Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park | Redmond

Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park is a 33-acre public park located in Redmond, Washington, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a variety of agricultural buildings constructed primarily from wood, painted in traditional barn colors such as red and white. The landscape includes open pastures, wooded areas with mature deciduous trees, and a small creek. Animal enclosures house farm animals including sheep, goats, cows, and chickens.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated at 5200 228th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA 98053. It is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) northeast of Redmond's city center. Access is via NE 50th Street, which connects to 228th Avenue NE. A dedicated parking lot is available on-site, with capacity for approximately 50 vehicles. Public transport options include King County Metro bus route 239, with a stop located approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km) south of the park entrance on NE 50th Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land was originally part of the Farrel and McWhirter homesteads, established in the early 20th century. The City of Redmond acquired the property in 1974 and developed it into a public park, preserving its agricultural heritage. The park's ecological setting is within the Sammamish River watershed, characterized by mixed coniferous-deciduous forest and riparian zones along the creek.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe and interact with farm animals in their enclosures. Walking trails traverse the park, offering views of the pastures and wooded areas. Educational programs and seasonal events are conducted by park staff. Picnicking is permitted in designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Several picnic tables and benches are provided throughout the park, offering shaded seating. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. No on-site food vendors are present; however, commercial areas with food options are located within a 1-mile (1.6 km) radius.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. For optimal viewing of farm animals, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. Spring and fall offer mild weather conditions suitable for walking and exploring the grounds. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the oldest oak tree on the property, located near the western edge, was a landmark used by early settlers to navigate the area before formal roads were established.

Nearby Landmarks

• Marymoor Park (3.2km Southwest)
• Redmond Town Center (3.8km Southwest)
• Sammamish River Trail (1.5km West)
• Microsoft Visitor Center (4.5km Southwest)