It was named by Captain George Davidson of the U.S. Coast Survey in 1856, who reportedly mistook the plentiful madrona trees for magnolias.

Seven miles of trails provide visitors with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Parts of Fort Lawton, such as the officers' homes and other historic buildings, remain in the park, though many are now private residences.

West Point also contains one of Seattle's sewage treatment facilities, and several archaeological sites.

Another highlight is the local branch of the Seattle Public Library, designed in 1964 by architects Paul Hayden Kirk and Richard Haag, who won top awards for design from the American Library Association.

Outside hangs a bronze wall sculpture titled "Activity of Thought," an abstract piece of art designed especially for the library by Glenn Alps.

The library is furnished with solid walnut tables and chairs custom designed by George Nakashima.

Magnolia's business district, called "The Village" by locals, is home to many specialty stores, professional services, and restaurants.