Columbia City & Rainier Valley

Explore

Waterfront Seward Park is one of the city’s emerald jewels, with 300 acres of old-growth forest and paved paths perfect for a stroll or brisk walk. Kubota Garden offers 20 acres of Japanese-inspired botanical beauty, including spring cherry blossoms. Columbia City Gallery shines a spotlight on the neighborhood’s vibrant, diverse arts community through juried exhibits and creative local collaborations. Baseball enthusiasts can keep their swing sharp by booking a session at the Mariners Training Center, where expert baseball and softball coaching is offered.

Eat and Drink

In bustling Columbia City, Shawarma Land turns out delicious wraps and decadent Greek fries topped with garlic sauce and feta cheese, and Delish Ethiopian Cuisine lives up to its name with tasty platters of injera and richly spiced stews. James Beard finalist Archipelago offers intimate, multicourse journeys through Filipino-influenced Pacific Northwest fare. Coffeeholic House has built a following for its dreamy Vietnamese-inspired lattes in flavors like ube and roasted black sesame. Mama Sambusa Kitchen in Rainier Valley turns out savory East African pastries alongside tender meat and veggie plates, and intimate Kaffa Coffee and Wine Bar serves rich espresso drinks by day and smooth pours by night, along with hearty Ethiopian dishes. Set in a 1920s service station overlooking Lake Washington, the Stonehouse Cafe provides classic American fare, and laid-back Lottie’s Lounge is a longtime local favorite for well-crafted cocktails and tasty tacos.

Shop

Indie wine shop Vino Verité stocks more than 1,000 bottles from around the world, while Empire Roasters and Records specializes in global coffees and also sells vintage LPs and colorful gifts. Third Place Books and Chuck’s Hop Shop combine two Seattle classics—independent bookstores and craft beer shops—in the same cheerful space. Peruse the custom-made jewelry of Ola Wyola and, in Rainier Valley, beautiful housewares and crafts at Re.Evolución.