Why you should explore Wallingford

Wallingford is so much more than old homes in a charming neighborhood. Many of the houses are Craftsman, revival‑styles, “box houses” and bungalows from the 1920s, narrow lots, older apartment buildings — the classic streetcar era housing fabric is still very much present. But, you’ll find that the area has a variety of newer home styles, including upscale rowhouses with a variety of interesting exteriors. Wallingford also has plenty of interesting things to do and see:

1. Community Events
   Porchfest: A free outdoor music festival where local bands perform from people’s porches and front lawns across the neighborhood. Started during the pandemic as a way to safely gather, it continues as a neighborhood tradition.

   Great Wallingford Wurst Festival: An annual “Octoberfest‑style” event with beer gardens, food, and family friendly activities.

   Wallingford Family Parade: A longtime tradition, tied to Seafair celebrations

2. Wallingford is well known for Gas Works Park, where the old structures that still stand and long ago were used to convert coal into fuel. They create an interesting industrial-water view juxtaposition. Gas Works Park, also has the famous mound- an artificial hill that is filled with (remediated) waste from the old coal plant.

3. Great food to explore:
   Atoma, New American cuisine in a repurposed house; has been getting national acclaim
   Pam’s Kitchen, Caribbean (Trinidadian) cuisine; one of the rarer Caribbean spots in the area
   Bizzarro Italian Cafe, A quirky, artsy Italian restaurant known for its character.
   Joule, Korean-fusion / modern Korean fare (though note: some of its operations have shifted over time
   Fido Hot Dogs, Venezuelan-style hot dogs and street food

4. Wallingford Playfield
   A neighborhood staple. It has a renovated playground (2019), wading pool (seasonal), tennis courts, open grassy areas, and walking paths.

5. Wallingford Steps
   This is a terraced staircase connecting N 34th St to N Northlake Way (and the Burke‑Gilman / Gas Works area). The steps are decorated with mosaic artwork. Great for walking and taking in views.

6. Meridian Playground / Meridian Park
   This 6.5‑acre park in the heart of Wallingford features a playground themed around children’s books, picnic areas, a community garden (the Seattle Tilth adjacent community learning garden), and open lawns.

7. Green Lake (a short distance away)
   While technically not inside Wallingford, Green Lake is close enough for a walk, run, paddle-boarding, or relaxing by the water.

Want to learn about Fremont’s safety rating, demographics, best restaurants, and more? Check out the link below