Seattle Neighborhoods
Spotlight on Seattle Neighborhoods
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eattle’s thriving urban downtown core is surrounded by over 100 distinct neighborhoods. Each possesses its own identity and character—an ambiance, an attitude, a special unique chemistry that sets it apart. Here is an introduction to just some of the city’s many neighborhoods.
BALLARD
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard
take great pride in the area’s look, feel lake and adjoining park featuring a wading and safety. NewHolly, one of the na- pool, tennis courts, playfield and Commution’s first mixed income developments, nity Center that hosts events, programs, is located in south Beacon Hill. Jeffer- and classes. Two main shopping districts, son Community Center hosts classes, Greenwood Avenue and Aurora Avenue programs and the annual Beacon Hill (Hwy 99), offer a wide variety of services, Festival. Jefferson Park, a local trea- stores, and restaurants. Highway 99 and sure, contains one of Seattle’s most I-5 are easily accessed—a plus for comused public golf courses, as well as the muters. Single-family homes, condos, and Jefferson Community Center, Jeffer- apartment complexes, including senior son Lawn Bowling, and Jefferson Skate- apartments are available. Median Prices: park. Nearby VA Puget Sound Health- Homes $604,475; Condos $356,900. care Systems is also a familiar landmark. BLUE RIDGE On the west side of Beacon Hill, Dr. Jose´Rizal Park has great downtown This lovely hillside community, which views. Median Prices: Homes $725,950; enjoys some fabulous views of the Condos $376,750. Sound, was originally built by the Boeing Company. Five brick houses, BITTER LAKE locally known as “The Castles,” housed Residents describe Bitter Lake as a little company executives. Today, 450 homes BEACON HILL slice of paradise in Seattle’s north end. complete this affluent and exclusive Just southeast of Downtown, Beacon This small body of spring fed water was covenant community of 200 acres. It Hill, like many Seattle neighborhoods is once the site of a sawmill. Floating logs is strictly residential and hosts a private ethnically and economically integrated. released tannic acid, thus the lake’s community club, swimming pool, Here stately turn-of-the-century homes unusual name. From 1930 to 1961, Play- tennis courts, playfield, and beach. stand next to brick ramblers and split- land Amusement Park attracted patrons Limited street access assures privacy levels. Active, vocal community groups to the lake. Today, people still enjoy the and removes this neighborhood from
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GREATER SEAT TLE INFOGUIDE • 2016-17
Photo: © Roger Hunsperger
The Scandinavian fishermen and mill workers who founded this historic neighborhood in the late 1800’s would feel right at home in the Nordic Heritage Museum or at annual events like the Norwegian Constitution Day Parade each May or Ballard SeafoodFest in July. While their influence on Ballard remains, much has changed as old buildings are restored, new condos, apartments and other exciting projects blend historic charm with an energetic vibe. Unique shops, trendy boutiques, great restaurants, a cinema, and other b u s i n e s s e s l i n e d o w n t o w n s t re e t s . Ballard’s lively nightlife draws music fans to establishments like the Tractor Tavern and the Conor Byrne Pub. The Ballard ArtWalk, on the second Saturday of each month, showcases local artisans. A Sunday Farmers Market on Ballard Avenue runs year round. Ballard is also home to the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and beautiful Carl S. English Botanical Garden and Visitor Center. Median Prices: Homes $600,000; Condos $255,000.
