Magnolia

Magnolia is like entering another world-a fairy tale on an island, almost. While it’s actually a peninsula, Magnolia is located minutes from downtown, but set off from the rest of Seattle by three bridges.

One reason Magnolia feels so serene is the pristine landscaping along with an almost nonexistent presence of any construction. Even though it’s tucked away from the rest of Seattle, people make the trip here on gorgeous evenings for front-row views of the sunset, Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands and the Olympic mountain range. Nothing beats it.

Living styles here abound: from Tudor-style homes, mid-century charmers and contemporary styles, to bungalows, small brick and box houses. Gardens are well-manicured with sculpted trees and bushes. Mixed in with a predominance of homes are condos and some rentals, which can keep a pricey neighborhood slightly more balanced.

Magnolia’s business district, McGraw Street, has a sweet selection of shops and restaurants, with all the mainstream amenities. Another popular spot is Fisherman’s Terminal, a marina with restaurants and retail which also houses the Alaska Fishing Fleet.

Magnolia’s jewel is Discovery Park, the city’s largest park. There are 534 acres that include seven miles of trails winding along a cliff and down to the beach. Its inhabitants are eagles, herons, falcons, seals, owls; visitors include dogs, joggers and walkers. Paths also run along tall-grassy bluffs that look over Puget Sound. If this isn’t enough, there are historical homes above these bluffs, remnants from an old naval base, Fort Lawton; and there’s Daybreak Star Cultural Center, a cultural center for the United Indians of all Tribes Foundation.