Imagine cruising through Seattle and suddenly spotting a cowboy hat so large it could shade your whole car — and a matching pair of boots towering beside it like something from a nursery rhyme gone wild. That’s the effect you’ll get when you stumble on Hat ’n’ Boots, a beloved roadside spectacle in Georgetown’s Oxbow Park. Originally built in 1954 as part of a Texaco‑branded service station called Premium Tex, the oversized hat once sheltered the gas station office while the boots housed restrooms — a quirkily practical use of playful, oversized design that became Washington roadside legend.
This kitschy landmark has a rich backstory that’s as colorful as its paint. After decades of decay following the gas station’s closure in 1988, community activists rallied to save it from demolition. The pair was relocated to Oxbow Park in 2003, painstakingly restored, and now stand as one of Seattle’s most photographed and most nostalgic attractions.
Key Highlights of Hat ’n’ Boots
For lovers of Americana and quirky roadside art, Hat ’n’ Boots delivers delight at every glance. The giant cowboy hat spans roughly 44 feet across and sits atop a picnic shelter canopy that hints at its original use as the Premium Tex gas station office. Nearby, two cowboy boots — originally functioning as restrooms — stand more than 20 feet tall, painted in contrasting blues that give them lively personality against Seattle’s often gray backdrop.
The hat and boots were designed by commercial artist Lewis Nasmyth, who envisioned a Western‑themed centerpiece capable of drawing motorists along busy Highway 99 into the Frontier Village shopping complex he and local entrepreneur Buford Seals were developing. Although the full complex never materialized and the station closed, the Hat ’n’ Boots quickly became a standalone icon of mid-20th-century roadside creativity.
One of the most unexpected parts of the Hat ’n’ Boots story is how it survived — and thrived — thanks to community dedication. After years of neglect, Georgetown residents raised funds, secured grants, and facilitated the careful move of the hat and boots to Oxbow Park. This grassroots effort saved what might otherwise have been a forgotten relic of roadside kitsch.
A fun highlight for many visitors is imagining the boots in their original role as facilities — a whimsical twist on what most sculptures ever do — and picturing the hat shading early drivers and attendants back in the 1950s.
Atmosphere & Vibe
Walking up to Hat ’n’ Boots feels like stepping into a piece of mid‑century Americana nostalgia. The setting in Oxbow Park — a modest green space amid Georgetown’s industrial and residential maze — gives the sculptures a quirky, almost surreal charm that’s perfect for a relaxed photo stop or picnic.
The bold red hat and blues of the boots contrast vividly with the otherwise muted tones of the neighborhood, making them irresistible to photographers and casual visitors alike. Their whimsical proportions — towering above park benches and play areas — lend a cartoonish sense of scale that delights both kids and adults.
Many people find themselves sticking around beyond a simple snapshot, using the park’s open space to relax, explore nearby street art, or take in the local flavor of Georgetown — one of Seattle’s most colorful neighborhoods.
Other Considerations for Visitors
So how’s the price?
Visiting Hat ’n’ Boots is free, making it a very budget‑friendly stop. You can wander around the park at your leisure without any ticketing or reservations.
Is it family‑friendly?
Yes — the oversized sculptures are perfect for children’s imaginations and make an easy, fun stop on a family outing. Open green space around Oxbow Park invites picnicking and play.
When should I visit?
Hat ’n’ Boots is accessible year‑round since it sits in a public park. Sunny days are ideal for photography, but even in typical Seattle drizzle, the bold colors pop against the skies.
What should I bring?
A camera or smartphone is a must for photos. Comfortable shoes for walking through the park, and perhaps a picnic blanket, will make your visit more enjoyable.
Are there any downsides?
Because this is a small, quirky roadside attraction rather than a large museum or theme park, you won’t spend hours here — most visitors spend 30–60 minutes exploring. Pairing it with nearby Georgetown eateries, murals, and shops maximizes your outing.
Hat ’n’ Boots
📍 Oxbow Park, Georgetown, Seattle, WA
Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/oxbow-park