Magnolia

Despite being between Ballard and downtown, Magnolia can feel a little isolated, thanks to very few access roads leading into the neighborhood across the railroad that divides it from Interlaken and Queen Anne to the east. This suits residents just fine. As an older, residential neighborhood, Magnolia seems to pride itself on quiet and privacy. As usual, houses with water views and those atop the steep hill tend to be larger and older, while the side facing east to Interlaken and Queen Anne is more modest, dotted with townhomes and some extensive apartment complexes, too. Magnolia is also the location of one of Seattle’s most magnificent and picturesque parks, Discovery Park, whose winding trails lead one from grassy bluffs overlooking the puget sound, down through densely wooded areas and along salt marshes to beaches that draw thousands of visitors every summer, and more than a few wedding photo shoots. The whole of Magnolia is dotted with parks and play fields, and its northern tip even connects to Ballard via the locks, while its southern tip hosts glittering marinas, and a few prime waterfront dining spots.