All Neighborhoods

Explore some of Seattle’s best neighborhoods below

MERCER ISLAND

Mercer Island is a community known for its great schools, 475+ acres of beautiful parks and waterfront, and friendly small-town vibe. It's among the top 100 most expensive zip codes in the nation, but it’s easy to see why: on Mercer Island is a close-knit community that values a beautiful home as much as a beautiful environment. Spend your days on the island exploring its many incredible beaches, gorgeous parks, and winding trails packed with amenities. With it’s natural beauty and a charming bustle just seven miles from Seattle’s center, there’s no other place like it.

If you’re seeking unique waterfront luxury, an easy commute and an active lifestyle, this is your neighborhood.

WHAT TO LOVE

  • Relaxed island living just 10-15 minutes from Seattle, Bellevue, and more

  • Quiet, forested neighborhoods, complemented by stunning views of Seattle, the Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier and Lake Washington

  • 475 acres of excellent parks, trails, beaches, and green spaces to enjoy

  • A top-tier Mercer Island school district

  • Active, outdoors-loving lifestyle

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

Mercer Island provides a lifestyle like no other place, reflected in its many awards including best place to live in Washington (Business Insider) and #27 best suburb in the USA (Money Magazine). With its excellent quality of life and the high market value of its properties, it attracts some of Seattle Metro Area’s most successful creatives and entrepreneurs. Residents spend their days appreciating the island’s natural beauty, especially its family-friendly beaches and over 50 miles of walking trails. The top tier school district draws families with small children, and the relaxed and tranquil atmosphere so close to Seattle draws high-powered creatives and entrepreneurs. No matter what brought them here, everyone enjoys the charming local businesses, including Parisian cafés and award winning restaurants. Though you’ll feel miles away from the rush of the city, Mercer Island has all the amenities you’ll ever need

DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING

Whether you’re looking for a spot for a business lunch or a special date night, the delicious restaurants of Mercer Island deliver. Mio Posto is a popular neighborhood eatery serving Italian favorites, wood grilled pizzas, salads, and craft cocktails. A cozy locale with more than 1000 bottles from local, domestic, and international wineries, alongside well-curated snack platters, Barrels Wine Bar never disappointments. For one of the few certified kosher restaurants in Seattle, try Island Crust Cafe for kosher, halal, and vegetarian meals. When you want to spend a night at home cooking something delicious, Metropolitan Market offers a special array of produce, meat, flowers, cheeses, and wines.  

THINGS TO DO

With nearly 500 acres of parks and over 50 miles of trails, one of the best ways to spend your time on Mercer Island is outdoors. Try the stunning, 77-acre Luther Burbank Park on the northern end of the island for a long stretch of Lake Washington waterfront, off-leash dog area, public boat dock, three tennis courts, and of course- ample walking trails. Mercerdale Park, just to the south of Town Center, features the City’s annual Concerts in the Park series and Holiday Tree Lighting. A summer staple and destination favorite, stroll the Mercer Island Farmers Market for locally-grown produce, sweet treats, ice cold drinks, and prepared foods. There’s live music and arts and crafts every Sunday from 9am to 3pm.

SCHOOLS

The award-winning Mercer Island School District offers many public and private options.  Highlights include:

  • St. Monica’s Catholic School 

  • Yeshiva Jewish High School

  • French American School

  • Island Park Elementary School

  • Islander Middle School

  • Mercer Island High School

  • West Mercer Elementary School

  • Northwood Elementary School

MADRONA

A hidden jewel nestled in the center of Seattle, Madrona is a beautiful neighborhood on the shores of Lake Washington. With homes ranging from hip bungalows to luxury mansions–many of which have incredible views of the lake or Mount Rainier– busy executives and families alike all find something to love here.  

