Some say that Seattle’s soul truly exists in its various neighborhoods, so visitors are encouraged to explore beyond downtown in order to learn about some of the vibrant flavors that proliferate the City's perimeters. Fremont, the self-coined “Center of the Universe,” is arguably one of the Emerald City’s quirkiest zones, so enjoy exploring its off-beat charm with this walking and dining guide.
Kaosamai reigns within Fremont's Thai scene — Photo courtesy of Kaosamai
Getting to Fremont from downtown is easy by public transit (Take a King County bus.) or by hopping in a quick taxi ride. Consider beginning your day with a breakfast sandwich at a local cafe like Homegrown, and pop into one of the neighborhood’s many coffee spots for your morning dose of java (Try Milstead & Co., for example.)
If the weather’s nice, you can take your breakfast goods to go, and enjoy them on the canal steps or at a waterside bench, where you'll watch the Burke-Gilman Trail bustle with joggers, walkers and bikers and the waterway thrive with passing kayaks, paddle boards and bigger sailing vessels.
Seeing some of the neighborhood’s sites can be a lot more educational (and fun) if you join a company like Immersus Tours. On these walking excursions, company founder Jose Antonio Tello merges historical facts and fun tidbits with a dose of playful humor that keeps small groups engaged throughout.
The couple-hour tour takes visitors around by foot (or occasionally public transport), the ultimate goal being to truly immerse the visitor in the local culture. Participants also stop into local businesses (like Fremont Brewing and Theo Chocolate), where they can chat with employees and sample delicious goods. En route, keep your eyes peeled for some of the neighborhood's most famous residents like the troll and supersize-Lenin.
Korean fusion at restaurant Revel draws foodies to Fremont's vibrant zone — Photo courtesy of Revel
After this tour, grab some food at one of the area’s many delicious eateries. Beer lovers will enjoy the brews and food at Belgian-themed Brouwer’s Café, and Asian cuisine aficionados will delight in the many Thai and Indian options. Those looking for something a bit more upscale will savor the exotic dishes at Relish, a Korean fusion eatery that’s gotten a lot of good hype. If you’re wanting something quick and casual, head to vegan cafe Flying Apron Bakery, friendly cafe Pie, Blue Moon Burgers or Bluebird Creamery for something sweet.
After all that feasting, a walk might be welcome, so feel free to continue exploring the neighborhood, either popping into its many boutiques or simply meandering the waterside path all the way to Gasworks Park. (Hint: This is a great area in which to see some houseboats!)
Fremont offers fun for visitors all ages, and soon, you too will understand why this region has such wide appeal. Happy wandering!
