The Perseid meteor shower peak this weekend & here are the best parks to catch it in Seattle
Eyes to the skies, as it’s time for the annual Perseid meteor shower! This meteor shower is one of the best parts of summer and is a great way to spend a warm evening. Let’s get into the dazzling details.
According to the American Meteor Society, in 2024, the Perseids are active from July 14 to September 1.
“The Perseids are the most popular meteor shower as they peak on warm August nights as seen from the northern hemisphere,” state the American Meteor Society.
“The Perseids are active from July 14 to September 1. They reach a strong maximum on August 12 or 13, depending on the year. Normal rates seen from rural locations range from 50-75 shower members per hour at maximum.”
This year, the peak takes place on the 11th – 12th, and the moon will be 44% full.
NASA states that “provided you have clear skies, viewing conditions will be favorable this year, as the Moon sets by around 11:30 pm local time. Meteor activity picks up from then until dawn.”
Keeping that in mind, if you’re looking for spots to try to catch it in Seattle, here are some of the best places in the city.
Lincoln Park
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. The park is open until 11:30 pm, and opens at 4 am.
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. And it’s open from 4am until 11:30 pm.
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. This park is open until 11:30 pm, and opens at 4 am.
Where: 4316 S Genesee St
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 wait for the sky to darken up. Plus if you don’t see anything, you still get to enjoy a spectacular night view of Puget Sound. The park is open from 4am until 11:30 pm.
Where: 7531 34th Ave NW
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.
Where: 7201 E Green Lake Dr. N
Well Seattle, there you have it. We hope that you get out there and watch the Perseid meteor shower do its thing this month.
