Lydia Daniller
Just a short drive from downtown Seattle, the historic landmark neighborhood of Columbia City seems worlds away. The wooded hills and farming areas, settled in the late 1800s, were quickly established as an alternative to downtown living. Today, its turn-of-the-century buildings are filled with an eclectic mix of retailers, vibrant dining establishments and a host of entertainment options. With an authenticity that's hard to match, Columbia City is the commercial center for the surrounding neighborhoods of Mount Baker,
Lakewood/Seward Park, and the rest of the Rainier Valley.
Columbia City hosts myriad events such as the Wednesday Farmer's Market (May through October), a monthly live music event, BeatWalk (featuring a joint cover to live music at many area businesses the second Fridays, May throughSeptember), hip live music in a historic vaudeville theatre at the
Columbia City Theater and Bourbon bar, and first-run movies in a neighborhood cinema.
The Rainier Valley Heritage Parade and Festival and the Bite of the Valley take place in the heart of Columbia City on the third Saturday of August. Shoppers can explore an incredible collection of African imports; view works of art; outfit the children; or buy flowers, meats and freshly baked bread.
For an additional resource on Seattle's neighborhoods, click here.