The Orchard Picnic Area
You arrive at the Orchard Picnic Area, a open-air gathering space tucked beside the playground on the eastern side of Saint Edward State Park. Look around and you'll notice what gives this spot its name — a small grove of apple and cherry trees standing at the edges of the lawn, their branches spreading over the grass in a way that shifts with the seasons, from blossoms in spring to fruit in late summer.
The area is built to handle a crowd. A stand-up barbecue grill sits ready for use, and the space can accommodate up to 100 people, making it one of the larger outdoor gathering options in the park. That capacity means it draws family reunions, birthday parties, and group outings on weekends, so if you're planning a visit with a larger group, reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-in, first-come, first-served tables are available on quieter days, but a reserved event can fill the space quickly.
Small, casual groups are always welcome without any advance planning. If your gathering involves something outside the ordinary — a vendor, a bouncy house, or similar activity — you'll want to reach the park directly at 425-832-2147 to ask about a special activity permit before your visit.
The playground is just steps away, which makes this a natural anchor if you're here with kids. When you're ready to stretch your legs after lunch, the park's forested trail network begins nearby and leads all the way down through the trees to the shore of Lake Washington. Take your time — the trails will be there when you are.