Nestled between downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill, First Hill is a unique blend of historical charm, urban convenience, and cultural significance. Known as "Pill Hill" due to the concentration of renowned medical institutions, First Hill has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Over time, it has evolved into one of the most desirable residential areas in Seattle. With its tree-lined streets, stunning views, and proximity to both downtown and nearby neighborhoods, First Hill offers an ideal balance of quiet residential living and vibrant urban activity.
First Hill’s architectural landscape is a beautiful tapestry of old and new, with stately mansions, historic apartment buildings, and sleek, modern high-rises. Residents here enjoy the best of both worlds: easy access to world-class healthcare, cultural venues, parks, and some of the city’s finest dining spots. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or someone seeking a serene urban oasis, First Hill has something for everyone.
From cultural landmarks to serene parks, First Hill is brimming with things to see and do. Whether you're a long-time resident or a potential homebuyer exploring the area, you'll find a wealth of attractions that make this neighborhood truly special.
Seattle Asian Art Museum: Situated just a short distance from First Hill in Volunteer Park, the museum offers an extensive collection of Asian art. A true cultural gem, it also hosts rotating exhibitions, making every visit unique.
Frye Art Museum: A free public museum located right on First Hill, the Frye features rotating exhibitions with a strong emphasis on contemporary and classical works. It’s a favorite spot for locals who appreciate art in a quiet, intimate setting.
St. James Cathedral: A stunning historic church that has stood on First Hill since 1907. Its architecture and interior artwork are breathtaking, and it remains an active place of worship with a strong community presence.
While First Hill is more urban than suburban, it still offers pockets of greenery for those seeking outdoor respite:
Freeway Park: Just a few blocks west, Freeway Park provides a lush, multi-level landscape perfect for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying some time outdoors. Its unique design, blending concrete structures with greenery, creates a striking urban oasis.
Seattle University Park: If you enjoy quiet walks, the Seattle University campus is filled with landscaped gardens, pathways, and public art, making it a peaceful place for reflection or recreation.
Yesler Terrace Park: A short walk to the east, this newer park has stunning views of downtown, plenty of open spaces, a playground, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for families.
Capitol Hill: Just to the north, you’ll find the vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood, where you can explore trendy shops, bars, and nightlife just a short stroll away.
Kerry Hall: Located on the southern end of First Hill, Kerry Hall is home to Cornish College of the Arts’ dance and music programs. You can catch student performances and cultural events here throughout the year.
Hidden staircases: First Hill is home to several historic staircases that connect its hilly streets. Exploring these stairways is a fun way to uncover some of the more hidden and scenic corners of the neighborhood.
From cozy cafés to elegant fine dining, First Hill offers a delightful range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Here are some must-visit spots for food lovers.
Terry’s Kitchen: A local favorite offering hearty, homestyle meals with an Asian twist. Their fried chicken and rice bowls are a must-try for lunch or dinner.
Cherry Street Coffee House: Perfect for grabbing a coffee or light breakfast before heading out for the day, Cherry Street is a Seattle institution known for its relaxed atmosphere and strong brews.
Vito’s: A classic First Hill spot that’s been around since the 1950s, Vito’s serves up Italian-American fare and hosts live jazz performances. Their lasagna and cocktail menu come highly recommended.
The Rhododendron Café: Located in the Frye Art Museum, this café offers light fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet lunch or post-museum snack.
Sushi Kanpai: A highly rated sushi spot offering fresh, inventive rolls and sashimi. Their lunch specials are particularly popular with both locals and workers from nearby hospitals.
Il Terrazzo Carmine: Just outside First Hill in Pioneer Square, this Italian restaurant offers an elevated dining experience with fresh pasta, seafood, and an extensive wine list. It’s perfect for special occasions.
Ristorante Machiavelli: A charming Italian restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and classic dishes like lasagna, ravioli, and veal parmigiana. Though it’s on the smaller side, it’s big on flavor and ambiance.
Daniel’s Broiler: Located just a short walk away in Leschi, Daniel’s is famous for its waterfront location and high-end steak and seafood options. The sunset views are unmatched, making it a popular spot for a romantic dinner.
Lark: A fine-dining institution on Capitol Hill that focuses on locally sourced, Pacific Northwest cuisine. Their tasting menu features seasonal dishes, and their beautifully curated space adds to the experience.
