The University District & Wallingford
The University District & Wallingford Northeast of downtown, Seattle's "U district" is home to the University of Washington, and these neighborhoods have the largest concentration of outdoor activities. "The Ave" (University Way) is lined with inexpensive ethnic restaurants and cool consignment shops, and on Saturday mornings, you'll find Seattle's oldest and largest "farmers only" market at 50th Street, with fresh produce, cheeses, nuts, ciders, and more. Rent kayaks behind Husky Stadium and set off to explore Lake Washington, or spend an afternoon chasing the wind with the high flyers on Gas Works Park's Kite Hill. West on 45th Street is residential Wallingford, with its cute bungalow homes and sweet boutiques.
RESTAURANTS
Portage Bay Café
At brunch, let the kids hit the toppings bar (fruit, whipped cream) for pancakes and waffles, and order yourself the eggs Benedict with Dungeness crab. 4130 Roosevelt Way NE,
(206) 547-8230.
Agua Verde Café and Paddle Club
Perched right on the water, this place makes a mean Baja-style fish taco and yummy "mangodillas" (mango quesadillas). 1303 Northeast Boat Street,
(206) 545-8570.
Trophy Cupcakes and Party
Try the triple coconut, red
velvet, or chai cardamom. 1815 North 45th Street, #209,
(206) 632-7020.
Essential Baking Company
This organic bakery is known for its unique breads, but it also makes a mean grilled cheese and offers two varieties of soup daily. 1604 North 34th Street, (206) 545-0444.
STORES
Gas Works Park Kite Shop
The superstocked shop, which feels like a kaleidoscope inside, sells both basic and trick kites.
3420 Stone Way N,
(206) 633-4780.
Crackerjack Contemporary Crafts
Find irresistible marionettes and Bella Luz night-lights in this 1916 former schoolhouse. 1815 North 45th Street, #212, (206) 547-4983.
ACTIVITIES
Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Check out the fossils in the Discovery Lab and the giant totem poles at the entrance. 17th Avenue NE and Northeast 45th Street,
(206) 543-5590.
Waterfront Activities Center
Rent a vessel to paddle out to Washington Park Arboretum. 3900 Montlake Boulevard NE,
(206) 543-9433.
Recycled Cycles
Rent bikes, trailers, and helmets, then follow the Burke-Gilman Trail to Gas Works Park (2.5 miles) or north along Lake Washington to Magnuson Park (4 miles) and its playground. 1007 Boat Street, (206) 547-4491.
