The neighborhood known as South Lake Union (SLU) is one of Seattle’s fastest up and coming and, for those who work downtown, considered among its most desirable places to live. Summertime sees all manner of watercraft––kayaks, rowboats, yachts, sailboats, and tour boats –– out on this wonderful aquatic asset in the middle of the city. Kenmore Air’s seaplanes buzz in and out of the water like dragonflies, on their way to the San Juan Islands and points north… following in the wake of Bill Boeing’s first plane, the seaplane he called “Bluebill” which took off here on its maiden flight.
The past decade has seen phenomenal changes to the neighborhood, which once was marked only by warehouses, studios, and businesses such as Western Mill, one of Seattle’s first industries. Today the SLU neighborhood, bordered by I-5, Highway 99, and Denny Way, encompasses the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the Center for Wooden Boats, numerous fine restaurants and cafes, a completely redone Denny Park, and a brand new cluster of condos that offer every possible state-of-the-art amenity. The flagship store REI is here, too, just down the street from a charming Russian Orthodox Church topped with blue and gold onion domes.
Designated by “districts,” the neighborhood offers an eclectic assortment of businesses, a farmer’s market, excellent international and home décor shopping opportunities and fascinating things to do on a leisurely weekend. At the South Lake Union Discovery Center you can learn about the past, present, and future of this constantly changing neighborhood; an exceptional model of the area is worth the visit alone.
The Westlake/Terry streets district has been called SLU’s spine, and Seattle’s only streetcar runs along it and into downtown. The Gateway District is a lively neighborhood hub; here you can shop for organic produce at Whole Foods; dine on pizza at Tutta Bella (sanctioned by Naples, Italy); hang out at the Rhum Bar, at the trendy Asian-Latino restaurant, Marazul; or watch a movie under a summer starlit canopy. Eighth Avenue is one of the oldest Seattle sections, hallmarked by brick- and tree-lined streets and a few unique and innovative businesses such as Glazer’s Camera, Ivey Imaging, and Jones Soda. New lofts and brownstones, boutiques and cafes will make this one of the area’s hotspots. For those who love a lively urban scene, condos and apartments with dreamy views and green living spaces, and a gorgeous lakefront setting complete with boats and seaplanes and wonderful walkways, then South Lake Union is sure to be Seattle’s newest neighborhood jewel.
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