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Why visit Seattle
Landmarks
Seattle has its own distinctive set of buildings, businesses and city squares that have become synonymous with the city. And while this metropolis has done some reinventing as of late to accommodate the influx of tech companies relocating here (it’s where Amazon is headquartered), local Seattleites have done well to preserve its iconic sites. Here are a few of our favorite must-see attractions.
Pioneer Square
Established in 1852, this historic neighborhood is where the first Seattleites settled. Take in the lovingly preserved architecture of this storied neighborhood, then stop at The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn about Seattle’s role in this lucrative discovery during the 1890s. Become better acquainted with the city’s roots and visit this landmark.
Pike Place Market
This lively marketplace is a culinary and cultural hub for locals and visitors alike. From fresh fish and produce to handcrafted goods and art, Pike Place Market is quintessential Seattle. Enjoy an afternoon here and peruse the many food stands, restaurants and shops.
Space Needle
Arguably one of the most well-known observation towers in the U.S., you’ll find this iconic structure is hard to miss amongst the city skyline. With its crowning antenna spire, the Space Needle stands in Seattle Center at 605 feet tall. Head to the observation deck and get panoramic views of downtown, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Olympic Sculpture Park
Amble through this waterfront park while taking in a variety of intriguing outdoor sculptures. Originally an industrial site, the park was transformed in 2007 by the Seattle Art Museum, which invested more than a decade of work into beautifying the space for the public. While walking through the nine-acre grounds, bring your camera and capture panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains range.
Museums
Those seeking culture need not look far while in Seattle. The city offers a range of museums that appeal to countless visitors with a variety of interests. Whether it looks like rain or not, we recommend you check out these great galleries and exhibitions.
Seattle Art Museum
Simply known as SAM by the locals, this museum has been a cultural mainstay in the city since 1933. Located in downtown Seattle, the galleries feature nearly 25,000 works of art from around the world. Visit this impressive space if you have some free time.
Living Computers: Museum + Labs
A nod to the evolution of technology, this museum features fun, hands-on exhibits ranging from virtual reality to self-driving cars, as well as vintage collections of micro- and supercomputers. Whether you’re a self-professed geek or just use a smartphone, this museum provides a fascinating look into how computers have shaped our world.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
See this stunning collection of wildly colorful glass sculptures from Washington native Dale Chihuly. Enter the museum’s 40-foot tall glass house and witness a riot of red, orange, yellow and amber-colored glasswork. Then, head outdoors to see a lovely garden complete with a massive sunburst composed of tentacles of ornate glass. This is an otherworldly artistic experience.
Museum of Pop Culture
Seattle is proud of its influence on pop culture. With interactive exhibits, collections and educational programs, this museum celebrates the creative spirit of locals and visitors alike. For a rocking time, we suggest you check out this site.
Cuisine
From fish plucked from the waters of Puget Sound to crisp Washington-grown apples, the fare in Seattle is alluring to a range of palates. The temperate climate, fertile plains and access to the sea ensures that what you’re eating will usually be locally-sourced, fresh and delicious. Here are some notable culinary selections to try while in the “Emerald City.”
Apples
Washington is a major producer of the apples grown in the U.S. and in 1989, it was declared the official state fruit. You can enjoy the fruit au naturel, baked in a pie or if you prefer, in a spiked cider. This is the produce to try while in Seattle.
Coffee
Seattleites have built a whole culture around this caffeinated beverage. From world-renowned roasting facilities to stylish cafes dotting the streets of every neighborhood, the city’s veins run black with coffee. Grab a cup while exploring the city or pop into a local shop and drink in the goodness.
Seafood
Thanks to the cool waters of the Puget Sound, this port city is no slouch when it comes to its offering of seafood. Whether you crave salmon, a dozen oysters or a bowl of clam chowder, Seattle has you covered. Head to Pike Place Market and let your taste buds take it from there.
Craft Beer
Seattle stakes its claim as a major player in the craft beer scene. 70% of the nation’s hops are grown in nearby Yakima Valley, and breweries are about as plentiful as coffee shops. We recommend enjoying a cold pint while you’re here.
