Warm spring days in Seattle are rare. So, when the sun shines and the temperature creeps above 65, Seattleites know how to take advantage. They know the sun and all of its glory will be gone, likely the very next day. Case and point: yesterday it was 70 degrees in the Emerald City and today, a mere 58 and cloudy. My fellow Curators and I have compiled a list of our go-to locations and activities to embark upon when the weather is warm.

In my opinion, there is no shortage of beautiful parks in Seattle, but two of my favorites include Green Lake Park and Gas Works Park. Both locations always promise great people watching (one of my favorite hobbies), and tons of grassy space, which is great for kids. My husband and I love impromptu picnic-in-the-park dinners (thank you Whole Foods Market prepared food department!) with our daughter on warm spring and summer nights.

Matthew –

My patio! Ellie and I have a bistro table just outside our front door on the west side of the house that’s perfect for sunny days. A good book and a good beer on a sunny day is all I need to forget about Seattle’s five months of cloud cover.

Paul –

My boat. It’s getting to the point where it’s held together with duct tape and hope, but on a nice day, nothing beats it.

Megan –

I could name a million places! I still love Alki Beach and Kerry Park as much as the next Seattleite, but when it’s a perfect sunny day, I always try to head over to Ray’s Café in Ballard. They have a patio over the water and a great happy hour. Plus, there’s always boats, paddle boarders and sometimes the odd jellyfish or otter to watch.

Chelsey –

Anywhere outside, preferably with a view, and a drink in hand! On a boat or a rooftop seem to be my go-to's.

Annie –

In a kayak on Lake Washington or South Lake Union! Although, my newest obsession, on a nice day, is spending time at the Marymoor Dog Park with Pat and our dog, Kirby.

Brooke –

On a sunny day in Seattle, I refuse to eat inside which is why I am always on a hunt for a good patio. Most of the time, though, you’ll find me on my apartment rooftop where there’s a gorgeous view of the Space Needle and South Lake Union!

My colleague, Noelle, who resides and works in San Diego, CA, had this to say about how she prefers to make the most of those sunny days, which happen far more often in her hometown, than Seattle – lucky lady!

Noelle –

One of my favorite places to enjoy the sun in San Diego is La Jolla. A stroll along the beach to check out the sea lions, window shopping in the cute boutiques, or even dining al fresco at tasty open-air brunch spot all make La Jolla a great place to soak up some rays while taking in some lovely scenery.