Ballard

Explore

The stunningly designed National Nordic Museum presents a fascinating look at the deep cultural connections between Scandinavia and the Pacific Northwest. Saunter along the picturesque Ballard Locks to watch boats glide by. For indoor fun, test your strength and agility at Edgeworks Climbing Seattle, or catch a flick at the handsome Majestic Bay Theatres. Get to know Ballard’s dynamic music scene at standout venues like the Tractor Tavern and Conor Byrne Pub.

Eat and Drink

The famed Walrus and the Carpenter serves fresh oysters and seafood small plates in a bright, convivial space that feels plucked from the French coast, while easygoing but elegant Kahlo & Loyal offers an intriguing mix of globally inspired tapas and well-curated wines. High-ceilinged Moshi Moshi combines elegant Japanese design with artful rolls and izakaya-style small plates; mod-industrial CrackleMi Vietnamese Grill brings vibrant, smoky flavors to bánh mì and rice bowls; and festive Situ Tacos plates up modern Mexican street eats in a colorful nook. Skål Beer Hall leans into the neighborhood’s Nordic heritage with communal tables, bottles of mead, and hearty Scandinavian-inspired plates in a cozy, lodge-like space, and Lucky Envelope Brewing stands out for inventive beers—often infused with unique ingredients like Sicilian lemons and local raspberries. On balmy afternoons, head to the sun-dappled beer garden at Old Stove Brewing Co. for pints and laid-back snacks. Casual Schooner Street Pub turns out easygoing pub fare and plenty of local taps. Pick up lunch to take to the beach or Ballard Locks or dine in at Take 5 Urban Market, which creates generously stacked sandwiches and fresh salads in a casual corner café. Don’t skip dessert: A La Mode Pies bakes heavenly creations (anyone for marionberry-hazelnut pie?) and even offers classes.

Shop

The sleek and airy Smål Market contains the new team store of the Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC pre-professional soccer teams as well as maker galleries featuring ceramics, apparel, and housewares. Search for fanciful games and art supplies for younger kids at Kurfunkle Kids Market, stylish vintage threads at Lucky Dry Goods, and beautiful cards and souvenirs at Annie’s Art and Frame. Woodland Mod stocks thoughtfully selected body products and lifestyle goods, and Summit and Terrace has gained a following for its nontoxic coconut-soy-wax candles and diffusers.