Michael & Kailey
Things To Do
Ray's Boathouse
Ray's Boathouse has some of the best views in Seattle and has been a Ballard staple since 1945. We recommend sitting in the upstairs in the cafe (and on the deck if you can!) and enjoying the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Olympic Mountains during sunset. They have fabulous seafood and drinks. No reservations accepted - walk in's only.
Ballard Breweries
The neighborhood of Ballard is known for its many breweries and ciderhouses. Stoup (address listed) is near the center but go in any direction and you can find others including: Yonder Cider, Urban Family Brewing Co, Reuben's Brews, Lucky Envelop Brewing, Obec Brewing, the list goes on :) Great place to bring kids/dogs, Leia has made an appearance at almost all of these.
Ferry Routes around Puget Sound
Ferries are abundant around Puget Sound and are a great way to see the city/landscape from a different angle. There are spots for cars on most ferries but also options to walk on and take the ferry back and forth across waterways around the Sound. Options include: Bainbridge-Seattle, Bremerton-Seattle, Mukilteo-Whidbey Island, West Seattle-Vashon Island, among others. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
Percy's & Co. Seattle
Conveniently located across the street from Hotel Ballard, Percy's has great cocktails and a cute patio! Check out their Happy Hour (first two hours of the day and all day Sunday). No reservations needed.
WASUP Yoga
WASUP Yoga is Washington's first and longest running stand up paddle board yoga community. Their yoga shala (or classroom) is uniquely situated in beautiful Shilshole Bay between Ballard and Magnolia in Seattle where you are often joined by harbor seals and great blue herons. It's surprisingly peaceful floating in the bay, surrounded by the sounds and calmness of nature. Grab a snow cone after! No yoga or SUP experience needed - I promise! This is a truly unique Seattle experience. Sign up for class ahead of time!
Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
A cool place to see a fish ladder and witness boats transitioning from freshwater (Lake Union) to saltwater (Puget Sound)
Golden Gardens Park
A beautiful park with spectacular views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Several short walk paths around, or dip your feet in the ocean along the sandy beach. A great place to catch a sunset.
Discovery Park
Another wonderful park with bluff views overlooking Puget Sound. A lighthouse and many other hiking and walking trails available. These trails are quite steep in areas so bring good walking/hiking shoes.
Woodland Park Zoo
A great daytime activity, especially those with kids, and lots of exhibits with rotating animals.
Gas Works Park
A quirky park with views of South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle and playground for kids.
Green Lake
A 3 mile loop trail around a staple landmark of north central Seattle, with many shops/restaurants/bars surrounding. Also a Pitch and Putt golf course for all skill levels on the south end of the lake.
Fremont Troll
An iconic art piece in the funky neighborhood of Fremont.
Mox Boarding House
For board game enthusiasts, come to this bar/restaurant and play any type of game you desire. Good option if we have a rainy Seattle day. It is first come first served for the main bar area but does have private rooms available for rent.