The Ave, Shopping street in University District, Seattle, US

The Ave is University Way NE, a collector arterial running 1.2 miles (1.9 km) from just below NE Pacific Street south to NE Ravenna Boulevard and Cowen Park, where it becomes Cowen Place NE. It is the commercial heart of Seattle's University District, with the densest cluster of restaurants, book and record stores, clothing shops and movie theatres between NE 41st and NE 50th Streets, including the Varsity Theatre (1940) and University Book Store (1924).

Originally called Columbus Avenue when it was established in 1891, the street received its current name through a 1919 contest organized by the University Commercial Club. This change reflected its growing connection to the university and the academic community.

The street features international restaurants, bookstores, and clothing shops that draw students from the University of Washington and local residents. It functions as a social hub where you directly experience the daily routines and tastes of the university community.

Most shops and restaurants are concentrated in the central section, making it straightforward to explore the area in one visit. Check with individual stores for current hours, as they vary by season and time of week.

The Ave has carried its nickname since the early 20th century, even though it is officially University Way NE and no longer an avenue. The name survived the 1919 contest that replaced 14th Avenue. Trolleybuses of the Seattle system ran here from 1940 to 1970, and streetcars before them until 1941.