Nirvana. Frasier. Microsoft. Starbucks. Rain. Just a few of the things that often come to mind when thinking about Seattle. Sure, these are the obvious and typical associations, but in my opinion, what really defines and elevates Seattle as one of America’s best cities is its phenomenal location amid beautiful natural splendor, progressive cutting-edge initiatives, and strong adherence to high environmental standards. Yes, there’s the whole rain thing; but nowhere is perfect, now is it? At the same time, that’s why there’s so much surrounding striking greenery–it’s not nicknamed the Emerald City for nothing, people.
While all of these aspects are undoubtedly enough to keep even the most seasoned of travelers returning again and again (although if I’m being totally honest, my hair and the rain will never ever be friends), the main reason that us Hills just can’t stay away is the guy below. One of our very favorite humans, a friend that’s more like brother, who we are so happy to call one of our very best friends.
Below is a collection of our favorite things to see, do, eat and drink pieced together from four different trips to Seattle, the emerald gem and mighty king of the Pacific Northwest.
All Those Touristy Things
They are practically inescapable as nearly every major city and destination has them. Those highly visited and recognizable sites, landmarks, monuments that inevitably dominate most travel guides and TripAdvisor reviews. Sure, you can certainly make the decision to skip many of Seattle’s iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and the very first Starbucks. Unlike idyllic sites like the Great Pyramids and Taj Mahal, your Seattle trip would not be incomplete or lacking in any way if you skipped these spots. At the same time, visiting these popular sights is also not a bad way to spend a few hours here. As I always say, popular spots are often popular for a reason.
We frequently try to find a compromise when visiting these kinds of sights. Similar to when we visited the Eiffel Tower, we chose not to pay the $30+/pp admission ticket to venture up to the top of the Space Needle, marveling at it from below more than sufficed.
I’m sure most Seattleites would scoff at getting your caffeine fix at the first ever Starbucks, but sometimes you just have to be that person. T and I have been those people before, and it’s inevitable that we will be those people again.
There’s no shame in playing the tourist game.
Museum of Pop Culture (Formerly EMP)
During our first trip to Seattle, we visited the Museum of Pop Culture, which was then called the Experience Music Project (EMP), and had so much fun. While certainly unique and interesting in its own right, this entertaining music haven reminded me of my visits to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville (and clearly I need to blog about both of these cities). There are multiple exhibits that pay tribute to music icons like Jimi Hendricks and Nirvana and the interactive Sound Lab where visitors can play the drums, guitar, and other instruments, as well as experiment with mixing consoles. A fun place to spend a few hours–especially if it’s raining…which, um, it’s Seattle, so yeah, it’s probably going to rain at some point of your trip.
Pike Place Market
It’s one of the oldest and busiest markets in the United States, and even after over 100 years, it remains a trailblazer, inspiring similar food stalls and markets all around the country.
With over ten million annual visitors, it’s no surprise that Pike Place Market is the top visited attraction in all of Seattle, and according to Wikipedia, the 33rd most visited tourist attraction in the world. I know. Mind blown.
Seasonal produce, gorgeous flowers, local artisan crafts, and casual seafood restaurants serving up local fare are just the beginning here. Winding alleyways, as well as lower levels and stairways, will lead you to a historic arcade, spice market, vinyl records, books, comics, quirky art, and so much more.
Obviously I love this place; in fact, I have visited the market during three of my four trips here (though truthfully I needed a break during my most recent visit and steered clear of the Seattle institution). It’s probably one of my all-time favorite markets, especially if we’re limiting it strictly to the United States. Other favorite U.S. markets? So hard to choose, but obvious standouts include San Francisco’s Ferry Building Market, Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal, New Orlean’s French Market, New York’s Chelsea Market, and of course DC’s Union Market. And now I’m inspired to write a Favorite Markets & Food Stalls Blog Post–so I guess stay tuned for that. Somehow this post has become a muse for future blog posts.
Oh Seattle, you truly are a sparkling gem, aren’t you?
Have I mentioned the multi-talented and eccentric street performers? There are an abundance of them around the market, and just like those infamous fish throwers, it’s nearly impossible to avoid them.
Is Pike’s Place Market touristy? Yes. No. Definitely maybe. But in all the best ways, I promise.
My all-favorite time exploring the Market was hands-down during Savor Seattle’s Signature Food Tour of Pike Place Market. The two hour tour takes you behind the scenes of the Market to various vendors, where you learn about the Market’s history and sample a variety of delicious treats ranging from sweet and savory pastries, crab cakes, cheese and sea salt caramels. There are multiple tours throughout the day and tickets are approximately $45/pp (totally worth it).
The tour begins at the intriguing yet disgusting Gum Wall, where visitors have been sticking their chewed gum since its inception in 1993. Since then, it’s become a popular attraction and is considered by many as art, proving yet again that art is completely subjective.
Seattle Underground Tour
After the Great Fire of 1889, Seattle rebuilt on top of itself, resulting in a subterranean deserted city filled with interconnecting tunnels, decaying storefronts, and crumbled sidewalks. I wanted to love this highly recommended and rated tour more than I did. Sure, touring the Seattle Underground was interesting, but I can’t say that I was blown away by it. Last year we went on the pedway tour in Chicago, which is somewhat similar, but in our opinion, so much better.
