Green Lake
Green Lake is a picturesque neighborhood in north central Seattle, Washington, centered around the iconic Green Lake Park. Known for its scenic beauty, active lifestyle, and vibrant community, Green Lake offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities. The neighborhood is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and professionals, providing a tranquil yet lively atmosphere.
Parks and Recreational Areas
Green Lake Park: The centerpiece of the neighborhood, Green Lake Park encompasses a 259-acre area, including the 50,000-year-old glacial lake. The park features a 2.8-mile paved path and a 3.2-mile unpaved path that encircle the lake, perfect for walking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading. The park also offers tennis courts, sports fields, a community center, swimming beaches, and boat rentals.
Woodland Park: Adjacent to Green Lake Park, Woodland Park is a large park that includes the Woodland Park Zoo, which is home to a diverse array of animals and exhibits. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, a disc golf course, and off-leash dog areas.
Lower Woodland Park: Part of the larger Woodland Park, this area includes several sports fields, a skate park, and wooded trails. It’s a popular spot for baseball, soccer, and other recreational activities.
Green Lake Small Craft Center: Located within Green Lake Park, this facility offers rowing, sailing, and kayaking programs for all ages and skill levels. It’s a hub for water sports and community events.
Attractions
Woodland Park Zoo: One of the top zoos in the United States, the Woodland Park Zoo features over 1,000 animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats. The zoo offers educational programs, special events, and conservation initiatives.
Green Lake Community Center: This community hub offers a variety of programs and activities, including fitness classes, sports leagues, and arts and crafts. The center also features a gymnasium, meeting rooms, and an indoor pool.
Bathhouse Theater: Located on the shores of Green Lake, this historic bathhouse has been converted into a theater that hosts performances by the Seattle Public Theater. The theater offers a range of productions, including plays, musicals, and youth programs.
Restaurants and Cafés
Duke’s Seafood & Chowder: A popular restaurant located on the eastern shore of Green Lake, Duke’s offers a menu featuring fresh seafood, including their famous clam chowder. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with lake views.
The Butcher’s Table: A trendy steakhouse offering high-quality meats, seafood, and a range of gourmet sides. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and excellent service.
Zoka Coffee Roasters & Tea Company: A local favorite for coffee enthusiasts, Zoka offers expertly brewed coffee, teas, and pastries. The café provides a relaxed atmosphere for studying, working, or socializing.
Rosita’s Mexican Grill: A family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine, including tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas. It’s a great spot for a casual meal with friends and family.
Green Lake Bar & Grill: A casual dining spot offering a variety of American dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant features outdoor seating with views of the lake.
Yearly Festivals and Events
Seafair Milk Carton Derby: Held annually in July, this quirky event involves races between boats made entirely of milk cartons. Participants compete for prizes in various categories, and the event includes family-friendly activities and entertainment.
Green Lake Pathway of Lights: A winter tradition where the pathways around Green Lake are illuminated with thousands of luminarias. The event features live music, hot drinks, and a festive atmosphere, drawing crowds to celebrate the holiday season.
Polar Bear Plunge: An annual New Year’s Day event where brave participants take a chilly dip in Green Lake. The plunge is a fun and invigorating way to start the new year and attracts hundreds of participants and spectators.
Green Lake Open Water Swim: A competitive open water swimming event held in the summer, attracting swimmers from across the region. The event includes races of various distances and age groups.
Community Services and Facilities
Green Lake Library: A branch of the Seattle Public Library, offering a wide range of books, media, and educational programs for all ages. The library serves as a community hub for reading and learning.
Green Lake Elementary School: A public school serving the Green Lake neighborhood, offering education for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The school emphasizes strong academic programs and community involvement.
Green Lake Community Center: As mentioned earlier, this facility offers various recreational programs, classes, and events for residents. It includes a gymnasium, meeting rooms, and an indoor pool.
Green Lake Village: A mixed-use development that includes residential units, retail stores, and restaurants. It provides convenient shopping and dining options for residents and visitors.
Transportation
Green Lake is well-connected by public transportation, with several King County Metro bus routes providing access to downtown Seattle and other neighborhoods. The area is also bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes along major streets and around the lake. Green Lake is conveniently located near major highways, including Interstate 5, making it easy for residents and visitors to travel to and from the neighborhood.
Housing
Green Lake offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and modern apartments. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained early 20th-century architecture, including Craftsman and bungalow-style homes. Many properties are within walking distance of the lake and park, adding to the neighborhood’s appeal. The housing market in Green Lake includes a range of price points, catering to both renters and homeowners.
Local Businesses
Green Lake is home to a variety of small businesses that cater to the needs of the community. These include grocery stores, boutiques, fitness studios, and professional services. Some notable local businesses include:
PCC Community Markets: A locally-owned grocery store offering a wide range of organic and natural products. It’s a convenient spot for residents to do their daily shopping.
Super Jock ‘n Jill: A specialty running and athletic store offering shoes, apparel, and gear for runners and athletes. The store also hosts running events and community races.
Green Lake Jewelry Works: A custom jewelry store offering unique and handcrafted pieces. It’s a popular spot for finding special gifts and custom-designed jewelry.
Road Runner Sports: A store specializing in running shoes and gear, offering personalized fitting services and a wide selection of athletic products.
Green Lake is a vibrant and picturesque neighborhood in Seattle that offers a mix of recreational, dining, and community amenities. With its iconic park, scenic waterfront, and local events, it provides residents and visitors with numerous opportunities for leisure and engagement. The neighborhood’s commitment to an active lifestyle, community involvement, and preserving its natural beauty makes it a desirable place to live and visit.
Learn about another nearby area called Montlake.
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