WHAT TO LOVE

  • Charming small-town feel with city amenities

  • Walkable, beautiful streets and neighborhoods

  • Thriving local businesses and parks

  • Delicious cafes and restaurants

  • Part of the excellent Seattle Public School District, with a number of private options as well

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

Madrona is one of Seattle’s best kept secrets. The village feel, excellent schools, and charming town center make Madrona a top choice for families. Yet, it’s also perfect for those seeking luxury properties in a relaxed and diverse area with the perfect suburban/urban mix.  Residents spend their days exploring the parks and waterfront, dining in one of the boutique restaurants or cafes,  and enjoying a short commute to the city. 

DINING, ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING

In many ways, Madrona has a slow-paced, small-town atmosphere. That means for a night out for fine dining or dancing, you’ll likely want to make a short trip to the city. But for a casual meal or a fresh cup of coffee, Madrona has ample delicious options, all centered around the neighborhood’s 34th Street center.  Mouthwatering steak frites and other classic French fare is on the menu at Ethan Stowell’s Red Cow, while Cafe Soleil serves up hearty, flavor-packed Ethiopian cuisine. Bistro Turkuaz, known for its tender kebabs and inspired small plates, offers Middle Eastern fare in a cozy atmosphere, while Vendemmia impresses with its high-end Italian-inspired plates and use of local ingredients. 

Watch glassblowers make handcrafted wares through the shop window of Glassbaby, then stop in to shop their iconic glassware. Peruse the racks of Hitchcock Madrona, a hip clothing and jewelry boutique, or shop for a special occasion at Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry, where you can find engagement rings, wedding bangs, and more. 

THINGS TO DO

Madrona offers unparalleled access to Lake Washington, making boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding popular options for residents, especially on warm summer days. You’ll also find picturesque parks dotted throughout town. Head to Madrona Park for a leisurely stroll or bring your bike to wind through the wooded hillside that slopes down toward Lake Washington. Madrona Beach Park is a popular spot with families to picnic, relax, or take a wild swim in the ice cold waters.

SCHOOLS

Madrona is served by the Seattle Public Schools District and offers many private options as well. Highlights include:

  • Madrona Elementary

  • Epiphany School

  • St. Therese Catholic Academy

  • The Valley School

  • The Bush School

MADISION PARK | WASHINGTON PARK | ARBORETUM

Madison Park is a charmingly chic oasis on the eastern banks of Lake Washington nestled in a beautiful setting that includes the 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum and swimmable Madison Park Beach. Defined by its quiet, relaxed ambience, traditional architecture, incredible natural amenities, and easy access to downtown, it’s easy to see why residents like Starbucks CEO Howard Schulz and actor Tom Skerrit call this neighborhood home. Families are drawn to its strong public and private schools, and busy professionals by its short commute and lush natural spaces. Whether you’re seeking a home on a peaceful street in a beautiful, manicured neighborhood or a luxury condo with unmatched views of Lake Washington, Madison Park offers residents a quiet, one-of-a-kind lifestyle close to the city that feels worlds away.

WHAT TO LOVE

  • Gorgeous traditional architecture, from Georgian brick to timbered Tudors, many with water views

  • Lush, well-kept neighborhoods

  • Quiet, idyllic beachside lifestyle

  • Excellent shops, restaurants, and cafes 

  • Three miles from the city but feels worlds away

  • Excellent Seattle School District

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

Originally a family farmstead, Madison Park has been a beloved neighborhood for decades, and it retains that small village, summer getaway charm even today. While it’s located mere miles from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Seattle, you’ll feel tucked away in a calm, beachside community full of friendly neighbors and boutique businesses. Within Madison Park you will also find the exclusive, 85-acre gated community of Broadmoor, with gorgeous traditional architecture built along a private golf course; as stunning Washington Park, renowned for its impeccable tree lined streets and impressive traditional residences; and timeless Canterbury with its beloved homes near the lake.  

Homes here range in size and style, from Georgian brick to timbered Tudors to luxury condos, but all are full of the character and charm that distinguishes this neighborhood. Madison Park residents who work in the city love the quick commute, and coming home feels like vacationing year round. 

