Located in Ballard within a mile (2 km) of National Nordic Museum, this vacation home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Woodland Park Zoo. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a sofa bed.
Swedish Medical Center - Ballard Campus - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Portland Building - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
National Nordic Museum - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles
Woodland Park Zoo - 6 min drive - 1.5 miles
Getting around
U District Station - 10 min drive
Edmonds Station - 24 min drive
Seattle, WA (BFI-Boeing Field) - 35 min drive
Restaurants
Taco Bell - 3 min walk
The Old Pequliar - 6 min walk
El Camion - 5 min walk
Ballard Coffee Co. - 3 min walk
Praxis Yoga and Cafe - 5 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC
This is a west-facing 3bed/2bath 3-story house with no shared walls and features a fully loaded kitchen, dining room, top floor en-suite, 2 king/1 queen beds+futon, office space, private fenced patio, laundry, heating/AC throughout, home gym, and garage parking. Walking distance to all the unique shops, restaurants, breweries, and nightlife that make this neighborhood a top destination for visitors and locals alike, plus close access to transit, parks, and bike paths.
Classic mid-century house with hardwood floors and great natural light on a quiet street in the heart of Ballard.
* Keyless entry * Quiet & private - no shared walls or security cameras on site * Family friendly - pack 'n play, highchair, kid amenities provided. All stairs from main level have doors that can be closed for child safety * 1 car garage + driveway = 2 on-site parking spaces + free street parking * Standard outlet in the garage for EV charging * High speed Wi-Fi (220 Mbps) & dedicated office space with monitor provided * Eco-friendly - Solar panels on roof with heat pump for heating/AC throughout * Living room with large plush couch and smart TV * Dining room with seating for 6 * Fully stocked kitchen: Stove/oven, fridge, microwave, toaster oven, dishwasher, blender, electric kettle, food processor, cookware/utensils (including kids utensils), and everything needed to whip up great home cooked meals * We supply locally roasted whole bean coffee, manual and electric coffee grinders, Bodum French press and programmable coffee maker, plus tea, creamer and sugars to start your day * All bedrooms feature comfortable high-end mattresses, 100% cotton sheets, and hypoallergenic pillows and comforters * Private top floor suite has a dedicated workspace with extra monitor, bedroom with king-size mattress, en-suite bathroom with 2 shower heads, and dedicated heating/AC * Downstairs there is a rec room/home gym with smart TV, free weights & bench, rowing machine, yoga mats, floor pads, futon sofa, and heating/AC. Full size washer and dryer in laundry room * Fully fenced private front yard patio with table and seating for 6 * Plenty of fresh towels provided, high quality bedding, and space to work, play, or just unwind * One block to public transit, including Rapid D line for short ride to SLU, downtown and Pike Place Market * 5-10 minute walk to Old Town Ballard with shops, restaurants, breweries and the best farmers market in the city (Sundays year round) * 15-20 minute drive to downtown Seattle (Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Capitol Hill, etc) * 30-35 minute drive to Seatac or Paine Field airports
MAIN FLOOR * Front door entrance (keyless lock) * Living room with large sofa and smart TV * Dining room with seating for 6 * Fully stocked kitchen * Bedroom #1 with 1 king bed with organic latex mattress * Bedroom #2 with 1 queen bed with Bear mattress & blackout shades * Bathroom with tub/shower combo * Stairs leading down to basement and up to second floor - both have doors that can be closed for child safety * Heating/AC
UPSTAIRS * Bedroom #3 with 1 king bed with Molecule mattress, blackout shades & nook with room to set up a pack 'n play (provided) * Bathroom with large double shower (2 shower heads) * Office space with monitor provided * Heating/AC
DOWNSTAIRS * Rec room/gym with smart TV, kids books & games, rowing machine, free weights and bench, yoga mats * Futon (full size) with bedding provided * Laundry room with washer & dryer * Access to 1-car garage * Heating/AC
* One block to public transit, including Rapid D line for short ride to SLU, downtown and Pike Place Market * 5-10 minute walk to Old Town Ballard with shops, restaurants, breweries and the best farmers market in the city (Sundays year round) * 15-20 minute drive to downtown Seattle (Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Capitol Hill, etc) * 30-35 minute drive to Seatac or Paine Field airports
Guests will have the house and yard to themselves. You may park in the garage or driveway and there is free street parking in front of the house as well. Very walkable residential neighborhood. 93 walking score with tons to do nearby, and within a mile of: grocery stores, fast food, Target, Ballard Farmers Market, movie theater, shops and restaurants along Market St and Ballard Ave.
