Seattle, Washington. Home of Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Macklemore. Enough said! And businesses like Boeing, Microsoft, REI, Starbucks Coffee, and Amazon grew up here. Seattleites are a gifted bunch. Creative and determined.

Seattle consistently ranks at #8 among the most walkable cities in the U.S. That’s it. I’m in.

Of the U.S. cities regularly ranking in the Top 10 for walkability, I have explored only 7 so may not be fully equipped to offer a solid opinion. But, if ranking was based on walkability AND a hamstring and glute workout, I would place Seattle at #2. Surpassed only by the hills of San Francisco. But only by a hair.

I decided to spend an extended time in Seattle and found a short-term rental near the waterfront. I was inspired every morning to venture out and explore something different and new.

Recently I read The Boys in the Boat. The book focuses on nine boys who made up the University of Washington rowing team and went on to be unlikely Gold Medal winners at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. From my experiences in Western Washington, the author captivates the true nature, ingenuity, grit, and kindness of Seattlites. Take only a small amount of time here and you will feel it.

I hope to convince residents to get out and appreciate what is just outside their front doors.

For travelers, whether you are visiting for a weekend, a week, or a month, I have outlined, in an easy-to-follow format, all you need to know to enjoy your time in Seattle. I hope you will find the information helpful.

---

Top 20 Things to Do in Seattle

Pike Place Market

Seattle’s most visited landmark, Pike Place Market was opened in 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S.

• 

• 

Fish throwing. That’s what it’s all about.

You can’t miss the crowds circled around the fish counter waiting for someone to buy a fish to be thrown. Upon our first visit to the market, we chose to purchase a whole salmon. We felt like rock stars as the crowd cheered our purchase and witnessed the “throwing.” So fun!

The entire area is a fun place to walk and enjoy fresh flowers, fresh fruit, and just about fresh everything.

There are a few levels in the market so take time to be curious and explore. I counted at least 30 bars and restaurants, and over 40 retail stores in the area. Too many for me to choose from so I have listed only a few of my favorites.

I love browsing the Polish Pottery Place and have purchased several pieces here. It is located just below the fish market.

From the fish market, a short way north on Pike Place is the original Starbucks outlet. Be ready to wait in a long line if you want to boast of having purchased a coffee here.

Be sure to explore Post Alley. Tucked in between Pike Place and 1st Avenue, it extends several blocks at both street level and partially beneath the market. One of my favorite restaurants, The Pink Door, is located in this alley, as well as the infamous Gum Wall.

Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt is one of my first stops when visiting the market. This growing business offers the freshest and creamiest Greek yogurt ever in several unique flavors. Try a few free samples. It will be hard to pick a favorite.

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is another creative business loved and nurtured by the folks who live here. Who knew cheese curds could be so sexy.

The Seattle Great Wheel – on the Waterfront

This guy is huge and extends 40 feet out over Elliott Bay. The gondolas are huge as well, holding 8 people. The Ferris wheel offers a 12-minute ride which amounts to 3 revolutions. Upgrade to the VIP gondola with leather seats and a glass floor. This isn’t your county fair’s Ferris wheel.

Cost: Between $11 and $13 for general admission.

Seattle Aquarium – on the Waterfront

The Seattle Aquarium is housed in a great space on the waterfront. Like most coastal aquariums it offers all the residents of a saltwater aquarium. You will see amazing jellyfish displays, as well as an octopus. It is a fun time when the Grand Pacific Octopus decides to be active. I found myself returning to the otters several times. They are precious and entertaining.

Cost:
Between $19 and $35 for general admission.
$108 for a Seattle CityPass which includes admission to 5 major Seattle attractions.

Olympic Sculpture Park and Myrtle Edwards Park – on the Waterfront

Olympic Sculpture Park is a free outdoor extension of the Seattle Art Museum. There are permanent art installations throughout the park with the big attraction being The Eagle, a massive orange-red likeness of an eagle. Visiting installations help make the park an ever-changing destination for locals as well as visitors.

Continue along the pathway down toward the waterfront and follow the activity of walkers, runners and bikers to the waterfront Elliot Bay Trail, and the amazing Myrtle Edwards Park. I felt happy here. I could tell others did too.

Racing Yacht Tour of Elliott Bay – on the Waterfront

One of my favorite things to do in Seattle is taking a tour of Elliott bay offered by Sailing Seattle. Tour guests can bring their own food and beverage and sit back on a high-performance racing yacht while the skilled crew maneuvers the vessel around the bay.

