Ravenna / Bryant
Ranked 17th best neighborhood in Seattle
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Great for
- Parks & Recreation
- Peace & Quiet
- Clean & Green
- Public Transport
- Neighborly Spirit
Not great for
- Medical Facilities
- Parking
- Shopping Options
- Childcare
- Nightlife
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Students
Got a burning question? Why not ask the locals! Simply ask your question below
Reviews
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Resale or Rental Value
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
- Childcare
Editors Choice
"A Residential Community Of Professors And Graduate Students, With A Great Shopping Center"
Named after a city in Italy, Ravenna lies to the north of the University District and Laurelhurst. It's (Ravenna/Bryant) boundaries fall on Roosevelt Way and 20th Avenue NE in the west, NE 85th Street in the north, 30th Avenue / 35th Avenue / Sandpoint Way NE in the east, and NE 45th Street in the south.
History
The Duwamish Native Americans occupied this area until white settlers arrived in the 1800's. A railroad ran through the area, much of what is now known as the Burke-Gilman Trail (http://bitly.com/b9XkAC). Cowen Park (http://bitly.com/9UlzXK) stood as an old growth forest until the early 1900's, then mysteriously was deforested.
Demographics and Income
The neighborhood is predominantly white, with much of the population comprising of university professors and graduate students. In fact, Ravenna Boulevard has been known as "Professors' Row". A small contingency of other ethnicities reside here, with Asian being the largest. Hispanics and Blacks follow with even smaller representations. Any other racial variations are just a blip on the screen for this community. Income levels, as would be expected in a mostly White area near a renown university campus, are those of middle to upper-middle class. Salaries range from around $70K to $122K, except for a the area in and around the University Village Shopping Center (www.uvillage.com). This could be due to a higher presence of apartments in this area. A friend of mine resides here, paying very affordable rent in Seattle, I might add.
Real Estate
The value of detached houses in Ravenna/Bryant ride closely with the Seattle Average. A major rift occurs when comparing townhome values, which are almost $100K apart. Homes currently on the market range in price from $250K to $1.7 million, according to Zillow (http://zillow.com).
Culture
An academic feel, no doubt. Students from the University of Washington (http://washington.edu) can be seen virtually everywhere, especially in the southern half of the neighborhood. Driving along Ravenna Boulevard brings a more distinguished, Ivy League feel. The University Village Shopping Center draws upper class patrons from all over Seattle. On football weekends, Husky fans proliferate the pubs and restaurants.
Restaurants, Pubs and Coffee Houses
Beginning in the south, with the University Village Shopping Center (http://uvillage.com), will give plenty to consider. Here are a few within the confines of the U. Village... Blue C Sushi (http://bluecsushi.com), Boom Restaurant - Japanese/Asian (http://boomnoodle.com), Starbuck's (http://starbucks.com), Delfino's Pizza (http://delfinospizza.com), Johnny Rockets - 50's diner (http://johnnyrockets.com), Pallino Pastaria - Italian (http://pallino.com), Sonrisa Modern Mex (http://sonrisamodernmex.com), Pasta & Co - Ready-to-eat meals (http://pastaco.com), and Specialty's Cafe and Bakery (http://specialtysdirect.com). Some other establishments in the southern half, not located within the shopping center, are Thai Dusit (http://thaidusit.net), The Coffee Drop Cafe - Opened June 2010 (http://coffeedropcafe.com), and Zoka Cofee Roaster & Tea Company (http://zokacoffee.com). Looking north, another list of great venues... Third Place Books (http://thirdplacebooks.com), Top Pot Doughnuts (http://toppotdoughnuts.com), Grateful Bread Baking Co. Cafe (http://gratefulbreadbaking.com), Crepe Cafe & Wine Bar (http://bitly.com/ct2YaQ), Garlic Jim's Famous Gourmet Pizza (http://garlicjims.com), Pied Piper Ale House (http://bitly.com/9vO2Ab), Casa D'Italia (http://casaditaliaseattle.com), Frank's Oyster House and Chamagne Parlor (http://franksoysterhouse.com), and Gaudi - Taste of Spain (http://gaudiseattle.com).
