Greenwood

The Greenwood neighborhood is located just north of Phinney Ridge and is bordered by two of Seattle's favorite green spaces: Green Lake Park at the SE corner and Carkeek Park and Beach at the NW. Once known as a sleepy, almost rural, section of Seattle filled with antique shops and their suppliers; Greenwood is quickly catching up with the growth and revitalization so thoroughly embraced by most of Seattle. Remodeled homes and buildings, additional parks and services, and new stores and condos have helped attract a younger population to the neighborhood. Today's Greenwood is an active, multi-generational, multi-ethnic community yet still holds on to much of its traditional slow-paced charm.

One of the new youth-focused services include the Space Travel Supply Co. and 826 Seattle - a national non-profit organization which offers free and low-cost creative writing workshops and homework help for young people using a clever, inviting storefront as their retail cover. Yes, you can buy a few space travel supplies, but it is the talented staff and volunteers that really bring in the customers.

Top Ten Toys also has an educational focus and has been in the neighborhood for over 20 years. They carry an impressive selection of high-quality educational games, toys, and materials. Rumor is they may have to move out of their current location due to an upcoming overhaul of the strip mall they are in, but they have promised to stay in the area.

New construction has transformed more than one retail section of this neighborhood and has brought many townhomes and condos to the area. Residential areas have also seen updates. Original pre-war bungalows can still be found yet most have been at least modestly remodeled, while others have experienced major reconstruction. Not all construction is for new buildings; Greenwood Park and Playground was recently brought to life on the grounds of old nursery.

Prices for homes in Greenwood, new and old, are still a bit lower than neighborhoods closer to either the water or downtown. This is not to say Greenwood is out of the way. Easy access to Aurora Ave. and a choice of Metro Bus lines to downtown make commuting in and out of Greenwood relatively easy.

When they prefer to stay in the neighborhood, residents can leave their car at home and spend the day perusing the remaining antique shops, relaxing at the Greenwood Library, and stopping for a drink at one of the friendly local pubs or a meal at an outstanding restaurant. The dining choices in Greenwood span the globe and the clock - you can find breakfast, lunch, or dinner in almost any style of food you would like - and most offer the added bonus of being quick and inexpensive. Some of our favorites include: Gorditos, Pho Than Brothers, King Falafel Grill, Georgia's Greek Deli, Pete's Eggnest, DaVinci Bakery. After dinner, a play at Taproot Theatre is a pleasant option.

For food and fun in a relaxed atmosphere, Greenwood is a gem.