This Roadside Spot in Washington Is a Local Favorite—Here’s Why

Washington has its fair share of quirky and unusual attractions. For example, there’s the 60-foot-long squirrel bridge in Longview, the world’s largest egg in Winlock, and the Fremont Troll in Seattle. But there’s another unique attraction in Washington State that doesn’t seem to get the attention it deserves—Oxbow Park, better known by locals as Hat n' Boots Park, in Seattle.

When the weather is warm, you’ll typically find me at a city park. I love quirky and unusual parks—the kind that you just can't seem to forget. That’s why Hat n' Boots Park in Seattle caught my eye. This park is home to a 44-foot-wide cowboy hat and a pair of 22-foot-tall cowboy boots. Once I learned more about this unique city park and its history, I fell even more in love with it, and I think you will too.

Oxbow Park is located in the historic Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle, near the King County International Airport, Interstate 5, and many other major roadways. It’s certainly not a large city park, especially compared to several others in Seattle, but it’s an excellent stop for a few pictures and to let young kiddos play.

Oxbow Park didn’t always boast its current design. In 1953, a Seattle artist named Lewis Nasmyth designed a Western-style gas station in Georgetown. The building included a massive cowboy hat and boots, and locals and tourists alike flocked to the gas station to see the massive structures in person. In fact, this Georgetown gas station was once the highest-selling gas station in Washington and even drew in celebrities like Elvis.

When I-5 was completed, many people found themselves driving right past the Georgetown neighborhood, leading to the gas station's closure. However, locals couldn’t let the cowboy hat and boots disappear. It was a part of their community. The iconic hat and boots were placed in a city park, the perfect spot for admiring, observing, and marveling.

Aside from the hat and boots, Oxbow Park doesn’t boast a long list of amenities, but it’s worth a visit. You’ll find a small playground, grassy areas for picnics or games, and a P-Patch. This P-Patch is one of several community-managed spaces throughout Seattle where gardeners can grow organic produce and flowers.

Hat n' Boots Park is a fun stop on a road trip, for an afternoon outside, or if you want to explore some of Seattle’s unique attractions and neighborhoods. This tiny park and gigantic display contain a lot of history and certainly capture your attention. No wonder locals are obsessed with it. We are, too.

For even more information about Oxbow Park and other city parks throughout the Emerald City, visit the City of Seattle’s website.

Have you visited Hat n' Boots Park in Seattle? What are some of your favorite roadside attractions in Washington? Let me know! I’d love to check it out. If you are searching for more things to do around Seattle, check out these unique day trip ideas. I also suggest a staycation. Sometimes, just a change of scenery can do wonders.