Ballard and the Magic Three Beauty History and Community
Ballard is located in Seattle, Washington, and is a considerably large neighborhood just across the ship canal from the the Magnolia neighborhood, just west of Queen Anne and downtown. Puget Sound’s Shilshole Bay borders its westernmost side, making a large portion of this neighborhood right on the waterfront. The Washington Ship Canal, it’s southernmost edge, connects Lake Washington, the second largest lake in the state with Lake Union, the small freshwater lake that sits just to the north of downtown Seattle.
Ballard is a highly popular place for people to relocate because of its rich historical heritage, location and ambiance. Ballard is historically a largely Scandinavian-populated area. This is mainly because of the opportunities for salmon fishing in this particular part of Seattle. There is still an annual Norwegian Constitution Day celebrated, and the Nordic Heritage Museum is located in Ballard.
Ballard is a hub for artists, jazz lovers, history-buffs, young people, families and professionals. It truly features an eclectic blend of Seattle locals, and for good reason. Ballard is known for being a particularly beautiful area of Washington, with its ocean views and direct water access. Golden Gardens Park borders the westernmost edge of Ballard along the ocean, and is one of the most beautiful parks in all of Washington. It is also one of the most popular. With views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, it is simply one of the best places to have a picnic, go ocean swimming, play volleyball, sunbath, hike along the rugged coastline or go fishing off the pier. There was even an off-leash dog park recently added.
Ballard features some of the most eco-friendly and conscientious residents of Washington. For example, a new nonprofit group called Sustainable Ballard is dedicated to reducing neighborhood traffic. They are also working on a project called, “Get Carbon Neutral,” and their goal is making Ballard the first carbon neutral community in the nation. The Ballard community is tight-knit, and loving.
Downtown Ballard is a treat for residents and tourists alike. Featuring some of the most excellent shopping, coffeeshops, bars and restaurants in the state, it should not be missed. This neighborhood is known especially for its pan-Asian restaurants and, of course, its Scandinavian inspired cuisine. The Ballard Seafood Festival draws a great crowd, and the artwalk put on every second Saturday of the month is a truly special event. There is a thriving arts community in Ballard, and its comes to life during the artwalk. There is an especial love for jazz in the area as well, and the musicians add color and life.
Homes in Ballard often reflect its historical roots, but this area is currently experiencing rapid growth as well. New condominiums and single-family homes are springing up all the time, and give people thinking to relocate tons of options for living spaces. Whether you are looking for a sprawling home with ocean views or a small, modern condo in the heart of it all, Ballard can offer it.
This article was produced by Eric Badgley; specializing in Ballard Real Estate and Seattle Real Estate.
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