Ballard is a lively neighborhood along the Salmon Bay/Lake WA Ship Canal just north of downtown Seattle. It's known for great restaurants, craft breweries, shopping, the Ballard boat locks, Botanical Garden, the National Nordic Museum, plus quick access to Golden Garden Park, Discovery Park, Woodland Park Zoo, and downtown Seattle.
Downtown Seattle is about a 10-15 minute drive and there are e-bikes, e-scooters, and public transportation within walking distance.
Other Nearby attractions include:
* Ballard locks/Carl S English Jr Botanical Garden = 1.1 miles * National Nordic Museum = 0.9 miles * Golden Gardens Beach Park = 3.2 miles * Discovery Park = 3.8 miles * Woodland Park Zoo = 1.4 miles * Green Lake = 2.6 miles * University of Washington = 4.1 miles * Space Needle = 4.7 mils * Seattle Aquarium = 5.3 mils * Pike Place Market = 5.3 miles
House is set for 6 and there is extra bedding provided for the futon in the basement/workout room.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a sofa bed, and a coffee maker.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
Near a zoo
Near the marina
Things to do
Gym
Birdwatching nearby
Cycling nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Swimming nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Electric car charging station
Unit size: 1,640 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Property Registration Number STR-OPLI-21-000828
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
There are no elevators.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do near this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Ballard within a short 17-minute walk of National Nordic Museum. You'll also find Seattle Cruise Ship Terminal 91 and Seattle Center within a short drive.
Is parking available on site at this vacation home?
Yes, there is electric car charging available.
Is this vacation home associated with a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
Is Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC a good place to stay for couples?
Couples will appreciate amenities at this vacation home, including a kitchen and a smart TV in each accommodation and kitchens in some.
Does Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC have a hot tub?
No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this vacation home offer breakfast?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.
How close is the airport from this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Seattle, WA (LKE-Lake Union Seaplane Base), which is 5 mi away (21 minutes by car). Another top airport is Seattle, WA (BFI-Boeing Field), which is located 12.5 mi away (35-minute drive).
Are there rooms with balconies at Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC?
Yes, every accommodation at Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC comes with a deck.
Central Ballard Retreat with Gym and AC Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 40 reviews
10 - Excellent
37
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 40 reviews
8 - Good
3
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Jerod A.
Jan 28, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Clean, good amenities, nice location.
Jerod A.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
DEIRDRE S.
Jan 20, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location with easy access to the heart of Ballard. Perfect for our family reunion with three bedrooms, ample kitchen supplies and space to gather. Quiet neighborhood as well.
DEIRDRE S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Anthony V.
Dec 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay, host and house were fantastic.
Anthony V.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Dan B.
Nov 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome location and a homely experience! The Ballard Birdhouse is close to a lot of great restaurants in the Ballard downtown area as well as some cool experiences like the Ballard Locks. The house itself is quite roomy and accommodating and comfortably fit my 3 friends and me for a weekend guys trip. The couch was super cozy and we spent some time just chilling and watching Ted Lasso on it. The beds were excellent, providing a great night's sleep and making it hard to get up in the morning. The host, Bryan, was incredibly thorough and very responsive, making this stay a home run. Next time I'm back in Seattle, I hope this location is available so I can share it with others as we enjoy the surrounding area!
Dan B.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Stacy F.
Sep 29, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This house is great! The beds were so comfortable, the house was clean, the towels were nice and fluffy. There was plenty of room to spread out. The location is great, allowing us to walk to restaurants, shopping, and the amazing Ballard Farmers Market! I hope to come back and stay here soon!
Stacy F.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
John H.
Sep 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great house and great location to Seattle sure seeing.
John H.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kyle P.
Sep 10, 2025
Kyle P.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Andy G.
