Central District

Explore

Start your neighborhood stroll at Wa Na Wari (911 24th Ave), a thoughtfully curated fifth-generation home converted into a Black arts and community gathering space. Then, venture over to Pratt Park (201 20th Ave S), a family-friendly destination named for civil rights activist Edwin T. Pratt that’s perfect for picnics or just relaxing on a blanket—it has a spray park too. The excellent Northwest African American Museum (2300 S Massachusetts Ave) shines a light on the Pacific Northwest’s Black and African diaspora through art, book talks, and workshops. Tap into the retro roller-skating vibe at Judkins Park (2150 S Norman St), a popular spot for skaters to show off their moves.

Eat and Drink

Kick off your day at Temple Pastries (2524 S Jackson St) with a cup of locally roasted Broadcast coffee and their famous, perfectly sweet cruffin, or with an East African–style latte (try it with house-made chicory syrup) at Boon Boona (1223 E Cherry St). Sup on injera, ketfo beef tartare, and other Ethiopian specialties at Cafe Selam (2715 E Cherry St), or chow down on scrumptious fried catfish and hushpuppies at Jackson’s Catfish Corner (2218 S Jackson St). In the leafy Madrona section of the neighborhood, Vendemmia (1126 34th Ave) presents handmade pastas and Northwest-influenced Italian cooking in a conversation-filled dining room. And save room for a sweet ending at Cupcake Royale (1101 34th Ave).

Shop

QueenCare (2315 S Jackson St) offers a full menu of enticing aromatherapy skin and body products available in sandalwood, lavender, and other soothing scents. Browse the colorful shelves and walls of Arte Noir (2301 E Union St) in Midtown Square—they’re filled and hung with eclectic products from Black creatives. Stock up on both nostalgic and current sweets at Mad Candy (1130C 34th Ave) and thoughtfully curated and displayed apparel and attire at Katybird (1430 34th Ave) consignment shop.