Shopping and other Amenities
Besides the upper echelon shops of The University Village, Ravenna and Bryant do dish up a plethora of businesses for any lifestyle. For cycling enthusiasts, try out the Bicycle Center (http://bicyclecenterofseattle.com). Convenience is the word at Counterbalance Bicycles (http://counterbalancebicycles.com), right off the Burke-Gilman Trail. For those inspiring to be chefs, there is Cook's World (http://cooksworld.net). The Acorn Street Yarn Shop (http://acornstreet.com) can help with any material sewing project. The Metropolitan Market (http://metropolitan-market.com) offers high quality food items, from A to Z. A creative spot for a special occasion, such as a birthday, is found at the Queen Mary Tea Room (http://queenmarytea.com). Hotels are not as common as the bed and breakfasts. For instance, consider Chambered Nautilus Bed and Breakfast Inn (http://chamberednautilus.com), Academe Arms Guest House (http://academearms.com), or University View House - Vacation Rental (http://universityviewhouse.com). The Travelodge Hotel (http://travelodgesseattleuniversity.com) and Silver Cloud Inn (http://silvercloud.com) are more institutional choices for accommodations.
Schools and Recreation Facilities
The most prominent natural setting within the neighborhood is Cowen Park (http://bitly.com/9UlzXK). Despite the large acreage of wooded beauty, complete with ravine, the park offers sports facilities and a play area for kids. For skating enthusiasts, Dahl Park (http://bitly.com/bxs7eH) opened for business in June 2010. A scaled down park, convenient for quick family outings, is Froula Park (http://bitly.com/9RhSUM) on the west side. Looking for more organized indoor activities for toddlers? Check out The Little Gym (http://thelittlegym.com) featuring activities like karate, cheerleading and dance for Preschool and Grade School children. Wedgwood Co-Op is a place for intellectual stimulation for preschoolers (http://wedgwoodcoop.org). University Prep (http://universityprep.org), an independent school with an attention to high-end academics via a diverse and inclusive community. Other schools include Northwest Montessori (http://northwestmontessori.org), Eckstein Middle School (http://ecksteineagles.org), Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio (http://roaringmouse.org), Roosevelt High School (http://rhsseattle.org), The Perkins School - Grade School (http://perkinsschool.com), Thrive Art School (http://drawingschool.com), Bertrand Chez Vous - Culinary Tours (http://bertrandchezvous.com), Kumon Math and Reading Center - in the University Village (http://kumon.com), Seattle Languages - Fully accredited language institute (http://seattlelanguages.com), and the Center for Yoga of Seattle (http://yogaseattle.com).
Medical Facilities
The close proximity to places like the University of Washington Medical Center (http://uwmedicine.washington.edu) and Seattle Children's Hospital (http://seattlechildrens.org) can virtually cover all health care needs. However, to name some other locations of medical-related offices... Active Foot & Ankle Clinic (http://activefootandankle.com), Rain City Rolfing (http://allankaplan.net), Sweet Skin Spa (http://sweetskinspa.com), Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital (http://hhvh.net), Virginia Mason Sand Point Pediatrics (http://bitly.com/aeOwgI), and Seattle Skin & Laser (http://seattleskinandlaser.com).
Access
A number of arterials pass through Ravenna and Bryant, including 15th Avenue NE, 25th Avenue NE, NE 45th Street, Sand Point Way NE, NE Ravenna Boulevard, NE 55th Street, NE 65th Street and NE 75th Street. There is no direct access to Interstate 5 within the neighborhood, but can be indirectly reached via 45th or 70th. The location of this community is ideal to reach all areas of Seattle, and then some.
Summary
Even with the occasional headaches (Namely, traffic issues) that come with living close to a large university and popular shopping center, the Ravenna/Bryant neighborhood still delivers quality residential living. The area north of 55th Street, especially, has family-friendly housing and quiet neighborhoods. Professors and graduate students are not the only demographic finding solstice here, but singles and couples working outside the confines of public education. Whether for the purpose of locating a home or further exploring Seattle treasures, this neighborhood is sure to please.