Cost: Between $24 and $59.

Space Needle – at Seattle Center

The Space Needle is the iconic landmark of Seattle. From the top, there are panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and the Olympic Mountains. The tilting glass walls, glass benches, and a revolving glass floor add to an already incredible experience.

Grab an espresso, beer, or wine as well as a cupcake or ice cream from the café or local establishments.

Cost:
Between $22 and $35 for general admission.
Between $34 and $49 for Space Needle/Chihuly package deals.
$108 for a Seattle CityPass which includes admission to 5 major Seattle attractions.

Located on a 74-acre piece of land, Seattle Center grounds and the Space Needle were constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair. Some of the attractions remain but can be easily overlooked. They include the International Fountain and the Monorail.

The International Fountain is located in the center of a large green space and looks somewhat like a large space ship with streams of water jetting up. Find a spot here to rest your feet and legs or get soaked in the splash pad.

The Monorail shuttles 2 million passengers per year back and forth along a 1-mile route 25 feet above traffic between Seattle Center and the Downtown Seattle Westlake Station. This 2-minute ride departs every 10 minutes.  

Cost: Between free and $3.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum – at Seattle Center

Dale Chihuly is a Northwest glass artist known worldwide for his unique and massive indoor and outdoor installations.

Recently, I visited the Bentonville, Arkansas Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and there was no mistaking the presence of his work. Once you see it, you will not forget it.

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is located in the shadow of the Space Needle near the Pacific Science Center. Watch for the 45-foot glass structure near the 40-foot Flowers that sing. You can’t miss them.

Cost:
Between $19 and $32 for general admission.
Between $34 and $49 for Chihuly/Space Needle package deals.
$108 for a Seattle CityPass which includes admission to 5 major Seattle attractions.

Pacific Science Center – at Seattle Center

The Pacific Science Center (PSC) offers permanent and visiting exhibits, a planetarium, an IMAX Theater, and more, all to fuel curiosity and discovery.

PSC hosts world-renowned traveling exhibits. In 2017 I toured the Terracotta Warriors of the First Emperor. It was a somber and mind-blowing experience.

Cost: Between $13 and $25 for general admission.

Museum of Pop Culture – at Seattle Center

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) is located in the shadow of the Space Needle opposite from the Pacific Science Center.

Originally named the Experience Music Project (EMP), MoPOP highlights the history of Northwest music from Jimi Hendrix to Nirvana as well as pop culture and science fiction.

It is an interactive space where you can explore Science Fiction, Horror, Fantasy, Music, and Gaming. The building alone is a piece of art. At the least, you will want to walk the perimeter to see all sides.

Cost:
Between $28 and $34 for admission.
$108 for a Seattle CityPass which includes admission to 5 major Seattle attractions.

(After you leave MoPop, cross the street to the nearby Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. In a nondescript building, it is often overlooked. Here you can learn about innovations and ideas that are solving challenges facing our most vulnerable communities locally and globally. It will inspire you to get involved and take action. And it’s Free!)

McCaw Hall – at Seattle Center

If you are a lover of the Ballet or the Opera, book a show at McCaw Hall.

McCaw Hall is a beautiful performing arts center that was built in 1928 and expanded for the 1962 Word’s Fair. The Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) and The Seattle Opera are primary tenants.

I attended PNB’s 2019 performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and was transfixed by the strength and grace of the dancers and scale of the elaborate sets.

Cost: See the McCaw Hall website for event schedules and ticket prices.

Smith Tower – in Pioneer Square

Built in 1914 Smith Tower is an exquisite building. Once the tallest building on the West Coast, getting to the 35th floor in one of the original fast-moving ornate elevators is a great experience.

Take a walk around the 360-view balcony to spot landmarks including the Washington Ferry landing, the Seattle Great Wheel, Centurylink Field (home of the Seattle Seahawks), T-Mobile Park (home of the Seattle Mariners), and the Chinatown-International District.

The Observatory Bar opens at 4 pm. Purchase tickets then enjoy a menu of local food and craft cocktails “with a pinch of Prohibition.”

Smith Tower is located at 2nd and Yesler Way in Pioneer Square. As you look up Yesler Way, imagine timber being “skidded” down this greased road to early-settler Henry Yesler’s sawmill. Mr. Yesler’s “skid road” was an obvious demarcation separating Seattle’s respectable inhabitants from those living “on the skids.”

