Ballard gets called out as next big Seattle tourist spot

Ya sure, you betcha. Ballard could soon be joining Pike Place Market as a top local tourist destination, thanks to a prominent plug from USA Today.

The neighborhood has seen massive development and a major influx of trendy restaurants, bars and shops in recent years. The editors of the travel section have noticed, naming Ballard on its new “10 Best list” of notable neighborhoods generating local buzz, but which readers have probably heard little about.

The paper calls out the scenery and proximity to the water, from its views of the North Pacific fishing fleet to the Olympic Mountains and the Chittenden Locks, with its signature fish ladder and underwater viewing.

Popular new restaurants include The Sexton, Bastille and the award-winning The Walrus and the Carpenter all get mention, along with the iconic waterfront Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe.

Ballard’s bounty of craft brewers are among the highlights called out, with both stalwarts such as Hale’s Ales and Maritime Pacific earning acclaim along with upstarts like Peddler, Hilliard’s, Northwest Peaks and Reuben’s Brews.

“If craft brew is your thing, Ballard might be your little heaven,” the column said.

Ballard’s Scandinavian heritage is also underscored, even if it comes with a bit of tongue-in-cheek.

“Get gnome-y at the largest Norwegian parade in America or check out Ballard’s acclaimed Nordic Heritage Museum; Coppergate Restaurant (Scandinavian cuisine); or unique retailer Scandinavian Specialties.”

Along with Ballard, the list also includes Portland’s Central Eastside, San Francisco’s Valencia Street, Boston’s Seaport District, and Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill.