Reviews for Merrill Gardens at the University

I had the opportunity to interact with the Merrill Gardens when I helped an elderly friend choose a suitable place to move to. Merrill Gardens supported us through all stages of the relocation with professionalism, demonstrating attention, transparency, and genuine care toward their residents. Merrill Gardens at the University truly lives up to its name, thanks to a beautiful garden that serves as a focal point for nature lovers. The staff are kind and attentive, and the entire place offers a se

I helped my sister and her husband move into Merrill Gardens in October. They acclimated and made friends very quickly. We had toured many places, but Merrill Garden’s stood out because of the warm and welcoming feeling. It was the largest one bedroom we found. My sister chose a ground floor unit with French doors open to a private patio and attached to a beautiful garden. It is especially nice to have an outdoor oasis with restaurants and The University Village all within walking distance. Th

I toured the community with Leslie and had a great experience. She was incredibly knowledgeable, very friendly, and clearly knows the community and the surrounding area well. The community itself is newly remodeled and beautifully done — everything was clean, well-kept, and even smelled great. Every staff member I encountered was smiling and took the time to say hello, which really stood out. Overall, it felt welcoming, well-run, and thoughtfully maintained.

My family and I have had an incredibly positive experience with Merrill Gardens, and I truly cannot say enough good things about this community. From day one, the staff has been compassionate, attentive, and genuinely caring—not just toward the residents, but toward families as well. It’s clear that this isn’t just a job for them; they truly care about the people who live here. The facility itself is beautiful, clean, and welcoming, with thoughtfully designed spaces that feel more like a home th

I moved my 92 year old uncle to Merrill Gardens from California in October. The staff made the transition very easy. My uncle had lived alone for decades, yet the staff was so welcoming and friendly that he felt at home and comfortable right away. The premises are spotless and my uncle loves the food. I couldn't be more satisfied.

The staff are all very friendly and eager to help in any way they can to make things work for the residents. They know and call all residents by name.

My mother joined this community last July and was apprehensive about leaving her home of sixty years after my father passed. She has happily adjusted well and has met many other residents who have led quite interesting lives! The staff is wonderful, attentive and patient. They truly seem devoted to the community there. The only complaint she has is that the food can be hit or miss. But she always liked to cook, so that is somewhat understandable. For my part, I am happy she is safe and closer to

Our family is very happy with the care and consideration our mother is shown at Merrill Gardens at the University. The staff members are attentive and communicative. Our mother’s multiple needs are met, her room is well tended, she is kept busy, she is fond of everyone there. And we’re glad to know she’s safe. We are very happy to have her at Merrill Gardens at the University

I love walking into Merrill Gardens at the University! The lobby is always so bright and welcoming—it truly sets the tone for the entire community. Dakota, the Concierge, is consistently kind, helpful, and a joy to interact with. There’s a wonderful sense of energy here, with frequent events and activities that make the place feel alive and engaging. The last one I attended featured a dance troupe from Canada—it was fantastic! It’s clear that a lot of care and thought goes into making life here

My mother resides at MG university village. I’m very confident that all her needs are being met by MG and the staff. Security, nutrition, on and offsite activities, and more. Building improvements have recently been made and the grounds are well landscaped. The staff are extremely good with all the residents. I have peace of mind knowing she is living at Merrill Gardens.

My family is very grateful to the team at Merrill Gardens Ravenna for their caring and welcoming staff. My mom has been enjoying life there for two years, and we love visiting her in this homey atmosphere. Her apartment allows her a sense of autonomy and privacy, and there are plenty of opportunities to engage with other residents for a meal together or planned activities. One of our favorite features is the central courtyard, where she goes for daily walks and enjoys sitting in the sun. The

We have been extremely happy with my mother's care at Merrill Gardens. She has been there for a little over a year and we wish we had done it sooner. The care and communication is great! She is happy and has a great community.

We have been extremely happy with Merrill Gardens. My parents toured several retirement communities and it became very apparent that MG was a special community. The staff is experienced and take great care of their residents. The food is exceptional as are the amenities. There are countless activites and outings for residents. My brother and I feel comforted knowing they are in a welcoming and safe environment. My parents made the right choice in Merrill Gardens.