Cost: Between $12 and $16 for admission.

Occidental Park – in Pioneer Square

Occidental Park, the heart of Pioneer Square, is located on Occidental Avenue South. Lined with incredible architecture, trees, and art, the park offers seating, a play area, and more.

Be sure to continue south on Occidental Avenue and across Main Street. This might just be my favorite spot in Seattle. Look for the Glasshouse Studio. Here you will get up close to watch professional glass blowing. I love the glass ornaments I purchased here. Lucas Wine offers great wines for tasting as well as “nosh.” And I cannot say enough about London Plane. An espresso cafe, wine bar, bakery, market, flower shop, and a restaurant all in one.

Underground Tours – in Pioneer Square

Seattle’s port location, and infrastructure “gave heck” to the early settlers. After the Great Fire of 1889, Seattle commenced a robust program of restructuring the city which included raising streets several feet above high tide water level.

Today Underground Tours explore the ruins of the storefronts that were left intact but below street level.

The most well-known tours are Beneath the Streets offering the most historically based tours, Bill Speidel’s Underground is quite entertaining, and Spooked in Seattle Ghost Tour is, well, creepy.

Cost: Between $10 and $17 for admission.

Chinatown-International District

Walking up Jackson Street past the side-by-side King Street and Union train stations you will find yourself at the International District/Chinatown Train Station.

Watch for the Historic Chinatown Gate at 5th and King.

Uwajimaya is located at 5th and Weller. DO NOT pass up the opportunity to at the least walk through this mini mall-type grocery store. Read online about the founder of this family-owned store, including being sent to an American Japanese internment camp after the war.

Free validated parking available for 2 hours with purchase at Uwajimaya.

Walking through Uwajimaya will inspire you to walk the short distance to King Street and Canton Alley to visit the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience.

It is a small but comprehensive museum conveying various Asian immigrant cultures and experiences in the Pacific Northwest. There is an exhibit highlighting Seattle’s favorite Asian Pacific son, Bruce Lee.

The optional Touch of China Tour is a must. This guided tour takes visitors outside the museum and through the Chinatown-International District highlighting notable attractions.

Cost: Between $10 and $17 for admission.

Come hungry. You will not want to leave the district without eating at one of the top-rated restaurants.

Starbucks Reserve Seattle Roastery

When Seattle opened the first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in 2014, I could not wait to visit.

I cannot describe the sensory overload created by the size of the space, the scale of the roasters, and the textures of copper and steel. And that smell!

Words cannot fully describe this place, though I found a review that came close. “It’s the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory for caffeine lovers.”

Currently, Starbucks Reserve Roasteries can be found in New York, Chicago, Shanghai, Milan, and Tokyo.

Seattle Art Museum

Located on 1st Avenue between Union and University Streets, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is hard to miss. The Hammering Man animated sculpture welcomes visitors into the museum. At 48 feet tall and 26,000 pounds this Man is not going anywhere.

SAM offers an extensive permanent collection of Native American and Pacific Northwest artwork. The visiting exhibitions are ever-changing making this a favorite place for locals and visitors to return to again and again. About a mile away is the outdoor extension of SAM, Olympic Sculpture Park.

Cost: $20 and $30 for general admission.

Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island

During the summer months, any ferry ride will offer magnificent views in all directions. Once docked at Bainbridge Island, take a short walk to shops, coffee, and wine tasting.

There are plenty of restaurants on the main street. For a meal with a view, take the short walk to Winslow Wharf Marina and find Doc’s Marina Grill or The Harbour Public House.

The ferry to Bainbridge Island departs from Seattle’s Coleman Dock on Alaskan Way about every 50 minutes. Tickets can be purchased inside the Seattle Ferry Terminal building. It is a good idea to check the Washington Department of Transportation website to confirm space.

Cost: Free – $8.50

Ballard – Farmers Market and The Locks

Hop on the #40 King County Metro Transit Bus to explore the Ballard area. I chose to go on a Sunday to check out the year-round Farmers Market. It is an amazing market made up of Washington producers. The various offerings include fruit, vegetables, duck, milk, lamb, fish, and so much more. It is an incredible market.

I arrived early to have plenty of time to explore the shops. Each shop was exquisite and offered unique goods. I purchased a turquoise painted metal bracelet created by a local Washington artist. I love it.

