a watchful eye on all the activity. Posts imitating kelp are scattered throughout and soft “bubbles” pop up, inviting kids to clamber over them. There is also an ADA-accessible slide platform. 

While the new playground is the big draw for kids, the restored Waterfront Fountain and public plaza where Friends of Waterfront Park will provide community programming are other family-friendly areas in the reimagined space. And when you need to rest, the elevated grassy lawn provides green space and shade from newly planted trees. 

ParentMap’s family fun editor will be covering the official playground opening, so be sure to check back for more details. 

Opening celebration 

The community is invited to explore the nearly 50,000 square feet of new park space on July 25, 2025, from 4–8 p.m. In addition to being some of the first to experience the new marine-themed playground during the free celebration, kids can also meet local mascots. Families are encouraged to dress up in aquatic-themed costumes and join the fun. 

Nearby attractions 

Pier 58 is the latest addition to downtown Seattle’s waterfront, joining the Seattle Aquarium, Great Wheel and Wings Over Washington as worthy destinations for locals and visitors alike. Late last summer, the new Ocean Pavilion opened to visitors, followed by the Overlook Walk opening in early fall.