Capitol Hill Wishing Tree

Description

The Capitol Hill Wishing Tree is one of those places that feels like it belongs in a storybook rather than a quiet Seattle neighborhood. It started back in 2013 when a local resident decided to hang a few handwritten wishes on the branches of a cypress tree in her yard. What began as a small, personal gesture quickly grew into a community tradition. Today, the tree is covered with thousands of colorful notes, each carrying someone’s hope, dream, or secret thought. Some are lighthearted—like a wish for more sunny days in Seattle—while others are deeply personal, even heartbreaking. That mix of humor, vulnerability, and raw honesty is what makes the tree so moving to see in person.

Visitors often describe the experience as both whimsical and unexpectedly emotional. Standing in front of the tree, you can’t help but feel connected to all the strangers who’ve left a piece of themselves behind. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s a living art project, shaped by the people who stop, write, and tie their wishes to the branches. And while most people walk away smiling, there’s also a quiet weight in reading some of the more serious notes. That balance—between joy and sorrow, laughter and longing—gives the Wishing Tree its unique character.

For families, it’s a fun and meaningful stop since kids love writing wishes and seeing them flutter in the wind. Accessibility is good too, so it’s easy for just about anyone to visit. Of course, not every visitor is enchanted. A few people find it a bit quirky or underwhelming compared to more traditional attractions. But for the vast majority, the Wishing Tree is a highlight of their Seattle trip, precisely because it’s so different from the usual tourist checklist. It’s personal, it’s heartfelt, and it’s something you won’t find in a guidebook of “top ten” things to do—though maybe it should be.

Key Features

• A living community art project that started in 2013 and continues to grow with thousands of wishes added every year
• Visitors can write their own wish on a piece of paper and hang it on the tree’s branches
• Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it easy for all ages to enjoy
• Family-friendly and especially fun for children who love the interactive nature of leaving a wish
• A unique glimpse into the hopes, humor, and struggles of strangers from all over the world
• Located in a quiet residential area, offering a peaceful contrast to Seattle’s busier attractions
• Constantly changing appearance, as new wishes are added and old ones fade or blow away

Best Time to Visit

The Wishing Tree is open to visitors year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. In spring, the tree feels especially alive, surrounded by fresh greenery and blossoms in the neighborhood. Summer brings longer days, making it easier to linger and read wishes in the evening light. Fall adds a beautiful backdrop of autumn colors, which makes the notes stand out even more. Winter can be a little chilly and damp, but there’s something powerful about seeing wishes fluttering in the rain—it almost feels like the tree is holding them safe against the gray skies. If you want to avoid crowds, mornings and weekdays are usually quieter. But honestly, even when others are gathered around, the atmosphere is calm and reflective rather than hectic.

How to Get There

Reaching the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree isn’t hard, but it does require a little navigation since it’s tucked into a residential neighborhood. If you’re already exploring Capitol Hill, it’s just a short detour from the main streets. Many visitors choose to walk from nearby parks or shops, enjoying the neighborhood’s mix of historic homes and leafy streets along the way. Public transportation is a good option too, with buses stopping not far from the area. If you’re driving, street parking is generally available, though it can be limited during peak times. The walk from wherever you park is part of the charm—there’s something about turning a corner and suddenly spotting this tree full of wishes that makes the discovery feel special.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few things worth keeping in mind. First, bring your own pen and a small piece of paper or card if you want to be sure you can leave a wish. Sometimes supplies are available near the tree, but not always. Second, take your time. Don’t just snap a photo and leave—read a few of the notes. They’re funny, touching, and sometimes surprisingly wise. It’s a reminder that everyone you pass on the street is carrying their own story. Third, be respectful. This is located in someone’s yard, after all, and it’s maintained with care. Keep noise down, don’t litter, and treat the space as the community gift that it is.

And finally, let yourself be a little vulnerable. Write down something that matters to you, even if it feels silly. There’s something strangely freeing about leaving a wish behind, knowing it will flutter among thousands of others. When I visited, I wrote a quick wish for a friend who was going through a tough time. It wasn’t grand or poetic, but it felt good to put it out into the world. That’s the magic of the Capitol Hill Wishing Tree—it gives you a space to pause, reflect, and connect, even if just for a few minutes, with something bigger than yourself.

Location

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