Seattle. How to sum up all that is Seattle? There is something extra special about the Pacific Northwest region of the USA, particularly Seattle. It’s not just the warm people, the beauty of its natural environment or the small city’s charm, I guess it’s a combination of those things.
A small compact city, Seattle’s laid back attitude is similar to that of other west coast cities. Downtown Seattle hugs the Elliot Bay, which is also laced by the Alaskan Way, a large highway following the water.
There isn’t a lot to do in Seattle, that’s not to say it’s not worth visiting. See the sights and take in the laid back west coast vibe.
Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum or SAM for short, has an interesting mix of cultural art works from all across the globe – from Asia to Africa, Australia to Europe to a modern array of cultural art.
Pike Place Market
The iconic Pike Place Market, no trip to Seattle should ever leave out at least one trip to Pike Place Market. Buy some local dungerness crab or Alaskan king crab. Leading up to Christmas enjoy the Christmas theme and grab yourself a warm apple cider. Any time of year stop by the adjoining shops and get yourself a crepe at the crepe place – they’re amazing!
Starbucks
While I’m not a Starbucks fan, I do enjoy a piece of history. Cross the street from Pike Place Market and see where Starbucks all began.
Space needle
if you had to pick a back up iconic landmark for Seattle it would definitely be the space needle. What a lucky city to have both. You can travel up into the space needle and observe views all over the area from Mt Baker the ocean (see below)
Shop
Seattle has some great shopping. Thanksgiving weekend marks Black Friday and the Holiday sales.
Seahawks
2014 marked the NFL Seattle Seahawks win of the Super Bowl. While you are in town, check out a game.
Where to eat and drink
Pike Place Market
For a variety of food options from Greek to Italian, Mexican and Cuban eateries to name a few. Below is my favourite crepe place.
Chinatown
For cheap and yummy eats!
Where to stay
Downtown
Downtown is a very convenient place to stay as you will be walking distance to the majority of the Seattle sights.
Belltown
Belltown located on the border of the downtown core provides many affordable options still within walking distance to the downtown sights. The Space Needle is one well known sight in this area.
Hot wire
For last minute trips across the border, look at Hot wire for cheap hotel rates.
Getting there:
Seattle Tacoma (Seatac) International Airport – There are affordable shuttle services from the airport to downtown, rather than using a cab.
Bolt Bus – For the bus travel across the border from Canada look at Bolt bus. Wifi and cheap tickets go on sale 6 weeks prior.
Train – VIA Rail/Amtrak also offer a quick and stress free way to travel across the border.
Victoria Clipper – If you have the chance, take this stunning boat trip from Victoria, BC. You may even see some whales! The Victoria Clipper often has deals either side of the summer peak time including transportation and hotels.
Tips:
Winter specials – Many hotels have specials over the winter. Ramada is one of these who frequently do a “Stay 3 night – only pay for 2” special.
See my post on Crossing the US Canadian border as a foreigner
Victoria Clipper specials – The Victoria Clipper often has deals either side of the summer peak time including transportation and hotels.