The Ballard Locks are within walking distance from the Farmers Market and shops. An event for the whole family, watching the locks system lower and raise water levels to allow seacraft to travel between seawater and lake water is fascinating.

Freemont and the Freemont Troll

I stopped off in the Freemont area on my way back from Ballard to see if I could find the Freemont Troll. Just a short uphill walk from the bus stop, I found him beneath the Aurora bridge.

The Troll is an 18-foot figure with an actual Volkswagen Beetle in his clutches as if he had swiped it from the bridge above. He was so worth the hunt.

The Freemont downtown area felt slightly smaller than Ballard but was alive with locals and visitors. With lots of unique stores and restaurants, the town has a fun vibe just like its Troll.

(As a side note, you will pass by Lake Union on the way to Freemont from downtown Seattle. Notice the lake, large watercraft, and activity. If you are a biker, runner, walker, or lake lover, you will want to stop here. Or make plans to return. Also, this is where you will find the Museum of History and Industry (MoHAI) and The Center for Wooden Boats.)

Snoqualmie Falls and Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery

Snoqualmie Falls and Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery are located outside of Seattle on the east side of Lake Washington.

There are numerous waterfalls and wineries in Western Washington but due to the magnificence of Snoqualmie Falls and Chateau Ste. Michelle, AND their proximity to Seattle, I was compelled to place them in my Top 20.

The Snoqualmie Falls waterfall is easy to get to, massive and breathtaking.

Chateau Ste. Michelle is the oldest winery in Washington. The French-style chateau once belonged to a lumber baron and sits on over 80 acres. During summer months you can catch a concert on the expansive lawn. The tasting area is massive and offers “rooms” and spaces with various feels and tasting opportunities.

Visit them separately or take a guided waterfall and wine tasting tour.

---

Where to Eat and Drink

Whenever I notice a crowd gathered at a café, bar, or restaurant I want to stop in and give it a try. There are so many culinary temptations in Seattle with just too many calories for one girl to consume. I have listed only a few of my current favorites.

The Pink Door – located in the Pike Place Market area
1919 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

The Pink Door is one of my favorite kitschy restaurants. Serving fresh Italian dishes and offering outdoor seating with a water view, it is a hidden gem.

Literally, it is hidden. With no signage, and in an alleyway it’s a bit hard to find. Most likely because the door is a faded salmon color. Not Pink.

Enjoy a late-night circus-type burlesque show. Saturdays only. Purchase Cabaret and Burlesque tickets for the 9:30 pm dinner and 11 pm show.

Matt’s In The Market – located in the Pike Place Market area
94 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101 (Third Floor)

Matt’s In The Market is a Pike Place Market area hot-sport. Make reservations or be willing to wait an hour or more to get in.

Matt’s serves fresh seafood and vegetables from the market below. The space is open and airy and places you eye-level with the iconic Pike Place Market sign and a view of Elliot Bay.

I ordered the Sea Scallops with black-eyed peas and a corn and maitake mushroom succotash. So good.

Across the hall from Matt’s is Radiator Whisky, a great place to grab a drink before or after dinner.

Le Pichet – located near the Pike Place Market area
1933 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

A Seattle institute for locals with a menu mostly in French and offering French-sized portions.

I stopped in for lunch and loved the sweet atmosphere. I ordered the Eufs plats, jambon et fromage (two eggs broiled with ham and gruyere). I plan to return to try the charcuterie plate and tomato salad.

13 Coins Restaurant and Lounge – located in Pioneer Square
255 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104

Open 24 hours with outdoor and bar seating and a funky atmosphere, the menu is a mix between the corner café and the corner bar. A staff reporter said it best in an article published by the Seattle Times upon the restaurant’s 50th anniversary. “Nothing about 13 Coins made sense…order a $30 double-bucket of clams at 3 a.m…Tourists in white T-shirts…next to Amazon executives…millennials glued to their phones…I once saw two vans from an assisted-living facility parked outside. A driver told me the residents wanted to do happy hour. It was 3:30 p.m.”— Paige Cornwell, staff reporter

Willmott’s Ghost – located in the Belltown area
2100 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

A beautiful space with a fresh tapas-style menu. Located inside the Amazon Spheres, it has a great ambiance. I stopped in for dessert. The Olive Oil Cake with seasonal jam and creme fraiche was amazing.