Aug 17, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We really enjoyed our stay here! The location was excellent-lots of great restaurants within walking distance, plus a Sunday farmers market we loved exploring. The neighborhood itself was very quiet and felt safe, with minimal traffic on the surrounding streets. Public transportation was also close by, making it easy to get around without always relying on a car.HighlightsPlenty of walkable dining options and activities.Air-conditioning was a big plus (though it took some time to cool the house fully at night).Kitchen was stocked well enough for basic cooking; we appreciated having both a drip coffee machine and French press, along with a grinder.Parking for two smaller cars worked fine (garage driveway), though it’s worth noting the garage door mechanism can scrape if a trunk is open.Host was responsive and helpful, quickly addressing small supply needs.Things to NoteThe kitchen is on the smaller side, really only comfortable for 1 person at a time.The smallest bedroom felt a little tight with the queen bed, especially with extra furniture at the foot of the bed.It took about 15 minutes to reach the nearest freeway, though that’s more about location than the property itself.Final ThoughtsOverall, this was a great stay in a convenient, safe location. Perfect for enjoying local restaurants and markets, with a helpful host and a comfortable setup for a sma
Andy G.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lori C.
Aug 15, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Property and neighborhood were great for our visit to Seattle. We really liked the birds throughout the house and found it to be comfortable with everything we needed.
Lori C.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kate M., San Francisco Bay Area
Aug 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The house was very nice, clean, and well-appointed with thoughtful touches. Communication was great and check in was very simple. Pleasant neighborhood and an easy walk to coffee shops and restaurants.
Kate M.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Denise S.
Jun 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Graduation visit
My husband and I were up in Seattle with my parents and inlaws for graduation so it was great to have a house with two bedrooms on the main floor, and only a few steps getting into the house. The house was a little tight with my dad using a walker but still workable. The location was great for people watching and going to the farmers market. The house had everything we needed and I appreciate the whole bean coffee and press!
Well equipped. Great location in Ballard neighborhood. Very clean. Good parking. Easy checkin and good instructions. Can walk or short drive to some nearby restaurants, grocery stores, microbreweries and pubs. Short commute to Seattle Waterfront, MW Medical Center (our primary reason for being in Seattle) and Lake Union (except at rush hour!) Comfy beds with 2 bathrooms was handy for our group of four. Kitchen had everything needed. Laundry facilities were helpful for 2 in our family.
We enjoyed our stay at the Ballard Birdhouse. It’s an older residence that has retained a lot of its original character and charm. We were very comfortable there, it had everything we needed and the location was convenient. My daughter lives within walking distance and we also walked to the farmers market. The host, Bryan, was extremely accommodating and gracious. Thank you!
Raynette
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Seth K.
May 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Spot in Ballard
This is a great property! We really enjoyed our stay. The coffee/tea bar was already well stocked, which was great for arrival. Off street parking was also a big plus. The small gym in the basement was also an added bonus. You are close to almost everything in Ballard. We would definitely stay here again. The host was also very responsive. Thank you for your hospitality!
Seth K.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
May 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Ballard Stay
We loved this house and hopefully will be lucky enough to return. There were just two of us, but we easily could have had more. The house itself is warm and comfortable with a great kitchen, cozy living area, comfy beds with good linens and great showers! The parking worked great and the neighborhood is very sweet. We had a little confusion with the locked entry which the owner responded to immediately and kindly. Would stay again in a heartbeat!
Verified traveler
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
8/10 Good
Sharon B., Loma Rica
May 11, 2025
Sharon B.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Mark W.
Mar 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great place and location!
Very nice place, close to bus stop to downtown and in a great neighborhood. Place as described.
Mark W.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Cy C.
Mar 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable stay
Great location with plenty of room. Couch and beds were very comfortable
Cy C.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Nathan C.
Mar 16, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Repeat Customer
We returned back to the Birdhouse this year and everything went perfect. Place is located in a great area and the accommodations are clean and has easy check out. 10/10 would recommend.
We chose this location because it was very close to my son’s house. Not very close to downtown but perfect for our needs. My wife was not very impressed because the house was old but we soon came to realize that this was much more comfortable and cozy for the three of us. Two BIG pluses: the upstairs bedroom with a private bath gave my teenage son plenty of privacy. Also the basement was converted into a workout room/game-room, which we took advantage of.
John
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sara H.
Jan 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
Immaculate house in a quiet neighborhood, yet within walking distance to all the activity along the waterfront.
Sara H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lisa R.
Jan 4, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice home!
We enjoyed our stay here. My son lives around the corner so it was nice to be close to him. Very nice home and neighborhood with access to everything we needed! Thank you!
Lisa R.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Colleen S.
Dec 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great neighborhood and convenient location!
We were in town for a wedding and the house was conveniently located down the street from my son”s place. The house was clean and had everything we needed to be comfortable. We will be back sometime in the spring and hope we can stay here again.