Tag: Neighborhoods

Forest Park is 197 acres of old-growth forest, free animal farm, hiking trails, and seasonal pool in southwest Everett — and most Everett residents have never walked its trails.

Located at 802 Mukilteo Blvd, Forest Park packs more into those acres than most parks three times its size. Here’s the local’s guide to actually using it this spring.

The Trails

Unpaved forest trails through mixed old-growth and second-growth Douglas fir and cedar. The trail network is not heavily signed — photograph the entrance map or download offline. Trails stay muddy through April; waterproof footwear is not optional. Trilliums and native spring wildflowers are appearing now in the forested sections.

The Animal Farm

Free admission. Goats, deer, rabbits, peacocks, and domestic farm animals in a small petting zoo format. One of those things Everett has that most comparable cities don’t. Call Everett Parks (everettwa.gov/parks) to confirm current hours and which animals are out before a specific visit.

Spring Hours and What’s Open

The park itself is open during daylight hours year-round. Animal Farm opens seasonally in spring — verify status before visiting. The spray park and outdoor pool are not yet open; they typically run June through August. Picnic shelters can be reserved through Everett Parks for spring gatherings.

Practical Info

802 Mukilteo Blvd, Everett WA 98203. Free to enter. Parking lot off Mukilteo Blvd. Check everettwa.gov/parks for current Animal Farm status and pool season schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Forest Park free?

Yes — free entry, free Animal Farm. Pool and some facilities have seasonal fees.

Where is Forest Park in Everett?

802 Mukilteo Blvd, Everett WA 98203. In southwest Everett off Mukilteo Boulevard.

Are trails good in spring?

Yes but muddy. Waterproof footwear recommended April–May. Native wildflowers are appearing now. Trails are not heavily signed — map before you go.

Bayside might be the most underestimated neighborhood in Everett — water access, proximity to the port, genuine community identity, and most people drive past it without stopping.

Bayside sits along Port Gardner Bay in northwest Everett, bordered by the Port of Everett to the south and Naval Station Everett to the north. One of Everett’s oldest residential neighborhoods — three-generation families, streets that still reflect the maritime industrial roots, and Olympic Mountain views on clear days that are genuinely stunning.

The Housing

Mixed mid-20th century single-family stock. More affordable than comparable waterfront-adjacent areas in King County. Older homes that need updating — which is exactly the trade buyers seeking value in Everett’s 2026 market are making deliberately. For buyers who want character, history, and water proximity without the waterfront premium, Bayside deserves serious attention.

The Community

Military families from NAVSTA Everett contribute to Bayside’s civic character — young families on rotation who engage schools, community organizations, and local businesses. The neighborhood association connects residents with city services. The marina promenade and waterfront trail system are accessible from Bayside’s residential streets for walking, kayaking, and fishing access.

What’s Changing

Port of Everett’s Waterfront Place is the adjacent story. Restaurant Row, the marina promenade, and the coming Millwright District are within walking or biking distance of Bayside’s streets. That new amenity access is making the neighborhood more attractive to buyers who want urban convenience with a quieter residential base.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Bayside neighborhood in Everett?

Northwest Everett, along Port Gardner Bay, between the Port of Everett (south) and Naval Station Everett (north).

Is Bayside a good place to buy a home in Everett?

It’s genuinely underrated — water-adjacent location, lower median prices than comparable areas, strong community identity. Housing stock skews older; expect renovation needs.