History
The Duwamish Native Americans occupied this area until white settlers arrived in the 1800's. A railroad ran through the area, much of what is now known as the Burke-Gilman Trail (http://bitly.com/b9XkAC). Cowen Park (http://bitly.com/9UlzXK) stood as an old growth forest until the early 1900's, then mysteriously was deforested.
Demographics and Income
The neighborhood is predominantly white, with much of the population comprising of university professors and graduate students. In fact, Ravenna Boulevard has been known as "Professors' Row". A small contingency of other ethnicities reside here, with Asian being the largest. Hispanics and Blacks follow with even smaller representations. Any other racial variations are just a blip on the screen for this community. Income levels, as would be expected in a mostly White area near a renown university campus, are those of middle to upper-middle class. Salaries range from around $70K to $122K, except for a the area in and around the University Village Shopping Center (www.uvillage.com). This could be due to a higher presence of apartments in this area. A friend of mine resides here, paying very affordable rent in Seattle, I might add.
Real Estate
The value of detached houses in Ravenna/Bryant ride closely with the Seattle Average. A major rift occurs when comparing townhome values, which are almost $100K apart. Homes currently on the market range in price from $250K to $1.7 million, according to Zillow (http://zillow.com).
Culture
An academic feel, no doubt. Students from the University of Washington (http://washington.edu) can be seen virtually everywhere, especially in the southern half of the neighborhood. Driving along Ravenna Boulevard brings a more distinguished, Ivy League feel. The University Village Shopping Center draws upper class patrons from all over Seattle. On football weekends, Husky fans proliferate the pubs and restaurants.
Restaurants, Pubs and Coffee Houses
Beginning in the south, with the University Village Shopping Center (http://uvillage.com), will give plenty to consider. Here are a few within the confines of the U. Village... Blue C Sushi (http://bluecsushi.com), Boom Restaurant - Japanese/Asian (http://boomnoodle.com), Starbuck's (http://starbucks.com), Delfino's Pizza (http://delfinospizza.com), Johnny Rockets - 50's diner (http://johnnyrockets.com), Pallino Pastaria - Italian (http://pallino.com), Sonrisa Modern Mex (http://sonrisamodernmex.com), Pasta & Co - Ready-to-eat meals (http://pastaco.com), and Specialty's Cafe and Bakery (http://specialtysdirect.com). Some other establishments in the southern half, not located within the shopping center, are Thai Dusit (http://thaidusit.net), The Coffee Drop Cafe - Opened June 2010 (http://coffeedropcafe.com), and Zoka Cofee Roaster & Tea Company (http://zokacoffee.com). Looking north, another list of great venues... Third Place Books (http://thirdplacebooks.com), Top Pot Doughnuts (http://toppotdoughnuts.com), Grateful Bread Baking Co. Cafe (http://gratefulbreadbaking.com), Crepe Cafe & Wine Bar (http://bitly.com/ct2YaQ), Garlic Jim's Famous Gourmet Pizza (http://garlicjims.com), Pied Piper Ale House (http://bitly.com/9vO2Ab), Casa D'Italia (http://casaditaliaseattle.com), Frank's Oyster House and Chamagne Parlor (http://franksoysterhouse.com), and Gaudi - Taste of Spain (http://gaudiseattle.com).
Shopping and other Amenities
Besides the upper echelon shops of The University Village, Ravenna and Bryant do dish up a plethora of businesses for any lifestyle. For cycling enthusiasts, try out the Bicycle Center (http://bicyclecenterofseattle.com). Convenience is the word at Counterbalance Bicycles (http://counterbalancebicycles.com), right off the Burke-Gilman Trail. For those inspiring to be chefs, there is Cook's World (http://cooksworld.net). The Acorn Street Yarn Shop (http://acornstreet.com) can help with any material sewing project. The Metropolitan Market (http://metropolitan-market.com) offers high quality food items, from A to Z. A creative spot for a special occasion, such as a birthday, is found at the Queen Mary Tea Room (http://queenmarytea.com). Hotels are not as common as the bed and breakfasts. For instance, consider Chambered Nautilus Bed and Breakfast Inn (http://chamberednautilus.com), Academe Arms Guest House (http://academearms.com), or University View House - Vacation Rental (http://universityviewhouse.com). The Travelodge Hotel (http://travelodgesseattleuniversity.com) and Silver Cloud Inn (http://silvercloud.com) are more institutional choices for accommodations.