First Hill is a prime location for condo buyers, offering a variety of options from classic buildings to new high-rises, each with unique amenities that cater to modern urban living. The neighborhood’s blend of historic charm and contemporary convenience has made it a top choice for buyers seeking both lifestyle and investment opportunities.
Historic Condominiums: First Hill boasts many early 20th-century buildings converted into condos. These units often feature original architecture, including large windows, hardwood floors, and period details like crown molding. For those who appreciate character and charm, these condos provide a glimpse into Seattle’s history while offering updated amenities.
Luxury High-Rises: In recent years, First Hill has seen the rise of several luxury condo buildings, offering top-of-the-line amenities like rooftop terraces, fitness centers, concierge services, and more. These buildings appeal to buyers seeking a modern, low-maintenance lifestyle with proximity to Seattle's bustling downtown core.
Mid-Century and Contemporary Options: First Hill is home to mid-century buildings that blend minimalist design with spacious floor plans. These condos offer buyers a balance of affordability and comfort, often with views of the city or surrounding green spaces.
The condo market in First Hill remains competitive due to its central location. On average, condo prices in First Hill range from $400,000 for a modest one-bedroom unit to over $1 million for luxury high-rise units. The market sees steady demand, driven by professionals seeking to live close to downtown and the medical institutions in the area.
In particular, the demand for condos with modern amenities and updated interiors has grown in recent years. Buyers are increasingly looking for homes that offer both convenience and access to cultural venues, restaurants, and transportation, all of which First Hill provides in abundance.
Proximity to Healthcare: First Hill’s nickname, “Pill Hill,” is due to its concentration of Seattle’s top hospitals, including Swedish Medical Center and Virginia Mason. For medical professionals, living in First Hill means cutting down on commute time while enjoying a high-quality lifestyle.
Walkability and Transportation: First Hill has one of the highest walkability scores in the city, with grocery stores, cafes, parks, and entertainment just steps away. Additionally, the Seattle Streetcar and several major bus routes connect First Hill to surrounding areas, including Capitol Hill and downtown Seattle, making it a commuter’s dream.
Rental Potential: Many buyers are drawn to First Hill for its investment potential. Due to its central location, condos in this area often perform well as rental properties. Whether renting to medical professionals, students, or tech workers, First Hill condos provide attractive opportunities for investors.
First Hill condos come with a range of amenities that cater to modern city living:
Rooftop Decks with Panoramic Views: Many buildings offer rooftop decks where residents can relax and enjoy sweeping views of downtown, the Space Needle, or the surrounding mountain ranges.
Fitness Centers: With Seattle’s focus on health and wellness, many condo buildings include state-of-the-art fitness centers, allowing residents to stay active without leaving the building.
Secure Parking and Storage: Parking can be a challenge in a central neighborhood like First Hill, but many condo buildings offer secure parking options and additional storage space for residents.
Pet-Friendly Buildings: For pet owners, First Hill is home to several condo buildings that welcome pets and offer amenities such as pet-washing stations or nearby dog parks.
When it comes to finding the perfect condo in First Hill, Jeff Reynolds is the local real estate expert you need. With years of experience helping buyers navigate the Seattle condo market, Jeff has an intimate understanding of First Hill’s unique real estate landscape. Whether you're looking for a historic condo with character or a modern unit with all the amenities, Jeff is here to help you find a home that suits your needs and lifestyle.
His deep knowledge of the neighborhood, coupled with a tailored approach to each client, ensures a smooth and successful buying experience. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, Jeff is the go-to expert for all things condos in First Hill.
If you're ready to explore condo living in First Hill, contact Jeff Reynolds today to schedule a tour or discuss your options. With his expertise and dedication to client satisfaction, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect home in one of Seattle's most coveted neighborhoods.
Jeff Reynolds is a distinguished real estate broker affiliated with Compass Seattle and the visionary behind UrbanCondoSpaces, the premier condo team specializing in Kirkland, Bellevue, and Seattle. UrbanCondoSpaces (UCS) is not just a team; it's a specialized blog dedicated to the intricacies of urban living. With over 18 years of expertise navigating the condo markets in Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue, Jeff has successfully guided numerous individuals through condo transactions. His unparalleled knowledge and unwavering commitment to clients position him as the go-to expert for condo transactions. Whether you are considering a stylish condo in Bellevue or looking to sell in Kirkland or Seattle, connect with Jeff Reynolds to ensure optimal results for your real estate endeavors.
