Explore: Madrona

Where can you find cute boutiques, cafes, playgrounds, and a glass-blowing studio all within a three block radius? Madrona!

Join the locals lining up around the block for brunch at the Hi-Spot Cafe. They serve their beloved breakfast every day, so if you want to avoid the crowds, head over on a weekday. Did you know that all Glassybaby candle holders are hand blown in Madrona? You can watch glassblowers at work from a viewing window and buy a Glassybaby of your own from the nearby shop. The only hard part will be deciding between a multitude of colors.

Head over to Buggy to browse their extensive selection of “nearly new” kids and maternity clothes as well as a smaller assortment of new toys, books, and clothing. Insider tip:  Leo, the Molly Moon’s ice cream truck, makes regular appearances right outside Buggy. Check the schedule for current information; most recently, it’s stopped by on Wednesday afternoons.

Make your way to the playground, where you’ll find the typical playground activities – swings, slides, climbing structures, a sandbox, and a large grassy field.

Ready for a snack? Just across from the playground is the original Cupcake Royale. Or, if you’d like a treat for the grownups too, this is your neighborhood…there are plenty of options for adults to kick back with a grown-up beverage where kids are welcome too. Head down the block to Bottlehouse. This recently opened wine bar welcomes kids and features locally made High 5 Pies and Bluebird ice cream. On a nice day, the back deck can’t be beat. Another neighborhood standby for socializing parents and frolicking kiddos is the Madrona Eatery and Ale House—they even have a play area for kids. And St. Cloud’s has great happy hour specials, and live music.

Before you leave the neighborhood, be sure to get in some retail therapy for Mama. Check out Driftwood, a tiny consignment store packed with high end designer clothing and accessories. Just down the street is Hitchcock, a small boutique featuring handmade jewelry designs and known for their ever changing, vintage-inspired store decor and window displays.