Green Lake/Phinney Ridge/Greenwood

Explore

You can view more than 250 species of animals as you stroll the lushly landscaped paths at historic Woodland Park Zoo. Save time afterward to visit the free 2.5-acre Woodland Park Rose Garden, by the zoo’s south entrance. More gorgeous flora awaits in neighboring Woodland Park, designed by the famous Olmsted brothers, and Green Lake Park, which offers a sandy beach, boat rentals, playing fields, and a 2.8-mile multiuse trail. The Seattle Public Theater presents plays in a converted bathhouse.

Eat and Drink

Regionally sourced ingredients like lion’s mane mushrooms, Dungeness crab, and dry-aged beef are the focus at Greenwood American Bistro. Sup on pleasing comfort fare at North Star Diner. Ben’s Bread bakes sublime English muffins with fresh apricot jam and fluffy brioche breakfast sandwiches, and Valhalla Sandwiches earns raves for its Reubens and carne asada tortas. A recent James Beard semifinalist for “best new bar,” stylish Sophon stands out for its superb cocktails and delish Cambodian fare. Dark Room is another inviting spot for inventive sips and tasty Asian-inspired bar bites. Dine on globally inspired small plates at Tapas Lab and hearty sandwiches at Layers Green Lake.

Shop

Jock & Jill stocks the shoes and gear you need for a run around beautiful Green Lake. Shop for well-curated kitchenware and household goods at J Matheson Urban Gifts & Kitchen, and stylish jewelry at Baraka Gems, which donates a portion of profits to A Ring of Hope Orphanage in Kenya. Treat yourself to decadent sweets at Chocolati and Bell’s Cookie Co.