SeattleGirl

Brook Avenue South West is a short stretch of residential street that runs into Fairmount Ave SW and Harbor Ave SW, not far from the water. Home prices range from a half a million to over a million dollars and feature great views of the water and lots of greenery. Large trees and clean sidewalks are a common feature of the street. The area is quiet and there is not much traffic other than the vehicles of residents who live on Brook Ave. There are many walking trails nearby that provide access to the beach. Many residents are seen jogging along the street.

Palm Avenue South West is a residential street with clean sidewalks and magnificent million dollar plus homes scattered throughout. Homes along the street have amazing panoramic views of Hamilton Viewpoint Park and the water. Traffic is minimal as most of the cars you see are residents from the homes along Palm Avenue. The street is close to California Avenue SW and not far from Harbor Ave SW which features numerous fine dining options and shopping destinations. Most of the homes have viewing decks because of the spectacular scenery. This is a great place to live for families or retired folk.

California Lane South West is a shorter, no outlet on the west end street that runs directly into California Avenue SW and Hamilton Viewpoint Park. The park is situated at the east end of the street. There are many residential homes along the street and prices are average to above average in price. Most of the home have a view of the water and sit on larger lots of approximately a half-acre. California Lane is about a mile from one of the better elementary schools in the area, known as Lafayette Elementary School. The school is known for its caring staff and teachers. You won't find any restaurants along this residential street but great eateries lie just a few miles away on Alki Ave and Harbor Avenue SW. Salty's is one of the best seafood places in Seattle and is nearby along Harbor.

Elm Place South West is a short little street that connects to Harbor Ave SW which runs right along the beach. The street is very small and has a few residential homes situated with great views. The water front access is just a block away from the street. There are some excellent dining options along Harbor Ave SW like Salty's which is not too far from Elm Place. The Alki Crab Fish Company is also located nearby at the 1600 block of Harbor Ave. To the west is Hamilton Viewpoint Park and Califronia Avenue which provides some convenient access to restaurants and shopping in Alki. Homes along the street are considered affordable, especially with the beach access and park proximity.

This is a beautiful street with lots of greenery, trees, lush bushes, and flowers located near the Alki Playground and Whale Tail Park. I have an aunt who lives at the 5000 block of South West Teig Place in a contemporary multi-level home with amazing views of the mountains and the Sound. Her home sits just two blocks from Alki Beach Park as well as a variety of shops and eateries. Most of the homes along Teig Place are similar to hers and offer lots of room with great views. This area is quiet and there is hardly any traffic on this street except for the residents who live there. The high school that services the street and district is West Seattle High.

Hobart Avenue South West is a small little street, narrow and short, but hardly quiet. Although a few blocks from the beach at Alki, the street gets quite busy with parked cars during the warmer months. Seattle residents from all over the area flock to Alki Beach for some fun in the sun and parking can be quite a challenge. Some park their cars along Bonair Place SW as well as up two streets to Hobart.

Scattered along Alki Ave SW and just a few blocks by foot are shops and eateries that cater to the beach goers. Several coffee shops can be found along Alki Avenue including Pioneer Coffee Roasting, a popular joint not too far from Hobart Ave. Homes along Hobart can be expensive but are priced fairly well due to the location. Most of the homes provide views of the Sound as well as the Olympic Mountains.

Halleck Avenue South West is located just a block from Alki Avenue SW which runs along the water and is a popular beach front area for Seattle residents. If you are looking for an affordable condo or townhouse and desire living on the water, this is the area. Although a block from the beach, the views are amazing and you don't have to break your wallet to live there. Most of the townhomes on Halleck provide large decks and sit above Alki to produce views of the Sound and the Olympics. This is a great place for singles or couples. The streets in the area are narrow, including Halleck Ave, and parking can be somewhat of a challenge. But, if you don't mind walking and fighting for a parking space occasionally during the summer, this is a great place to live.

Located directly off of Alki Avenue SW is the short little narrow street called Bonair Place South West. If you are looking for a place near the water, specifically Alki, and don't have a large budget, this is the area. The street is very close to the water, boasts all of the spectacular views of Alki, but is not considered beach front property. The street is one block from the beach. There are a number of smaller condos/apartments along Bonair Place and the parking can be somewhat of a challenge. The street is very narrow and during the warmer season, Seattle residents flock to the area which adds to the congestion.

Living on the street is recommended for the younger scene. Most residents rely on public transportation to get around and leave their car parked, if they in fact own one.

30th Avenue is somewhat residential and partially not in some areas. The street is nice, not so busy, except when you approach some of the main thoroughfares like East Cherry Street to the north or East Yesler Way to the south. The street is lengthy but doesn't lead to the water like most of the other streets in the area.

Depending on the location along 30th Avenue, home prices do vary. Some range in the 500K along the 800 and 900 block and can reach close to a million by the time you reach the 3000 block. There is a large cemetary known as Forest Lawn Cemetary along the southwest portion of the of 30th Avenue and between the 6000 and 7000 block. One of the highest rated preschools in Seattle is also located along this street and is known as the Chelsea House Montessori Pre-School.

This neighborhood is very close knit with the common thread being music! The culture, the spirit, and the people seem to all flow with music as a way of life. Deemed as one of the fastest changing neighborhoods in Seattle, Central, is home to a wide variety of housing options and styles including Tudors, Cape Cods, Victorians, and tri-level designs. The neighborhood is close to downtown as well as Madrona and Capitol Hill which adds to the allure.

Some of the most prominent or well known landmarks in the neighborhood include the Mt. Zion Church, Catfish Corner, and Central Cinema. Garfield High School and the Community Center can also be found in the area. Garfield is located at 400 23rd Avenue.

With music as a prominent theme in the area, it is no wonder that the Central Area Community Festival can be found in these parts. Festival headquarters is located along Pike Street and provides music and culture to the people of Central Seattle. Seattle residents travel from all over the city to take part in the festival that promotes musical entertainment, fun, food, and lots of neighborly connections.

There is a house along Viewmonth Way West that I have eyeballed for years and absolutely love it. It is actually located at 2239 W. Viewmont Way W and recently went on the market for over three million dollars. Not sure if it has sold yet, but this is fairly typical of this street. Homes are pricey and the views are spectacular. This home in particular, like so many others along the street has unobstructed views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. Most of the homes were built in the early to mid 1900s and have been completely restored and renovated. Sidewalks are kept clean and homes are situated spaciously from the next. Seattle School District 1 operates throughout the neighborhood and the Frantz H Coe Elementary School is found nearby, as well as Lawton Elementary and Catharine Blaine K-8. Heading east on Viewmont Way W is the Church of the Ascension.

West Galer Street loops at both ends and runs into West Garfield to the west and Elliott Avenue West to the east. The highly residential street accomodates some million dollar plus homes and is a very pretty area. The street runs through the Magnolia and Southeast Seattle neighborhood and features homes built in the earlier 1900s. Some of the larger homes are actually estates and run close to three million dollars. Manicured yards, shrubs, and lots of old growth can be found here. The sidewalks are kept spotless and for the most part, gardeners and hired hands are seen in the yards doing their thing. The street is popular for its views, especially for those homes at the west end of the Galer. There are some spectacular views of the Sound, the mountains, and even the city on Galer Street. The Bay can also be seen from most of the homes on the western end of the street. Such a pretty place to live.

