So You're Near the University of Washington... Now What? An Insider's Guide to the Best Things To Do
Hey there! So you find yourself near the University of Washington in Seattle. Maybe you're visiting a student, checking out the campus for yourself, or you're a local who just hasn't gotten around to REALLY exploring the U-District. Whatever your reason, you're in for a treat. This part of Seattle is buzzing with energy, history, & some seriously cool spots. But here's the thing, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out what's actually worth your time.
That's where I come in. I've spent a ton of time wandering around this neighborhood, from the iconic campus grounds to the quirky backstreets of the U-District. & I'm going to give you the inside scoop on all the must-see, must-do, & must-eat things around UW. We're talking about more than just the big-name attractions – we'll dive into some hidden gems too.
One thing to keep in mind, especially if you're driving, is that parking around here can be a real headache. It's a busy area, & finding a spot can feel like a competitive sport. Honestly, it can put a damper on your whole day. A pretty cool solution I've found is using Prked. It's an app that lets you rent out a private driveway or garage from a local homeowner for a few hours or the whole day. It's often cheaper & WAY more convenient than circling the block for the tenth time. Just a little tip to make your adventure a whole lot smoother.
Alright, let's get into it. Here's your ultimate guide to making the most of your time near the University of Washington.
On-Campus Wonders: More Than Just a Pretty Quad
First things first, you can't be near UW & not explore the campus itself. It's honestly one of the most beautiful university campuses in the country, & it's open for everyone to enjoy. It's like a giant park with stunning architecture & a few surprises up its sleeve.
The Famous Cherry Blossoms & Suzzallo Library
You've probably seen the pictures. Every spring, the Quad on the UW campus explodes in a sea of pink & white with the blooming of the Yoshino cherry blossoms. It's a breathtaking sight that draws people from all over the city. If you're here in March or April, this is an absolute MUST. Grab a coffee, find a spot on the grass, & just soak it all in.
But what if it's not cherry blossom season? Don't worry, the campus is still a gem. Right off the Quad, you'll find Suzzallo Library. Now, I know what you're thinking – a library? Trust me on this one. Walk inside & find your way to the reading room. It's often called the "Harry Potter Room" for a reason. With its high, vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, & long wooden tables, you'll feel like you've been transported to Hogwarts. It's a public space, so you can go in & have a look, just be respectful of the students who are actually trying to study.
A Walk to Remember: Drumheller Fountain & Rainier Vista
From the Quad, take a stroll towards Drumheller Fountain. On a clear day, you'll get one of the most iconic views in all of Seattle. The fountain, with its powerful spray, perfectly frames Mount Rainier in the distance. It's a postcard-perfect moment & a great spot for a photo op. The view is so incredible, it’s a protected view by the city, meaning no new construction can block it.
Hidden Gardens & Observatories
The UW campus has its share of secrets, too. If you're looking for a quiet escape, seek out the Medicinal Herb Garden. It's a peaceful two-acre spot filled with a huge variety of plants from all over the world, originally created by the Pharmacy Department back in 1911. It’s a lovely place for a quiet walk.
For the science & history buffs, check out the Jacobsen Observatory. Built in 1895, it's one of the oldest buildings on campus & still has a working telescope. They sometimes have public viewing nights, which is a super unique experience right in the heart of the city. Another cool on-campus find is the Foucault pendulum in the Physics Building, a mesmerizing demonstration of the Earth's rotation.
Museums & Galleries: A Dose of Culture
The area around UW is a cultural hub, with some of Seattle's best museums right on your doorstep. Whether you're into natural history, contemporary art, or global cultures, there's something here for you.
Burke Museum of Natural History & Culture
Located right on the UW campus, the Burke Museum is a must-visit. It's not your typical stuffy museum. The new building is designed so you can see into the working labs & research areas, which is pretty cool. You can watch paleontologists working on dinosaur fossils or see researchers preserving biological specimens. The exhibits focus on the natural history & cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest, with an incredible collection of Native American art & artifacts. They also have a great cafe, Off the Rez, which serves delicious Native American-inspired food, like their famous fry bread tacos.
Henry Art Gallery
Also on campus is the Henry Art Gallery, Washington's first art museum. The Henry focuses on contemporary art & is known for its bold & thought-provoking exhibitions. It's a place that will make you think & see the world a little differently. They have a permanent collection of over 27,000 objects, including a great photography collection. The best part? Admission is now free for everyone, making it an accessible dose of culture for all.
Beyond the Campus: More Museums to Explore
If you're willing to venture a little further, you'll find even more world-class museums. The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) has three locations, including the main museum downtown, the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park, & the Olympic Sculpture Park on the waterfront. All are worth a visit if you have the time. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) at Seattle Center is another fantastic option, especially if you're into music, science fiction, or video games.
Getting Outside: Parks, Trails, & Waterways
One of the best things about Seattle is the easy access to the outdoors, & the area around UW is no exception. From sprawling parks to iconic waterways, there are plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air.
