Fremont

Fremont prides itself on being a little quirky and homespun. Its self-proclaimed status as the “Center of the Universe” is referenced in several public artworks, including floating planets and a rocket atop one of its many indie boutiques. But that’s just the start of the oddities. Discover a statue of Lenin (which is actually privately owned), and the Fremont Troll under Aurora Bridge. And don’t miss the wire sculptures of dinosaurs covered in English ivy! Fremont never lets you forget that there’s no place quite like it. Among dozens of independent shops, you’ll also find great bars and cafes and some of the city’s most popular restaurants.

Getting in and out from downtown can be tricky at certain hours. Fremont’s drawbridge is the most frequently raised drawbridge in America. Traffic crossing the canal is often backed-up (especially in summer). Planning for delays is important, especially if you are taking one of the many buses. The #40 bus passes through Fremont to Ballard from South Lake Union and downtown, for example. And the #62 bus connects Sand Point to Pioneer Square, via Fremont and Queen Anne. Fremont also has its own office complexes. Google is one of the larger occupants, making it a neighborhood that truly combines “work” and “play”!