With a rich history, quiet streets and beautiful parks, Loyal Heights stands out as one of Seattle’s most sought after suburbs. Read on to learn more about what makes Loyal Heights so great.
History
The land to the north of Ballard had long been covered by large Douglas firs, too far from the amenities of the city to develop. But as Ballard’s timber and fishing industries continued to grow at the turn of the 20th century, the population ballooned to over 17,000 by 1907 when it was annexed to Seattle. This growth challenged the fledgling city’s infrastructure and frustrated residents and local officials, but it also presented businessman and real estate tycoon Harry W Treat with a tremendous opportunity.
Upon arriving in Seattle in 1905, Treat purchased large tracts of land north of 75th street NW and west to the shores of Puget Sound, an area long overlooked by other investors for lack of public transportation. He announced plans to construct an electric trolley that would run from Ballard’s business district northwest to the 32nd and 85th high above Loyal Beach (Golden Gardens) where he had created a beautiful beach resort. The Loyal Railway, named after his daughter Loyal Treat, was completed in 1906 and simultaneously connected Ballard to its outlying suburbs and parks while also promoting real estate development of Treat’s vast—and now valuable—land holdings throughout what is now known as the Loyal Heights neighborhood.
Today
Present day Loyal Heights sits directly north of Ballard, east of Sunset Hill, and west of Whittier Heights. Its northern border is 85th Street. While within walking distance of the farmer’s market and restaurants of Ballard, the neighborhood maintains its original character as a quiet retreat from the bustling city.
Tudor Revival and Craftsman-style homes dominate throughout the Loyal Heights, while the occasional million dollar new-construction home hints at the area’s increasing desirability.
Things to Do
Walk through the neighborhood in May and you’ll notice the occasional Norwegian flag flying in celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day, an homage to the deep Scandinavian roots of Ballard and the surrounding community that persist today. Swing by Mabel for a cup of coffee while walking the dog through Salmon Bay Park or stop in at kid friendly The Dane for a sandwich and a beer from their impressive tap list. Sunset Hill Park to the west will be sure to dazzle you with views of Puget Sound and the Olympics. The best place for fresh bread, pastries and cakes is Larsen’s Bakery, a neighborhood staple of almost 50 years.
Highly rated Loyal Heights and Salmon Bay Elementary make this a great destination for young families with school-aged kids.
Commute/Transit
From anywhere in Loyal Heights you are no more than a 5-minute walk to public transportation that will take you straight into Ballard, Fremont, and Downtown Seattle. With multiple stops along 24th street, the 40 and the 18 bring you south through Ballard and Fremont and into the Downtown Seattle in about 40 minutes. Along 15th, the main arterial into Loyal Heights, the D Line and the 15 will take you into downtown Seattle in about 30 minutes. Driving to work? If you’re on the road by 7am, you’ll be downtown in 15 minutes.
The Bottom Line
Loyal Heights stays true to its roots as a quiet enclave ideally suited for family life with its parks, schools, and quiet streets. With the occasional sound of boats and seagulls, and the smell of saltwater in the air, you can find comfort in knowing that these same qualities have been enjoyed by residents of Loyal Heights for over a century!
Want to know what your house in Loyal Heights is worth? Give me a call today for a free market analysis. If you are interested in buying or selling real estate in Loyal Heights, please reach out to area expert Hans Hagmeier at hans.hagmeier@kw.com 503-679-8860, powered by Keller Williams Realty.
Comments(1)