2120 – located in the Belltown area
2120 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

I love everything about 2120. It is a chic and contemporary restaurant and bar, has patio seating, and serves new and inventive American fare.

La Vita E Bella – located in the Belltown area
2411 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

As a pasta and bread lover, I knew I would love this place. Try the Farfalle Siciliana. It is a perfectly sized portion of bow-tie pasta, prawns, sun-dried tomato, mushrooms, and capers. I hear they offer 50% off wines to-go as well. 

Roccos – located in the Belltown area
2228 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

I am not a huge fan of pizza but every single time I walked past Roccos, it was busy.

I placed an online order using their intuitive pizza-building website and “built” a pizza with gluten-free crust, pesto sauce, fresh mozzarella, portobello mushrooms, artichoke, and cherry tomato. So fresh and just so good.

Buckley’s – 2 locations
Belltown: 2331 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121
Queen Anne: 232 1st Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119

Buckley’s is a sports bar that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With lots of TV’s, pub food and great drinks in a family-friendly atmosphere, it is a relaxed place for hanging out.

No Anchor – located in the Belltown area
2505 2nd Avenue #105, Seattle, WA 98121

No Anchor offers a nicely curated list of beer as well as beautiful and tasty small portion dishes. I chose a Fort George ‘Cavatica’ stout. Dark and smooth. Yum. The service was great, and everything was simple. All that you need.

Tai Tung – located in the Chinatown-International District
655 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104

Tai Tung is Seattle’s oldest Chinese restaurant and boasts of being the favorite of Bruce Lee, the beloved actor, and martial artist.

Tai Tung offers everything you would expect from a Chinese restaurant and more. Fresh and tasty at a reasonable price. The Duck and Mustard Green soup I ordered was so flavorful.

Kau Kau – located in the Chinatown-International District
656 S King St, Seattle, WA 98104

You can find BBQ pork just about anywhere in the area, but Kau Kau does it best.

With so much BBQ pork alone being ordered, Kau Kau added a window for take-out.

Glo’s Café – located in the Capitol Hill area
1621 E Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98102

Glo’s is a local favorite, known for its eggs-benedict, crispy hash browns, and fluffy pancakes. A small place so call ahead or be ready to wait in line. 

Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar – 3 Seattle Locations
Seattle Center: 124 Republican St, Seattle, WA 98109
Capitol Hill: 1521 Melrose Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122
Pioneer Square: 410 Accidental Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104

For fresh local oysters and seafood, this is the place. The Taylor Shellfish Farm/Hatchery is a trusted local operation and has been featured on Mike Rowe’s Dirty Jobs. For a fun time, search “Geoduck Mike Rowe.”

Restaurants and Bars Near 1st and University
Just south of Pike Place Market is an area packed full of great places to snack, dine, and drink. With too many to list, my favorites include Von’s Gastrobistro, Noi Thai, Poke Lover, and Japonessa Sushi Cocina.

I felt most comfortable after dark between this area and Pike Place Market.

---

Where to Stay

The choices are endless for accommodations, so I have listed a few 3 and 4-star hotels that are scattered throughout the city, close to various attractions, and offer great facilities and amenities, comfortable, clean rooms, as well as good service.

Seattle Marriott Waterfront – Waterfront area
2100 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121

Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle – Lower Queen Anne and Waterfront area
206 Western Avenue W, Seattle, WA 98119

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown – Pioneer Square area and a short walk to the Waterfront
612 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Sheraton Grand Seattle – Convention Center area
1400 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Residence Inn by Mariott Seattle Downtown Convention Center – Conventions center area
1815 Terry Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Courtyard by Marriott Lake Union – Lake Union area
925 Westlake Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109

Looking for a Hostel?
City Hostel Seattle – Belltown area
2327 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

---

Getting Around Seattle

Seattle’s public transportation system includes rail trains, buses, water taxis, ferries, and bikes.

Link Light Rail travels between Sea-Tac Airport and UW Station making 13 stops along the way, including downtown Seattle.

Buses run 24/7 throughout Seattle with convenient bus stops located throughout the city. Watch the boards located at the bus stops for departure times.  

The Monorail takes is a 2-minute trip departing every 10 minutes from two stations: Seattle Center adjacent to the Space Needle, and Westlake Center at 5th and Pine.

Water Taxis: King County Metro water taxis travel between the Downtown Seattle Waterfront Terminal to Vashon Island and West Seattle.

Ferries: The Washington Ferry system travels between the Downtown Seattle Waterfront Terminal to Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, and Bremerton.

