Where in Seattle did the town’s first railroad begin, Rainier beer originate, and the city’s first municipal airport open? They all had their start in Georgetown.
Considered Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, visitors to this historic industrial area today can enjoy the charming architecture of a bygone era while taking in some wine tasting and craveable food. Simply put, there’s a lot to explore when spending a day in Seattle’s Georgetown. It’s probably closer than you think at just under five miles from Seattle’s Pioneer Square, about a ten minute drive.
House of Smith Wines
From baller to budget, there are numerous wine selections available by the flight, glass, or bottle at the vast House of Smith Jet City Winery. With two tasting rooms in the building, a former Dr. Pepper bottling plant, it is the largest Seattle urban winery.
Founded by Charles Smith, a former band manager, this is the place to taste boisterous wines while rocking out and watching planes take off and land at nearby Boeing Field.
Located at 1136 S Albro Pl, Seattle, WA 98108.
Cloudlift Cellars
Although this boutique operation is one of the smaller Seattle urban wineries, the remarkable lineup is extensive. Plus, owner/winemaker Tom Stangeland, who opened Cloudlift in 2009, is often behind the tasting bar. It’s a terrific spot for those who want to learn more about what’s in each bottle and how it’s made. Moreover, having cooked professionally, Tom is quick to offer easy meal suggestions for each wine. Stop by in the fall during crush and you just might detect the scent of fermenting grapes emerging from the winery.
Bonus: Tom’s 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded the highest rating by the 2022 Washington Wine Awards.
Located at 312 South Lucile Street Seattle, WA.
Cascade Cliffs
This intimate tasting room is the place to go for bold red wines - especially Barbera - and fun alternative white wines such as Gruner Veltliner and Symphony. Based in the Columbia Gorge, the estate is farmed with sustainable practices.
Located at 6006 12th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108.
Tinte Cellars
An outpost of Woodinville based Tinte Cellars, the Georgetown locale can be easily identified by the Vespa on the roof, a nod to its recent history as a scooter sales and service shop. The spacious updated 1912 building also has a relaxed back patio decorated with a colorful mural. Tim Gamble and Teresa Spellman Gamble are the husband and wife team behind the brand on a mission to offer great wine for the greater good. Consequently, they donate a portion of wine sales to select non-profit organizations. Talented winemaker Noah Fox Reed crafts a delectable Malbec that is not to be missed!
Pro tip: on Thursdays, Tinte’s Georgetown location offers all day happy hour with wine and food specials.
Located at: 5951 Airport Way S, Seattle, WA 98108.
Where to Eat in Georgetown
The Georgetown neighborhood has become a hot spot for great eats well worth exploring. Dining suggestions from Tom Stangeland of Cloudlift Cellars include Fonda la Catrina as well as Ciudad (see below). Additionally, for great fried chicken and sandwiches, the Marco Polo Bar and Grill is his go-to.
Ciudad
The enticing aroma coming off the charcoal grill is hard to pass by. Though known for its grilled meats, the octopus also deserves a mention. What’s more, the menu has a tempting array of small plates including flat breads plus salads.
Located at 6118 12th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108.
Matcha Man
This popup turned brick and mortar cultivated quite a following on social media for its fascinating soft serve ice cream. The exotic flavors include ube and – you probably guessed it – matcha. Don’t forget the signature taiyaki, a soft cake-like cone that is the signature of this place with optional fillings such as adzuki beans.
Located at 6014 12th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108.
Wait, There’s More
In the early 1900’s Georgetown was a raucous place with twenty-four saloons open twenty-four hours a day. At one point, Rainier Beer was the area’s largest employer. Savor the history with a stop at Fran’s Chocolates in the birthplace of Rainier Brewing Company.
For beer lovers, the neighborhood still offers numerous watering holes including Georgetown Brewing, the largest independent brewery in Washington state.
Additional Stops Near Georgetown
When going wine tasting it’s essential to have something to eat beforehand. Consider beginning the day at the wildly popular Flora Bakehouse just a few minutes from Georgetown on Beacon Hill (about one mile from Cloudlift Cellars). Order one of the many coffee drinks on offer and a tasty pastry then head upstairs to the rooftop deck to take in the view.
For aviation fans who feel like winging it (sorry not sorry!), consider a visit to the nearby Museum of Flight.
Continue four blocks south of the Museum of Flight and discover BacoVino winery in an unexpected location within an office park. The modern tasting room offers two boldly expressive wine tasting flights as well as cheese and charcuterie platters. Plus, owner/winemaker Randy Brooks is often in the house.
Things to Do Before Spending a Day in Georgetown
Note that tasting rooms in Georgetown are not open seven days a week and typically open at noon. Check hours at your preferred locations and, when possible, make a reservation in advance (especially for weekend visits). At the time of this writing all tasting rooms are closed on Tuesdays; Thursday through Sunday are optimal days for making more than one wine tasting stop.
For art lovers, plan a visit to coincide with the Georgetown ART ATTACK. The event happens monthly each second Saturday from 5-8pm.
Cloudlift Cellars and Jet City (and BacoVino) have some parking available in front of their establishments. Otherwise, street parking is typically available at no charge and the majority of Georgetown businesses listed here are in the walkable core of the neighborhood.
Whether wine, food, beer, or shopping is what you’re after Georgetown has plenty to explore!
[…] nationally reaching brands. They offer ciders from dry to sweet, traditional to modern. Some have tasting rooms, while others are only found in taprooms and bottle shops around town. Whether you’re a cider […]