Seattle has a lot to offer; in the city itself, in addition to the surrounding waterways and mountains. Seattle is a narrow city bordered on the east by freshwater, Lake Washington, and on the west by, saltwater, Puget Sound. The climate is mild, even in the winter, due to the Sound’s warming effect. In the summer, the Sound has a cooling effect. Snow is rare. Temperatures over 85 degrees are also rare although getting less so.
Here are the spots to visit in Seattle
It’s hard to deny that The Space Needle is the most recognizable landmark in Seattle. It’s flashing beacon blinks 605 feet in the sky and at 520 feet, you’ll find the observation deck. The observation deck offers 360 degree views of the entire city. Below the observation deck is the incredible SkyCity Restaurant. This family-friendly eatery will wow any patrons with an ever-changing view alongside delicious brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Smith Tower was completed a century ago, and the 38-story tower is the oldest skyscraper in all of Seattle. The historic building is found in Pioneer Square and, as you might expect, is a designated Seattle landmark. Take the old-fashioned elevator up to the 35th floor Observation Deck and you’ll find sights unmatched by anywhere else in the city. The Space Needle, Pioneer Square, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sounds are just the beginning of the sights to drink in.
If you think the namesake of Pioneer Square simply derives from convention, you’d be mistaken! Pioneer Square is the “birthplace of Seattle,” making the “Pioneer” in its name even more telling. Stand in awe of the Renaissance Revival architecture, grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous unique lunch spots, or even find new treasures in one of Pioneer Square’s kitschy boutiques. As Seattle’s first historic district, Pioneer Square is really a pioneer in Seattle’s robust culture.
Pike Place Market has been a cultural hub for over a century, and it will surely continue for centuries to come. Pike Place occupies a 9-acre waterfront overlooking Elliott Bay, and it’s not just the farmers market that keeps all of those acres bustling. In addition to the other Seattle farmers markets, there’s a crafts market, hordes of specialty foods, unique small businesses, and delectable restaurants.
Historic Waterfront Park is one of the best places to take in Seattle’s seafront. In 1897, it was here that the “ton of gold” was unloaded that began the Alaska Gold Rush. But, now it’s a beautiful place to stroll along the waterfront, peer through a coin-operated telescope, or try to spot native wildlife. If you could possibly tire of the natural beauty at Waterfront Park, check out the unique Waterfront Fountain and the larger-than-life Christopher Columbus statue.
Where to Dine in?
Zig Zag Café — Amazing food and ambiance, tucked away behind Pike Place Market.
King’s Hardware — Our regular spot. Burgers + beer + skee ball (get the After School Special — just trust me).
Thai Tom — Best Thai food in the city, straight outta Bangkok (don't expect a glamorous ambiance, come here for the authentic food). Long wait, always worth it. Cash only.
HAPPY HOUR?
Westward — come here for small nibbles + drinks as opposed to the expensive "family style" menu. Sit outside on the water.
Ray’s Boathouse — Quintessential Seattle. Come here on a clear evening. Amazing views of the Olympics. You're welcome.
Bitteroot — Yummy little sliders, and the best brussels sprouts you''ll ever had. Great whiskey selection is always a bonus.
AFTER-DINNER DRINKS?
Hazlewood — Ah, Hazlewood. Spend time here for intimate conversation. Probably the best cocktail lounge in Seattle, walking distance from all the great restaurants on Ballard Ave..
The Noble Fir — Rotating brews and ciders on tap. Fun spot, great for a small group.
Barnacle — Trendy little Ballard spot next door to the popular Walrus and the Carpenter. — it's probably the tiniest (and hippest) spot in Ballard! For ordering, just trust the bartenders.
Best place for COFFEE
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Milstead & Co. — Specialty coffee bar with daily rotating offerings. No pretension, just excellent service and coffee. Pro tip: get it to go and enjoy at the water under the shadow of the nearby Aurora Bridge.
Storyville — The coffee here is just okay but the ambiance is amazing... go to the downtown location for a great view of Pike Place Market! Sometimes they bring out free chocolate cake. The baristas are exceptionally happy.
DATE NIGHT?
Picnic & bonfire at Golden Gardens — Best sunset vantage point in the city. Bonus points if you can spot an otter.
Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island — For some true Northwest charm, enjoy a fun evening on the ferry. There are several quaint restaurants on Bainbridge that are exceptional. Enjoy!
ADVENTURES?
AguaVerde — Rent a kayak, then enjoy decent Mexican food and a margarita. Need I say more?
Discovery Park — Literally our favorite place in Seattle, hands down. You've seen the lighthouse on Instagram, but make sure you walk or run the three mile loop. Gorgeous, and refreshing.
Snoqualmie Falls + Rattlesnake Ledge — Best day trip ever: waterfall + amazing hike. You may meet a bride on your hike as this has become a popular place to elope ;)
Tractor Tavern — Tucked away music venue in Ballard. Live music every night of the week (literally). Check their online calendar to see who's playing tonight.
Dale Chihuly Glass Museum - Touristy thing that's actually awesome and worth checking out. Highly recommend. If you want to do the Space Needle too, you can buy a joint ticket which will lessen the price a little bit.
DESSERT?
Hot Cakes — Be prepared to wait for 20+ minutes and not find seating. It's 100% worth it. I don't care how healthy/Paleo/vegan/whatever you are, go.
Cactus — You will definitely love the location — decent Mexican food on the beach with the best desserts we've ever had, particularly the Bananas Dulce. Just typing this is making me want to go back.
ICE CREAM
Bluebird’s Vegan Horchata — Literally the best ice cream you'll ever had. Get it with a waffle cone. :)
Molly Moon’s Salted Caramel — a must try. Absolutely delicious.