My mother has called Merrill Gardens University her home since 2021 when she was 93 years old. She’s made so many wonderful friends among the other residents and the terrific staff and has enjoyed the variety of social activities including bridge, classes, outings, mass, special events, movies. They love to celebrate here! She recently broke her wrist and her needs for care dramatically increased. Helen, who manages the Wellness Center, and her entire staff have provided excellent service an

After living 40 years in the same townhouse my husband and I started looking into senior living facilities. We visited several before coming to MGU. We were welcomed by Leslie and given a tour of the facility. We knew right away it would be a fit for us and a few months later we made the move into a beautifully renovated apartment. The staff and residents have welcomed us, and it has been very easy to integrate into the community. There are many and varied activities- something for everyone f

Leslie is a gem in navigating the world of Independent and Assisted Living. Her expertise as well as her warmth and hospitality helped make our decision regarding our fathers move into Merrill Gardens at University.

My mother has called Merrill Gardens at The University her home for the past 6 years. She loves the community, her apartment, and the dining options. The staff go above and beyond to create a warm and welcoming environment for her visitors, to include her children and grandchildren. One staff member in particular, Naomi Hirsch, is exceptional. She is caring, smart, and sharp witted. Naomi gets things done! I would be remiss if I didn't mention the stellar kitchen and dining staff, shepherd

This is a wonderful community for seniors who are independent or need assisted living. It is a vibrant community with many activities and scheduled outings. The staff are wonderful, they not only know the residents but also the family members who visit regularly. They host fun celebrations almost monthly for different holidays or just for fun. The care staff has been supportive and kind to my parent who needs assisted living care. We are in regular communication with the nurse and the staff. Whe

My older sister has been at the MG / University for 10 years. She had been living on her own but suddenly found herself needing a little more community support. The staff at MG is amazing - providing support and encouragement and all the while respecting the need for independence. MG offers a wide variety of actvities for their residents - open to everyone including family but no pressure to join in. Come and take a tour - you won't be disappointed!

My mom moved into Merrill Gardens at University the summer of 2022. The staff and the team are very kind and go out of their way in taking excellent care of the residents and make residents' families feel comfortable that their loved ones are in good hands. The facilities are well maintained, the food nutritious and tasty and a wide variety of activities. We researched a number of options and are so happy that our mom now calls Merrill Gardens at University "home".

Really vibrant community of people with lots of great activities for the residents.

This place is an absolute delight! The staff here is outstanding, always going above and beyond for their residents.

I don't think I'd recommend it to others. Food is a big deal. My sisters won't eat there so that's not good. I eat there because I'm not as picky.

My parents moved up from Oregon into Merrill about a year and a half ago. From the moment we met Leslie, who is amazing, to meeting and getting to know all of the staff; Michael, Naomi, Bianca and so many more, we feel like family! Merrill Gardens at The University is a vibrant community. It is bright, offers so many activities (yoga, movies, wine tasting, book studies, themed parties, etc), it is clean and updated and the courtyard feels like a lovely resort. My parents are truly cared for and

Merrill Gardens at the University is a wonderful place in all of its dimensions - the public spaces are light, open and airy; the apartments are thoughtfully laid out and well maintained; the residents are engaging; and its sun-filled courtyard is a place of respite in nature. The best part, however, is the staff who are, from managers to maintenance folks, thoughtful, caring and thoroughly professional - exemplified by Naomi whose welcoming smile hides a remarkable understanding of everything

Merrill. Gardens is peerless for its great location, the pleasures of its amenities, the warmth and professionalism of its staff, and the camaraderie among its residents.

Our family member loves living at Merrill Gardens University. He has been there for nearly three years. He easily made friends and enjoys all of the activities. He looks forward to meals with friends and we join him frequently, We have also gotten to know his friends and even my grandson loves to join us. The staff is extremely caring, responsible and professional. We highly recommend this home to your family.