Schools and Recreation Facilities
The most prominent natural setting within the neighborhood is Cowen Park (http://bitly.com/9UlzXK). Despite the large acreage of wooded beauty, complete with ravine, the park offers sports facilities and a play area for kids. For skating enthusiasts, Dahl Park (http://bitly.com/bxs7eH) opened for business in June 2010. A scaled down park, convenient for quick family outings, is Froula Park (http://bitly.com/9RhSUM) on the west side. Looking for more organized indoor activities for toddlers? Check out The Little Gym (http://thelittlegym.com) featuring activities like karate, cheerleading and dance for Preschool and Grade School children. Wedgwood Co-Op is a place for intellectual stimulation for preschoolers (http://wedgwoodcoop.org). University Prep (http://universityprep.org), an independent school with an attention to high-end academics via a diverse and inclusive community. Other schools include Northwest Montessori (http://northwestmontessori.org), Eckstein Middle School (http://ecksteineagles.org), Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio (http://roaringmouse.org), Roosevelt High School (http://rhsseattle.org), The Perkins School - Grade School (http://perkinsschool.com), Thrive Art School (http://drawingschool.com), Bertrand Chez Vous - Culinary Tours (http://bertrandchezvous.com), Kumon Math and Reading Center - in the University Village (http://kumon.com), Seattle Languages - Fully accredited language institute (http://seattlelanguages.com), and the Center for Yoga of Seattle (http://yogaseattle.com).
Medical Facilities
The close proximity to places like the University of Washington Medical Center (http://uwmedicine.washington.edu) and Seattle Children's Hospital (http://seattlechildrens.org) can virtually cover all health care needs. However, to name some other locations of medical-related offices... Active Foot & Ankle Clinic (http://activefootandankle.com), Rain City Rolfing (http://allankaplan.net), Sweet Skin Spa (http://sweetskinspa.com), Hawthorne Hills Veterinary Hospital (http://hhvh.net), Virginia Mason Sand Point Pediatrics (http://bitly.com/aeOwgI), and Seattle Skin & Laser (http://seattleskinandlaser.com).
Access
A number of arterials pass through Ravenna and Bryant, including 15th Avenue NE, 25th Avenue NE, NE 45th Street, Sand Point Way NE, NE Ravenna Boulevard, NE 55th Street, NE 65th Street and NE 75th Street. There is no direct access to Interstate 5 within the neighborhood, but can be indirectly reached via 45th or 70th. The location of this community is ideal to reach all areas of Seattle, and then some.
Summary
Even with the occasional headaches (Namely, traffic issues) that come with living close to a large university and popular shopping center, the Ravenna/Bryant neighborhood still delivers quality residential living. The area north of 55th Street, especially, has family-friendly housing and quiet neighborhoods. Professors and graduate students are not the only demographic finding solstice here, but singles and couples working outside the confines of public education. Whether for the purpose of locating a home or further exploring Seattle treasures, this neighborhood is sure to please.
Pros
- Large outdoor shopping plaza
- Close to major university
- Good bicycle trails
Cons
- High traffic on arterial streets
- Expensive housing
- Difficult Interstate access (From east side)
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Good for UW master’s students"
The only reason I'd consider living in Ravenna is if I decided to do a master’s at UW. That’s what some of my friends are doing and so far they seem to like Ravenna. I’ve checked out the neighborhood a few times and I think I’d like it because it’s super close to the university but not ONLY undergrads live here. Though honestly at this point Capitol Hill would probably be a first choice.
Also it’s super close to Green Lake which is awesome. Being close to the U Village Shopping Center would be nice too. They have pretty good stores for my taste. But it is pretty quiet, so I’d probably live near Roosevelt where there’s more happening.
Pies and Pints is probably my favorite place so far. Trivia night is the best!! Another favorite is Jet City Improv, the comedy place. But fair warning-- don’t sit up front unless you want to participate. Haha! Luckily they serve up liquid courage to help you participate and come up with ideas for the comedians.
