With Seattle busting at its seams – both in population and space – it’s increasingly harder to find places to get out and enjoy our legendary summers. But, alas, there are still enough semi-hidden spots to spontaneously grab some friends for a pick-up basketball game, to kick or toss around a soccer or football, or play a tennis match or two. While we can’t guarantee they’ll always be available, your chances of ditching the rest of the city at these local playfields and courts are better than average.

Alki Playfield                                   

Perhaps best known for its giant Whale Tail sculpture, West Seattle’s Alki Playfield is not just close to the beach and around the corner from Pepperdock and Spud Fish & Chips (for a post-game chow down). It’s also home to a basketball court, soccer and softball field, and tennis courts. After you’ve battled it out on the court or fields and replenished with good grub, hang on the beach because, well, it’s summer so why not?

Montlake Playfield

This original 20-foot-deep peat bog and dahlia farm was recently redone (unbeknownst to many), transforming the formerly shabby park into a polished one that features baseball, soccer and softball fields, as well as a track and tennis courts. Plus, there’s not too many places to kick the ball around with such as great view, smack dab on Portage Bay.

Queen Anne Bowl Playfield

Queen Anne residents love this spot for its convenience, but the rest of the city rarely ventures to it. Located on Queen Anne Hill, it has a playfield as well as a track (a rarity in the city). Plus, it conveniently hooks up via winding, grassy paths to the quiet hillside sanctuary of David Rodgers Park, where you’ll find three shaded, quiet tennis courts.

 Rainier Playfield:

This is on the list more for its connection with the south side neighborhood. Many NBA players grew up here and played on these courts, so it holds a special intrigue. Additional perk: a gorgeous view of Mount Rainier. Besides basketball, there’s a baseball and football field, as well as tennis courts. Bring some burgers and dogs and use the public grills afterwards.

Denny Playfield

Play here before it gets replaced by towers. The 1.8-acre site—and probably the last green space in South Lake Union—sits across from the Whole Foods store on Westlake Avenue, and is bordered by Denny Way, John Street, and Ninth Avenue North (aka, The Denny Triangle). But Vulcan billionaire Paul Allen bought up the parcel and plans to turn it into commercial space—including the block which houses the basketball court and playfield

Wherever you choose to hang this summer, do it comfort and style with these Puma Tsugi sneakers and the Jordan Trunner LX’s available at Champs Sports in Bellevue.