If you’re looking for a way to escape the rain and/or are seeking something new and different outside of the typical touristy things to do, then this is a fine option. But if the sun is shining and your time in Seattle is limited, then I’d recommend passing. There are just too many better and more interesting things to see and do here. Tours run every hour for a duration of 75 minutes, and adult tickets cost $22/pp.
Looking through the purple mosaic sidewalk glass from down below.
Smith Tower Observatory
For phenomenal sweeping views of the city, head to the 35th floor of the Smith Tower, Seattle’s oldest skyscraper. The open-air viewing deck offers 360 degree views of the entire metropolis.
We enjoyed a light lunch and drinks at the Observatory’s Speakeasy, complete with a historic elevator, stunning architecture, and killer classic cocktails.
The Observatory’s ornate and striking ceiling
Wining and Dining
Like most major cities, Seattle boasts an innovative and diverse food and wine scene and we have eaten consistently well during every one of our trips here. During our most recent visit, I was blown away by the magnitude of vegetarian and vegan options, Araya’s Place for amazing vegan Thai food and Mighty_O Donuts for delicious and decadent vegan donuts, just to name a few. Yes, DC has certainly come a long way in this department, but it still has a long way to go if it wants to reach the level of Seattle.
Below are our favorite wining and dining experiences, both in and outside of the city.
PURPLE CAFE & WINE BAR
Young and thirsty: A wine lover’s delight at Purple Cafe & Wine Bar during our very first trip. The convivial and hip atmosphere along with its extensive list of wines by the glass, flight, and bottle, make for a lively and enjoyable night.
DAHLIA LOUNGE
If you want innovative cuisine that emphasizes Pacific Northwest ingredients and commitment to sustainability, dining at the wonderful Dahlia Lounge, a Seattle favorite, and just one of many of master chef Tom Douglas’ creations, is an outstanding choice. Tom Douglas is to Seattle what Jose Andres is to D.C. and Jose Garces is to Philadelphia. I still think about and try to recreate the incredible grilled bread salad I ate there so many years ago. You’ll get to sample his delicious crab cakes at Etta’s, another one of his excellent restaurants, on the aforementioned Pike Place Market Food Toor.
Marjorie’s
Marjorie’s intimate and inviting dining room is the perfect setting for a fantastic meal. We loved the eccentric menu at this cozy neighborhood gem. One of our favorite Seattle dinners to date.
Barrio mexican kitchen & bar
Located in the heart of Seattle’s trendy Capitol Hill neighborhood, this stylish and posh Mexican eatery is a great spot for a large group or fun date night. Their wide selection of gourmet tacos is awesome–including vegan options like jackfruit, vegan chorizo (so much yum), roasted beet, and cauliflower, and meat and fish choices like pork belly, fried chicken, and beer battered rock fish. Order the vegan nachos–trust me–some of the best nachos we’ve ever eaten.
Hundreds of lit candles covering nearly every inch of Barrio’s walls create a warm and unique ambience.
TAVERN LAW
A few doors down from Barrio is Tavern Law, an upscale cocktail lounge with a cool speakeasy vibe. Their talented bartenders serve up both classic and cutting-edge artisan cocktails and the staff is friendly, inviting, and knowledgable. A fantastic spot for drinks.
THE PINK DOOR
Tucked along a charming alleyway a block above Pike Place Market, The Pink Door is a quaint Italian restaurant that is the perfect place for a delightful lunch. The scenic view of the bay is a lovely bonus!
Other noteworthy dining spots and watering holes around the city? Wild Ginger for delectable pan-Asian fare, Standard Brewing Public House for high quality beer in a relaxed and cozy patio setting, and Le Panier for decadent and melt-in-your mouth French bakery goodness.
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE
Washington’s oldest winery is a short twenty minute drive from Seattle and is well worth a visit. The estate and grounds are gorgeous and we really loved the World Class Tasting and Tour, where we tasted a wide range of delicious Columbia Valley varietals. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Ste. Michelle is an excellent and easy reprieve.
And, well, because WINE.
Redhook Brewlab
Who doesn’t love a good brewery? Well, I guess if you don’t like beer, then maybe you. But a lot of people do, so that’s something. If you’re one of those people, then you’ll love Redhook Brewpub, complete with small batch beer flights, tasty pub food, and a spirited atmosphere. A great place for lunch and beer sampling.
The faces of sobriety and responsibility
So what’s on our list for the next time us Washingtonians head to the other Washington? San Juan Islands and Walla Walla have both been on my list for a while, and of course I just have to eat at Seattle’s famous Canlis Restaurant.
Seahawks game with our favs: Jenna, Marc & Kelby
Stay tuned for a future blog post that highlights Port Townsend and the Olympic Peninsula wineries, a terrific weekend getaway that’s only a little more than two hours away from Seattle, but feels like a world away.
Till next time, Seattle. Keep on glistening and keep on caffeinating, you emerald gem, you.
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