Alvin Place North West is a short little street that intersects with View Ave NW and Cyrus Ave NW. The street is residential and homes are custom. Most of the single family homes offer spectacular views of the Sound and Olympics. The homes are private retreats from the city and sit on lush serene lots. Many of the residents on this street are doctors or professionals with offices in the city. There are lots of trees and lush green landscape. You would expect homes to be outrageously priced in this location but actually range from 600K on up. For Seattle, that isn't bad.

The Puget Sound beach area resides at the end of Golden Gardens Drive NW as well as the Golden Gardens Park. The street is busy in the summer and warm and sunny fall and spring days because many residents of Seattle travel to the area for some beach access. There are some amazing views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains along this stretch of road and sunsets are exquisite. A few restaurants can be found along the street that serve up some delicious sea food but shopping is a little scarce. Picnics, barbeques, sunbathing, and hiking can all be found at Golden Gardens Park. There are also a few homes scattered along the street that have great views of the ocean. This is a clean and nice place to visit.

Golden Gardens Park Road is a little stretch of street that extends south from Golden Gardens Park and runs into Seaview Avenue NW. This little stretch of road provides amazing and panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound. It is a popular area for those Seattle city goers wanting some beach access and green space. Hiking and strolling are popular activities off of Golden Gardens Park Raod. The area offers rugged coastlines, hikes through densely forested trails, and access to sunbathing on the sandy beaches. There is also an off leash dog area in the upper north portion of the park. The street and park are well maintained and kept clean.

Seaview Place North West is a short and loopy little street that provides access to Golden Gardens Park and Bathhouse. The street connects with Golden Gardens Drive NW and is an offshoot into the overflow parking situated at the park. The street offers some amazing views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains and is a popular destination for families and couples wanting to experience a romantic sunset. The area is very leafy and green and the park itself is well-maintained to keep it clean. You won't find many if any residences along the short street but you will find a number of piers and docked boats.

Traveling west on NW 54th Street will take you right into the Swedish Medical Center in Ballard where you will find a lot of office buildings, clinics, and labs affiliated with the hospital. This area of Ballard is popular with retirees and older people who require routine medical care. There are a number of young health professionals who live around this street as well. Traveling to the east on NW 54th Street will take you right by Gilman Playground where you can enjoy some green space in the heart of the city. There are softball and baseball fields as well as a wading pool for kids or adults. Families love spending time at the Gilman Park and Playground. 54th Street runs parallel with NW Market Street and is only one block over. The proximity gives access to lots of dining and shopping options.

The main portion of North West 53rd Street starts at the Swedish Medical Center and runs right into Gilman Playground. The street then travels east toward NW Market Street and splits up, curves around, and gets a little confusing. The area near the hopsital intersects with 17th Ave NW which runs north to south along the medical center. There are a few medical office buildings and labs situtated along this stretch as well as a couple of cafes that support the hospital staff and visitors. The area near the park provides a nice green space of about four acres. The park address is actually 923 NW 54th Street but 53rd takes you right to it. The park and playground offers room and fields for basketball, tennis, soccer, baseball, softball, and even a wading pool.

Most of Tallman Avenue North West consists of the Swedish Medical Center and its office buildings. The street runs from NW Market Street southeast to 17th Avenue NW. Swedish Medical Center is at 5300 Tallman Ave NW. Surrounding the hospital campus are a number of other medical buildings and offices related to the medical center. Tallman Ave NW provides access to great shopping and eating in Ballard along 17th Ave and Leary Ave. There are several cafes and gift shops located in the area to support the hospital.

Russell Avenue NW is a quiet little street in Ballard that runs between two of the major thorough fares in the neighborhood; 17th Avenue NW and Leary Avenue NW. Swedish Medical Center sits one street over to the east and Russell runs right into 17th Avenue which leads to a number of restaurants and shopping venues. One of Ballard's famous American Grills sits at 5425 Russell Avenue NW, called The Hi-Life. The restaurant is located in a historic firehouse that was built back in 1911. They offer a seasonal rotating menu with an emphasis foods flavored with a brick oven or wood fired grill. This place is exceptional. Most of the street contains older condos or apartments but a few newer options are popping up here and there.

Winslow Place North is a typical residential Seattle street that runs parallel to Aurora Ave N. Due to its proximity to the main drag, it is close and within walking distance to a variety of retail businesses and eateries. There are a few moderately new condos and apartment complexes along Winslow, but most are older units. The street gets more busy as you travel north and it runs into N 45th Street at the Aurora Ave and 45th and 46th intersections. The street ends at N 41st and is broken up a few blocks before continuing on at N 39th Street and travels under Bridge Way No.

My brother lived in a smaller one bedroom one bath condo on Albion Place N for several years when he was just out of college. The area for the most part is filled with newer condos, with the exception of an occasional single family home. I remember the street being quiet, especially at night, and the neighbors were young professionals. There didn't seem to be a lot of kids in the area, in fact, I don't recall seeing even one child. The street is not close to schools or parks, but is within walking distance to Burke Gilman Trail. The neighbors always seemed friendly and one nice man once helped me with some groceries when I was struggling to carry ten bags at once for fear of the dreaded second trip! Albion Place is close to shopping and area restaurants and most residents of the street travel by foot.

North Northlake Way is a waterfront street for the most part that travels along the northern portion of Gas Works Park. The street is great for viewing the lake as well as getting some picturesque photos of what everyone thinks Seattle looks like since the movie Sleepless in Seattle. There are a number of houseboats along N Northlake Way and some are true architectural gems. The nearby Fremont neighborhood offers a wide variety of wonderful restaurants, cafes, and shopping destinations. For your outdoor satisfaction, the Burke-Gilman Trail runs alongside the street and provides a nice trail to jog along, walk your pooch, or ride your bike. The park offers a green area that is a huge draw to Seattle residents.

South Findlay Street is a little off shoot of South Orcas Street in Georgetown. This is not the best are to live in regards to safety and resales of residential homes, but the prices of real estate are very inexpensive. At the intersection of Orcas and Findlay there are some businesses like the Essential Baking Company and along Orcas is where you will find most of the retail shops and eateries. This is not downtown Seattle and the types of eateries are somewhat low scale. The Seattle Chinese Alliance Church is located in this area and adds to the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood and street. Dearborn Park is also located nearby and to the north of South Findlay.

South Homer Street does not come highly recommended by realtors or residents. The street is dirty and the homes are run down. Home prices are great if you have no money and need a place to live. Most average around the 200K mark and for Seattle that is nothing. The Georgetown Park or Playfield is located at 750 S. Homer Street and could be a great place for kids to hang out if it weren't for the number of people busted for having sex in the public restrooms. I wouldn't let my kids within 100 yards of this place. There is some green space at the park though, along with half court basketball, outdoor tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields. Aside from the semi-sleezy park, there is not much else to offer on this street.

