Ballard
Ballard is a charming and historic neighborhood located in the northwestern part of Seattle. Once an independent city, it has since been annexed by Seattle, but it retains much of its own unique character and appeal. Bordered to the north by Crown Hill, to the east by Greenwood, Phinney Ridge, and Fremont, to the south by the Lake Washington Ship Canal, and to the west by Puget Sound's Shilshole Bay, Ballard offers a blend of vibrant city life and stunning natural beauty.
One of the neighborhood's most iconic landmarks is the Ballard Locks, where you can watch boats pass between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, as well as catch sight of migrating salmon. The National Nordic Museum celebrates the area's Scandinavian heritage, while Shilshole Bay Marina and Golden Gardens Park provide waterfront access for boating, beachcombing, and enjoying the sunset over the Olympic Mountains.
Ballard’s main streets include Seaview Avenue, 24th Avenue, and the lively Market Street, home to an array of trendy shops, restaurants, and breweries. The Ballard Bridge connects the neighborhood to Interbay, while the Salmon Bay Bridge carries trains across the bay just west of the Locks.
Ballard is part of Seattle's City Council District 6, along with nearby neighborhoods like Crown Hill, Green Lake, and Phinney Ridge. It's served by Seattle Public Schools and falls within Washington State's 36th legislative district. With its rich history, thriving community, and easy access to both urban amenities and natural escapes, Ballard is one of Seattle’s most beloved neighborhoods.