Oh also I like how close it is to the Burke-Gilman trail for running. The streets are quiet enough to that you could run through the neighborhood without being slowed down too much by cars or traffic lights.
Also it’s super close to Green Lake which is awesome. Being close to the U Village Shopping Center would be nice too. They have pretty good stores for my taste. But it is pretty quiet, so I’d probably live near Roosevelt where there’s more happening.
Pies and Pints is probably my favorite place so far. Trivia night is the best!! Another favorite is Jet City Improv, the comedy place. But fair warning-- don’t sit up front unless you want to participate. Haha! Luckily they serve up liquid courage to help you participate and come up with ideas for the comedians.
Oh also I like how close it is to the Burke-Gilman trail for running. The streets are quiet enough to that you could run through the neighborhood without being slowed down too much by cars or traffic lights.
Pros
- Good bicycle trails
- Neighborly spirit
- Walkable
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Gym & Fitness
- Public Transport
"Perfect for the fitness and health-minded"
I think if I lived in Ravenna I would be much healthier than I am now.
Let me start with all the delicious vegetarian food. There’s Wayward Vegan Café for amazing vegan breakfast and comfort food. Then there’s Sunlight café, with very healthy vegetarian food, full of veggies. And down the road is Thrive, which has gluten AND dairy-free food plus smoothies. For seafood eaters, there’s the Sushi Tokyo which I love. Also, healthy. See what I mean? And for groceries, there are two PCC’s nearby, which are grocery stores focused on healthy eating and organics.
Next I have to mention Community Fitness. This is not a typical gym. It’s all classes, and you purchase passes or a membership to attend. They expanded to two buildings, and increased their offerings. And they have SO MANY different classes. All the way from weightlifting to Qigong. Even though I live in Wallingford, I purchased a 10 class pack so I could attend some of the classes that aren’t available at my gym.
Lastly I’ll point out how close the neighborhood is to Green Lake. I believe the perception is that it is far away, because it’s separated by I-5. But you can easily go under I-5 and you’re in Green Lake in 5 minutes—perfect for a long walk.
But one of the reasons I chose not to live in the neighborhood is currently it can be a pain to get downtown or to South Lake Union. However, a light rail station is being installed in the neighborhood, which will make Ravenna much more accessible. I’d buy now if you’re considering it, because that installation will undoubtedly make this one of the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle!
Let me start with all the delicious vegetarian food. There’s Wayward Vegan Café for amazing vegan breakfast and comfort food. Then there’s Sunlight café, with very healthy vegetarian food, full of veggies. And down the road is Thrive, which has gluten AND dairy-free food plus smoothies. For seafood eaters, there’s the Sushi Tokyo which I love. Also, healthy. See what I mean? And for groceries, there are two PCC’s nearby, which are grocery stores focused on healthy eating and organics.
Next I have to mention Community Fitness. This is not a typical gym. It’s all classes, and you purchase passes or a membership to attend. They expanded to two buildings, and increased their offerings. And they have SO MANY different classes. All the way from weightlifting to Qigong. Even though I live in Wallingford, I purchased a 10 class pack so I could attend some of the classes that aren’t available at my gym.
Lastly I’ll point out how close the neighborhood is to Green Lake. I believe the perception is that it is far away, because it’s separated by I-5. But you can easily go under I-5 and you’re in Green Lake in 5 minutes—perfect for a long walk.
But one of the reasons I chose not to live in the neighborhood is currently it can be a pain to get downtown or to South Lake Union. However, a light rail station is being installed in the neighborhood, which will make Ravenna much more accessible. I’d buy now if you’re considering it, because that installation will undoubtedly make this one of the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle!
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Parks & Recreation
"Family activities—gym, restaurants, stores"
We take our daughter to The Little Gym in Ravenna. It is a great place for children. She does the gymnastics class. When she was smaller we did the parent-child classes. It is good for children’s motor skills and coordination. She has made new friends in class and is learning a lot. They also have parties and classes for other ages of children. The only problem is that it is expensive. But the high-quality teachers and gym equipment is worth the cost.
