Ballard

Ballard is one of the most desirable places to live in Seattle. It has a close-knit community, a diverse population and heaps of neighborhood pride. The arrival of spring finds locals out and about, strolling down sidewalks, gathered at one of the many parks, or working in their yards. Quiet side streets are populated with medium-sized family homes and cottages, with creative gardens. There is also a host of award-winning schools, from elementary to high school.

Ballard is known for its Scandinavian fishing village history and working class roots. Located northwest of downtown, Ballard defines itself as a small town nestled within a big city. The business district is peppered with a unique mix of restaurants bars and nightclubs. Small shops are sprinkled in among larger retailers, along with museums and art galleries.

One point of interest here: the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This beautifully groomed park borders a nautical thoroughfare. This is where pleasure boaters and commercial fishing boats transition between Puget Sound and Lake Union. Don’t miss the spectacular dusk views at Sunset Hill Viewpoint Park (NW 75th and 34th Ave NW).

POPULATION: 7,800

DEMOGRAPHICS: Educated, urban young adults, aspiring single urbanites, families with children, green/sustainability conscious residents.

TYPES OF HOMES: Cape Cod, Bungalow, Craftsmen, Colonial, Tudor, Contemporary homes and Townhomes

COMMUNITY BLOG: Ballard Blog, My Ballard

LIBRARY: Seattle Public Library Ballard Branch, located at 5614 22nd Ave. N.W. Seattle , WA 98107, Tel. 206-684-4089

FARMERS MARKET: Ballard Farmers Market, located on historic Ballard Avenue NW, between Vernon Place NW and 22nd Avenue NW. Open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., year round.

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS: La Carta De Oaxaca, Ocho,  La Isla,Volterra, Senor Moose Cafe,

FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS: Cupcake Royal, Caffe Fiore, Aster Coffee Lounge, Cafe Cuzco, Nervous Nellie’s