Ballard

This vibrant neighborhood is rich in maritime history, award-winning restaurants, and the best spot to watch glorious Pacific Northwest sunsets. Ballard is sandwiched just north of Queen Anne and west of Fremont, and boasts of wonders both of the vibrant Nordic heritage and one of the trendiest shopping districts in Seattle. Spend the day learning about this once-sleepy Scandinavian fishing community at the Nordic History Museum and watch the salmon jump at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. Stroll along NW Market Ave for local bookstores, gift shops, and incredible meals from all cuisines. Take a sunny afternoon to visit the blocks of craft breweries on the south end, including Pacific Northwest faves Great Notion, Stoup, and Reubens. The best part? You can spend the entire weekend at Golden Gardens Park with it’s playgrounds and picnic areas, or just visit for a sunset bonfire. Ballard has everything you need.