West SEATTLE

47.5667° N, 122.3868° W.

 

WELCOME TO West SEATTLE

West Seattle has a rich and varied history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Duwamish tribe, part of the Coast Salish people, who lived and fished along the Duwamish River and Elliott Bay.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region. The Alki Point area of West Seattle was the site where the Denny Party, led by Arthur Denny, first landed on November 13, 1851. They initially named the settlement "New York-Alki," combining "New York" with "Alki," a Chinook word meaning "by and by." Due to the harsh conditions, the settlers eventually moved across Elliott Bay to what is now downtown Seattle, but Alki Point remained an important area for early development.

In its modern era, the construction of the West Seattle Bridge in 1984 significantly improved connectivity to downtown Seattle, spurring residential and commercial growth. The bridge's temporary closure from 2020 to 2022 for repairs was a significant event, highlighting the peninsula's reliance on this vital infrastructure.

West Seattle is a vibrant, diverse area known for its distinct neighborhoods, natural beauty, and strong community feel. Here are some of the key neighborhoods:

  • Alki: Known for its beautiful beachfront along Alki Beach Park, this neighborhood offers stunning views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. Alki Avenue is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

  • Admiral: This neighborhood is located just south of Alki and features a mix of historic homes and modern residences. Admiral is home to the Admiral Theater, a historic cinema, and a variety of dining and shopping options along California Avenue.

  • Junction (West Seattle Junction): Often considered the heart of West Seattle, the Junction is a bustling commercial district centered around the intersection of California Avenue and Alaska Street. It features numerous shops, restaurants, and community events, including a popular farmers market.

  • Fauntleroy: Located in the southwestern part of West Seattle, Fauntleroy is known for its ferry terminal, which provides service to Vashon Island and Southworth. The neighborhood has a more suburban feel, with parks like Lincoln Park offering extensive green spaces and waterfront access.

  • Delridge: This neighborhood stretches along Delridge Way and is known for its diverse community and mix of residential, industrial, and commercial areas. Delridge features several parks and green spaces, including the extensive Westcrest Park and Camp Long, an urban nature retreat.

  • Highland Park: Located in the southeastern part of West Seattle, Highland Park is a residential area with a strong sense of community. It offers parks, playgrounds, and access to green spaces, including the West Duwamish Greenbelt.

West Seattle as a whole is characterized by its stunning natural surroundings, including numerous parks, beaches, and trails, making it an attractive area for outdoor enthusiasts. The community is known for its active neighborhood associations and events, fostering a tight-knit and engaged populace.