The Two Main Streets
Follow Eastlake Avenue E., the neighborhood's spine, from its start at Howell Street near the northeast corner of downtown. It runs north across the University Bridge, where it meets Roosevelt Way N.E. and 11th Avenue N.E.
Boylston Avenue E. serves as the second through route. For four blocks between E. Newton and E. Roanoke Streets it runs right alongside I-5, carrying on the line of Lakeview Boulevard E. from Capitol Hill.
Getting Around Without a Car
Hop on King County Metro's route 70 to travel between Eastlake and the University of Washington, a connection that helps explain why so many students, staff and faculty make their homes here. Check Metro for current schedules before you ride.
Houseboats and Floating Homes on Lake Union
Nowhere else in Seattle will you find more floating homes than in Eastlake. This style of lakeside living became famous far beyond the city thanks to the 1993 film Sleepless in Seattle.
Take your time noticing the variety as you stroll. Some homes lean bohemian and eclectic, while others show off bold stucco modern designs. Along Fairview Avenue E., newer houseboats have been going up, and the slips alone have often sold for more than $1 million.
Remember that these are private residences, so admire them from public spaces and keep your voice low near the docks.
Parks and Gardens by the Water
Fairview Park
Pause at Fairview Park on the Lake Union shoreline, a small spot on Fairview Avenue E. with lake access and a boat launch. Settle in, gaze across the water and watch the boat traffic come and go.
Eastlake P-Patch
Right next to the park, the Eastlake P-Patch community garden has been tended by neighbors since 1981. Its 47 plots are part of the City of Seattle's community garden program.
Wander the paths and enjoy the beds, but keep in mind that each plot belongs to an individual gardener, so look and do not pick.
Other Open Spaces
Stretch your legs beyond the lakefront at Rogers Playground, South Passage Point Park and the I-5 Colonnade. These spaces give residents and visitors a few more places to roam within the neighborhood.
Houses and apartment buildings mingle with small businesses throughout Eastlake, and most of the commercial life gathers on Eastlake Avenue. Browse neighborhood stores, sit down at a restaurant or stop by the bakery, and expect a local scale rather than big shopping destinations.
Here is a fun bit of food trivia to share as you walk: the very first Red Robin gourmet burger restaurant opened here. That original location has since closed, so there is no need to plan a pilgrimage around it.
A Short History Told in Buildings
Back in 1962, the architect Victor Steinbrueck observed that Eastlake was shifting from a modest residential area toward apartments, small businesses and offices. You can still see that same mix shaping the neighborhood today.
The Martello
Head toward the northern tip of the neighborhood to find the Martello, a building in a pseudo-Norman French style. The Seattle Department of Neighborhoods counts it among Eastlake's most significant structures.
Its story spans several lives. Built as a private home in 1916, it was remodeled as a furniture store by Fred Anhalt in the 1920s, then spent many years as a tavern and bar called Rapunzel's before becoming Sebi's Bistro.
Lake Fest, the Neighborhood Fair
Catch Eastlake's yearly street fair, which began as the Eastlake Shake and took the name Lake Fest in 2006. It sets up on a closed stretch of Franklin Avenue E. between E. Roanoke and E. Louisa Streets, on the playground of the TOPS@Seward public school.
Enjoy live music, browse local vendors and cheer on the much-loved pet parade. Dates change from year to year, so confirm details with the Eastlake Community Council before you go.
Tips for Your Visit
- Pair it with a neighbor: With Eastlake sitting between downtown and the University District, it slips easily into a day spent in either.
- Start at the water: Begin at Fairview Park and the P-Patch, then make your way up to Eastlake Avenue.
- Respect the docks: The houseboat communities are homes, not attractions.
- Check ahead: Business hours and event dates can change, so confirm with each business or organizer.
