Whether you love culture, food, shopping, art or the great outdoors, there’s something you’re sure to love in Seattle. Here’s what not to miss on any trip to this diverse city.
Head to Pike Place Market
Established in 1907, Pike Place Market is Seattle’s original farmer’s market, and one of the oldest farmer’s markets in the United States. But this isn’t just any market – it encompasses nine acres, of not only fresh produce, bakeries, butchers and specialty food shops, but also a daily crafts market featuring the work of 225 craftspeople. The vast market area also includes 80 restaurants, buskers and shops.
Visit the Space Needle
Get a bird’s eye view of Seattle with a trip up the city’s iconic landmark, the Space Needle. The needle reaches 184 meters and the observation deck sits at 158 meters, giving you an unobstructed, 360 degree view. When you’re finished admiring the city from above you can enjoy a meal at 152 meters, in the rotating SkyCity Restaurant. A visit to the restaurant includes admission to the observation deck.
Walk through Olympic Sculpture Park
Seattle Art Museum’s Olympic Sculpture Park is set on nine acres on Seattle’s waterfront. The area features a variety of sculptures in an outdoor setting and makes for quiet respite from the city. Admission is free and there are also free daily guided tours should you want to learn more about the works on display and the history of the park.
Wander through Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square is known as Seattle’s first neighbourhood making it an integral part of the city’s history. The neighbourhood covers about 20 blocks and is full of interesting boutiques, noteworthy architecture, restaurants and galleries.
Go to the Museum of Flight
Seattle’s Museum of Flight is a popular attraction that boasts one of the most comprehensive air and space collections in the U.S. In addition to temporary exhibits, the museum showcases more than 150 historic air and spacecraft and related artifacts (Air Force One and the Concorde are here). The fun and informative museum is great for both kids and adults.
Explore Discovery Park
At 534 acres, Discovery Park is the largest city park in Seattle, and makes it easy to get a dose of nature without having to leave the city. Here you’ll find more than three kilometers of protected tidal beaches, forest groves, sand dunes, streams, trails and a lighthouse. The park is located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking Puget Sounds, making for great views over both the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
Check out Chihuly Garden and Glass
Opened in 2012, Chihuly Gardens and Glass is a newer addition to the list of Seattle attractions. The museum showcases the amazing work of renowned artist Dale Chihuly who uses glass as his medium. His pieces are mesmerizing, colourful and full of energy. Highlights include the Glasshouse, a 12 meter, 420 square meter glass structure housing a beautiful glass sculpture that spans 30 meters. The sculpture garden showcases unique pieces amidst a complementary landscaped backdrop.
Lead photo: Anupam_ts used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