A friend of mine lives on Flora Avenue South and is a master gardener! She has quite the green thumb and participates in the Garden Walk every July that takes place in Georgetown. She is not alone. There are several homes along Flora Avenue that participate in the Garden Walk and have amazing yards and gardens. The homes are older and feature lots of greenery. There are lots of Douglas Fir and one home even has a huge Redwood tree that was planted back in the early 1980s. Residents who live along Flora exhibit a pride of ownership and it is seen in the way they manicure their lawns.

Supposedly Georgetown is Seattle's oldest neighborhood. It is located in the southwest portion of the city and contains a lot of industrial land. The area is constantly under construction and locals seem to love watching the neglected buildings come to life with modern shops, local businesses, and hip new restaurants.

Housing in the area is affordable and the neighborhood is really close-knit. This is a huge drawing card for people moving into Georgetown. There seem to be a lot of singles or younger couples moving into the neighborhood. Some of the most popular housing sold consists of artist's studios and new condos. The sidewalks are clean and tidy and for the most part residents take good care of their homes.

During the second week of July each year is the Georgetown Garden Walk that features wonderful gardens that residents have achieved in their own backyards. Off on some of the not so main streets are some amazing old homes with beautiful landscape. Perennials grow with little assistance in Seattle, so the the garden walk really displays the beauty of the greenery in Seattle.

Driving North on Woodland Park Avenue N will take you right to Woodland Park and the Woodland Park Zoo. Take the street south and you will run into Gas Works Park. This street is full of greenery and single family homes. The street is surrounded by parks so for the most part the area is clean and green. The street can get busy as it transports people to Gas Works and the zoo. Most take Aurora Avenue but the parks can be reached via Woodland Park Ave. During the summer months the street is a little busier.

I discovered Stone Way North in Fremont when I stopped into Daly's Painting and Decortating at 3525 Stone Way N. Similar to many of the other shops in the area, Daly's offered a unique blend of home decorating needs. The shops around Fremont are very eclectic and along Stone Way N are some really modern and unique home decor shops. Also on the street are some new condos and a few turn of the century homes, but for the most part the vintage homes have been converted into modernized apartments or condos. There is a bus route located on Stone Way that will take you downtown.

Fremont Avenue N is one of the main drags through the neighborhood of Fremont. Fremont itself is known for its quirkiness, yuppy flair, and hip ambience. Gasworks Park can be reached by traveling down Fremont Ave as well as a number of shops. The shops found in the area include high end boutiques, furniture stores, antique shops, and lots of fresh flower stores. Many of the shops are locally owned and you will find few chain stores in the area. There are a number of book stores (also locally owned) along Fremont. If you are in the market for some independent designer threads, Fremont is the place to go.

Fremont is very hippy and funky! The best way to get a feel for Fremont is to just go there. There are numerous shops that exhibit everything from high end antiques to the quirkiest furniture found in Seattle. Some of the locals call Fremont the center of the universe and with good reason. Fremont really is a state of mind; a combination between hip and yuppy.

The boundaries surrounding the area are full of attractions. There is the Woodland Park Zoo, the Fremont Bridge, Ballard, and Gasworks Park. A walking guide tour is available through the Chamber of Commerce in Fremont and if you are not familiar with the area, this is a great way to become accustomed to the way of life.

There is a lively social scene in the neighborhood with plenty of options to choose from. There are coffee and tea shops on virtually every corner and some of the best bakeries in the city. A great organic grocer known as PCC Natural Market is found on 34th Street and has a fabulous deli with cafe seating. There are a number of popular nightspots that range of the hippest and most modern to swanky hole-in-the-wall. Fremont has just about everything you can imagine. I guess that is why they call it the center of the universe.

Sout Alaska Street is a fairly average street in Seattle and more specifically the Columbia City area. There are a few restaurants and shops but a lot of the street is residential. You won't find high end homes on the block but there are some adequately priced homes if you are a first time home buyer. The street has improved greatly over the years. From what I remember, this area used to be kind of a dump, but ridding a large housing project and bringing in some new businesses has really helped to clean the community up. The big drawing card of this area and street is the ample public transportation. Residents find the public transportation quite reliable and a very efficient part of living here.

The local residents of Columbia City take some serious pride in their community. There is pride of ownership and also pride in what others own. Neighbors are good to each other and look out for one another. This is the type of neighborhood where you can ask your neighbor to watch your home while you are away and they actually will!

The area is located west of Seward Park and just southeast of Beacon Hill. The area is prime for activities like the Farmers Market and Beat Walk. There are numerous shops and restaurants that can be enjoyed by locals as well as tourists. Lottie's Lounge is a great place for live outdoor music (or indoor when it's raining). The Columbia City Theatre is located in the neighborhood and is a popular place for Seattle residents. This theatre is better known for Jimi Hendrix playing there back in the day.

The Farmer's Market takes place every Wednesday afternoon and early evening from the end of April until about the middle to end of October.

This neighborhood has been voted U.S. Neighborhood of the Year and Washington's Neighborhood of the Year several times, so it must be a great place! Just north of Green Lake, Maple Leaf presents views of the Cascades and the Olympic Mountains. It truly is a beautiful location. There are alot of great restaurants and retail shopping venues. The community is smaller, I believe around 20K or more, and due to its size there is a lot of unity. The residents stick together on keeping the parks clean and the area green.

Popular restaurants and cafes in Maple Leaf include Cloud City Coffee along Roosevelt Way, Madres Kitchen on NE 80th, and Judy Fu's Snappy Dragon also on Roosevelt Way NE. Lots of locally owned retail shops are scattered along 5th Avenue, Roosevelt Avenue, and Roosevelt Way. You may find anything from an art studio or gallery to a locally owned hardware store. The Northwest Puppet Center on 15th Avenue draws children and families from all over Seattle.

Some of the better schools in the area include Olympic View Elementary on 94th Street, Fairview Christian School on 78th Street, and Sacajawea Elementary on 20th Avenue. There are also some local churches in the neighborhood.

Wedgewood is a single family home, residential community. The area is close to the UW as well as the University Village Shopping Center. Due to the proximity to the college, you will see lots of students in the area. The neighborhood is well established and a bit sleepy but activity is located all around. Most of the homes in the area are older, Tudor or post-war modern that have been updated and renovated. Some homes are rentals and occasionally you may find a few college students shacking up together in one home.

Dahl Park is located nearby, along 25th Avenue NE, as well as the Burke-Gilman Trail. There are lots of outdoor activities in the neighborhood and this is a highly walkable area. 35th Avenue is located to the east which gets you anywhere you want to go. Once the commuters clear out in the morning, the neighborhood is very quiet and peaceful. In a way, Wedgewood reminds me of Ballard with its tree lined streets and quiet ambience.

Long-time residents who live in the area will tell you that it is highly middle class and family oriented. Some of the families who have lived here for decades still do. One of the most popular eateries in the area is the Wedgewood Broiler where they have been serving up steaks and prime ribs for a very long time.

