Port decked with "hidden gems"

Sketched May 18, 12:38 p.m. [Sketch location on my Seattle Sketcher Google Map]

The highlight of my exploration of Port of Seattle parks this week (see previous post) was Jack Block Park.

I couldn't believe my luck when I got here. An observation deck 45 feet above the shoreline offers the closest view of the city skyline from West Seattle. You can also see container terminals and hear seals from a 250-foot-long boardwalk.

Hank Fridal, out with his Boston Terriers, said Jack Block is perfect to bring guests from out of town. They are amazed, he said. "Living so close to this, you can't ever have a bad day."

Sketched May 18, 5:13 p.m. [Sketch location on my Seattle Sketcher Google Map]

Better known than Jack Block but still hidden behind the Terminal 86 Grain Facility is Elliott Bay Park. It was renamed as Centennial Park last April as part of the Port's 100th anniversary celebrations.

A "Get to Know Your Port" 14-mile bike ride is coming up June 5. The ride ends at Bell Street Pier but if you have some energy left, I'd suggest taking your bike on the West Seattle Water Taxi --I like to call it the Water Bus-- and make your way to Jack Block Park. You won't regret it!

For more information about centennial events and history of the port visit portseattle100.org.

Coming up: The City of Kirkland is redrawing its boundaries with the annexation of Finn Hill, North Juanita and Kingsgate. That's where I plan to be sketching next week. Do you live in these neighborhoods? Send me your story and sketch ideas via e-mail, Facebook or Twitter. Have a great weekend!