SHOPPING, DINING, & ENTERTAINMENT

Madison Park is known for the quaint village shops and friendly restaurants that line its small downtown center. One popular option is Nishino, known as the city’s finest sushi restaurant. Cactus serves up Mexican and Southwest-inspired dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, and Belle Epicurean, whose Seattle-native chef was trained at Le Cordon Bleu, specializes in Parisian pastries.

When you’re in the mood for shopping, there are great local options right at your doorstep. Martha E. Harris florist and gifts has been supplying bouquets for momentous events for more than three decades, and Cookin’ at Madison Park is a wonderland for novice chefs seeking tools, cookware, dish sets, and anything else a burgeoning home chef might desire.  McQuesten Framing and Fine Art provides a full range of fine art services and is one of the last framers of its kind in the United States.

THINGS TO DO

A day in Madison Park is all about slowing down to truly experience the charm of the neighborhood. You can explore its lush, green streets, relax over a meal with friends on a breezy patio, or wander one of the many incredible parks or beaches. Madison Park Beach is one of the most popular fixtures for residents and visitors alike, with a swimmable beach, lifeguards, and a bath house. Here you can relax and have a picnic by the water, swim, and enjoy the outdoors. Residents are particularly proud of centuries-old Pioneer Hall, a museum on the National Register of Historic Places where you can learn about Washington and Seattle’s early history. Try a private lesson at Seattle Tennis Club, established in 1890. This beautiful club has 19 tennis courts, a fitness center, squash courts, pickleball courts, dining and banquet rooms, a pool, beachfront access, a boathouse and pro shop. Since its founding, it has hosted the annual Washington State Open, the state’s most prestigious tennis tournament.

Madison Park is also right next to one of Seattle’s crowning jewels: the Washington Park Arboretum. Its 230 acres feature a variety of plants–some of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest–and the amenities are many: from walking trails, to expert-guided tram tours, to birding, boating, and more.

SCHOOLS

Madison Park is served by the excellent Seattle School District. Highlights include:

  • McGilvra Elementary School

  • Montlake Elementary School

  • Seattle Hebrew Academy

  • The Bush School

  • Garfield High School

  • Epiphany School

MOUNT BAKER

Tucked between Leschi and Columbia City, Mount Baker is a prime waterfront neighborhood for those looking to prioritize close community and time in nature without straying too far from the city's core. Overlooking Lake Washington, many properties have gorgeous views of Mt. Rainier and Lake Washington as well as easy access to miles of public waterfront. Built predominantly between 1910-1930, the housing is traditional in style.

WHAT TO LOVE

  • One of Seattle’s oldest and most established suburbs

  • Miles of public waterfront, parks, and beaches

  • Luxury properties with great Lake Washington and Mount Rainier views

  • Great restaurants and local shops

  • Culturally diverse and politically active neighborhood

  • Served by the excellent Seattle School District

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

Nestled against Lake Washington and graced with verdant parks sloping to the shore, Mount Baker is Seattle neighborhood brimming with community, outdoor adventure, and scenic vistas. Beautiful Craftsman-style homes are set back from quiet, tree-lined streets, and neighbors are friendly and active in the community. A “we’re all in this together” spirit imbues the community who routinely come together to raise money for college scholarships or support causes close to their hearts. Residents who work in the city enjoy easy access to I-90, the light rail, and downtown.

DINING, SHOPPING, AND ENTERTAINMENT

Mount Baker has many delicious restaurant options. Stop in at cozy all-day café Mioposto for wood-fired pizza, or head next door to The Velvet Elk for craft cocktails and bar snacks. Another great option is Heyday, popular for its weekend brunch and gourmet burgers.

Paradice Avenue Souf, a clothing store and creative agency located at the Artspace Mt. Baker Lofts collaborates with local artists to design special clothing collections and Columbia City Theater will soon be home to Rainier Avenue Radio the Creative Arts Digital Media Academy.

