One of the best things about Seattle’s expanding light rail system is how easy it makes it to explore neighborhoods you may not visit often. Just hop off the 1 Line at Roosevelt Station and you’re surrounded by leafy streets, excellent food, cozy coffee shops, and outdoor escapes.
Whether you’re planning a leisurely solo afternoon or a Saturday with friends or family, this station and the surrounding neighborhood delivers the perfect day out.
Start with nature
Begin your visit with a dose of green. A short walk from the station brings you to Cowen Park, a lush spot tucked into a quiet neighborhood. You’ll find winding trails, a pedestrian bridge, and shady trees perfect for lounging or reading.
Follow the path east and you’ll seamlessly enter the Ravenna Ravine, a forested escape that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the city. It’s a favorite for runners, dog walkers, and anyone who wants to slow down for a bit.
If you’re up for a longer walk or a quick bike ride, Green Lake is just a mile west. It's one of Seattle’s most popular parks, with a paved loop, boat rentals, and plenty of grassy space to stretch out. Bring a picnic or just soak in the people (and dog) watching.
Grab a bite (or two)
When hunger strikes, Roosevelt offers options for every mood. Rain City Burger serves up classic, juicy burgers and hand-cut fries — ideal for a casual, satisfying meal. Craving something spicy? Head to Bengal for Indian comfort food with rich curries and flavorful tandoori dishes or Brunellos for a classic Italian vibe with incredible ambiance.
For something lighter, Sunlight Cafe is a longstanding vegetarian favorite, known for hearty tofu scrambles and seasonal specials.
If it’s brunch or a leisurely lunch you’re after, Portage Bay Cafe is the go-to. Their organic, locally sourced menu features everything from Swedish pancakes to Dungeness crab omelets. Don’t skip the famous breakfast bar — it’s a Seattle institution.
These are just a few samples of the delicious options you can find near the Roosevelt station. Roosevelt is home to pho, wings, pizza, and everything in between.
Catch a game or sip a coffee
If there’s a big game on, you’re in luck. Roosevelt has two great options for sports fans. The Westy offers a polished pub atmosphere with tons of TVs and your standard bar food classics. Prefer a more old-school vibe? Teddy’s is a no-frills dive that locals love, with pool tables, cheap drinks, and Mariners or Seahawks on every screen.
See our larger list of sports bars to watch the big game.
Prefer coffee to kick-off? Roosevelt has a few gems for that, too. Fred Coffee offers expertly made espresso in a minimalist setting. Armistice is a cozy, plant-filled café with plenty of space to work or meet friends. And Caffe Ladro, a local favorite chain, is perfect for grabbing a strong drip coffee and a fresh pastry.
Discover more coffee shops by the 1 Line.
Stock up at Rising Sun Produce
Before you hop back on the light rail, swing by Rising Sun Produce. This family-run market is packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and unique pantry staples. It’s a great place to pick up ingredients for dinner or just a few snacks for the ride home.
Roosevelt may be just a few stops from downtown, but with its balance of nature, flavor, and community feel, it’s a destination worth exploring on its own.
Learn more about the Roosevelt neighborhood at the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association’s website.
What would you add to this list? Know a neighborhood that we should explore? Let us know by tagging @SoundTransit on social media or emailing lifestyle@soundtransit.org.