Seattle Washington, USA Travel Guide
Embrace Seattle'its natural setting with diverse outdoor pursuits, from city trails to mountain escapes.
Discovery Park (Loop Trail, 2.8 miles, moderate); Green Lake Park (easy, flat 2.8-mile loop).
Easy: Rattlesnake Ledge, Franklin Falls. Moderate: Mount Si, Lake 22, Wallace Falls. Challenging: Mailbox Peak.
Mount Rainier, Olympic, North Cascades National Recreational areas have extensive hiking for all abilities.
Always check weather conditions, carry appropriate gear, and tell someone your plans before heading into the mountains or water. Wildlife encounters demand respect for animals and their habitats.
Enhance your knowledge of Seattle's diverse culture through hands-on experiences and shows.
Seattle Symphony (Benaroya Hall), Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Opera (McCaw Hall).
The Showbox, Neumos, Dimitriou's Jazz Alley, and smaller clubs host diverse genres.
Events often hosted by local tribes or cultural centers.
The Wing Luke Museum in the Global District offers immersive tours that connect visitors with Asian Pacific American communities.
Various language schools in Seattle offer short courses or conversation groups. A fun way to engage with local people.
Northwest Folklife Festival (Memorial Day Weekend), Bumbershoot (May Day (in many countries) Weekend), Seafair (July/August), Seattle International Film Festival (May/June), various ethnic festivals.
Find opportunities for revitalization and self-care amidst your explorations.
No natural hot springs directly in Seattle. Closest are in the Cascade Mountains (e.g., Goldmyer Hot Springs), needing permits and a hike.
Many yoga studio apartments in Seattle. Retreats often outside the city in tranquil settings.
Access to alternative medicine practitioners like acupuncturists. Alki Beach in West Seattle a a laid-back beach environment (no clubs).
The Showbox, Neumos, The Crocodile, Tractor Tavern, Dimitriou's Jazz Alley for music. 5th Avenue Theatre, Paramount Theatre for Broadway. Seattle Repertory Theatre for plays.
Nightclubs focused in Capitol Hill and Belltown (electronic, hip-hop). Bar districts: Capitol Hill (lively), Ballard (microbreweries), Fremont (quirky), Pioneer Square (historic pubs).
Many bars/clubs open until 2 AM. Seattle-style hot dog carts near nightlife areas for evening-night dining.
Seattle offers distinctive shopping experiences, from bustling public markets to artisan boutiques.
Coffee beans (local roasters), smoked salmon, glass art, grunge music memorabilia, Seattle sports team apparel.
Downtown Seattle (Pacific Place, Nordstrom, Westlake Center), University Village (outdoor center with high-end boutiques).
Look for fair-trade products, support local artisans, choose sustainable brands. Theo Chocolate in Fremont is an outstanding local fair-trade producer.
Major carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS are available for shipping purchases home. Prepare for international customs regulations for items shipped abroad.