Rainier Beach is a bit confusing. The neighborhood used to be really bad, with high crime and major structural issues, but what some consider Upper Rainier Beach could actually be a nice place to live. Home prices are very affordable and if the neighborhood was a little further north, you could pack on 100-200K to the price. The views are breathtaking of Lake Washington and there is some prime real estate in the Upper portion of the neighborhood.

The neighborhood consists of lots of retirees or older couples who have lived in the same home for decades. The area is small and because of this everyone seems to know everyone. The Upper portion is safe with little to no crime. Seward Park sits adjacent to Rainier Beach and offers some impressive views of the Cascades and Lake Washington. The area has some very impressive ridge built homes that overlook the water. People stick around in the neighborhood and you do not see a lot for sale. If you do, they go quickly. Some of the more modest homes inland do turn over frequently but the shoreline homes rarely move.

View Ridge is a small neighborhood located just north of NE 65th and west of Sandpoint Way NE. The neighborhood is in close proximity to the Husky Stadium, UW, University Village and central to Lake Washington. The location of the neighborhood couldn't be more perfect if you are wanting to be near everything!

Just like the name, View Ridge has some great views to offer. On clear and sunny days, or even slightly overcast, views of Mt. Rainier and Lake Washington are prominent. There are lots of neatly groomed and well manicured yards and homes that line the streets and sidewalks are kept clean and tidy. The residential neighborhoods are quiet for the most part. Since the area is small, residents benefit from a quieter area to live. Magnusson Park is located nearby as well as View Ridge Park which is found along NE 70th Street and 45th Avenue NE. The park offers a lot of green space and is popular when the weather is nice.

Beacon Hill was one of Seattle's very first neighborhoods. It is a sizable area and due to the large neighborhood size it is split into two sections, North Beacon Hill and Beacon Hill. Beacon Hill is where you will find the new City Libray that is a great place to hang out or spend an afternoon, as well as some great eateries. Despi Delite Bakery is found in Beacon Hill and where you will find some amazing pan de leche among other delectables. The overrall feel of the neighorhood is quite diverse. You will find yoga studios that sit next to bistros and of course, your Starbucks or Seattle's Best Coffee is found on nearly every corner.

Beacon Hill is emerging as a great place to live in Seattle. Home prices are decent and not sky high. I have some younger single friends who claim Beacon Hill is perfect for just starting out or for those newly married couples with no kids. Real estate prices are still lower than most areas in Seattle but I believe that will be changing because more and more people are beginning to discover this jewel of a neighborhood.

Erie Avenue is a wonderful street if you are looking for a 700K-2.2 million dolllar home with a view of the water. You won't find anything under a half million in these parts. Three story single family homes with decks and terraces aimed right at Lake Washington add to the value of these beautiful residential addresses. Erie Avenue is not very congested and mostly residential, especially as you travel south past East Alder Street. Erie Avenue runs adjacent in some parts to Lake Washington Boulevard and due to this location residents can find lots of eateries and retail therapy. Fish and chips is quite popular along Lake Washington Blvd.

South Frink Place is a windy little street that offers some great scenery. The neighborhood along Frink Place is close to the water and there are a couple of parks located nearby. Frink Park is located at South Frink Place and Lake Washington Blvd. Leschi Park is located just north along South Leschi Place. If you stay on South Frink Place you will drive right into both parks. Due to the parks and water in the area, this is popular place to visit but surprisingly enough it doesn't get too crowded, even on the rare sunny Seattle day. Frink Place is a curvy road and not one you take at a high rate of speed. The homes in the area are well kept and the overrall neighborhood gives off a vibe of clean, safe, and comfortable place to live.

East Yesler Way is a decent street that remains not overly crowded. If heading more toward the water, you will experience heavier traffic but in most of the residential sections of E Yesler Way, the traffic is quite light. The residential portions offer older homes with lots of trees and in the Fall you will find a lot of leaves on the ground. The leaves in the driveways and along the street never get picked up, it is always surprising to see. Leschi Park is nearby off of South Frink Place and offers some great green space with lots of outdoor activities. Because Leschi Park is located near the water there are a number of things to do to keep those warmer summer days and evening occupied. The Seattle Bike Club meets somewhere along Lakeside Avenue and you will often see them traveling along E Yesler Way. Lakeside is where you will find most of your eateries and shopping destinations.

Lake Dell Avenue is situated in a quiet and upscale neighborhood (at least in the residential portion). Views of Lake Washington are amazing at the top of the hill near the school as well as from the decks of most of these high end homes. If you follow Lake Dell toward Lake Washington you will curve around and run into E Alder Street which then takes you right to Lake Washington Boulevard which runs parallel to Lake Washington. Here you will find lots of restaurants and cafes as well as a number of retail shops. This is a nice area to jog and walk while getting some fresh air. The overrall neighborhood is quiet and not highly congested until you approach East Alder Street as well as the intersection at Lake Washington Blvd. Homes along Lake Dell are highly maintained and yards and shrubs are well manicured. The school at the top of the hill is considered to be one of the better Seattle public education schools in the area. Overrall the area is safe and a more exclusive Seattle neighborhood.

Greenwood Avenue North is a typical apartment lined Seattle street. There is not a lot of ambience and little to no character, but it is an average priced area for rental apartments or condos. You won't find any high end downtown condominiums along this street. While I don't travel here often, I do get down a couple of times a year. In fact, I was here last week to go to the 74th Street Ale House that is located along Greenwood Avenue. I love this place and every time I am here I swear I will be back again soon, but another 6-8 months passes by before I venture back. If I lived a little closer I would call their food to go line and order take-out often so it is probably a good thing I don't live nearby. If in the area, try the Baked Goat Cheese Salad and Red Reuben Sandwich or the Mediterranean Plate, both are exquisite.

Perkins Lane West is a short street that offers views of the ocean and cool crisp sea breezes. I love driving down Perkins Lane West but there is not much to offer but the view. Although priceless, the street has nothing in the way of dining or shopping. It is worth the drive just for the scenery though. The road eventually runs out and becomes a dead end near Magnolia Blvd W but does extend through some nice Magnolia residential areas around West Ruffner Street. If you are looking for a quiet Sunday drive at your own pace, this is the street to travel.

Crestmont Place West in the Magnolia area is one of the nicer residential streets in Magnolia (and most of the streets in Magnolia are splendid). Most of the homes sit up above the street and offer great views of the neighborhood, while some even have views of the Sound and mountains. The lawns are well manicured with lots of green shrubbery and small bushes. Trees are mature and line some of the sidewalks. The street itself is not crowded, in fact only residents of the area travel along Crestmont Place W for the most part. I love the area because it is quiet, despite the immense amount of children living in the area. Most play in the back yards as opposed to the front. This is a great street to walk or jog along, but you won't find shops or dining options because the street is highly residential.

This is a nice and quiet residential street in the heart of Magnolia. Located along the south side of Magnolia Playground, W Smith Street is a great street for young families. The street is quiet overall and the homes, although smaller and less expensive, are great for the couple just beginning their family life. Not too far from the area are some million dollar tudor style homes, which keeps the neighborhood up to par. There is not a lot of traffic, although you will see cars parked along the side of the road in typical Seattle fashion. Homes have small yards and are mostly fenced for children. Gardens and lots of green shrubs are found around the homes which keeps the neighborhood spruced up. This is a comfortable average to above average area to live.