Sounder Trains travel between Lakewood and Seattle (making stops in Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, Auburn, Kent, and Tukwila) and between Everett and Seattle (making stops in Mukilteo and Edmonds).

Walk
If you are willing to walk a bit, it is a great way to get to many Seattle attractions.

Bike Share
Pick up a bike-share bike closest to you, ride it to where you want to go, and leave the bike for the next person to ride.

Seattle wants to help bicyclists safely move around the city. Watch for Sharrows (a shared lane indicated by arrows), separated Protected Bike Lanes, and Multi-Use Trails.
Visit the Seattle Department of Transportation for a map of bike facilities and amenities.

Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are great options for getting around quickly. Be cautious and use all advertised rideshare safety measures.

Rental Car or Personal Car
If you plan to rent a car, compare prices and book in advance to ensure availability.
Street Parking: Usually .50 per hour and Free on Sundays.
Parking Garages: There are parking garages located throughout the Seattle area. Visit Downtown Seattle for locations and prices.

---

Package Deals and Guided Tours

Seattle CityPass $108
Includes admission to 5 of Seattle’s most famous attractions, including Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, and two option tickets: Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) OR Woodland Park Zoo, and choose between Chihuly Gardens and Glass OR Pacific Science Center.

Seattle Underground Walking Tour $30
Take a walk below Pioneer Square through three underground passageways and learn about Seattle’s forgotten history.

3-Hour City Highlights Tour $75
Discover the sights of Seattle with a local guide on a tour by roomy minibus of no more than 14 guests. Sites include Pike Place Market, the artsy neighborhood of Fremont, the Chinatown-International District, the Space Needle and City Center attractions, and an interactive tour of the Ballard Locks.

Seattle Urban Adventure Quest Team Scavenger Hunt $44
Your scavenger hunt adventure starts at the Seattle Center and takes you to the Space Needle and other World’s Fair sites. Take the Seattle monorail on a trip downtown as you solve clues and complete challenges along the way.

Boeing Factory and Future of Flight Tour $83
The 90-minute Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour covers the past, present, and future of human flight in a state-of-the-art museum and gives you entry to the Boeing factory.

Snoqualmie Falls and Woodinville Wine Tasting $209
Start your tour with a short drive across Lake Washington stopping at one of Washington’s most breathtaking attractions, the Snoqualmie Falls then through the Woodinville Wine Region to savor local wines. The tour highlights 3 award-winning boutique wineries selected from Lauren Ashton Cellars, Celaeno, Church Winery, Kestrel Vintners, Martedi Winery, Patterson Cellars, or Chateau Ste. Michelle.

---

Expand Your Adventures Beyond Seattle

Mt. Rainier All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour $265
Discover Mt. Rainier like never before on this day-long, guided walk or snowshoe adventure with a stop for lunch. Learn local secrets as you enjoy spectacular scenery and explore thrilling trails.

Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour $263
Explore the rugged and beautiful World Heritage Site, the Olympic National Park, with your small group in a comfortable van, an award-winning local guide, a beautiful lunch, local wine, snacks, and drinks.

For more ways to enjoy Washington State, see my post, Top 20 Things To Do In Washington State.

Take a short direct flight from Seattle to Glacier International Airport or Salt Lake City to explore three incredible National Parks. See my Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Park Travel Guide.

---

Now, just a few things to remember before heading to Seattle…

Check the weather before you go and always pack for comfort and versatility. During my August visit to Seattle, the days were sunny with highs in the mid-70s. This is normal weather between July and September.

A few favorites that helped me get around Seattle included my Asics running shoes (I walked everywhere in Seattle and could not have done it without them), my Sanuk Yoga Mat flip flops (perfect for the beaches), my Eddie Bauer Sling Backpack (a water bottle and flip flops fit perfectly), and my Nike Running Shorts.

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Travel insurance covers unexpected events such as re-booking flights due to airline cancellations, replacement of belongings when luggage is lost, replacement of stolen items, or emergency travel home due to accident or illness. I recommend World Nomads, an insurance provider trusted by seasoned travelers worldwide.

Also, check out my road trip packing list.

---

Be prepared and be safe out there!

Trust your senses.
Trust your gut.
If you’ve planned well and it feels right, do it!
If it doesn’t feel right, don’t.

I hope this Seattle guide was helpful. I would love to hear about your experiences in the Seattle area!

---

---