2nd Ave, Belltown

2nd Avenue beginning at Denny Way and heading all the way through downtwon Seattle until it ends near the International District is a great mix of Seattle living. There are sky rise condo buildings, a blend of contemporary, refurbished and original, that line the corridor. These digs are very pricey thanks to how centrally located they are to this very commercial area of Seattle.

However, the price may be worth it with the beautiful views of Elliott Bay that might be found from some of these buildings. Most of the buildings have small terraces or balconies for overlooking the street. True to Seattle's green form, even in the newer sections, trees have not been forgotten.

2nd Ave is home to cafes, lounges, restaurants and even the Moore Theatre without being an overly congested commercial area. It is still clearly a downtown location in the thick of activities, but the apartment and condo buildings give a much more residential feeling.

There is streetside pay-to-park, some pay-to-park lots, access to cabs and the bus route. As with several areas directly in downtown Seattle, the electric bus wires can be distracting. It can also be annoying to drive because all of the traffic lights are located on the corners similar to street signs rather than across an intersection.

Overall, the area is very liveable and has a variety of styles for living preferences. The prices will definitely be sky high for the location, but it's worth it for all that you get living right in the heart of Seattle.

2nd avenue is interesting mainly because it crosses with Yesler at the Smith Tower. THe Smith Tower was, at one point, the oldest building west of the MIssissippi river! There are great old photo's of the Tower in ther early 1900's set against nearby Mt. Baker. The city has since grown up much around the building. Pioneer square is also just next to 2nd avenue. Pioneer square is considered the heart of the old city. Many older buildings have been renovated to make touristy places to eat and shop. This end of second ave also has bus lines that will take you clear across the city!