Neighborhood Spotlight: Georgetown

The vibe

Industrial grit meets quirky charm in Georgetown. This Seattle neighborhood, just a few miles south of downtown, is awash with street art, excellent eats and great shops, all serenaded by the hum of Boeing planes overhead and trains passing through.

Georgetown may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family trip, but trust me, this one is a gem. My son and I have been hanging with friends in the neighborhood since he was baby.

Originally home to the Duwamish people, Georgetown was established as the official birthplace of King County in 1851. Previously known for breweries and factories (a shout-out to my fellow elder millennials who fondly remember the old Rainier Beer sign), today Georgetown blends its rough-and-tumble history with an artsy, vibrant vibe that’s uniquely its own.

Play and explore

Georgetown’s “Hat n’ Boots park” is an excellent first stop for families. Originally part of a 1950s Western-themed gas station, the giant cowboy hat and boots that give Oxbow Park its nickname are now a favorite play spot for adventurous climbers. If the kids still have energy to burn after summiting the hat, Georgetown Playfield is nearby. The park includes a basketball half-court, turf field and swings.

For parents looking to entertain older kids with a mix of culture and cool, Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery is a treasure trove for comic book lovers, filled with indie graphic novels and local art. Just steps away, Sub Pop Records is a utopia for music fans. The shop features vinyl, posters and merch from the city’s iconic label, which has represented bands such as Nirvana and Sleater-Kinney.

Before heading home, be sure to stop at The Museum of Flight, just a short drive from the neighborhood. Both parents and kids will love getting up close and personal with vintage planes, space shuttles and interactive exhibits. Pro tip: Plan ahead for one of the museum’s special events, such as the R2-D2 Builders Club Expo on Nov. 9.

Eats and treats

For a family-friendly Mexican meal that doesn’t feel like a kids’ spot, head to Fonda La Catrina. Go for the bright décor and kid-pleasing tacos, but stay for the house-made tortillas, rich mole and tamarind margaritas.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to play with your food, Georgetown Pizza & Arcade is where the young and young at heart go. Its game room features an impressive collection of vintage pinball machines, such as Twilight Zone from 1993 and Pac-Man Battle Royale, which a family of four can play together.

Matcha Man Ice Cream & Taiyaki is the sweetest spot for a treat. Kids will get a kick out of ordering their soft serve in fish-shaped cones, and everyone will be tantalized by Matcha Man’s ever-changing flavors. If you’re lucky, Fruity Pebble cereal milk soft serve will be on the menu when you visit. But rest assured, any option you choose will be delicious.