Located on Washington's Puget Sound, Seattle is the unofficial “capital” of the Pacific Northwest, an epicenter for grunge music and caffeine.
Home to Starbucks, Boeing, Microsoft, and Amazon, Seattle is a thriving cosmopolitan city with lots to offer travelers.
Seattle's main attraction is Pike Place Market. Even non-shoppers will delight in this feast for the senses. Shops and stands selling fresh seafood, produce, and spices fill this massive waterfront building. A visit to Pike Place Market ensures a good “show” as well; the fishmonger is well known for its theatrical fish-throwing. The market also contains restaurants, book stores, antique shops, and other specialty stores. Pike Place Market is home to the world's first Starbucks. Opened in 1971, the establishment has become a historic landmark and retains its retro furnishings.
More shopping and dining options are available at Pioneer Square, a section of downtown Seattle featuring over 20 blocks of unique architecture, independent shops, chic art galleries, and trendy bars and restaurants. Pioneer Square is the place to be when the sun goes down.
Seattle's most famous icon is the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle has become a symbol of Seattle. Once at the top, visitors can take in the awe-inspiring views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, Lake Washington, and even Mount Rainier in the distance. The Space Needle features a revolving restaurant at the top – SkyCity – where visitors can enjoy fine dining along with spectacular views.
For another unique way to view the city, visitors can ride the monorail. Seattle's monorail is America's first full-scale monorail system. Or visitors can hop on one of the many historic trolleys that travel along the waterfront.
Seattle has a very active outdoor culture. Seattle is one of America's most cycle-friendly cities, and one of the best ways to view the city is on two wheels. Harbor cruises are also popular with visitors, and Seattle's location on Puget Sound makes it a prime location for whale-watching expeditions.
When Seattle has one of its many rainy days, visitors can take in a variety of unique museums and galleries. The Seattle Asian Art Museum, the Museum of Flight, the Pacific Science Center, the Science Fiction Museum, and the Seattle Aquarium are just a few of the city's offerings. The Experience Music Project reflects the city's musical culture and is a favorite among music lovers. This interactive museum is dedicated to rock 'n' roll music and features a special Jimi Hendrix exhibit.
Whether you come to Seattle for the coffee or the culture, this exciting city has something for everyone.
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