Merrill Gardens is wonderful because of the staff and residents! The staff go out of their way to love and care for my parents in numerous ways. Naomi, for example, always knows where my parents are and anticipates their needs ahead of time, including their favorite coffee drinks! She is like family. Charlyn enjoys weekly chats with my parents. The list goes on. The facility is well maintained, updated and cheery. Many activities are offered for the residents and the staff listens to the req

The entire Merrill Gardens (University) team went to great lengths to get my parents moved in under challenging circumstances and a tight timeline. Things have gone well since moving in, which gives me peace of mind knowing they are happy and being taken care of. And being so close to the University Village is a nice bonus.

The warmth and professionalism from the incredible staff at MG have made what could have been a stressful transition into a delightful experience. They have made my mother-in-law feel welcomed and cared for. The efforts made in creating a wonderful atmosphere with delicious food, enjoyable activities and a friendly vibe have truly made her transition not just comfortable, but fun as well. She is thrilled to be at Merrill Gardens!

My sister and I helped our dad move to Merrill Gardens at the University a few months ago and it has been a very positive experience. From our first interactions with Leslie, who helped show us apartments and answered our many questions, to Naomi and the rest of the staff we have had a very warm reception and positive environment for our dad. Thank you!

Sometimes I play piano here and its it nice to play life music for residents. Very pleasant atmosphere at this place.

My wife and I have been very pleased with Merrill Gardens and the care they give to my mother, 102 this month. She is well taken care of and feels very safe and secure living in her one bedroom apt. She enjoys the bridge games twice a week and meeting with other residents. We would recommend Merrill Gardens for any senior looking for a great place to live in Seattle, WA

I lived in the neighborhood and have had dozens of church pals, golfing buddies and dear neighbors move to Merrill all with a positive experience. I have had the blessing of knowing Leslie Reynolds for near 4 decades and she is the real deal. She makes a point to get to know all the residents, their families and any/all quirks. The facility feels and acts like family. Very professional!!!

We looked at many senior living centers and decided on Merrill Gardens for many reasons including the very friendly staff, location, condition of the facility, dining area, and wonderful courtyard. My dad really likes it over 6 months later. Leslie and her team are always welcoming and look out for my Dad. I highly recommend visiting Merrill Gardens at the University!

I chose Merrill Gardens with my children because of the immediate friendly athmosphere when you enter. I was not disappointed. Love surrounds you here. All the staff works together like one, filling in for each other without being asked, as the need arises. The residents are kind, lovely, friendly. I would recommend Merrill Gardens at the University to everyone.

My parents are in the process of moving from their home 3500+ miles away to Merrill Gardens at The University, and without a doubt, everyone at Merrill Gardens has helped make this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Leslie Reynolds especially has been instrumental in helping my parents (and us, their Seattle-based family) know what's ahead and answer questions as they come up, often within minutes of sending an email. She helped them secure an apartment with an accelerated timelin

How do you leave your house of 55 years? You move into MG at the University! My parents decided it was time to move and the staff at MG made the transition a breeze. The staff and residents are super friendly and happy to help with anything... from getting a different parking spot, directions to the neighboring roof top garden, a ride to a forgotten doctor appointment, to organizing a welcome dinner. We are so happy they chose Merrill Gardens at the University!

The staff at Merrill Gardens have bent over backward to ensure that my Mom found the perfect apartment for herself and her dog. She now has a ground floor unit (easy to take the dog out) with a huge garden to keep her fingers in the dirt and a smile on her face. The staff worked hard late into the evening to have her new apartment ready for the movers. Once again, they have gone above and beyond to be helpful. I love these people!

Our Mother moved in last month from out of state and she is loving being part of this community! All of the staff and the residents she has met have been so welcoming, helpful and kind! She couldn't be any happier to have found her new home and we are so pleased that she has found a perfect place to live too!!

My 96-year-old mother has lived in several senior communities over the past 15 years, and this is the best! When she decided to move from southern California to Seattle to be close to us, we checked out a number of communities and were really impressed by Merrill Gardens at the University. Leslie, Michael, Charlyn, and Cheyenne were so helpful with the arrangements and Mom moved in about a month ago. She loves it so far! The staff and residents are so kind and friendly, they've made the transiti

We went with Merrill Gardens at The University because it seemed like the best fit for my loved one. I would tell others that some locations offer income qualified apartments and some do not which was critical to learn, we found out the hard way. I would recommend Merrill Gardens Communities to others looking.

