Are you moving to Seattle? Or maybe you’ve decided to switch it up and move from the Eastside to Belltown. At any rate, I’ve compiled a list of great tips to help you get to know Belltown—Seattle’s home for trendy restaurants, nightclubs, markets and so much more.
Pike Place Market
Not only is it the number one tourist destination in all of Washington State but it’s also within walking distance from you. It’s the home of local farmers, craftsman and merchants where you can find anything from fresh produce to stunning works of art. You can even get to know a favorite produce stand and become a regular. Fish? Yes, please.
Parking
We all know—parking can be a pain. But here’s a tip: a majority of the 30 Min. Commercial Loading yellow signs allow free parking after 6 p.m. Most people don’t take advantage of these great parking spots and they open up regularly from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. And make sure to watch out for the towing in 3 p.m. areas to allow for bus traffic and rush hour traffic.
Social Services
Being so close to the downtown area, there’s bound to be a host of social services. But it creates a nice mix of income neighborhoods and brings in a lot of diversity. Everyone can fit right in – even those that talk to themselves (with or without a Bluetooth).
Driving
Belltown is apparently a huge fan of one-way streets. But if you can remember this tip, then you’re golden: if you’re headed South take 2nd Ave. and if you’re going North take 4th Ave. It’s that easy.
Cabs
Don’t worry about programming a cab number into your phone. If you’re walking down 1st or 2nd Avenue there are plenty of cabs to grab. And if all else fails just walk up to one of the dozens of downtown hotels and visit their cabstand.
Bus: Ride Free Zones & Times
Trust me, you’re going to want to memorize the Ride Free Zones and Times. For example, you can bus for free to the Stadium Area for a Mariners Game, but most night games will cost you to bus home due to the time restrictions on the ride free zone. It’s definitely worth checking out to help you get around for as little money as possible.
Getting to the Airport
Our brand new Link Light Rail is a great way to the airport from Belltown. Just go on down to the Bus Terminal on 4th Ave and Pine St. and you’ll be able to get on board and “ride the wave.”
Grocery Stores
A lot of people moving into any downtown area ask “But where can I shop for groceries?” Fret not–downtown Seattle has a lot of great options that are closer to you than if you lived in the suburbs. I’m not kidding. There’s Whole Foods on Westlake @ Denny, Safeway in Lower Queen Anne, & Metropolitan Market also in Lower Queen Anne. And what’s even better, they all have free parking. And if you need to pick up something on the go, there’s also Ralph’s at 4th & Lenora which is a great little store with extended hours that’s within walking distance to most Belltown Condos.
Lunch
I’ll admit, it’s easier to find a place in Belltown to eat dinner than lunch. But if you’re really jonesing, I’d say some of the top places to grab lunch in Belltown are Buffalo Deli, Tandoori Hut, Belltown Pub, and Buckley’s. But a walk to the market is probably your best bet for lunch. And if you have never been to Market Grill – stop what you are doing and run there for lunch tomorrow! I’m serious.
Nightlife
If you’re looking for the party crowd, 1st Ave (between Blanchard and Battery) is always hopping Thurs.-Sat. nights. I’d suggest starting at the Frontier Room, SeeSound, Amber, Ohana, Belltown Billiards, DelRay or Twist. But if you’re more interested in a creative or alternative night out, try visiting 2nd Ave where you can find NightLite, Whisky Bar, JuJu, Rendezvous, Buddha Belltown, and Shorty’s. Either way, you’re going to have a great time.
There you have it! I hope you find this helpful in your Seattle Belltown Condo search. Was there anything I missed?
