When it comes to getaways that include exploration of a city, it’s best to get all your ducks in a row long before you arrive. This includes putting together a basic itinerary of things to see and do. You can always make a substitution or two if you discover something more interesting after you arrive, you can also perhaps add or subtract something from your schedule if necessary. However, unless you have a fundamental understanding of what the city has to offer, chances are that you will miss the best attractions and will return home feeling cheated. Vacations pass far too quickly to be fumbling around with research, reservations, and directions that could have been taken care of weeks in advance.
So we’re suggesting Seattle as a destination worth exploring. It’s a city chock-full of things to see and do, with a beautiful waterfront and a bustling city full of cultural activities, dining options, and attractions. To help with your plans, we’ve assembled a list of things to see and do. First up: where to stay.
Seattle Sheraton Hotel
Seattle offers a wide spectrum of accommodations, from moderately priced one-of-a-kind inns and Airbnb locations to 3, 4, and 5-star brand-name hotels and upscale resorts. The choice depends on your preference and budget. If money isn’t a big concern and you’re looking to stay in the heart of downtown, the Sheraton Seattle is an excellent choice given that it is mere steps from the waterfront as well as Pike Place Market. With fabulous cityscape views, it’s also close to the Space Needle and Seattle Art Museum.
However, if you’re looking for a resort setting that offers several amenities on the property, we highly suggest Willows Lodge for a rustic yet luxurious experience you won’t soon forget. Approximately 25 minutes from downtown Seattle, Willows is located on the Sammamish River in Woodinville Wine Country and it offers everything from upscale dining to spa services and live entertainment.
Seattle Space Needle
When making a list of attractions to visit, the iconic Space Needle tops everyone’s list. At 605 feet high, the structure offers 360-degree views of the city and beyond, including Mt. Rainier. It’s a great place to take photos that capture Seattle and the beauty of its outskirts.
If you want more skyline views, visit Smith Tower – a Seattle landmark that features an old-fashioned copper and brass elevator car that carries passengers to the historic observatory on the 35th floor. Or, venture to Queen Anne Hill in Kerry Park for spectacular views of the skyline.
Monorail
After you’ve returned to ground level, consider boarding the Seattle Center Monorail for a ride to Westlake Center. It’s just a quick jaunt totaling no more than 2 minutes, but it’s a fun and futuristic way to go. Or head to the Seattle Waterfront, a popular destination for year-round activity and plenty of shopping and dining opportunities, particularly when it comes to seafood. The Waterfront also provides several boat cruises for exploration of Elliott Bay and beyond. Whether you’re looking for an hour-long sightseeing excursion to view the skyline from the water, get an up-close view of the Orcas in the bay (in the summer), or catch a cruise heading out to sea, you’ll find it all on the Waterfront.
Pike Place Market
This is also where you’ll find the famous Pike Place Market – the farmers’ and artisans’ market for flowers, fruits, and vegetables as well as crafts, gifts, jewelry, and clothing. With such an eclectic mix of fabulous finds, you’re sure to discover something fun or unique to take home to family or friends.
Got a sweet tooth? Make your way to Theo Chocolate Factory for a tour and free samples of chocolate made from organic cocoa beans. Or, consider a trip to Schilling Cider House for tastings of more than 2 dozen craft ciders. Feeling hungry? Head to Seattle’s Chinatown-International District for authentic food and interesting shopping.
Museum of Flight
If museums are your thing, Seattle has several to offer, starting with the always fascinating Museum of Pop Culture, dedicated to the history and exploration of pop music and pop culture. If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, check out the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) or the Seattle Art Museum which displays the well-known works of Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol, as well as exhibits that include Native and Meso-American collections.
There is also the Museum of Flight, featuring the SR-71 Blackbird which is famous for speeds up to Mach 3. Falling into a similar category is the Pacific Science Centre which features 5 buildings of science exhibits, including 2 IMAX Theaters, a Butterfly House, a light show, and a planetarium.
Seattle Aquarium
If heights and museums don’t appeal to you and you’re more of a lover of animals and marine life, consider a trip to Woodland Park Zoo or the Seattle Aquarium which highlights a 120,000-gallon aquarium filled with Washington marine life, including salmon and vibrant rockfish. Both of these options offer an interesting and relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
If you’re the outdoorsy type and wish to make use of Seattle’s beautiful open areas, opt for an afternoon of exploration at Golden Gardens Park where visitors can be assured of breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. Wildlife in the form of turtles, beavers, ducks, and other water fouls can be found in the wetlands. For an active outdoor experience, venture to Lake Union – surprisingly located in the midst of the city – where you can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Salish Cliffs Golf Club
Golfers can hit the links at Salish Cliffs Golf Club. And wine lovers can embark on one of several winery tours. Or there are several escape rooms and scavenger hunts to choose from. Plus, there’s the Pacific Northwest Ballet for an evening of refinement and a dozen or more must-see comedy clubs for a night of laughter.
The fact is, Seattle is a beautiful city with photo opportunities at every turn. The scenic waterfront and mid-city lake are nicely offset by an impressive skyline and majestic mountains on the horizon. It’s a great place to spend a weekend getaway or even a week’s vacation and in every crook and cranny of the city, there are things to see and do. Chances are that your time spent in Seattle will run out long before you’ve done it all.