Neighborhood guide

Magnolia

Quiet streets, sweeping views, and a village center minutes from downtown.

My take

Why I call Magnolia home.

Magnolia feels like a small town that happens to be ten minutes from downtown. I love starting the day with a walk in Discovery Park, running errands in the Village, and catching the view of the Sound and the Olympics on the way home. It's the neighborhood I chose, and the one I know best.

At a glance

Magnolia, in brief.

Typical homesMid-century homes, Tudors and traditional styles, view homes, and condos and townhomes near the south end

Getting downtownTypically 15–20 minutes by car; Metro bus service connects to downtown

Signature spotDiscovery Park

Daily life

What it feels like to live here.

Outdoors

Discovery Park — Seattle's largest park — with forest trails, beaches, and the West Point Lighthouse. Plus bluff-top views along Magnolia Boulevard and sunset views of downtown and Mount Rainier from Ella Bailey Park.

Village life

Magnolia Village along West McGraw Street has local cafés, restaurants, shops, and the farmers market in season.

On the water

Smith Cove Park and Elliott Bay Marina on the south shore, with easy access to the waterfront trail.

What to know before you buy

A few things worth watching.

Access: Magnolia has a few main routes in and out — the Magnolia Bridge, Dravus Street, and Emerson/Nickerson. Worth testing your commute at rush hour.
Views: A view is a major part of value here, but views aren't always protected. We'll look at what could be built nearby.
Slopes: Some bluff and hillside properties fall in environmentally critical areas. A geotechnical review may be worth it.
Older homes: Many homes date to the mid-century. Plan for a sewer scope and a close look at roofs, electrical, and drainage.

Local favorites

A few places and rituals worth knowing.

Discovery Park's Loop Trail and South Beach
Ella Bailey Park at sunset
A morning walk along Magnolia Boulevard
Smith Cove Park

Your Magnolia move

Thinking about Magnolia?

I'd love to show you around the neighborhood I call home.

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