Columbia City

Columbia City is both homespun and urban. The resurgent star of a proud restoration movement, a dedicated civic effort has renovated and populated this charming turn-of-the-century Rainier Valley area. The small downtown, along Rainier Avenue South, is filled with family-owned businesses, old brick buildings and awning-laced storefronts.  There are cafes, restaurants, retail shops and a population of locals out strolling and socializing.

Residences here include gentle ramblers, two-story shingled and box homes and bungalows. The yards vary from being modest and minimalist to sprouting wild gardens. Streets are lined with tall leafy trees and rugged bushes.  Along with a vibrant ethnic mix, is the sound of children playing in the streets.

Columbia City’s effort to encourage community was demonstrated in something residents began over ten years ago: nightly Òdog walks.Ó The purpose was to reacquaint neighbors and keep the streets safe. Nowadays, Wednesdays are dedicated to a Farmer’s Market. Other proud features include a beautiful colonial library, a new movie theater and venues that host reading series and live music.

POPULATION: 5,000

DEMOGRAPHICS: Married couples, singles and families.

TYPES OF HOMES: Ramblers, Two-story Shingled and Box Homes,  Bungalows

COMMUNITY BLOG: Columbia City Seattle, Columbia City: Rainier Valley

LIBRARY: Seattle Public Library Columbia Branch located at 4721 Rainier Ave. S. Seattle , WA 98118, Tel.206-386-1908

FARMERS MARKET: Columbia City Public Market, Wednesdays, April 27 through October 19, from 3pm to 7pm, on Edmunds Street between 37th and the alley at 36th (just off of Rainier in the heart of Columbia City).

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS: Geraldine’s Counter, La Medusa, The Spice Room

FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS: Columbia City Bakery, Empire Espresso