Ballard is the traditional center of Seattle’s ethnically Scandinavian seafaring community.  The many neighborhoods that make up the Ballard area all have their own distinct feeling. From Sunset and Crown Hills, to Whittier and Loyal Heights, Ballard has a great many real estate options, but remains a close-knit community. It has a diverse population and heaps of neighborhood pride, defining itself as a small town nestled within a big city.

Ballard’s major landmarks include the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (referred to as the “Ballard Locks” locally), the Nordic Heritage Museum, and Golden Gardens Park. Golden Gardens is one of the most popular destinations in Seattle.  Whether an afternoon picnic or wedding, sunbathing or an evening bonfire on the one of the few true sandy beaches in Seattle, the park offers an ideal environment to enjoy breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains.

Ballard maintains its maritime character and residents appreciate its trendy yet traditional feel.  Market Street has a very urban feeling; from yoga studio and tea house to tattoo parlor, movie theater, coffee shops and restaurants.  The Historic District, which surrounds Ballard Ave, is full of older brick buildings offering many all manner of restaurants and entertainment – from sushi to French bistros to jazz bars, greasy spoons and seedy taverns left over from the maritime era – you’ll find it all in the historic district.  Quiet side streets are populated with a mix of modest single family homes interspersed with a growing population of new town homes and condos.

There is also a host of award-winning schools, from elementary to high school.