THINGS TO DO

To start your day, grab a cup of sustainable, home roasted coffee and a light bite to eat at upbeat QED Coffee. You’re spoiled for choice of outdoor activities: go for a run on the trails of Colman Park, hit the bike trails of Lake Washington Boulevard Park, or relax, swim, or kayak at Mount Baker Beach. Mount Baker comes alive in the summer, when it hosts the hydroplane races of SeaFair and the Blue Angels air show.

SCHOOLS

Mount Baker is served by the excellent Seattle School District. Highlights include:

  • Franklin High School

  • The Lake and Park School

  • Kimball Elementary School

  • Giddens School

LESCHI

Leschi’s mellow, small-town vibe on coveted urban real estate overlooking Lake Washington make it perfect for families and young professionals alike. A vibrant business area along the water with restaurants, shops, and cafes coupled with beautiful, walkable neighborhoods add to its scenic charm.

WHAT TO LOVE

  • Idyllic water views with easy access to downtown

  • Architecturally diverse: modern lakeside condos, charming bungalows, and Tudor style homes

  • Amazing natural spaces, play areas for the kids, manicured green areas, plenty of hiking trails and a place to moor your boat 

  • Vibrant harbor area with restaurants, cafes, shops, and businesses

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

Leschi offers incredible waterfront living with easy proximity to the city, making it a relished locale for families and young professionals. The neighborhood is perfectly located for those who need to get downtown or over to the Eastside. Scenic winding roads intersect with wooded nature trails, and you’ll see runners, cyclists, and hikers enjoying the many trails and parks. Delicious restaurants and cafes line the waterfront, and the Leschi marina attracts sailing and boating enthusiasts. 

SHOPPING, DINING, and ENTERTAINMENT

The heart of Leschi’s dining is found on the waterfront. Popular, family-owned Leschi Market is the perfect spot to pick up everything you’d need for a waterside picnic. With a full service butcher, fresh deli, organic produce, and extensive selection of fine wine and craft beer, you’ll never leave here empty handed. Bluwater Bistro is another favorite, with a cozy atmosphere, lake views, and dishes like Dungeness Mac and Cheese and Salmon Street Tacos. For a staff that treats you like a regular and a menu that delivers comfort and flavor,  cherished neighborhood gathering place Meet the Moon is another stand out.

THINGS TO DO

Leschi’s easy access to Lake Washington draws a vibrant boating and sailing community who utilize the friendly services of Leschi Marina to start and end their adventures on the lake. Outdoor enthusiasts love the 20 acres of rolling hillside groves planted with exotic trees and gardens of roses of Leschi Park. Connected to Leschi Park by a winding path, another great spot is Frink Park, which boasts athletic fields, vast hiking trails, and plenty of green space to just relax. 

SCHOOLS

  • Leschi Elementary School

  • Seattle Girls’ School

  • Garfield High School

  • Washington Middle School

  • First Place Elementary School

CAPITOL HILL | ROANOKE PARK | PORTAGE BAY

Youthful energy meets stately history in this vibrant, lively, and diverse neighborhood that grows more popular every year. If you’re looking to live in the thriving cultural hub of Seattle, Cap Hill should be at the top of your list. Highly rated for its walkability, spend your days strolling one of the many parks, browsing unique shops and cafes, and then indulging late into the night at one of the hundreds of top restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. In addition to being a center for nightlife, entertainment, and independent spirit, it’s also home to some of the city’s most high-end neighborhoods, including the famed Millionaire’s Row. From turn-of-the-century Tudor-style homes, to modern luxury condos and hip loft spaces, Capital Hill offers some of the absolute best in Seattle living. 

To the north of Cap Hill are the charming park and waterfront neighborhoods of Portage Bay and Roanoke.  Portage Bay’s tree lined streets boast beautiful Tudor and Craftsman style homes and easy access to Portage Bay. The Bay attracts rowers, yachtsmen, and a fair few houseboats who all enjoy the beautiful views and quiet waterfront lifestyle that characterizes the neighborhood. 