West Hayes Street in Magnolia is a short little residential street between 28th Avenue W and Thorndyke Avenue W. Some friends of mine just sold their home on W Hayes Street for 729K and I believe this is a pretty average home price for this street. From their front deck they had views of both the mountains and the Sound. Gorgeous sunrise and sunset views along this street and just steps away from great shopping at Magnolia Village. This is a very desirable street to live on.

This has got to be one of the best streets in Seattle, especially Magnolia. Magnolia Boulevard West is a quiet, residential street lined with amazing homes ranging from about 650K on up. Well manicured lawns and large trees make the area even more alluring to the city goer. Some of the homes offer great views of the park and are within very short walking distance to Magnolia Village, Magnolia Park, and Water Front Park. The street is quiet and peaceful and offers a great environment to walk or jog safely without being overrun by cars and noise. Some of the homes in the area have a great view of the mountains. Truly the perfect place to live and raise a family.

The area right off of Evergreen Point Road is a little busier and more congested than the curvy little street that connects 73rd Avenue NE (Bill Gates' street) to 73rd Place NE. This short residential portion of the street is very pretty and well kept. This entire area is safe for children to play outdoors, low in traffic, and rich in scenery. Most of the homes are in the million dollar range, especially those with lakeside views. If you can afford it, this is the place to live. Most of the city goers of Seattle long to be out and around Lake Washington. Dream big and you could be taking up land next to Bill Gates.

Along 73rd Avenue North East in Medina is where you will find Bill Gates' magnificent home. While you can't approach it via automobile, you can see it when passing by on boat in Lake Washington. Most all of the homes in the area are multi million dollar homes complete with private docks and helicopter pads, but they are dwarfed in comparison to Gates' 40,000 square foot pad. As you can imagine, this street is private and secure, only accessed by residents of the street. The street is quiet and lush with greenery. Amazing views are found here of the Lake. This place is like no other, abolutely exquisite!

E Garfield is a nice residential street that intersects with one of the main thoroughfares in the area, E Madison Street. Because of the intersection, there are a number of businesses and shops that residents of E. Garfield can take advantage of. Traffic is heavy on E Madison but not so much along E Garfield, although there are times when vehicles back up trying to approach E Madison Street. The overall neighborhood along E Garfield is quiet and residential. The homes are mid to above average and appear to be well kept. You won't find any Medina mansions or Bill Gates' homes here, but they are nearby.

All of the streets in Green Lake seem to be great residential streets, including N 77th Street. There are the standard Green Lake homes ranging in the mid 500K mark and up, as well as walking trails and swimming areas at the end of the street. Heading toward East Green Lake Drive there are a number of great eateries! In fact, there is one of the best chowder places in Seattle called Duke's nearby. Similar to most all of the streets in the Green Lake neighborhood, N 77th Street is clean, safe, and a good place to live.

Sunnyside Avenue N runs through a lakeside residential area. The homes along this quiet street are within a very short walking distance to the lake. This is a quiet and very clean neighborhood that rates pretty high in Seattle. The sidewalks are clean and the small yards are kept neat and tidy. Sunnyside Avenue is not really busy, only with cars residing in the neighborhood or commuting to East Green Lake Dr. N. The residents along the street have the best of both worlds. Close proximity to the water and yet trendy shopping boutiques at their disposal. The park is also a drawing card.

I love this area of Seattle. There are a lot of residential portions to East Green Lake Dr. but further north there are a number of trendy coffee shops and eateries. The view of the water is beautiful and the scenery is never dull. The street does get crowded during the warm summer months or on the occasional sunny weekend. Don't expect to cruise though at a high rate of speed. Plan on taking your time and stopping for traffic. As far as the residential areas along East Green Lake Drive, the neighborhood is probably one of the safest in Seattle. You will see lots of moms pushing strollers and dogs being walked. Watch for kids playing on the sidewalk in the residential areas.

This is just a beautiful street or entrance into the UW campus. I love seeing the tree-lined street in full bloom. The Japanese cherry blossoms are exquisite. UW is arguably one of the prettiest university campuses around and that is saying a lot from a girl who went to only private liberal arts park like colleges in the northwest. The entrance is very pretty and not too crowded if you know when to travel. Spring break is great because of the students being away at home or summer when the campus is considerably quieter. You can even catch glimpses of Mt. Rainier when the sky is clear and conditions are sunny. This is certainly a beautiful street.

Not a big fan of University Way NE. The street offers cheap residential housing if safety is not a concern. The place is flooded with bums and some seedy looking residents. The street is very close to the UW campus but offers no ambience or college feel. It is dirty and very few shops that are worth anything are found along the area. You will locate a bookstore or two but that's about it.

This is a great street for access to the U district, to many of the building associated with UW, and to the water. There are a lot of cafes and coffee shops along NE Pacific Street as it is a primary hub to the university. Lots of businesses are found along the street and traffic can get congested but keeps moving consistently. I've spent a lot of time strolling along Burke-Gilman Trail and entered just about every building on the UW campus. Lots of college students are found in the area and it is a great hub for other seattle destinations, especially in the U district.

NE Boat Street is along the marina and there are some great views of the water here. I only come down here when my vegan friend (hardcore vegan I might add) wants to go to lunch or dinner. I always let her select the restaurant because I am not vegan, and she always seems to choose Agua Verde or Wild Ginger depending on the mood she's in. Agua Verde is located at 1303 NE Boat Street and serves up some amazing Mexican dishes even if you are not vegan. I love the food and the location. Love seeing the boats travel by. I have even rented a kayak in the area with my husband when we were feeling adventurous and cruised by the restaurant.

Eastlake Avenue East is a few blocks from Interstate 5 and because of the location makes it quite a busy street. Lots of businesses and restaurants can be found in the area. The street is noisy and there are a number of buses that travel Eastlake Ave. There is a really great breakfast place that can be found around the 2000 block of Eastlake Avenue E and is called 14 Carrot Cafe. The place is very popular with the locals and always packed on the weekends for breakfast or brunch. Seattle has some of the best breakfast joints in the country! This is certainly one of them.

Palatine Avenue North is a quiet residential street where you won't find any local businesses or eateries, just average to slightly above average homes. Just west of the busier Greenwood Avenue North, Palatine gets pretty busy during the week, especially during rush hour. This is the time to avoid walking because there are no sidewalks and pedestrians could be in trouble. The traffic is not real fast, but it is there and the street can be crowded. If yout ake 117th west to 3rd Avenue NW this will lead you to many businesses and eateries.

Fremont Avenue North off of North 43rd Street is a favorite place of mine. Not so much the street but the place! I don't get over to Fremont enough but when I do, we always stop by Paseo. If you live in Seattle and have never heard of Paseo you need to have a check up from the neck up. It is only the best Cuban and Caribbean style sandwich joint in Seattle if not the USA, aside from Miami. The food is sloppy, messy, and totally indulgent. If healthy eating is not a concern, at least one time a month, then Paseo is the place. Beware of long lines though, this place is really popular.