Sometimes we will stop at Chiang’s Gourmet Restaurant afterwards for dim sum. They also make homemade noodles. You must ask for the “Chinese Menu” to see many of the authentic dishes. For some reason they do not include them on the “American Menu.”
Because the neighborhood is so close to Green Lake, sometimes we will visit Green Lake before class. It is only about 5 minutes drive away. Also I like the “Ten Thousand Village” fair trade store nearby. It has many beautiful household items from around the world. They also have colorful children’s items and interesting children’s books. Better than things offered in the department store. The toys are unique and handmade.
Sometimes we will stop at Chiang’s Gourmet Restaurant afterwards for dim sum. They also make homemade noodles. You must ask for the “Chinese Menu” to see many of the authentic dishes. For some reason they do not include them on the “American Menu.”
Because the neighborhood is so close to Green Lake, sometimes we will visit Green Lake before class. It is only about 5 minutes drive away. Also I like the “Ten Thousand Village” fair trade store nearby. It has many beautiful household items from around the world. They also have colorful children’s items and interesting children’s books. Better than things offered in the department store. The toys are unique and handmade.
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Public Transport
"A cozy neighborhood outside of the Seattle and UW rush"
Ravenna is a cute little neighborhood wedged between the University District in the South, I-5 in the West, and Northgate in the north. To the east are a few other small neighborhoods before you get to Lake Washington.
Walkable, neighborhood feel:
One of the best things about Ravenna is it’s neighborhood vibe. A lot of the residential areas are within walking distance to the two clusters of shops and restaurants on Roosevelt and on 65th. You can also walk to Ravenna Park, which is a focal point of the neighborhood. The only other close parks are the giant Magnuson Park to the east, and Green Lake to the west. But these are in other neighborhoods and it’s not really walking distance to either.
Food:
There are quite a few little restaurants; my favorite is Pies and Pints, which has a fun (and tough!) trivia night every week. For grocery stores, you have a few options. Whole Foods on Roosevelt (pricey), Safeway, a bit further north (slightly less pricey), or two PCCs, one on 65th or the one in Greenlake (both pricey). For vegans, there’s vegan haven, a boutique grocery store with those hard-to-find vegan specialties. And finally there’s my favorite, the Rising Sun produce stand. This open-air market has great prices and tons of fresh produce when it’s in season. There’s parking across the street. For non-produce groceries, doing a trip to Costco or Fred Meyer every few weeks is probably the most affordable option.
Housing:
Most of the housing is small apartments and condos, as well as single-family homes. You won’t find as many of the huge apartment buildings like in the University District. The prices, though, are still pretty high for how far out of the city you are. This results in the neighborhood being relatively privileged, especially as you get closer to Lake Washington, where the houses get larger.
People:
Ravenna is an excellent location for grad students going to the University of Washington. It’s an easy bus ride to get to class, but you aren’t surrounded by the thousands of undergrad students that mostly live on or near campus. It’s also a good place for couples (to split the rather expensive rent) and families.
Transportation:
Like I mentioned, it’s easy to get to U-district from Ravenna. However, it can be tricky to get to other neighborhoods, since Seattle isn’t great with east-west transportation. You’ll be fine heading to Capitol Hill or downtown, but you’ll have to transfer buses (which is a pain in Seattle) to get to Fremont, Wallingford, Pioneer Square, South Seattle, or other neighborhoods. Parking in Ravenna is ok, but can be hard to find if you’re further south towards U-district.
Safety:
Speaking of cars, car break-ins are a problem in Ravenna. Like much of the crime in Seattle, it’s petty theft, and people are trying to survive by breaking into cars to steal a jacket, some money, etc, rather than stealing the car itself (though a friend’s license plate was stolen, twice). So don’t keep anything valuable in your car, and put the registration in the trunk and lock it.
Wrap-up:
Ravenna is a great place for people looking for something a bit quieter but still close to the University of Washington. It has a quaint downtown area, and a nice park. But keep in mind the relatively expensive rent, as well as the risk of car break-ins.
