Root for the home team and take in some Indigenous art at Railroad Way South

Photo courtesy of the City of Seattle and Tim Rice Aerials

Welcome to Railroad Way South

Railroad Way South a protected pedestrian connector and gateway linking the waterfront to Pioneer Square and the Stadiums, featuring dozens of trees, flexible space for events and gatherings, and a rotating public art gallery!

Visitor Info

Public Transportation

Railroad Way South is easily accessed by bus, light rail, ferry, or water taxi. Once here, jump on the Free Waterfront Park Shuttle to get around Waterfront Park and downtown Seattle! See the Free Waterfront Park Shuttle schedule and stop map here.

Driving Directions

From I-5 North, take the Edgar Martinez Dr S exit (Exit 164). Turn right onto Edgar Martinez Dr S. Turn right onto 1st Ave S. Railroad Way South is adjacent to Lumen Field.

From I-5 South, take the Edgar Martinez Dr S exit (Exit 164B). Turn right onto Edgar Martinez Dr S. Turn right onto 1st Ave S. Railroad Way South is adjacent to Lumen Field.

Parking

Paid street parking is available along Alaskan Way and adjacent streets. Additional parking garages exist along Waterfront Park as well. Learn more at the link below.

Railroad Way South is a place where all are welcome to enjoy the water, the views, and community. A public park owned by the City of Seattle, the rules at Waterfront Park are consistent with other public space in Seattle.

The following activities are not allowed:

  • Amplified sound, except by permit
  • Abusive or harassing behavior
  • Pets without a leash
  • Motorized model aircraft (drones) or motorized model watercraft, except by permit
  • Camping
  • Unattended items
  • Commercial activity, except by permit or otherwise authorized
  • Littering
  • Liquor, except in authorized areas
  • Smoking

Friends strives to ensure Waterfront Park and our events are inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to everyone. We offer the following resources and are continually seeking to expand our offerings to meet specific requests as needed. Please fill out our park experience survey with any feedback on how we can make your experience more comfortable and accessible.

The core public safety team consists of Seattle Center, Friends, and Evergreen Treatment Services- REACH, utilizing a four-tiered approach to respond to public safety needs.

Friends contracts with REACH to provide dedicated outreach to visitors who may need access to human services. Seattle Center provides a public safety team and maintenance services to ensure space is cared for at high standard. Seattle Center specializes in managing a complex urban public space – this partnership is a big win.

Friends Park Ambassadors enhance City public safety and operations services, and has contributed over $2M for public safety. In the next five years, Friends will match $5.54 million in City’s $5.4 million in funding to support Seattle Center and city staffing costs.

In compliance with the Washington state health safety mandate, Friends of Waterfront Seattle is taking every possible reasonable measure for a safe and healthy environment for waterfront visitors, staff, performers, and artists. Friends continues to actively monitor and update procedures per guidelines from local public health authorities.

Railroad Way South Features

Photo by Jo Cosme

Photo by Jo Cosme

Protected Pedestrian Plaza

This pedestrian-oriented plaza offers a welcoming gateway, ensuring a seamless flow for foot traffic. Designed as a flexible public space, it stretches between First Avenue South and Occidental Avenue South, providing a dynamic area for gatherings before, during, and after stadium events.

Whether you’re grabbing a bite with friends, enjoying a spontaneous performance, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Railroad Way South is the perfect spot to connect with the community and the energy of the stadium district.

Photo of artwork by Kimberly Saladin (Muckleshoot) on display at Stadium Plaza. Photo by Jo Cosme.

Photo of artwork by Kimberly Saladin (Muckleshoot) on display at Stadium Plaza. Photo by Jo Cosme.

Seasonal Art Exhibit

This art exhibition is Friends of Waterfront Park’s first step in infusing the new public space with culture and vibrancy.

Kimberly Saladin presents her beautiful art to the public in the inaugural exhibition that showcases the diversity, strength, and resilience of the Native Peoples of this region. Her collection includes nine vibrant digital paintings that are deeply rooted in cultural heritage and storytelling.

Boardwalk Bulletin

Explore Railroad Way South

Photo by Jo Cosme

Photo by Jo Cosme

Large metal art displays in a plaza with a visitor looking at one of the displays.

Visitor observes the new art displays at Railroad Way. Photo by Jo Cosme

Photo of large art display with digital art of Indigenous woman in vibrant colors and dream catcher, and large feathered earrings.

Featured Public Art Gallery Artwork Titled “Spirit Healer” by Kimberly Saladin (Muckleshoot). Photo by Jo Cosme

Photo of artwork by Kimberly Saladin (Muckleshoot) on display at Railroad Way. Photo by Jo Cosme.

Explore Waterfront Park