West Smith Street is a great depiction of Queen Anne. I love the suburban feel of well manicured lawns and tree lined sidewalks that you find in the city! You don't have to live way out of the city to enjoy a nice little yard, trees, flowers, and scenic walks down the sidewalk. A little hilly, but great exercise for you and the dog. This area is full of greenery from trees to shrubs and a person can get really lost in their own little world when strolling up and down the sidewalks. It's not too far to the grocer or markets and coffee shops. This area really has a park like feel while smack dab in the middle of a large city.

The quaint little Post Alley of Pike's Place Market offers one of the finest restaurants in Seattle if not Washington State. For those of you who don't know which restaurant I am talking about, it is the Pink Door! If you are in Pike's Market stop by for lunch or dinner and expect to be amazed. This place is a little cheesy with the provocative entertainment but the food is exceptional. They serve home grown Italian food. The little Alley in Pike's Market always amazes me, and as a local I don't frequent the area too often. Crowds of tourists flock to the Place and because of that many of the locals stay away.

I love Westlake Avenue for one reason and one reason only - Mistral Kitchen. Located at 2020 Westlake Avenue in downtown Seattle, this place is a trendy little restaurant that looks like something you would find in Manhattan. Complete with duct work along the ceiling and all of the modern amenities, Minstral Kitchen is one of the newer and instant Seattle hits in the area. Aside from the fine dining, Westlake Avenue is full of shops and lots and lots of cars. Traffic gets a little much even for an avid Seattle traffic buff like myself. For some reason the intersections are confusing in this area, especially if you don't live here and are unfamiliar with the area.

Traveling along the outer perimeter of Lake Washington is Lake Washington Boulevard. This street provides a nice scenic drive that is a little stop and go on traffic. It's great that the scenery is so pretty because the drive is slow. For a relaxed and romantic date spot, Ruby Asian Dining is located at the 200 block of Lake Washington Blvd. Ruby's is delicious and one of the most popular Asian dining destinations in Seattle. It offers an ecclectic mix of Chinese and Thai food that is to die for. The cocktails are also great - try the mango cosmo or the Thai martini! Most of the entrees are under ten bucks, so this is a great place to go if you're on a budget.

Traveling south on Lake Washington Blvd will take you on into Leschi Park which is another bonus of this scenic drive. On the warm summer weekends, be prepared to drive very slow due to traffic.

I really haven't ventured over to East Cherry Street in Madrona but a time or two to visit King Creole Louisiana Gumbo and BBQ. My husband was hungry for soul food and I of course suggested King Fish Cafe, but was usurped with King Creole. The place was decent and I really don't think you can find anything bad in Madrona. I just love this neighborhood and wouldn't mind living here if I were willing to give up the big house on the lake, which I'm not. This area just reminds me of college hangouts at area cafes and coffee shops. It is a very slow paced neighborhood so be prepared to take it easy if coming in from the city. Things are a little slower here.

Overall Green Lake is a great place to live, visit, walk, jog, shop, etc. This place has it all and Green Lake Way N is one of the main thoroughfares through the neighborhood. The street itself can get very busy, especially on those warm sunny days in Seattle that are so rare. A walking path along the side of Green Lake Way N is perfect for an afternoon jog or early morning stroll with the dog. On warmer days in the summer you may have to battle the roller bladers but overall the people are pretty friendly and accomodating, partly because it is warm and sunny! Let's face it, even us Seattlites need to see the sun now and again!

The views are great of the mountains and water when strolling by on the walking trail or even on the street while cruising through. This is a great drive.

Madrona could be one of Seattle's best kept secrets. It is located just to the west of Lake Washington in between SR 520 and I-90. It is a relaxed, slower pace, little peaceable kingdom that is just full of ethnicity and a home grown feel. Walking along 34th street gives you a really good impression of Madrona. There are lots of local shops and eateries (small cafes) along the street. Here you can grab some lunch and take it with you to one of the many Madrona parks. Most of the walking trails in and around Madrona offer breathtaking views of Lake Washington.

West Emerson Street is serene in both appearance and noise level. The street borders Discovery Park and is absolutely beautiful, especially if you are tired of looking and hearing lots of downtown traffic. Some homes line the street and offer great views of the park. While driving W Emerston Street, be sure to enjoy the views of the mountains, glimpses of the ocean, and of course the park. Pull over and take a walk in the park on one of the many walking trails or just sit down for a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Kansas Avenue is a short but scenic drive with little traffic and nothing but sweet lucidity. The area is quiet and peaceful and perfect for a Sunday drive. Discovery Park is located nearby and offers a tremendous amount of walking trails. Discovery Park is known as Seattle's largest park and quite popular for those locals needing some green space. Kansas Avenue is not short on greenery either. Bordered by Salmon Bay to the north and Elliott Bay to the south, the entire area of Magnolia is a hilly and scenic adventure.

This street is perfect for the outdoor lover. Nature at its finest, complete with a river and biking trails. There is a stretch of bike trail that runs along the street where you will experience views of the river an lots of greenery. This is a really pretty area. Redmond is known for its biking trais, not to mention an excellent school system, lots of parks, and of course Microsoft. Homes in the area run about half a million on up, but is considered an above average place to live in Seattle. This is a nice street to drive along or bike.

Ballard is one of the coolest areas in all of Seattle and Ballard Avenue NW is probably the epitome of cool. Known for its great shopping along this street, there are a number of boutiques sprouting among the red-brick historic buildings that line the area. Ballard Ave NW is the shopping hub and where you will find most businesses and retail shops. The retail shops are locally owned and very few chain stores can be found in Ballard. Some great little restaurants and eateries line Ballard Avenue NW. Watch for pedestrians when driving in the area because there is a lot of foot traffic.

The best thing about Richmond Highlands is that it is close to everything. Everything in the north end is close to Richmond Highlands which makes it a convenient and popular place to live. Families love Richmond Highlands because there are a lot of recreational activities and venues to choose from. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park and Highland Ice Arena are both places that locals love ot visit.

The neighborhood is sleepy and very quiet. Accompanied with good schools and a quaint atmosphere, Richmond Highlands has been and will continue to be a popular neighborhood in Seattle. Home prices are steadily increasing but are still quite affordable.

Shoreline is a great neighborhood for younger families. The area seems to always rank high on the list for Seattle's best neighborhoods stating that it is a great place for families, kids, seniors, and even singles. I don't necessarily agree with the singles part because when I was single Belltown was the place to be, not Shoreline. In any event, if you are single you probably want to stick to the restaurants and nightlife around Aurora rather than the smaller streets in Shoreline. The Shoreline Community College is located in the neighborhood in between Highland Terrace and Richmond Highlands. This could explain the singles scene.

Great schools are found in Shoreline and some of the most well respected elementary schools in all of Seattle are located here. Families love Shoreline because it is safe and kids can walk around without bodyguards. There are some bad areas around Aurora but for the most part this is a great area.

