DOWNTOWN

Seattle’s downtown has undergone a huge transformation.  Between 2006 and 2010, over 30 new luxury highrise condominium and hotel buildings have been built, and with it, much new retail.  Most of these units were sold prior to construction being completed, and they have totally changed the face of Seattle’s downtown.

As with much of Seattle, the downtown area represents a multitude of neighborhoods, all with their own atmosphere and identity.  Here are a few of them:

Pioneer Square
Located at the south end of Downtown and just north of Safeco Field and the Qwest Field, Pioneer Square is home to many of Seattle’s oldest historic buildings. With its many art galleries, nightclubs, restaurants and unique shops, Pioneer Square is an urban explorer’s dream.

Seattle Waterfront
The Waterfront is Seattle’s gateway to the rest of the world. Take a cruise to some foreign land, or take a ferry ride to a Puget Sound island. Or just stick around and experience the spectacular views of Elliott Bay and enjoy fresh seafood. Visit the Seattle Aquarium or head up the hill and spend the day browsing the historic and famous Pike’s Place market.

Retail Core
Home to dozens of upscale national and international retailers and restaurants, the Retail Core is one of the finest dining and shopping areas in the region. From major department stores and indoor malls, to intimate boutiques and movie multi-plexes, your options are endless.

West Edge
This 4-block wide urban hike stretching from Belltown to Pioneer Square contains such Seattle landmarks as the Pike Place Market, Seattle Art Museum and Benaroya Hall. For the true flavor of Seattle, nothing beats the many eclectic boutiques and eateries in this area.

Chinatown-International District
The neighborhood just east of Pioneer Square is where generations of Asian immigrants first arrived in Seattle. It is the ideal area to find the city’s most diverse mix of authentic Asian cuisine and a lively international flavor in the many shops, markets and Asian-influenced public art throughout the district.

Pike/Pine
This vibrant neighborhood connects Downtown with Capitol Hill and serves as a wonderful transition between the two worlds. The corridor contains a multitude of independent businesses from art galleries to vintage furniture and clothing stores – all with a genuine Seattle feel.

First Hill
First Hill is literally Seattle’s first neighborhood where pioneer families established roots, and left behind a rich history of classic homes, gardens and churches. Today, some of the world’s most respected medical and research institutions including Swedish Hospital and Virginia Mason Medical Center call First Hill their home. The area’s housing is primarily low and high-rise condos with a few townhouse complexes.

Denny Triangle AKA South Lake Union
South Lake Union is one of the fastest growing areas in Seattle. Over the past few years, the area has experienced great expansion in terms of housing, retail, and office. It enjoys a great location, just outside of the downtown core and adjacent to Lake Union, with its houseboats, restaurants and parks.  It is becoming the center for Seattle’s bio-tech industry and a variety of new condo and hotel developments.