University District

Explore

n this cultural and educational hub served by the Link light rail, view contemporary works at the Henry Art Gallery (15th Ave NE & NE 41st St) and fossils, Indigenous art, and artifacts at the Burke Museum (4303 Memorial Way NE). For an outdoor adventure, rent a canoe or kayak at UW’s Waterfront Activities Center (3710 Montlake Blvd NE) or watch for birds, frogs, and turtles amid the pristine ponds and wetlands of the Union Bay Natural Area (3501 NE 41st St).

Eat and Drink

Pancita (5501 30th Ave NE) has earned a James Beard Award nomination for its flavorful Mexican cuisine, including albacore tostadas and chicken mole. International eateries abound, including MCozy Fusion Cafe (4715 25th Ave NE) for modern Vietnamese cuisine; Persepolis Grill (5517 University Way NE) for authentic Persian fare; and North Noodles N Dumplings (4311 University Way NE) for satisfying Chinese plates. Stop by student-filled Ugly Mug Cafe (1309 NE 43rd St) for breakfast sandwiches and coffee. After strolling alongside Portage Bay, stop for avocado toast or a house-smoked ham and cheese sandwich at Saint Bread (1421 NE Boat St).

Shop

University Book Store (4326 University Way NE) carries books, cards, and University of Washington gear. The open-air University Village (2623 NE University Village St) is home to dozens of both familiar and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Check out the fine jeweler Something Silver (4628 Village Ct NE) and the gift shop Fireworks Gallery (2617 NE University Village St).