Capitol Hill

Explore

Designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers’ Landscape Architects in 1903, enchanting Volunteer Park comprises nearly 50 acres of tranquil walking paths with eye-popping city and mountain views. Notable features include the stately Seattle Asian Art Museum and the verdant, glass-paneled Volunteer Park Conservatory. This inclusive neighborhood abounds with fun LGBTQIA+ bars and clubs, including Pony and Queer/Bar.

Eat and Drink

Focusing on the seafood-forward cuisine of Spain’s Galicia region, MariPili Tapas Bar earned a James Beard nomination in 2024. The sophisticated menu at handsomely decorated Lark changes often but has featured lamb ribs and pan-roasted squab. Set in the gorgeous 1926 Pike Motorworks Building, airy Redhook Brewlab serves up well-prepared comfort food plus 16 beers on tap. Cheers Hong Kong stands out for savory dumplings and noodles and its wall photo of the Hong Kong skyline, and Zaika puts a modern spin on Indian cuisine. Don’t miss the signature Lao burger at Taurus Ox or the delectable Indian street food at Spice Waala. Jimmy’s on Broadway, inside the Silver Cloud Hotel, is a reliable bet for scratch-made burgers, pastas, and salads. Listen to, or even belt out a few tunes, during the wildly popular karaoke sessions at tiki-themed Hula Hula bar, and try an inventive Caribbean-inspired cocktail at Rumba.

Shop

In this neighborhood teeming with interesting retailers, Elliott Bay Book Company is a great place to begin exploring—it’s one of the country’s largest independent booksellers. Nearby Retail Therapy carries stylish threads from top designers as well as eclectic gifts and art, and Rey Amargo delights with its authentic Mexican stone-ground chocolates. Create scented candles at Elm Candle Bar, and pick out playful toys and trinkets at Two Owls. Industrial-chic Glasswing Shop carries urbane clothing from brands like Yoko Sakamoto and Kapital, along with eye-catching planters and tableware.