Walkable, neighborhood feel:
One of the best things about Ravenna is it’s neighborhood vibe. A lot of the residential areas are within walking distance to the two clusters of shops and restaurants on Roosevelt and on 65th. You can also walk to Ravenna Park, which is a focal point of the neighborhood. The only other close parks are the giant Magnuson Park to the east, and Green Lake to the west. But these are in other neighborhoods and it’s not really walking distance to either.
Food:
There are quite a few little restaurants; my favorite is Pies and Pints, which has a fun (and tough!) trivia night every week. For grocery stores, you have a few options. Whole Foods on Roosevelt (pricey), Safeway, a bit further north (slightly less pricey), or two PCCs, one on 65th or the one in Greenlake (both pricey). For vegans, there’s vegan haven, a boutique grocery store with those hard-to-find vegan specialties. And finally there’s my favorite, the Rising Sun produce stand. This open-air market has great prices and tons of fresh produce when it’s in season. There’s parking across the street. For non-produce groceries, doing a trip to Costco or Fred Meyer every few weeks is probably the most affordable option.
Housing:
Most of the housing is small apartments and condos, as well as single-family homes. You won’t find as many of the huge apartment buildings like in the University District. The prices, though, are still pretty high for how far out of the city you are. This results in the neighborhood being relatively privileged, especially as you get closer to Lake Washington, where the houses get larger.
People:
Ravenna is an excellent location for grad students going to the University of Washington. It’s an easy bus ride to get to class, but you aren’t surrounded by the thousands of undergrad students that mostly live on or near campus. It’s also a good place for couples (to split the rather expensive rent) and families.
Transportation:
Like I mentioned, it’s easy to get to U-district from Ravenna. However, it can be tricky to get to other neighborhoods, since Seattle isn’t great with east-west transportation. You’ll be fine heading to Capitol Hill or downtown, but you’ll have to transfer buses (which is a pain in Seattle) to get to Fremont, Wallingford, Pioneer Square, South Seattle, or other neighborhoods. Parking in Ravenna is ok, but can be hard to find if you’re further south towards U-district.
Safety:
Speaking of cars, car break-ins are a problem in Ravenna. Like much of the crime in Seattle, it’s petty theft, and people are trying to survive by breaking into cars to steal a jacket, some money, etc, rather than stealing the car itself (though a friend’s license plate was stolen, twice). So don’t keep anything valuable in your car, and put the registration in the trunk and lock it.
Wrap-up:
Ravenna is a great place for people looking for something a bit quieter but still close to the University of Washington. It has a quaint downtown area, and a nice park. But keep in mind the relatively expensive rent, as well as the risk of car break-ins.
Pros
- Walkable
- Neighborly spirit
- Close to major university
- Good bicycle trails
Cons
- Car break ins
- Expensive housing
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- LGBT+
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Cost of Living
- Resale or Rental Value
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
- Childcare
"Comfy, Active, Lively"
The Ravenna area is comfortable and popular because of its proximity to downtown Seattle and central location to other points of interest in the city. Still, Ravenna maintains a small neighborhood feel with all of the amenities to maintain a self-sufficient character. Residents have access to a wide variety of grocery stores that cater to all sorts of tastes and economic positions, such as Whole Foods and Safeway, as well as enjoying a close proximity to a couple of year-round Farmers’ markets.
There are lots of recreational options like Green Lake Park, Cowan Park and Ravenna Park all being within walking or biking distance. Ravenna is home to several neighborhood restaurants that are worth your time, like the Ravenna Alehouse, Pub at Third Place and Third Place Books, The Varsity Restaurant and Diner, and Zeek’s Pizza. Third Place Books also serves as a community center to a certain extent because people tend to populate the store and feel at home reading, working on their computers, drinking coffee drinks, and enjoy the frequent events like book signings, poetry readings, and open mic nights. It’s a family friendly neighborhood where you’ll often see people walking their dogs and kids in strollers. A very friendly area for bikers and pedestrians.
