Ballard made the cut on USA Today.com as one of the “Top 10 Neighborhoods Tourists haven’t found yet.” The article, posted this morning, featured Ballard alongside many well known neighborhoods in the USA including Austin’s Eastside, Boston’s Seaport District and Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill.
In the article, writer Libby McMillan mentions many landmarks and hot spots that are iconic t0 our neighborhood. McMillan encourages visitors to check out the salmon run at the Ballard Locks and also points to the beautiful views of both the water and the Olympic Peninsula as reasons to visit.
McMillan promotes Ballard as a intriguing travel destination for out of towners. “Hipsters will find the components they expect of an urban adventure, but Ballard also appeals to beer lovers and trend-seeking shoppers,” writes McMillan.
Some of the staples of the Ballard restaurant scene were featured in the article including Ray’s Boathouse, The Sexton, Bastille and The Walrus and the Carpenter. The Ballard brewing scene was also covered. McMillan encourages visitors to sample some beer from our neighborhood breweries Peddler, Populuxe, Hilliard’s, Northwest Peaks, Hale’s Ales, Maritime Pacific and Reuben’s Brews.
Ballard’s nightlife was not forgotten, McMillan mentions some Ballard favorites including BalMar, Tractor Tavern and Conor Byrne Pub.
McMillan was also clearly impressed with the shopping and gallery options available in our neighborhood. “Treasure hunting is eye-popping fun in Ballard’s array of galleries and unexpected shops,” writes McMillan.
In closing, McMillan highlights the Scandinavian heritage of our neighborhood, covering Bergen Place Park, the annual Norwegian parade, the Nordic Heritage Museum and Coppergate Restaurant. “Factor in its Scandinavian culture, and you’ve got several reasons to ride the wave,” writes McMillan.
Photo courtesy of USAtoday.com.
