Kayaking in Puget Sound

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Puget Sound through kayaking. Grab your paddle and explore the calm waters while taking in breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. Ballard's convenient access to the Sound makes kayaking an ideal option for families, couples, and individuals seeking both relaxation and exploration.

oldtownwatercraft.johnsonoutdoors.com

Glide through the calm waters of Puget Sound, taking in the sights of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. Kayaking is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the natural world.

Paddleboarding at Shilshole Bay

Discover the thrill of paddleboarding at Shilshole Bay, located just a stone's throw away from JG Whittier Apartments. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, paddleboarding offers a fantastic core workout and a unique perspective of the surrounding waters. Feel the gentle waves beneath you as you glide along the bay's shimmering surface.

www.pnwoutdoors.com

Paddleboard through the waves of Shilshole Bay, enjoying the feeling of the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. Paddleboarding is a great way to get a workout and enjoy the outdoors.

Sailing Adventures

For a taste of classic maritime charm, consider sailing on the waters of Puget Sound. With numerous sailing schools and rental options nearby, you can set sail on a serene voyage or learn the ropes of this timeless water sport. Experience the joy of harnessing the wind and basking in the sunshine as you navigate the open waters.

sailingseattle.com

Sail through the calm waters of Puget Sound, feeling the wind in your sails and the sun on your face. Sailing is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the natural world.

Beach Volleyball at Golden Gardens Park

Engage in some friendly competition with a game of beach volleyball at Golden Gardens Park. Gather friends and neighbors for a thrilling match on the sandy shores while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. This inclusive activity offers a blend of fun and fitness for everyone to enjoy.

www.seattle.gov

Play a game of beach volleyball at Golden Gardens Park, enjoying the sun and sand with friends and family. Beach volleyball is a great way to get some exercise and have some fun.

Sunset Cruises and Tours

Unwind with a leisurely sunset cruise or a guided tour of the Ballard Locks and surrounding waters. Embark on a sightseeing adventure that provides a unique perspective on Seattle's maritime heritage and the intricate workings of the locks. 

Take a sunset cruise and enjoy the beautiful views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. Or, take a guided tour of the Ballard Locks and learn about the history and workings of these important maritime structures.

www.viator.com

With its prime location near the Ballard neighborhood, JG Whittier Apartments offer residents the perfect gateway to a world of invigorating water sports and activities during the scorching days of August. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a way to cool off, Ballard's aquatic offerings have something for everyone. So, gather your friends and family and dive into a memorable summer filled with kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, beach volleyball, and sunset cruises. Your aquatic adventure awaits in Ballard, promising an August to remember.

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• Frankie & Jo's: For those seeking a guilt-free treat, Frankie & Jo's is a must-visit destination. This popular ice cream shop specializes in plant-based, dairy-free ice cream crafted from scratch using natural and wholesome ingredients. From classic flavors like Chocolate Truffle to innovative combinations such as California Cabin, their ice creams are rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. Frankie & Jo's offers something for everyone, including gluten-free options, making it the perfect spot for those with dietary preferences or restrictions.

• Salt & Straw: Prepare to be enchanted by the creative and unique flavors of Salt & Straw. Hailing from Portland, this renowned ice cream parlor has made its mark in Ballard with its imaginative approach to ice cream. Indulge in scoops of their small-batch, handcrafted ice creams that feature locally sourced ingredients and seasonal inspirations. From honey lavender to strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper, every flavor is a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

• Hot Cakes Molten Chocolate Cakery: For a truly indulgent treat, head to Hot Cakes Molten Chocolate Cakery, where decadence reigns supreme. Famous for their molten chocolate cakes, this dessert haven offers a variety of ooey-gooey delights that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Sink your spoon into their signature molten cakes or explore their menu of mouthwatering ice cream sundaes and milkshakes. Hot Cakes Molten Chocolate Cakery is a dessert paradise that should not be missed.

• Nutty Squirrel Gelato: Experience the authentic flavors of Italy at Nutty Squirrel Gelato, a cozy gelateria in the nearby neighborhood of Phinney Ridge. This family-owned establishment crafts artisanal gelato using traditional Italian methods and fresh local ingredients. Savor the creamy texture and intense flavors of their gelato, with a rotating selection of seasonal and classic choices. Whether you prefer pistachio, stracciatella, or fruity sorbets, Nutty Squirrel Gelato offers a taste of Italy in Seattle.

