Ballard

Ballard was established in 1907 and continues to maintain the small town qualities and sense of independence from that time. Ballard was created for and was once filled almost exclusively with Scandinavian fishermen and mill workers. With its miles of shoreline accessing Puget Sound, the community still continues to support a highly successful fishing, shipping and marine industry. However, additional light industry, a busy retail core and a Swedish Hospital branch now provide more employment choices in the neighborhood. With the increased arrival of young, educated professionals taking advantage of the area's relatively reasonable housing prices and proximity to downtown, Ballard is evolving into a much more diverse neighborhood.

This once quiet community has become a hot spot for shopping and entertainment with second-hand stores, boutiques, trendy cafes, galleries and a monthly art walk. A new Trader Joes opened at the base of the Ballard Bridge. Unique shops, restaurants and music venues also line the main streets. Despite the changes, Ballard still treasures its history and is home to the Nordic Museum which hosts a variety of concerts, classes, and events. Locals as well as tourists can also enjoy an afternoon at one of Ballard's other historic treasures: the Ballard Locks and Gardens, the Golden Gardens beachfront and Shilshole Marina or the Majestic Bay Theatre. Kids and kids are heart will need to make a stop at Archie McPhee's, Ballard's famously fun store for quirky gifts and toys.

Many of the homes in Ballard were developed in the 20s, 30s, and 40s. They were modestly priced and built to last. In other parts of the neighborhood you'll find larger homes with breath-taking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Many new condominium buildings are beginning to line the commercial streets throughout Downtown Ballard bringing a new vitality to the area.

From the old to the new, you'll love every part of Ballard!