Neighborhood Spotlight: Shoreline

The vibe

Shoreline is a sprawling city made up of more than a dozen quaint and distinctive neighborhoods. Its origins date back to the late 1800s, when anticipation of the Great Northern Railway’s arrival put Shoreline on the map, first at Richmond Beach and later expanding from the shores of Puget Sound to the shores of Lake Washington, hence its name. Although the city no longer spans from shore to shore, the name remains.

What my family loves about Shoreline is the abundance of open spaces and parks, sprawling Puget Sound views and family-friendly restaurants. It’s a suburban oasis.

Play on

You can’t visit Shoreline and not take a trip to the beach, so first on our list is a drive down Richmond Beach Road, ending at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. This park has it all — picnic areas, a playground, short trails and access to an expansive beach with sweeping views. While you’re there, play in the sand, throw rocks and relax on the driftwood that litters the shoreline. On windy days, Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is a popular place for kiteboarders; head down on a gusty day for a picnic and a show.

Not in the mood for sand between your toes? Don’t worry, parks and gardens to explore are plentiful here. We love Kruckeberg Botanic Garden, located only a few blocks from the saltwater park. The garden has enchanting trails, complete with hidden fairy doors, and a giant climbing structure kids will love. Boeing Creek Park is perfect for young explorers, too. The trail system meanders through forests and crosses a babbling creek. Park at Shoreview Park and hit the trails from there. The park offers restrooms, picnic areas and playgrounds.

The parks on the east side of Shoreline, such as Hamlin Park and Twin Ponds Park, are also worth checking out. Both are great options if trails and playgrounds are what you’re after. 

If bowling is more up your alley, check out Spin Alley Bowling. The entertainment center was recently upgraded, including its lanes and arcade area. It’s the perfect place to spend a rainy day.

Eats + treats

Vault 177 is connected to Spin Alley Bowling, which means you don’t have to leave to find a restaurant if your tummy starts to rumble. Grab a menu and order food that will be delivered right to your lane. Vault 177 has a kid’s menu with an ample selection of all your favorite traditional American fare. And for adults, it offers a huge selection of rotating craft beers on tap.

Blackbird, a locally owned cafe and bar in Richmond Beach, is a staple in the community, not only because of its delicious food, but also thanks to the warm and welcoming staff. The restaurant has indoor and patio seating and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. When you go, try its house-made cobbler. You can thank me later.

Another worthy place to satisfy your hunger after a day of play is at Round Table Pizza. This medieval-inspired pizza place is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its scrumptious slices and a game room. It checks all the boxes for a fun (k)night out. And if you have a party to host in the future, you can reserve its party room.