Many small plots of unused land throughout Seattle are actually owned by the city. Waterfront wedges have become neighborhood secrets, where the locals go in summertime to splash around. A few of these plots have been marked as parks. Howell Park requires a walk down a driveway and a dirt trail before you reach a grassy expanse and a rocky beach between fancy mansions. It's lovely in an austere way in winter. In summer, it's usually taken over by sunbathers and families who come with floatation toys in tow.
