Leschi from Past to Present
Discover the stories that shaped our neighborhood and explore the vibrant businesses that contribute to its unique character.
Join us on a journey through the past and present of Leschi
Leschi, a quaint community nestled along the shores of Lake Washington, boasts more waterfront and open space than many other neighborhoods. Situated between the two bridges that span Lake Washington, Leschi is a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, featuring steep hills and valleys in lower Leschi and breathtaking views of the lake and Mt. Rainier in upper Leschi.
Access to Leschi is facilitated by public transportation. Metro Bus #27 connects to the lakefront area, while upper Leschi enjoys additional options such as Metro Bus #14 on Jackson and Bus #8 along Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Bus #3 runs on Cherry St., the northern boundary of Leschi, providing a route to downtown.
Businesses
Leschi Market
Mom-&-pop veteran grocer with a butcher shop, fresh produce & deli also selling beer & wine.
Pablo y Pablo
Relaxed hangout offering New American eats in a hip room near the lake & marina.
The Polka Dot Jersey
A friendly, customer-centered bike shop. Your hub for road and mountain bike service and sales.
BluWater Bistro
Cozy bistro with lake views serving food & cocktails, from weekend brunch to late happy hours.
SOL Yoga
Heated studio with a challenging and athletic practice designed to leave you feeling strong, and free of stress.
Daniel's Broiler
Premium steakhouse serving surf 'n' turf in a converted 1919 boathouse with mountain & water views.
This is just a small list. Check out the map below for more. >>
Leschi's charm extends to its small business district along Lake Washington/Lakeside Ave. The neighborhood is home to Leschi Elementary School and the Central Area Senior Center, offering a million-dollar view of the lake, the I-90 bridge, the Cascades, and Mt. Rainier, available for event rentals.
Originally described as a "charming place...almost like a country place in the city," Leschi retains its appeal with parks and green hills. Despite changes since early settlers displaced native peoples, reminders of the Nisqually tribe's heritage endure, from Chief Leschi's name to motifs at Leschi School and the Chief Leschi trail in Frink Park.
Leschi's history includes a transition from Nisqually summer encampments for fishing and berry-picking to logging in the 19th century. The area became a suburban retreat with amenities like an amusement park, zoo, dance pavilion, and ferry landing. By 1910, Leschi Park attracted city residents seeking leisure and scenic water views.
As Seattle expanded, Leschi became less remote. Leschi Elementary School was established in 1909, and the cable car service was replaced by a bus in the late 1930s. Today, families utilize Bus #27 for a quick downtown commute, and Leschi remains a desirable destination with marinas, parks, waterfront restaurants, and hidden stairways showcasing architectural diversity.
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Visit Leschi
Leschi invites visitors to explore its trails, savor the views, dine in lakeside restaurants, and experience a neighborhood that beckons you to stay for a day or perhaps a lifetime.