Welcome to Central Seattle
Artistic, cultural hot spot in the heart of Seattle
Known for art museums, music, and cultural diversity, Central Seattle offers an incredible array of entertainment options, as well as quick access to neighboring Seattle areas. This thriving enclave consists of several coveted neighborhoods.
Montlake
Montlake is a tight-knit community known for beautiful homes, charming style, and family life. Affluent and quiet, this esteemed neighborhood is home to the Seattle Yacht Club and plenty of green space.
Madison Valley
Madison Valley, home to an impressive selection of French restaurants and bistros, has earned the nickname “Seattle’s French Quarter.”
Madison Park
Nearby Madison Park is a charming, upscale community with stunning views of Lake Washington and housing options ranging from generous historic homes to chic condo buildings and luxurious townhouses. East Madison Street, the main thoroughfare running through Madison Valley and Madison Park, is the hotspot for trendy cafes, bistros, and boutiques. Here, you’ll find plenty to eat, drink, and buy.
Madrona
Quiet Madrona is coveted for its historic charm, “34th Ave” shops and cafes, and impressive views of Lake Washington. Nearby Leschi is a mellow neighborhood on coveted real estate overlooking Lake Washington. Despite its waterfront setting, it's got a small-town, charming vibe.
Leschi
Coming Soon!
Central District
Central District is known for big-city conveniences and small-town vibes. This diverse area offers a vibrant art scene, with perks like the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, an arts hub showing films, plays, and musicals.
What to Love
- Vibrant arts scene
- Easy access to surrounding Seattle areas
- Diverse population
- Beautiful historic community
People & Lifestyle
The heartbeat of a major metropolis, Central Seattle offers residents an artistic and sophisticated vibe while also maintaining the warm, laid-back feel the Pacific Northwest is known for. Residents love to hit up the area’s artisanal boutiques and incredible restaurants or take advantage of beautiful days with boating, hiking, or tennis.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Bring your appetite to Central Seattle — this place was made for foodies! You’ll get your fill of global cuisine and stylish eats without even leaving the neighborhood. In fact, most of these must-try spots are within walking distance of each other. For a fun, casual vibe and delicious comfort food, there’s none other than Wood Shop BBQ. Voted Seattle’s Best BBQ, this bright, casual space serves classic barbecue sandwiches, ribs, mac ’n’ cheese bowls, and cocktails.
East Madison Street offers the best in dining, including top chef Ethan Stowell’s creation How to Cook a Wolf. The rustic, Italian-inspired menu of small plates and pasta spins simple ingredients into culinary splendor. Casual eatery Cactus offers Southwestern and Mexican cuisine with vibrant decor and a lively atmosphere perfect for dinner with friends. Locals swear by the butternut squash enchiladas.
For a more intimate vibe, The Harvest Vine’s small plates, Spanish wine, and Basque cuisine are a perfect choice. Also, on East Madison, you’ll find Japanese bistro NISHINO. Known for its omakase menu and innovative cuisine, this stylish spot is chef-owned and run. Just steps away is Cantinetta, an elegant Tuscan eatery featuring small plates and handmade pasta.
Things to Do
Whether you’re looking for a day of lattes and outdoor strolls, window shopping at chic boutiques, or a rousing game of tennis, Central Seattle has what you need. Take in the lush scenery at Washington Park Arboretum, whose 230 acres contain a stunning array of plantlife.
Golf enthusiasts will want to explore Broadmoor Golf Club, while the tennis-playing set should head to the Seattle Tennis Club. These exclusive, members-only establishments offer the best country club life, from world-class golf courses and tennis courts to luxurious spas and swimming pools. Pack a picnic for a leisurely day at Leschi Park, or enjoy the vibrant sailing community at the Leschi & Lakewood Marina.
If an afternoon of shopping and sipping is more your speed, Madrona’s charming 34th Street offers an impressive collection of shops and restaurants. You’ll find Hitchcock, a favorite local haunt for eclectic, one-of-a-kind jewelry and, most recently, the reinvented sweatshirt. Stop by Juniper for sustainably made clothing that’s both chic and comfortable. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Vendemmia for oysters and rosé or the cozy Bottlehouse for wine, microbrews, and artisan cheeses.
Schools
A family-oriented community, Central Seattle offers excellent educational opportunities, including:
- The Valley School, PreK-5, highly rated Madison Park elementary school
- Garfield High School, 9-12, high-ranking Leschi high school
- Montlake Elementary K-5, top elementary school