Center for Wooden Boats

Center for Wooden Boats Review

Though it used be considered an off-the-beaten-path gem, the Center for Wooden Boats is now a major feature of Lake Union Park. The center gives free boat rides on the lake every Sunday; they sail at 1:30 and 2:30, but the first-come, first-served slots go fast, so you should stop by the center to sign up as soon as it opens. You may also rent a variety of small craft—pedal-boats, rowboats, and small sailboats—to explore the lake on your own (lessons are available if you don't have much experience). Rates are $25-$50 per hour. The Center largely functions as a school and most courses span several weeks and are not practical for visitors; check out the events calendar anyway, as you might get to watch the staff at work on a restoration if there's a boat-building class in session. Plus there are occasional carving demonstrations by master boat-builders that are free and open to the public.