Known as the ‘Emerald City’ and also rated as one of the worlds most liveable cities, Seattle is a must-visit destination that will not disappoint. A short drive or train ride from Vancouver, this active city sits on the shores of two large lakes and it is surrounded by two major mountain ranges (Olympics and Cascades), with Mount Rainier in full view from the city. If you’re planning your first visit to this fine city, I’ve put together a list of some of the top experiences not to be missed.
WHAT TO SEE
If you want to see all the best attractions of Seattle in a short amount of time, invest in a City Pass which will allow you to bypass line ups and save money on entrance fees. It also has some coupons inside which will give you discounts on shopping, food and more. If you’re in need of some retail therapy, be sure to stop by Macy’s as you can combine the coupon in this city pass booklet with most of their existing sales.
The Space Needle
If you’ve seen a picture of the Seattle skyline, you’ll be familiar with Seattle’s internationally recognised symbol; the Space Needle building. Originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair to showcase upcoming architectural development, it has since been declared a historic landmark and offers fantastic 360 panoramic views of the city from the top.
EMP Museum
Right across the street from the space needle is the EMP (Experience Music Project) Museum and if I can warn you now, you’ll never want to leave. I recommend leaving yourself lots of time to explore this place.
I could have easily spent my entire day here learning to play musical instruments, reading about music legends of the past, and getting lost in their many exhibitions about Fantasy, Horror and more.
WHERE TO EAT
Pike Place Market
If you need to whet your appetite after all the sightseeing, head to Pike Place Market where the focus is primarily on local, organic food featuring 100 farmers and fishmongers selling their goods. They have been joined by more than 150 local artists who have also set up shop here, along with street performers, dozens of restaurants and numerous speciality shops. Some places worth noting are Beechers Handmade Cheese, Pike Place Chowder, Cafe Campagne, Etta’s Seafood, and the world’s first Starbucks.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Monaco
Although there are lots of great hotels in Seattle to choose from, when it comes to location and value, the charming Hotel Monaco can’t be beat. Recently rated one of the Top 100 Hotels in the world by Travel and Leisure, this hotel certainly lives up to it’s reputation. Whether you’re travelling for work or pleasure, they’ve thought of everything (they’ll even provide a goldfish in your room to keep you company since they’re a pet-friendly hotel).
Did I mention that every day from 5pm-6pm the hotel offer a free wine hour for guests to sample Washington wines and socialize in their lobby?
GETTING AROUND
Although Seattle is incredibly pedestrian friendly and will encourage you to walk through it’s many paths and parks, you can get around easily by renting a bike, or taking public transport. Seattle city centre is well serviced by public transport with an excellent bus system, historic streetcars along the waterfront, and a high-speed elevated Monorail which links downtown to the Seattle Center and offers views over the harbour and beyond. There are also various ferries and harbourfront cruises that offers scenic excursions outside the city limits.
Ready to experience Seattle for yourself? Contact a Flight Centre Travel Expert by visiting your closest store, connecting us online or calling 1-877-967-5302