Ballard's sweet offerings are a treat for the senses, and residents of the JG Whittier apartment community are in for a delightful experience with an array of ice cream and treat options right at their doorstep. From the plant-based delights at Frankie & Jo's to the creative flavors of Salt & Straw and the decadent indulgence at Hot Cakes Molten Chocolate Cakery, there's a sweet adventure waiting for everyone. Don't forget to explore the authentic flavors of Italy at Nutty Squirrel Gelato, making Ballard the ultimate destination for a blissful journey of sweet indulgence. So, treat yourself to a delightful dessert experience and savor the sweet delights of Ballard's ice cream and treat options.

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We are becoming better day by day, why shouldn't our clothes and home decor get an upgrade too? Whether you're relaxing at home or walking the gorgeous streets of Ballard, you want to look and feel your best! Luckily, Ballard is filled with trendy, unique clothing boutiques and home decor shops to help you build your dream wardrobe and decorate your gorgeous apartment at J.G. Whittier. 

Woodland Mod

It's more than having walls and a roof, it's about making your apartment a home. If your design style is modern and minimalistic, Woodland Mod is the shop for you! This gorgeous home decor store is inspired by Nordic design, which is known for calm, crisp clean lines that won't leave you cold and never goes out of style. They have a variety of timeless items for you to browse and choose from including coffee table books, artwork, greenery, etc. 

September

While you may think Seattle fashion is solely flannels and t-shirts, there’s a thriving fashion scene here with trendy boutiques for you to bring out your inner fashionista! You'll love your wardrobe year-round when your closet includes gorgeous pieces from September, a gorgeous boutique right outside Seattle on 22nd avenue. The vibes and clothing pieces are immaculate, and they are proud to carry products that have been made sustainably, by companies who give back to organizations that are doing great things in the world. You'll leave here excited to wear a new outfit for work, date night, running errands, and everything in-between. Make sure to grab one of their must-have Ballard market tote bags! 

Digs

Take a break from the large chain stores and keep the positive energies flowing in your home by shopping small at Digs, a family-owned brick-and-mortar store in the heart of Ballard. This adorable shop has everything you need to make your apartment brag-worthy including furniture, housewares, decor, and gifts. With so many fabulous options to choose from, you'll want to spend all day here!

Prism

Calling all color-lovers, this one's for you! If you want to add some vibrant color to your Seattle-inspired wardrobe, take a visit to Prism. This boutique is filled with trendy statement pieces that will brighten the darkest of rainy Seattle days, from holographic rain jackets to show-stopping prints and patterns. They are also known for selling some of the best-smelling candles, quirky glassware, and a variety of stationery!

Now that your closet and apartment are decked out and Pinterest-worthy thanks to these Ballard stores, snap a picture and tag us in it! We’d love to see your new outfits and what you’ve done with your place.

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Cocktails and Dining
Along Market Street and Ballard Avenue, you’ll find Ballard Old Town, home to some of the best bars and restaurants in Seattle! For breakfast or lunch, you can enjoy the highly-rated Sabine Cafe and Market for yummy breakfast and lunch menus along with espresso and cocktails. Ballard is also known for their large variety of craft breweries, including Stoup Brewing!  Stoup Brewing serves its award-winning beers served in a communal space that is a cornerstone of Seattle's Ballard "Brewery District". The dining and cocktail bar options are endless in Ballard. 

Coffee
There is no shortage of caffeine and espresso in Ballard, with many coffee shops to choose from! Since Seattle is home to the original Starbucks, there are several Starbucks locations in the neighborhood. If you prefer to sit outside and enjoy your cup of coffee and pastries, we recommend Caffe Umbria! This coffee shop is known for having lots of open seating and is a great place for your business meetings! Another option is Ballard Coffee Works on NW Market Street, another local-favorite coffee shop known for its lovely atmosphere and top-notch espresso. 

Parks
If you would like to relax on the beach and watch the gorgeous sunsets over the Olympic Mountains, we recommend Golden Gardens Park! This park is a local favorite and has fire pits, BBQ and picnic tables, swings for the kids, etc. Another park to visit in Ballard is The Ballard Locks (aka Chittenden Locks). This park is where the waters of Lake Washington and the Puget Sound meet, so you can watch boats being dropped and lifted and salmon migrating upstream.

Museums and Attractions
Back in the day, Ballard was the part of town known for its large population of Nordic immigrants across the Ballard Bridge. That heritage is explored in depth at the beautifully designed National Nordic Museum. This museum is a must-visit when you live in Ballard as it shares "Nordic culture, values, and ideas with people of all ages and backgrounds to create connections, generate dialogue, and inspire new perspectives". Another Ballard attraction to enjoy is the Fishermen's Terminal, Seattle’s epicenter of commercial fishing. Here you can enjoy watching boats preparing to set sail or returning with their haul, and enjoy fresh seafood.

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