Ballard Neighborhood
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Ballard has been called a city within a city. In fact, it was a city for just 16 short years until Seattle annexed it back in 1907. Which explains, by the way, the Free Ballard bumper stickers you see from time to time.
“Ballard was old Scandinavians,” explains comedian John Keister, who cracked jokes about Ballard’s slow, elderly drivers back in the 90s. “Today, it’s a bunch of wealthy people who work in the information industry.” Well, not everyone is wealthy, but Ballard certainly has transformed into a popular destination for 20- and 30-somethings. At the same time, much of the neighborhood’s Scandinavian fishing culture remains.
Home to terrific restaurants, shops and pubs, Old Ballard is one of Seattle’s most popular weekend hangouts — especially on Sunday, when the Ballard Farmers Market takes over Ballard Ave.
Officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, the Ballard Locks is one of Seattle’s most popular tourist attractions, especially during the sunny months. The grounds also feature a fish ladder and the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden — one of the most beautiful park settings in Seattle.
Ballard is also home to one of Seattle’s most beautiful beaches. Golden Gardens Park attracts large crowds during summer months and loyal locals during the winter.
To learn more about Ballard, visit the neighborhood’s blog, MyBallard.com.