Understand Seattle’s fishing and lumber industry origins during a visit to Ballard, a historically Scandinavian neighborhood. From trendy shops in vintage storefronts on Ballard Avenue to the National Nordic Museum, the neighborhood’s heritage and hipster vibe are evident.
Notice the occasional “Free Ballard” signs indicating interest in returning to a city status separate from Seattle. Ballard officially became part of Seattle in 1907. The neighborhood’s undeniable sense of independence is evident among long-time residents and younger professionals living here.
Sunday’s Ballard Farmers Market sells produce from Washington farmers. Savor extended brunches at popular restaurants featuring celebrated chefs. In July, attend Ballard’s famous SeafoodFest with food, drink, music and art.
Live music energizes Ballard’s bars and clubs nightly, including DJs, varied popular musical acts and karaoke. Find used books, vinyl favorites and locally made gifts at neighborhood shops. Stop at nearly a dozen area breweries and taprooms, perfect for meeting with friends for a fun night out.
Picnic at Ballard’s waterfront and the historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. Attend outdoor summer concerts in the adjacent Carl S. English Botanical Gardens. Ships navigate from Puget Sound through the locks and the Lake Washington Ship Canal into freshwater Lake Union and Lake Washington. During the summer, wander below the locks to watch salmon swimming up a fish ladder from saltwater to freshwater spawning grounds.
Enjoy Ballard’s stunning waterfront views from Golden Gardens Park, a sand and rock beach perfect for picnics, sunbathing, walking, beachcombing and watching sunsets over the Olympic mountain range. A stretch of the Burke-Gilman Trail connects Ballard Locks to Golden Gardens.
One Ballard highlight is the National Nordic Museum. In addition to rotating exhibits, explore Nordic Journeys, celebrating the cultures of Sweden, Finland, Norway, Iceland and Denmark over the last 12,000 years. Multiple galleries brim with art and artifacts.
About 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of downtown Seattle, Ballard is a very walkable neighborhood accessible by car, boat, bus, foot, bike or paddleboard. Travel here by public transportation if possible, as parking can be limited.
