Eyes to the sky folks, the Orionid meteor shower has officially returned to the night sky. This meteor shower is one of the best parts of fall and is a great way to spend a fall evening. Let’s get into the dazzling details.
The shower is on now, with meteors visible until November 22nd. It is expected to peak on Saturday, October 21st, according to NASA. You probably won’t have to stare too hard to see these bright beauties but you do need to be ready because they are known for their speed.
The best time to catch these showers are the hours after midnight. If you’re normally early to bed keep in mind that these showers only happen once a year so it’s worth staying up to watch. To make things easier for you, here are 8 of the best places to watch meteor showers in Seattle.
Alki Beach
Surprisingly, Seattle’s favorite beach also happens to be one of the best spots in the city for stargazing. You’ll want to look North and West to avoid some of the light pollution from the city. Plus, if you don’t end up seeing anything, a night on the beach is always nice but we think you’ll definitely catch a meteor or two.
Where: 2665 Alki Ave SW
Lincoln Park
On the topic of West Seattle, you can also give Lincoln Park a go. This massive park is great as you have plenty of space to get away from the city’s bright lights. Walk down by the water or lay in one of the many open areas or try both. If it doesn’t work for you, give Alki a try instead.
Where: 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW
Jefferson Park
You might think we’re a little crazy for this one because this park is smack dab in the middle of Beacon Hill. But we like Jefferson due to its size. Because it’s pretty big you get slightly less light pollution, although it’s certainly not perfect. But if you live in South Seattle, it’s one of your best bets.
Where: 3801 Beacon Ave S
Genesee Park and Playfield
On the topic of South Seattle, you might as well consider checking out Genesee. The park is pretty much a wide-open field but across Lake Washington Boulevard you’ll find the Stan Sayres Boat Launch. Sure, there are lights here but it’s slightly darker due to the residential area and lake. So it can’t hurt to give it a go.
Where: 4316 S Genesee St
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Paramount Park
Alright, don’t chew us out for this one. Yes, Paramount Park is technically in Shoreline but if you live in north Seattle it’s really not far at all. Because it’s pretty far north you get less light pollution from downtown. So take a little drive and forget that you’re still kinda in the city.
Where: 15300 8th Ave NE
Sunset Hill Park
We love this park for many things, including stargazing. It’s also the best spot to make an evening out of stargazing because you can bring a picnic and then wait for the sky to darken up. Plus if you don’t see anything, you still get to look out for a spectacular view of the Puget Sound.
Where: 7531 34th Ave NW
Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park may be right in the middle of the city but it’s a great spot to catch a view of a meteor flying over the skyline. Now keep in mind light pollution is pretty bad here so it won’t be the best. But if you’re a fan of this park you might as well see what you see.
Where: 2101 N Northlake Way
Green Lake
North Seattle folks we’re looking at you, Green Lake is a great place to take a look at the sky while staying within the city. It’s not the darkest spot but there are plenty of places to check out within the park and it’s pretty accessible due to the paved path. Plus the park is technically open past 11:30 so no need to worry about getting busted.
Where: 7201 E Green Lake Dr. N
Well Seattle, there you have it. Keep in mind, there are many places to watch meteor showers and the further out of the city you can get, the better. That being said, we hope that you get out there and watch the Orionid meteor shower in all its glory.