The entire Shoreline area is just north of Seattle and is a great neighborhood for young families, seniors, and even singles. Houses that line 172nd hover in price around the mid 300K range. The school district in the area is some of the best in Seattle and usually rated as such. The area along 172nd Street is no different from the neighborhood, the street is quiet with the exception of some kids playing. This is a safe area for younger children. Not too much traffic and a great neighborly spirit. Love this area.

If you are looking for a scenic Sunday afternoon drive in the country, this is not the street you are looking for. Cedar Street is located in the heart of downtown Seattle amid the hustle and bustle of lots of traffic, city buses, and pedestrians. There are a number of nicer and newer condos in the area along with numerous businesses. Some shopping and dining options are also found on this street. Take Cedar Street to a few of the parks in the neighborhood as well, like Myrtle and Elliott Bay. The street is easy access if you don't drive and rely on public transportation. Parking can get expensive if you are parked along the street or in the many parking garages as well.

I like driving along Elliott Avenue to get to Elliott Bay Park. There is considerable traffic along Elliott Avenue but it flows nicely and before you know it you are at the park. From the park as well as various points along the street you can witness wonderful views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound. The park offers some great green space to the neighborhood and along Elliot Ave. This is a pleasant and sceneic drive that I highly recommend.

This street is absolutely charming, especially for Seattle. The street is tree lined on one side with houses on the other side. Most of the homes are renovated charmers that are quite the commodity in Seattle. The main reason I like this street and neighborhood is because of Ravenna Park. This little park is about a half mile of wooded area or ravine that is a popular area to hike, jog, or picnic. In fact there are two picnic areas that I have been to that are absolutely wonderful. It is really nice to have a park in the neighborhood especially if you have younger children. The park has a play area and even a wading pool.

Olive Way has just about every shopping destination a woman could want, from Nordstrom to Westlake Center, this place has it all. I can get lost in Nordstrom's shoe section for hours at a time, but I digress. Olive Way is busy in terms of hustle and bustle and Seattle traffic. Pacific Place is also along Olive Way so you can imagine the traffic heading to their favorite retail destinations. A lot of great restaurants can also be found along Olive Way, like Andaluca Restaurant and Bar (a great romantic venue). Oliver's and Mayflower Park are also located on Olive Way. Lots of great hotels are along this street and allow Seattle visitors to trly experience what Seattle is all about.

Seattle has it all, nearby ocean beaches, excellent shopping, world-renowned restaurants, and entertainment upon entertainment. What is there not to love about Seattle? Perhaps the weather? That is my only beef after spending time on the eastern side of the state where the sun shines three-quarters of the year, but I still love Seattle!

Bellevue has a few bad areas and North East 12th Street seems to be one of those places. While the rental prices are relatively cheap in comparison to the rest of Seattle or Mercer Island, the complexes are run down and dirty. I have never really felt safe in this neighborhood either, and I would consider myself to be very street wise when it comes to the city. There are a number of businesses scattered along the street but some have closed down and boast a For Sale sign in the window. There are no good restaurants in this area or great shopping venues. The Village Greens Golf Course is nearby but that may be the only good thing about the street.

Bellevue is a great area and most of the neighborhoods in Bellevue are great, except South East 36th Street. This street is crowded and way too close to the Interstate (I-90). Because of I-90 running right alongside South East 36th it is a real drawback to living in the area. There are a few apartment complexes along the street and it always surprises me that people would live there but on the positive side, if you want to live close to freeway access, this is a good spot.

SE 83rd Street is a great neighborly street that runs through Mercer Island. It is not a large thoroughfare but rather runs through the neighborhood. Here you will find million dollar homes, lots of dog walkers, and a community that actually cares about their neighborhood. Most Seattle residents care about their city and community, but Mercer Island is one of those overly involved communities - personally I love it! There are a few businesses scattered throughout the street including Sahara Pizza around the 8000 block. The street is not too crowded except during prime driving times (rush hour) but never bumper to bumper. Love this neighborhood!

Rainier Avenue S is one of the better streets running through the neighborhood, but that isn't say a whole lot by comparison. Lots of mom and pop stores, grocers, ethnic restaurants, a couple of hair salons, and smoke shops. The street is busy as it is one of the main thoroughfares through the area. I would say this is a real average street for the neighborhood but poor in comparison to overall Seattle. There are a lot of nicer places I would rather be. Not the safest or the cleanest but just okay.

The only great thing about the street is that on a clear sunny day you can catch a wonderful view of Mt. Rainier. The price of beauty I suppose. The natural landscape is classic Pacific Northwest, but there are better places in Seattle with plenty of view.

The street is very short, but Harvard Avenue E has a lot to offer its travelers. Primarily set in a residential neighborhood with lots of apartment buildings, Harvard Avenue E is a clean and safe street with a great traffic rating. Harvard Avenue is in the heart of Capitol Hill which makes it an even more desirable place to live and drive. Around the 900 block of Harvard Avenue E is one of my favorite residences in all of Seattle, Merrill Court. This place is beautiful but it will cost you well over 2 million for a 7,000 square foot condo.

East Pine Street reminds me of my college days, even though I was nowhere near this street. The neighborhood bars are a real hit with the local residents of East Pine. Leaving their cars at home, residents trek over to the bars on several corners and stumble a bit home. You really don't want to be driving along East Pine Street even when sober. The street is classic for side-swipe adventures. It is very narrow and when an oncoming car is heading your way, it is best to pull over if you can. Because of the neighborhood bars in the area, there is more police patrol than usual. There are some good and not so spendy apartments along and around the street as well as a good neighborly vibe.

I am really partial to the Mann neighborhood in Seattle. Good schools, open space, clean and quiet. Can't get any better than that. E Olive Street is not much different. It is a great place to grab a coffee, take a walk with the baby stroller or dog, jog, or even just sight see. It is quiet along this street with minimal traffic and no overcrowding like the city. Overall there is just a good feel and vibe that comes from the area. Mann is one of the most popular neighborhoods to raise a family and E Olive Street is just like the area. There are several neighborhood coffee shops, juice bars, and a few antique shops scattered throughout.

East James Street is a nice area with some green space, fresh air, and a few playgrounds and parks scattered throughout. If you are looking for the hustle and bustle of the city, this is not the area, although there are several businesses in some locations. Traffic is consistent but not overcrowded. The street is not as narrow as some of the streets in Seattle, so you won't find the occasional hit and run side-swipe that seems ever popular in the city. East James is a good place to walk as well and you will see several moms pushing strollers to the neighborhood playground at all hours of the day.

South Main Street is really pretty to say the least. I love the greenery and large trees that line the street. At the beginning of the street you will find Ebbets Field Flannels and continuing on to about the 1400 block you will see the Buddhist Temple. This is a street with a lot to see and is classic Pacific Northwest with pine trees, greenery, and crisp mountain air. It almost feels like you are in another city heading to the Oregon coast. The Pratt Fine Arts Center is also located along South Main at about the 1900 block.

