South Lake Union
South Lake Union is a neighborhood in the northwest part of Seattle that was once known for its industrial buildings and warehouses. In recent years, this area has become home to a growing number of tech, biotech and other companies. South Lake Union is not just an industrial park—it's also a place where people live and work. It includes three parks, a museum, restaurants and coffee shops. And it's close to downtown Seattle! The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) gives visitors an overview about the history of South Lake Union as well as artifacts that tell the story of how Seattle grew into the city it is today. MOHAI is on the shoreline across from Lake Union Park (and Gas Works Park) where you can watch seaplanes take off and land.
South Lake Union Changes
The South Lake Union neighborhood is changing quickly. No longer an industrial park where people worked, the warehouses are housing new industry. It's all part of a massive transformation that has taken place in the past five years as Amazon has grown to be one of Seattle's largest employers and biggest taxpayers. And it's not just Amazon — other companies have also been drawn to South Lake Union: Google, Facebook and Weyerhaeuser have opened offices there; Zillow, Tableau Software and Avalara Technologies have moved operations from other parts of town; Uber Technologies Inc., UberEats LLC and Lyft Inc.'s electric bike service Jump have opened their first Seattle locations in the neighborhood.
The Museum of History and Industry
The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) is a great place to learn about Seattle's history. It's located in South Lake Union, so it's also close to other attractions like the Center for Wooden Boats and Seattle Center. If you're looking for something fun that will keep your kids occupied without breaking the bank, MOHAI is a great option. Even if they're too young to appreciate the history exhibits, they'll enjoy playing on its grounds while you check out the exhibits inside! Plus, one of the best lunch places in the area is located inside the museum.
The museum itself was formerly a naval reserve building, built between 1941 and 1942, where young recruits were trained during WWII.
Take to the sky with a Seaplane
As you walk along the waterfront in South Lake Union, you'll notice that seaplanes fly overhead at low altitudes. If you're looking for a way to travel to and from Seattle and don't have your own private jet or helicopter, flying on a seaplane is an option that may interest you.
Seaplanes are popular because they allow passengers to see some of Seattle's most iconic sights—including the Space Needle, Mt Rainier and the Olympic Mountains—from above. Flying on a seaplane also gives passengers access to more than 50 islands around Puget Sound with destinations including Vashon Island and Whidbey Island. There is also scheduled service to/from Canada, should you prefer to skip going to SeaTac.
Other things to enjoy about South Lake Union
You can find many restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood, including Amazon Go, a grocery store where you can pick up food items without waiting in a long line.
There are also several events and festivals that take place throughout the year. They include:
Things to remember
There are also many ways to enjoy South Lake Union, including:
Walking. The neighborhood is very pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and parks to explore.
Watching seaplanes come in for landings on Lake Union.
Learn about Seattle history at the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)
Seeing sailboats race around the lake during summer months.
Watching the sunset over Seattle from Gasworks Park or another location on the western side of Lake Union, depending on your preference and time of day (but don't forget to bring your camera!).
We hope you enjoyed this overview of South Lake Union. It’s definitely a place worth visiting, and it’s conveniently located near major destinations within Seattle.