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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Mercer Island has 475 acres of parks and open spaces featuring well manicured lawns with water views but also undeveloped areas which to foster a variety of wildlife, including 135 species of birds, 50 species of waterfowl, raccoons, beaver, muskrats, tree frogs and rabbits. Whatever your fancy you are sure to feed your outdoor yearning at one of the many amazing Mercer Island parks. Luther Burbank Park Luther Burbank Park was originally the homestead of Charles C. Calkins, before becoming a school and then finally a park in 1931. It's named after the botanist and horticulturist born in 1849 who developed more than 800 varieties of plants. Several old buildings still make up the park's landscape. Located on the 77-acres in the northeast end of Mercer Island, Luther Burbank Park features spectacular views of Lake Washington, and has facilities for several water-based activities, including swimming, boating and fishing. A children's playground, dog run and wetlands are also attractions at what was once a hallmark open space 130 years ago. The heart of the park is made up of a meadow, tennis courts and an outdoor amphitheater where folks can enjoy Shakespeare in the Park during the summer months. Because the park is large and spread out vertically (with 3/4 of a mile of waterfront), it's worth checking out the park's online map in advance to plan where you want to park according to what your interests are. A sandy swimming area with a sloping lawn is the draw at the southern edge of the park. It's guarded in the summer and is popular with families and day camp groups.