Seattle is known to many as the rain-soaked, “Emerald City.” However, to Seattleites and tourists alike, it has many well kept secrets that make it the bustling and beautiful city it is. Many people are unaware that Seattle actually receives less annual rain fall than New York City. Although days can be grey and gloomy, it does not rain everyday, and the temperatures rarely dip below a balmy 45 degrees. Seattle is filled with beautiful greenery, snow-capped mountains, and endless amounts of water. No matter where you are in the city, chances are you’re taking in an amazing view of Mt. Rainier, the downtown skyline and Space Needle, or one of the many lakes that surround the city. Seattle is famous for coffee, namely Starbucks and Tully’s. In fact, it’s difficult to walk more than 100 feet without finding a coffee shop to indulge in a morning cup of joe or an afternoon, caffeine pick-me-up. Pike Place Market has become one of the more recognizable locations in the city where flying fish can be seen on a daily basis. The market offers the freshest fares of a wide variety of food, and it is an exceptionally great place to purchase local seafood of the freshest nature.
When traveling to Seattle, one needs to be prepared for rain or shine. Winters can be wet and chilly, while summers can be sun-filled and warm. Rain boots as well as umbrellas are necessities in the city. Evenings can be cool, especially when dining or exploring near the city’s many water vantage points. It’s important to have both warm and cold weather clothing on a trip to Seattle.
DOWNTOWN SEATTLE
Downtown Seattle is located on the edge of the Puget Sound and sits on a rather steep hill. During the week, it’s filled with suits and tourists who co-mingle in the many java stops as well as restaurants and stores. Nordstrom is as infamous in Seattle as Starbucks coffee, and its flagship store can be found amongst the hustle and bustle of city. The multi-tiered retailer began in 1901 in Seattle and has grown to be one of the biggest and most notable department stores in the country. Directly across from Nordstrom is Pacific Place, a relatively new shopping center that boasts something for everyone. After a day of shopping, one can relax at the newly relocated and re-opened, Four Seasons Hotel. This hotel sits up from the water where ferries going back and forth from Bainbridge Island can be seen throughout the day. The urban architecture and Pacific flare offer a new experience for the Seattle traveler. The Four Seasons is the place to be for a glass of red to warm up after a day in the rain or to cool off with a cocktail from the summer heat.
BELLEVUE/KIRKLAND
Bellevue has become a smaller scale, downtown Seattle. A quick trip over the breath-taking 520 floating bridge, one will find the newer and more upscale city of the east side. Bellevue is home to Bill Gates, as well as many local celebrities. Neiman Marcus is set to make its northwest debut in the new Bravern location which will also house even more Microsoft offices. Many of the restaurants in Bellevue are of the “chain” nature, but still consistently good. Wild Ginger is set to open in the coming months and is still being touted as one of Seattle’s best restaurants. Bellevue Square is the city’s premiere mall and shopping experience. Nordstrom at Bellevue is equal to that of its downtown store. This location, though, is more accessible in terms of parking. Kirkland is located just north of Bellevue and also sits on Lake Washington. The quaint, charming city is known for mom and pop shops as well as small, more intimate restaurants. Whether you’re strolling through the streets with your dog and family or spending a day by yourself, this adorable little city has a warm, friendly atmosphere with unbelievable views of the water.
QUEEN ANNE/MAGNOLIA
Unlike Bellevue, Queen Anne and Magnolia are older and more eclectic, but they still have a hip, professional, and edgy vibe. Victorian-esque homes are plentiful in the Queen Anne neighborhood. You will also find small, intimate restaurants, including the famed How To Cook a Wolf. Interesting jewelry stores can be found along Queen Anne Avenue and Magnolia’s downtown. Both cities offer post-card views of Seattle and the Puget Sound.
FREEMONT/BALLARD
Freemont and Ballard cater to the inner-Seattle hippie and those looking to avoid the snob-factor of downtown. The Sunday Freemont Market is a great place to take the family or stock up on local goodies. Hipsters can be seen sipping coffee and reading their intelligent literature, something Seattle prides itself on. Ballard is home to Cupcake Royale, the city’s best cupcake retreat. Moms with strollers, as well as the business crowd, can be found at this local bakeshop that puts a smile on any sad face caught out in the rain.
Article by: Kris Hartley