A lot of locals complain about the traffic along 19th Avenue and 19th Avenue E, but it really doesn't seem that out of sorts than most of the other Seattle streets. Personally, I would drive anywhere in the city if it got me to my favorite Dim Sum restaurant and Seattle's best called Monsoon. This place is amazing! It is located in Capitol Hill at 615 19th Avenue E. Yes, you must like Dim Sum and if you do, you will not want to miss this great restaurant. They use the freshest produce and ingredients and during the summer there is patio seating. Lunch specials are priced really well and this is popular destination for evening romance.

Belmont Avenue East is not a place I would desire to live, but have known many people who do live there and love it. The street is classic Capitol Hill, within walking distance to some of Seattle's most popular bars and nightlife destinations. Because of the proximity to local bars, the neighborhood gets noisy at night on the weekends. Residential parking is also a problem. In fact, it is nearly impossible to find a place to park if you live in an apartment along Belmont that offers only street parking.

One of my favorite coffee houses is located at 204 Belmont Avenue East - known as B & O Espresso. It's just a little more local than the Starbucks you find on every corner!

14th Avenue E runs right through Capitol Hill and is lined with condos and townhomes as well as local coffee shops. There is a very unique bed and breakfast located at the 900 block of 14th Avenue E, known as Shafer Baillie Mansion B&B. Home prices in the area can be over one million dollars but this is a highly coveted area of Seattle that offers superb ambience.

Seattle University can be found at the corner of 14th and East Cherry and expands about 50 acres across the area. More toward the downtown area will you find what seems like an over abundance of antique shops and second hand stores. You can also find several tea shops and wine bars in the area. Capitol Hill has it all and 14th Avenue E is where you will find most of it.

West Newell Street is one of those classic residential Seattle streets with lots of mature trees and older homes. Getting away from the downtown Seattle traffic can be difficult but West Newell will take you there. The neighborhood doesn't have a lot of younger families although it would be ideal for families because of the quiet and neighborly vibe. For the most part you find retirees and residents who have lived in the same home for thirty plus years. The street is mostly residential, so you don't find a lot of businesses and restaurants but they are not too far away. I like the overall feel I get when I drive along West Newell. It is cozy and comfortable!

With so many things to do and see in the International District it shocks me at how many locals have never been there! Perhaps when you settle into your own neighborhood, venturing out to other areas becomes unheard of. I'm an adventurist, so have been to just about every neighborhood in Seattle and am still exploring.

Some places you do not want to miss while in Seattle's International District inlcude Wing Luke Asian Museum located along Seventh Avenue S, the Northwest Asian American Theatre also along Seventh Ave, and Tsue Chong Noodle Company on King Street. Tsue Chong was founded in the early 1900s and cranks out fortune cookies and Chinese noodles like you wouldn't believe. My 7 year old loves this place and because of that, we keep going back.

The drive in to the International District is not desirable and due to some safety concerns I am wise in bringing my spouse or friends along. We always travel in groups to this neighborhood.

The International District in Seattle is filled with great places to see and encounter but the drive is anything but desirable. Canton Alley South is one of those streets that takes away from locals visiting the area. Most tourists have never driven Canton Alley so they are ignorant to the lack of safety in the neighborhood. I would avoid driving and have through Canton Alley. I'm not sure if there is a detour around the area to get to Wing Luke Asian Museum that bypasses Canton, but it would be worth some investigation. South King Street and Weller are no better but at least the traffic is a little less bumper to bumper during rush hour.

From condos to coffee shops, California Avenue South West has it all. This busy street offers great restaurants and ample public transportation. Bakery Nouveau is found at 4737 Californian Avenue SW and offers some of the most delicious croissants I have ever had. The bakery has been featured in the Seattle PI and Seattle Metropolitan and draws substantial crowds to taste its delicacies. The apple tarts and macaroons are out of this world.

Also found along California Avenue South West are a wide variety of business services, including a couple of dry cleaners and insurance companies. Just down the street from Bakery Nouveau is the Husky Deli which offers the best deli sandwich in Seattle as far as I'm concerned. Beer and wine is available in this old-fashioned deli. This place has been in business since the 1930s and is still going strong. So much better than Subway!

The neighborhood that surrounds 45th Avenue S, is the ideal place to raise a family. One of the best elementary schools is located here and continues to draw younger families to the area. There is a lot of greenery and trees in this older region of Seattle, but even though it is older it is upkept. You won't find trash and bums lying around the street or office buildings, just trees, well groomed green areas, and some open space. Homes along the street are very reasonably priced which is why you find a lot of young families affording the cost of living here in the area. House prices do vary and there are a few half million dollar homes scattered throughout the two hundred thousand dollar homes. This is a neighborhood that is here to stay.

I may be a little biased, because this is where I grew up, but Nob Hill will always have a special place in my heart. I disagree with the "snob hill" references because most Seattleites desire to live here and do whatever they can to get here. Locals do not hate on Nob Hill residents for the most part, but I am sure there are those select few that hate anyone with money. While there are those select mansions surrounding the area, Nob Hill can be somewhat reasonably priced in terms of apartment life.

Nob Hill Avenue North is speckled with single family homes of substantial size. Most are not new, but inside can be completely rejeuvenated and modernized. You won't find many restaurants or shops in this area but just a few streets over you will find your food haven.

The schools in the area that accomodate residents of Nob Hill Avenue N include Coe (elementary school), McClure Middle School (Junior High), and Seattle Public High School.

With so much public housing in the area, Yesler Terrace, this very well could be Seattle's ghetto. Since there really is not a proclaimed ghetto in Seattle, no projects, no hood, etc. Yesler Terrace could be it. State and government operated housing, Section 8 apartments, and low income developments do not make the area appealing to investors or suburbanites looking for their McMansions. Most steer clear of Yesler. There is a lot of cultural diversity in the area though. Nearly half of the population is Asian or Asian American and the other half is African or African American. You would think that due to the population demographic a lot of ethnic restaurants and shops would pop up but due to the substantial low income economic background of the people, entrepreneurial spirits are squashed.

The name can be somewhat decieving because this is not your New York City Wall Street. Seattle's Wall Street is scattered with businesses, a few dining options, and red brick apartments. New condos and high rise apartment complexes are popping up all the time but until they get the traffic sorted out in this area, it is not a place I would recommend living. I've witnessed too many side swipes to count (as can be par for any street in Seattle). If traveling to Seattle, you will find several hotels along Wall Street.

Belltown is Seattle and Seattle is Belltown. I love this place. Have lived here when I was younger, right out of college, and absolutely love going back. The location itself is not beautiful, which is why I chose to raise my family in a much greener and suburban area, but Belltown does make up for it by being perfectly situated!

Shops, great restaurants like Dahlia and Lola, and an over abundance of doughnut shops make Belltown a popular area. Also, it is close to everything. I remember looking out my condo window at the Space Needle. The views are some of the best in the city, but you will have to pay a price.

As for nightlife, Belltown is the place. The famous, or infamous, Croc (Crocodile Cafe) can be found in the neighborhood. The greasy ambience will fool you though because they offer some great bands. Back in the day, this is the place I first saw Pearl Jam, REM and Nirvana play.