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West Woodland

Head to West Woodland, the southeast corner of Ballard between Ballard proper and Phinney Ridge, for the Ballard Brewery District, Gilman Playground and a few small public spaces worth knowing.

Part ofBallardSeattle neighborhoods

Map of West Woodland in Seattle
Map of West Woodland

Frequently asked questions

West Woodland sits in the southeast corner of Ballard, between Ballard and Phinney Ridge. The City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods places it within the Ballard area.

No. West Woodland is a separate neighborhood on Ballard's southeast edge. Check a map if you are heading to Woodland Park or its zoo.

It is home to the Ballard Brewery District and Gilman Playground, making it popular with both beer fans and families.

Yes. Gilman Playground is the main park, and nearby public spaces include Greg's Garden, Greenwood Triangle and the 14th Ave NW Boat Ramp. Check Seattle Parks and Recreation for current details.

About West Woodland

Craft beer, a neighborhood playground and a few small green corners share the southeast edge of Ballard. This is West Woodland, Seattle, a neighborhood sitting between Ballard proper and Phinney Ridge and best known as home to the Ballard Brewery District and Gilman Playground. Visitors can fold it easily into a Ballard outing, while locals get parks and playground time close to home.

Finding West Woodland on the Map

The City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods groups West Woodland with Ballard, placing it at the southeast edge of that larger area. Its other side borders Phinney Ridge, so the neighborhood works as a link between the two. That position makes it simple to pair with stops in either direction, so you can wander one way or the other without much planning.

Plenty of people searching for the name are really looking for Woodland Park or its zoo, but West Woodland is a neighborhood all its own. Check a map before you set out, and use this guide to Seattle neighborhoods to see how the area connects to the places around it.

Read the full West Woodland guide

Raise a Glass in the Ballard Brewery District

For grown-ups, the biggest draw is the Ballard Brewery District, which falls within West Woodland's boundaries and gives the area its reputation as a destination for local craft beer lovers. Plan an afternoon around a pint or two, and keep in mind that hours and offerings vary by business and can change. Confirm the details with each spot before you head over.

Parks and Public Spaces

Let the Kids Loose at Gilman Playground

Start family time at Gilman Playground, the neighborhood's anchor park and the place families tend to head first. It makes a natural break between errands, or a happy counterpart to a brewery afternoon for the adults. Browse the Seattle parks guide to find more green spaces nearby.

Smaller Spots to Seek Out

The city lists a handful of other public spaces in this part of town, each worth a look as you explore:

  • Greg's Garden
  • Greenwood Triangle
  • 14th Ave NW Boat Ramp, a public launch point if you are bringing a boat

Before you go, check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for current conditions, rules and access at any of these.

Planning Your Visit

Spend a relaxed afternoon here as part of a wider day in Ballard or a walk up toward Phinney Ridge. Keep the plan loose: a playground stop, a brewery visit and a look at the smaller parks fill the hours nicely. For more ideas across the city, browse these things to do in Seattle.