Gas Works Park: A View with a History
Just a short trip from UW, Gas Works Park is one of Seattle's most unique public spaces. It's located on the north shore of Lake Union on the site of a former gasification plant. The park incorporates many of the old industrial structures, giving it a cool, steampunk vibe. But the real draw here is the view. You get a stunning panorama of the Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle, & it's a fantastic place to watch seaplanes take off & land. It's a popular spot for picnics, kite flying, & just lounging on the grassy hill.
The Burke-Gilman Trail: A Path for Everyone
Running right through the southern edge of the UW campus is the Burke-Gilman Trail, one of Seattle's most popular recreational trails. This 27-mile paved path is perfect for walking, running, biking, or skating. You can take it west towards Fremont & Ballard or east towards Bothell. It's a great way to see different parts of the city at a slower pace.
Washington Park Arboretum & the Waterfront Activities Center
For a true escape into nature, head to the Washington Park Arboretum. This 230-acre park is a living museum of trees & plants from around the world. It's a beautiful place to wander through the various gardens & trails. Within the Arboretum, you'll find the serene Seattle Japanese Garden, a ticketed but worthwhile experience.
If you want to get out on the water, the UW's Waterfront Activities Center (WAC) is the place to go. Located near Husky Stadium, you can rent canoes & rowboats by the hour & paddle around Union Bay & into the quiet waterways of the Arboretum. It's a super fun & affordable way to see the city from a different perspective.
The U-District: A Neighborhood with Character
The University District, or "U-District" as it's known to locals, is the neighborhood immediately surrounding the UW campus. It's a vibrant, eclectic area with a long history & a youthful energy.
"The Ave": The Heart of the U-District
University Way NE, affectionately known as "The Ave," is the main drag of the U-District. It's a bustling street lined with a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, & cafes. You'll find everything from vintage clothing stores & bookstores to international grocery stores & bubble tea shops. It's a great place for people-watching & grabbing a cheap & delicious bite to eat. The Ave has a bit of a gritty, authentic feel that's a refreshing change from the more polished parts of the city.
A Foodie's Paradise: Where to Eat in the U-District
The U-District is a food lover's dream, especially if you're on a budget. The sheer diversity of restaurants is incredible. You can find amazing Thai food at places like Thai Tom, delicious hand-pulled noodles at Xi'an Noodles, & authentic Indian cuisine at Taste of India. For a classic Seattle brunch experience, head to Portage Bay Cafe, famous for its massive toppings bar for pancakes & french toast.
If you're looking for something a little more unique, check out Saint Bread, a bakery in a former boat repair shop on the water, serving up incredible pastries & sandwiches. And for a truly local experience, you can't beat a burger from Dick's Drive-In, a Seattle institution.
University Village: An Outdoor Shopping Oasis
Just a short walk from campus is University Village, or "U-Village" as it's commonly called. It's an upscale, open-air shopping center with a great mix of local boutiques & well-known brands. It's a beautifully landscaped space & a pleasant place to stroll around, even if you're not in a buying mood. You'll find great restaurants here too, like the famous Din Tai Fung for soup dumplings.
Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
Now for the really fun part – the places that aren't in all the tourist brochures. These are the spots that will make you feel like you've really discovered the heart of the neighborhood.
Cafe Allegro: A Piece of Coffee History
Tucked away in an alley off The Ave, Cafe Allegro claims to be Seattle's oldest espresso bar. It's been serving up coffee since 1975 & has that classic, cozy coffee shop vibe that's become synonymous with Seattle. It's a great place to escape the hustle & bustle & enjoy a really good cup of coffee.
Ravenna & Cowen Parks: An Urban Oasis
Just north of the U-District, you'll find Ravenna & Cowen Parks. These two parks connect to form a deep, wooded ravine that feels surprisingly remote for being in the middle of the city. There are trails that wind through the forest & follow a small creek, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or trail run.
The Center for Wooden Boats
While not exactly in the U-District, The Center for Wooden Boats on Lake Union is a short trip away & a true hidden gem. It's a living museum where you can see beautifully restored wooden boats, & on Sundays, they offer free public sails on classic sailboats. It's a fantastic way to experience the maritime culture of Seattle.
A Final Note on Getting Around
As you can see, there's a TON to do in & around the University of Washington. And while the area is very walkable & well-served by public transit, sometimes having a car is just more convenient, especially if you want to explore some of the further-flung spots. But as I mentioned before, parking can be a real pain. It's not uncommon to see people circling for 20-30 minutes just to find a spot, & the paid lots can be expensive.
This is where a little planning ahead with something like Prked can be a lifesaver. You can book a spot in someone's driveway or garage in advance, so you know exactly where you're going & don't have to waste time & energy on the parking hunt. It's a simple hack that can make your visit so much more enjoyable. And hey, if you're a local with an empty driveway, you could even make a little extra cash by renting it out on Prked. Just something to think about!
Hope this was helpful & gives you a great starting point for your adventures around the University of Washington. It's a really special part of Seattle with a lot to offer. Let me know what you think if you check out any of these spots!