There are lots of recreational options like Green Lake Park, Cowan Park and Ravenna Park all being within walking or biking distance. Ravenna is home to several neighborhood restaurants that are worth your time, like the Ravenna Alehouse, Pub at Third Place and Third Place Books, The Varsity Restaurant and Diner, and Zeek’s Pizza. Third Place Books also serves as a community center to a certain extent because people tend to populate the store and feel at home reading, working on their computers, drinking coffee drinks, and enjoy the frequent events like book signings, poetry readings, and open mic nights. It’s a family friendly neighborhood where you’ll often see people walking their dogs and kids in strollers. A very friendly area for bikers and pedestrians.
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Parks & Recreation
- Lack of Traffic
"A Home Away from Seattle Kind of Place"
Crepes. The Ravenna/Bryant area of Seattle has a crepe shop that is small and filled with some of the best crepes I’ve ever had. Now this isn’t the crepe district or people would be in dietary trouble, but this small café, Crepe Cafe, is an example what kind of businesses that are in the area – small, funky businesses that call the Ravenna/Bryant area home. It’s the one are of Seattle that you can walk around in and not feel like you’re in Seattle, but feel like you’ve taken the ferry to a smaller seaside town where the parking is easy and the vibe is slow and easy.
An easily accessible Whole Foods is in the area and shares space with a furniture store and several other businesses. It also has a park, which makes it an even more family friendly area. In fact Ravenna Park is just like this fun section of Seattle, it feels like its own non-Seattle oasis, like you’ve left the city to camp or enjoy nature uninterrupted.
All-in-all the area is absolutely uncongested and user friendly, it’s the kind of area where you can run your errands and still make it home in a good mood.
An easily accessible Whole Foods is in the area and shares space with a furniture store and several other businesses. It also has a park, which makes it an even more family friendly area. In fact Ravenna Park is just like this fun section of Seattle, it feels like its own non-Seattle oasis, like you’ve left the city to camp or enjoy nature uninterrupted.
All-in-all the area is absolutely uncongested and user friendly, it’s the kind of area where you can run your errands and still make it home in a good mood.
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
Ravenna / Bryant
rating details
2yrs+
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Cost of Living
- Resale or Rental Value
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
- Childcare
"Ravenna- a great place to live."
Ravenna is one the best neighborhoods in Seattle. You have access to every thing you could possibly need. Here are a few examples: University village for shopping. The ave for food. Roosevelt High school and Eckstein Middle school. There are also several parks close by including Ravenna Ecksten and the ravine, which is a great place to go running or take your kids exploring. Ravenna is really close the the UW making it easy for students to bike or bus over there. Finally, the 71 bus which can get you downtown in a hurry. Ravenna is an extremely peaceful and relaxed neighborhood, and everyone is really social. It is very common to get in random conversations with other people as you go for your morning walk, or wait for the bus on 65th street. I have lived in Ravenna all of my life and I really enjoy it.
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
Ravenna / Bryant
"Schools, parks, athletics...this place has it all!"
Ravenna has become one of Seattle’s most desirable communities. Cozy Tudors and bungalows are mixed in with wonderful craftsman-style homes. The streets are quiet and tree-lined, making this a dreamy little pocket of Seattle living.
Good schools, beautiful parks, and athletic fields are the focal point for the residents of Ravenna. On afternoons and weekends, the parks and ball fields are bustling with life and young sports activists. Ravenna has earned itself a reputation as a wonderful community to raise the family.
While there are a limited number of restaurants and specialty shops within walking distance, many residents of Ravenna simply slip off to other areas for shopping and nightlife. Ravenna is close to Green Lake, the University Village shopping center, and near the freeway for downtown access. Many residents do their shopping on 65th Street, which has beautiful grocery stores, furniture stores, cafes, and just about everything else.
Good schools, beautiful parks, and athletic fields are the focal point for the residents of Ravenna. On afternoons and weekends, the parks and ball fields are bustling with life and young sports activists. Ravenna has earned itself a reputation as a wonderful community to raise the family.
While there are a limited number of restaurants and specialty shops within walking distance, many residents of Ravenna simply slip off to other areas for shopping and nightlife. Ravenna is close to Green Lake, the University Village shopping center, and near the freeway for downtown access. Many residents do their shopping on 65th Street, which has beautiful grocery stores, furniture stores, cafes, and just about everything else.
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