Fresh Air and lots of trees there are

The experience we had with my stepdad at Merrill Gardens was terrific. The social entertainment, movies, field trips and camaraderie meant so much to him. Their staff is warm, friendly and very attentive. It was a perfect choice!

My experience with Leslie and the staff was helpful, supportive and understanding. In addition to my own personal experience, other people I know have related similar very positive experiences.

I have been a resident at Merrill Gardens at the University for 5 years. Recently I was asked to be a guest with a newcomer for the NEW RESIDENT'S WELCOME DINNER. This was the nicest activity I have been invited to in a very long time. EVERYTHING was perfect and well planned and organized, down to the table settings, menu, small favors, flowers in the middle of the table, wine and amazing conversation. The credit goes to our Activity Department ( for which there is not enough praise for what

I can't say enough good things about Merrill Gardens at The University. From the kind and compassionate staff, the welcoming residents, the friendly, safe environment and the extensive programming, I couldn't have found a better home for my mother. She is treated with genuine care by all staff members who continually go above and beyond our expectations. My mother's day routinely includes fun events, learning opportunities, physical exercise and a myriad of other opportunities at her fingertips.

Our tour was not nearly as good or as involved as the one we had at the community we ended up choosing. Merrill Gardens didn't spend as much time with us or offer us a meal. It was during Covid times, and things were just starting to open back up. But the deal breaker for our loved one was there was no in-room laundry.

Staff is very friendly

Stopped in awhile back...looking for a place for my uncle. Had seen a few others and really wanted the right fit for him....after meeting the welcoming staff I felt as ease with the care they would provide. He has now been there for several years and is very happy. I would also like to add he really likes the dining area. Thank you merill gardens.

Early in 2020 my husband and I visited Merrill Gardens to see if we would be interested in moving in in a couple of years. We were treated to an excellent meal personally served by the head chef along with a tour of the facility. I was very impressed with the apartments, the outdoor patio area, the dining area, and the personable and knowledgable folks in marketing who gave us the tour. All in all it was a very positive experience. We are seriously rethinking our plans and may decide to move

Nice place for seniors!

Awesome staff

Pleasant in all areas, dining, location and fellow residents.

I went on a tour here and the staff was helpful and answered all of my questions. This was an overall nice facility but wasn't in our price range. I would recommend families tour a few different places before making a decision.

I toured this facility while looking for a place for my Mother-In-Law. The atmosphere of this community seemed lively and intellectually stimulating. A lot of the residents here are retired teachers or professors. This was my runner-up choice and the reason why I didn’t pick it is that it was just a little farther away than the other facility. They had a lot of activities however there aren't as many residents as elderly as my in-law. The person who gave me the tour was very knowledgeable and im

OK Italian food. Nothing too special about it.

everyone friendly, food is good, cleaning people friendly do a good job & much more. Too soon to say much more.

Good location.

We were extremely pleased over our visit to Merrill Gardens at the University. You folks earn a five-star rating from Edie and Jim [removed]. We're not yet residents, but we are very much comforted to know that Merrill Gardens at the University is there waiting for us when the time comes, which may not be that far off in the future. We will be return to Seattle in late August and hope to have the opportunity to stop by again. Be sure and say hello for us to Pete and Ruth. We fell in love wi

This is very much a first impression. My mother has been at Merrill Gardens University for less than a week.

Positives: * LOTS of resident to resident interaction * Excellent library and speaker series * Beautiful internal and external facility * Flexible eating schedule and meal plan * Clean facility; well decorated w/ lots of community as well as individual nooks Negatives: * Cost * Currently full w/ waiting list option [removed] Definintely visit again with Mom in Sept/ Oct

Close to my house. Great bistro and courtyard.

Very modern and urban. Tons of things to get out and do. Much is walking distance. Apartments modern, good shared spaces. This is a contender.