This Scenic Seattle Neighborhood Blends Skyline Views, Lush Green Space, And A Vibrant Community

If you've traveled to Boston, Massachusetts, you may be familiar with Beacon Hill, home to one of the most charming cobblestone streets in America. However, did you know that the West Coast has its very own Beacon Hill in Seattle, Washington? Located a few miles away from downtown Seattle, this scenic neighborhood, whose name pays tribute to its East Coast predecessor, is a little known secret. While you won't find any of the city's big attractions here, green spaces and a vibrant community await. Arguably, Dr. José Rizal Park is one of Beacon Hill's most cherished landmarks, drawing visitors who come for the expansive views of the downtown skyline.

"Beautiful place to visit, especially in the evenings during sunset," described one individual on Google. Other reviews suggest taking in the panoramic vistas from the site's Dr. José Rizal Bridge. Built in 1911, this structure is pedestrian friendly and is an ideal spot for capturing flawless photos of the cityscape. Nevertheless, Dr. José Rizal Park, named after the iconic Filipino revolutionary leader, is not the only place in Beacon Hill with incredible scenery. There's also Jefferson Park, where you can enjoy strolling down paved paths as downtown glimmers in the distance.

Situated on Beacon Ave South, this neighborhood hub has everything from a skate park to a community garden. Additionally, Jefferson Park is brimming with lush grassy areas; it might be hard to resist having a picnic. Visit the nearby MacPherson's Fruit & Produce to stock up on snacks. This long-standing small business is a favorite among locals with one individual telling the South Seattle Emerald that it is the "jewel of Beacon Hill." If it's going to take more than nibbles and bites to fill you up, head to one of the many eateries on Beacon Ave S.

What distinguishes Beacon Hill from other destinations in the Emerald City is its multicultural community, and the local businesses on Beacon Ave S showcase this diversity. Lauded as one of the best restaurants in Beacon Hill by Eater Seattle and The Infatuation is Musang. This Filipino establishment cooks up staples like fried chicken, sinigang with halibut, and lumpiang Shanghai, all served in a converted craftsman-style home. Musang, which is the creation of Beacon Hill native Chef Melissa Miranda, is only open for dinner, and making reservations is advised.

What's more, for an affordable and filling meal, there's Carnitas Michoacan, a Latinx-owned eatery. Here, you'll indulge in what The Seattle Times says are some of the best tacos in Western Washington, with protein options ranging from carnitas to lengua (beef tongue) and more. Reviewers on Google agree with the publication's sentiment, with one individual stating, "This is the spot you've been looking for. Authentic Mexican food is hard to find in Seattle, and this is it." Carnitas Michoacan also offers other tasty Mexican dishes, including burritos, a solid option if you're looking for something to pick up to enjoy at nearby Jefferson Park.

If you love pizza (and who doesn't?), don't forget to check out Bar del Corso, an Italian restaurant known for their Margherita pie. In a Yelp review, a diner waxed poetic about the pizza, writing, "It featured a perfectly charred thin crust topped with a light layer of sweet tomato sauce, delicate basil, and mozzarella. Wonderfully composed." It's no wonder Condé Nast Traveler ranks it as one of Seattle's top restaurants, alongside Musang. Like Musang, Bar del Corso only serves dinner, but this establishment is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Minimal effort is required to explore Beacon Hill's green spaces and culinary landscape. You don't even need a car, as Beacon Hill is a stop on Seattle's Link light. This public transportation system's 1 Line will take you from downtown Seattle to Beacon Hill and back in about 20 minutes. Plus, the Beacon Hill station is located on Beacon Ave S and is within walking distance to Musang, Carnitas Michoacan, and Bar del Corso, as well as Jefferson Park. However, Dr. José Rizal Park is a little over a mile away from the Beacon Hill station. 

If visiting the park is your goal, you can always hop on bus route 36 from the King County Metro to make the journey from downtown to Dr. José Rizal Park. You can take this same bus route from Dr. José Rizal Park to reach the three eateries mentioned above and others. Additionally, if you're planning to use public transportation throughout your trip, make sure to purchase an ORCA card. For those interested in stopping by Beacon Hill for dinner or sunset views, this is completely doable; the Link light rail is available until 1 a.m. from Monday to Saturday and until midnight on Sundays.

Does Beacon Hill's unique atmosphere call to you for your next Seattle getaway? Then head to Airbnb, where a five-night stay in a bedroom can cost less than $700. Keep in mind that you can use the Link light rail to get to other places within the city from Beacon Hill, not just downtown. This includes Capitol Hill, a walkable and progressive Seattle hub with boutiques, as well as Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA). While you're in the city, also consider exploring Ballard, a charming Seattle neighborhood with a thriving brewery district.