WHAT TO LOVE

  • One of Seattle’s most historic neighborhoods with an array of unique properties

  • Eclectic energy and thriving, diverse businesses

  • Beautiful, easy to navigate streets and neighborhoods

  • Located right in the heart of the city near downtown

  • Over 350 delicious and trendy restaurants, coffeehouses, microbreweries, taverns, bars, and fringe theaters

  • Part of the excellent Seattle Public School District, with a number of private options available as well

PEOPLE & LIFESTYLE

The thriving nightlife, excellent microbreweries and taverns, and lively arts & culture scene make Capitol Hill a top choice for young residents. Yet, it’s also perfect for those seeking a luxury property that is right in the heart of the city and imbued with the true beauty and spirit of Seattle. Residents spend their days trying award winning restaurants and cafés, exploring the walkable parks and streets full of historic architecture, and enjoying an incredibly short commute to the business and economic hub of downtown. 

Portage Bay is a hidden gem just south of the Eastlake Bridge and north of Cap Hill, where residents thrive in the lakeside setting in the heart of Seattle. Residents enjoy easy access to one of the many lush parks nearby, stroll along the lake’s shore, and appreciate the colorful sunsets over the Seattle skyline.  

DINING, ENTERTAINMENT, and SHOPPING

Capitol Hill  and Portage Bay have some of the most–and most diverse–dining options in the city, covering not only a wide variety of styles but also prices. Spinasse is a cozy and intimate Italian place named not only one of the best restaurants in Seattle but one of the top 5 Italian restaurants in the nation. A Galician-style Tapas spot with friendly staff, Maripili Tapas Bar has a Spanish-forward wine list and all-around good energy. Momiji serves us epertly made, traditional Japanese food sourced from local Pacific Northwest meats, fish, and ingredients. A Portage Bay neighborhood favorite and one of Seattle’s oldest bars, Roanoke Park Place has 15 beers on tap and some of Seattle’s best local craft beers.

Quirky indie stores and unique small businesses embodying the spirit of the area. Arguably, the city's best bookstore, Elliott Bay Book Company, is here. So is one of Seattle's (and Western Washington's) best art stores, Blick. You'll also find favorites like Everyday Music, where you’ll find an unparalleled collection of vinyl and CDs, as well as Totokaelo, a high-end boutique that sells expertly-curated designer clothing and accessories.

THINGS TO DO

Capitol Hill is one of Seattle’s most vibrant communities—you’ll always find a variety of events and new activities to keep you entertained! Rain or shine, you can find the Capitol Hill Farmers Market open every Sunday year round, selling fresh produce, artisanal baked goods, and hot tamales. 

Capitol Hill offers access to some of Seattle’s best natural beauty. The heart and soul of Cap Hill is Cal Anderson Park, recently named one of the nations “best parks” by Forbes Magazine. Another beloved landmark is Volunteer Park, where beautifully-landscaped gardens bloom with dahlias all summer long and while you explore walking trails, play areas, wading pools, and artistic exhibitions. Nearby, adjacent to the district, is the Washington Park Arboretum, a sprawling park full of walking trails, plant life from across the globe, and Seattle’s famous Japanese Garden.

From Portage Bay, you have easy access to Interlaken Park, Roanoke Park, and Boren Park. Roanoke Park is a neighborhood favorite and ideal place to enjoy a picnic. It’s two acres of lush green space right in the neighborhood, and has fruit trees that burst into color in the spring. And of course, you are right on the shores of Portage Bay, where you’ll find a vibrant yacht club, active rowing club, and miles of lakeshore beauty to walk or run.

SCHOOLS

Capitol Hill and Portage Bay are served by the Seattle Public Schools District. Highlights include:

  • Holy Names Academy 

  • St. Joseph’s School

  • Stevens Elementary School

  • Washington Middle School

  • Garfield High School

 

WORK WITH NANCY

Whatever your real estate dreams, I can help you reach your goals with confidence. Browse the most current real estate data and search for available homes in the areas of your choice. When you’re ready, feel free to contact me so that I can put the power of Coldwell Banker Bain to work for you.