Seattle

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Seattle

Introduction

Seattle, the Emerald City, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Surrounded by water, mountains, and forests, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to go, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and essential tips for making the most of your trip to Seattle.

Places to Go

1. Pike Place Market

  • Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 9am-6pm, Fri-Sat: 9am-7pm, Sun: 9am-5pm
  • Explore the historic market, sample local foods, and watch fishmongers in action.

2. Space Needle

  • Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Hours: Daily: 8am-12am
  • Catch panoramic views of the city from the top of the iconic 605-foot tower.

3. Chihuly Garden and Glass

  • Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 10am-6pm, Fri-Sat: 10am-7pm, Sun: 10am-5pm
  • Marvel at the stunning glass artwork and installations by Dale Chihuly in a beautiful garden setting.

4. Pioneer Square

  • Address: Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98104
  • Hours: Varies by business
  • Discover historic buildings, art galleries, and trendy bars in this charming neighborhood.

5. Kerry Park

  • Address: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119
  • Hours: Daily: 6am-10pm
  • Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and Puget Sound from this popular park.

6. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

  • Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Hours: Daily: 10am-7pm
  • Learn about popular culture, music, and science fiction at this unique museum.

7. Seattle Waterfront

  • Address: Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Daily: 24/7
  • Stroll along the recently renovated waterfront, enjoy street performers, and take in the views of Puget Sound.

8. Discovery Park

  • Address: 3801 W Government Way, Seattle, WA 98199
  • Hours: Daily: 6am-10pm
  • Escape to this tranquil park featuring walking trails, meadows, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.

9. The Gum Wall

  • Address: 1428 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Daily: 24/7
  • Get a quirky photo opportunity at this infamous wall covered in used gum (just be sure to wash your hands afterwards!).

10. Seattle Center

  • Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Hours: Varies by event
  • Catch a performance or event at this complex featuring the Seattle Repertory Theatre and more.

Activities

1. Take a Ferry Ride

  • Depart from Pier 52 (801 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104)
  • Explore nearby Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, or Bremerton.

2. Go Hiking

  • Discover over 200 miles of trails in and around Seattle, including the popular Rattlesnake Ridge Trail.

3. Visit a Brewery

  • Seattle is home to over 100 craft breweries; try Pike Brewing Company (1425 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134) or Elysian Brewing (1221 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122).

4. Take a Food Tour

  • Sample the best of Seattle’s culinary scene with companies like Taste Seattle Food Tours or Seattle Food Tours.

5. Go Kayaking

  • Rent kayaks and explore Puget Sound, Lake Union, or Lake Washington.

6. Attend a Sports Game

  • Catch a Seahawks (football) game at CenturyLink Field (800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104) or a Mariners (baseball) game at T-Mobile Park (1250 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134).

7. Visit the Original Starbucks

  • Address: 102 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 6am-9pm, Fri-Sat: 6am-10pm, Sun: 7am-8pm
  • Snap a photo in front of the iconic store that started it all.

8. Explore the Seattle Underground Tour

  • Address: 608 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
  • Hours: Daily: 9am-6pm
  • Learn about the city’s history and hidden underground tunnels on this guided tour.

Where to Eat

1. Pike Place Chowder

  • Address: 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-9pm, Sun: 11am-7pm
  • Savor fresh seafood and creamy chowders in a lively atmosphere.

2. Ivar’s Acres of Clams

  • Address: 1001 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:30am-9pm, Fri-Sat: 11:30am-10pm, Sun: 11:30am-8pm
  • Enjoy waterfront dining and seafood favorites at this Seattle institution.

3. Matt’s in the Market

  • Address: Pike Place Market, 94 Pike St #32, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm, Fri-Sat: 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm, Sun: 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-8pm
  • Treat yourself to seasonal American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

4. Canlis

  • Address: 2576 Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
  • Hours: Mon-Thu: 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat: 5:30pm-11pm, Sun: 5:30pm-9pm
  • Experience refined dining with a focus on Pacific Northwest cuisine.

5. Dick’s Drive-In

  • Address: 500 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
  • Hours: Daily: 10am-2am
  • Visit this iconic drive-in for classic American fare and milkshakes.

Where to Stay

1. The Edgewater Hotel

  • Address: 2411 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121
  • Experience luxurious waterfront accommodations with stunning views of Puget Sound.

2. Hotel Theodore

  • Address: 1531 7th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Enjoy modern amenities and stylish rooms in the heart of downtown Seattle.

3. The Alexis Hotel

  • Address: 1007 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
  • Relax in chic rooms with a focus on comfort and sustainability.

4. Hotel Max

  • Address: 620 Stewart St, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Discover music-inspired decor and amenities in this vibrant hotel.

5. Green Tortoise Hostel

  • Address: 105 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
  • Budget-friendly options with a lively atmosphere and communal spaces.

Things to Know

1. Weather

  • Seattle is known for its rain; pack waterproof gear and layers for unpredictable weather.

2. Tipping Culture

  • Aim to tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars, as servers are paid lower minimum wages.

3. Safety

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like Pike Place Market; keep valuables secure.

4. Transportation

  • Use public transportation (King County Metro), ride-hailing services, or walk/bike when possible to avoid traffic and parking challenges.

5. Seafood

  • Seattle is renowned for its fresh seafood; try local specialties like Dungeness crab, oysters, or salmon.

Transportation

1. King County Metro

  • Use buses, light rail, or streetcars to navigate the city; plan your route with the Transit app.

2. Ride-Hailing Services

  • Uber and Lyft operate in Seattle; consider using these services for shorter trips or late-night transportation.

3. Taxis

  • Hail a traditional taxi on the street or book in advance through companies like Yellow Cab or Orange Cab.

4. Car Rentals

  • Rent a car for day trips or exploring surrounding areas; major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis operate at Sea-Tac Airport.

5. Walking and Biking

  • Seattle is pedestrian-friendly; explore neighborhoods on foot or rent a bike to navigate the city.

Tips and Tricks

1. Pack Layers

  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather with waterproof gear and layers for changing temperatures.

2. Explore Neighborhoods

  • Discover unique character in areas like Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Fremont; each offers distinct dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

3. Take a Ferry Ride

  • Catch a ferry to Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, or Bremerton for scenic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

4. Visit During Shoulder Season

  • Avoid peak tourist season (June-August) for smaller crowds and lower prices on accommodations and attractions.

5. Be Prepared for Crowds

  • Popular spots like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle can be crowded; plan accordingly and consider visiting during less busy times.

Insider’s Secrets

1. Visit the Original Starbucks

  • Stop by the first-ever Starbucks location at Pike Place Market for a nostalgic coffee experience.

2. Explore the Seattle Underground Tour

  • Learn about the city’s hidden history on this guided tour, which reveals underground tunnels and spaces.

3. Enjoy Free Attractions

  • Take advantage of free admission to attractions like the Frye Art Museum, Seattle Central Library, and the Washington Park Arboretum.

4. Discover Hidden Gems

  • Uncover lesser-known spots like the Center for Wooden Boats, the Georgetown Steam Plant, or the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood.

5. Attend a Music Event

  • Catch live music performances at iconic venues like the Paramount Theatre, Moore Theatre, or the Showbox.

This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, and insider’s secrets for making the most of your trip to Seattle. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this guide covers it all. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture lover, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, grab your umbrella, and get ready to experience the best of Seattle!