Seattle

Seattle

Seattle is a beautiful city, with a thriving arts and restaurant scene, interesting neighborhoods and a vibrant waterfront.  It has one of the most spectacular natural locations in the world, with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains to the west, the awesome sight of Mt Rainier to the south, and the Cascades Mountain Range to the east. 

Seattle has all the advantages of a sophisticated city, yet is within close proximity to pristine wilderness areas including the Olympic National Park, Mt Rainier National Park, the North Cascades National Park, Mt Baker and the San Juan Islands.

Key attractions in the Seattle city area

• The Seattle Center has a number of popular attractions; including the world-famous Seattle Space Needle, Experience Music Project, Pacific Science Center and IMAX Cinema.  Explore Seattle on the fun Ride the Ducks Tour across land and water on amphibious craft. For deeper discounts on Seattle Attractions, consider purchasing a Seattle City Pass.
• The Central Waterfront is home to the lively Pike Place Markets and Seattle Aquarium.  Book an Argosy Cruise at Pier 56 to explore Seattle’s waterways.  Discover a wide choice of dining options along the waterfront.  Stroll a few blocks back towards the city to the celebrated Seattle Art Museum.
• Northern Waterfront:  A 20-minute walk will take you from the central waterfront to the northern end, where you will discover the outdoor Olympic Sculpture Park spread over 9-acres with stunning sculptures.  For incredible views, take the 1.25-mile trail along Elliot Bay at the nearby Myrtle Edwards Park. This walking path is very popular with locals.
• Pioneer Square is just south of the city and is the historic center of Seattle, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most of the 19^th century brick and stone buildings have been preserved.  Take the interesting Underground Tour beneath street level through Seattle’s old town.
• Downtown Shopping is mostly concentrated along Pine Street in the city.  Start at 7^th Avenue and Pine Street for shopping at the Pacific Place Center, Westlake Center, Nordstrom and Macy’s.

Great neighborhoods in Seattle

• South Lake Union is a short walk from the city.  Visit the Historic Ships Wharf, and Center for Wooden Boats. Enjoy great views across South Lake Union from iconic restaurants like Daniel’s Broiler, Chandler’s Crabhouse, Joey’s or I love Sushi.
• Capital Hill is just minutes from downtown, and offers a more alternative experience. Pike Street and Pine Street have plenty of restaurants, cafes, music venues, clothing consignment stores and unique furniture stores.  Don’t forget to visit the renowned Elliot Bay Bookstore, extremely popular with locals.
• Ballard: Visit historic Ballard Avenue NW for trendy cafes, wine bars, boutiques and gift shops.  Start at the corner of Market Street and Ballard Avenue NW.  If you have time, walk a few blocks to the Ballard Locks. The spectacular locks include a fish ladder, visitor center and small botanic garden.  For some of the best views of the Olympic Mountains, drive down Seaview Avenue Northwest near Ballard to dine on the outdoor patio at Ray’s Boathouse.  Nearby Golden Gardens Park provides access to one of Seattle’s most popular beaches, with spectacular views across Puget Sound.
• Fremont is an artsy, relaxed community, with street sculpture and an eclectic mix of buildings, north of the city.  Visit the Sunday Market, or take a stroll along Fremont Ave North. The nearby Gas Works Park provides incredible views across Lake Union and the city, and is a great place to relax.
• Alki Beach is a 15-minute drive to West Seattle from the city-center. Enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline back across the water from Salty’s.  Rent a bike and go sightseeing along Alki Beach on Alki Avenue SW.

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