Seattle, Washington Visitors Guide
Founded in 1852 and named for an American Indian Chief, this expansive city on the Bay has much to offer, not only within its city limits, but because of its convenience to the Olympic Mountains on its west and the Cascades to the east. Its comfortable temperatures (only twice has the thermometer reached 100* and it has never hit 0*) make it an ideal vacation spot. Seattle is home to historic landmarks, futuristic architecture, unique shops and restaurants, parks, museums and so many other attractions that you will want to spend several days exploring this great Washington metropolis.
Seattle
Museums
Museum of Flight - From a replica of the Wright Brother’s biplane to the original Air Force One, the Great Gallery with its 50 vintage planes, to numerous other plane and flying accoutrements, this is a super opportunity to learn about flying.
Charles & Emma Frye Art Museum - For contemporary to classical works of art, check out the displays here. You will be inspired by the works by artist such as Andrew Wyeth and Winslow Homer. Nearby is a bookstore & café.
Museum of History and Industry - from photos to artifacts--this is the place to study Seattle’s history. As you tour, you will get a peek at the lifestyle and economy of the Puget Sound region. Of special interest is the collection of 1962 World’s Fair souvenirs.
Nordic Heritage Museum- Showcases memorabilia from all 5 Scandinavian cultures, as well as historical exhibits, art galleries and performing artist.
Seattle Art Museum (aka SAM) - As you enter, you will be greeted by Hammering Man, the 48 foot tall animated sculpture. Once inside, you will find artwork by Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and Roy Lichtenstein, along with Northwest Coast Native American Art and artifacts. Onsite events include concerts, films, lectures, demonstrations, family programs and classes.
Burke Museum of Natural History & Culture - Located on the University of Washington’s campus, this is the state’s official museum of natural and cultural history. There are displays, exhibits and collections on anthropology, geology, zoology, and botany. While you are there, check out the Erna Gunther Ethnobotanical Garden.
Wing Luke Asian Museum - Located in Seattle’s International District, the museum has artifacts and collections that tell the story of Asians in the Pacific Northwest. While there, you can listen to recorded histories of Japanese-American detainees from WWII internment camps.
Seattle Arts & Entertainment
ACT Theatre - From cutting edge plays to musicals and classics, this is the stage. The Theatre’s renovated Krielsheimer Place and The Round Allen Theatre offer a variety of productions.
Century Ballroom - As one Seattle largest dance floors, this lavish ballroom is the place for swing, tango, salsa, and other classics. And, even if you’ve never danced a step, you will appreciate the music concerts, or better yet, you can take a dance lesson and join in the fun. Also on site is a restaurant with cuisine from al over the world.
Crocodile Café - From its eclectic décor, enticing dishes, and energetic dancing to rock bands like Pearl Jam, Nirvana and many others, this is a Seattle hotspot.
Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley - Considered by many to be Seattle’s best jazz club, Dimitriou’s has hosted performers like Eartha Kitt and Taj Mahal. The intimately relaxed atmosphere provides sensational music along with Italian specialties like calamari and manicotti.
Experience Music Project - For a glimpse into the past, spend some time revisiting the man and the music of Jimi Hendrix. You will see rock-n roll memorabilia, impressive modern architecture, exhibits, multimedia presentations, the Sound Lab, and a recording studio.
Paramount Theatre - For Broadway plays and musicals, ballet to modern dance and rock-n-roll to jazz, this is what you want. There are also silent films, family oriented shows and a restored Publix theatre organ.
Marion Oliver McCaw Hall - Home to the Opera House, the Pacific Northwest Ballet, the Seattle Symphony and the Seattle Reparatory Theatre.
Teatro ZinZanni - Fusion cuisine combined with an atmosphere of climatic fun! You can see circus acts, Kabuki, magic, comedy, trapeze and other great entertainers while feasting on sensational food.
5th Avenue Theatre - For musicals, theatre acts, concerts, films and lectures—not to mention impressive oriental architecture, this is the place.
Seattle Parks & Recreation
Seattle offers numerous parks, preserves and beaches. So, grab your sun block and sports pads and suit up for fun.
Alki Beach - This south Seattle beach has everything! Jogging paths, bicycling, volleyball and rollerblading are all in abundance. There are also a plethora of picnic tables, a playground, and boat access. At nearby Alki Point there is a bathhouse and an art studio. At the beaches northern end is Duwamish Head.
Discovery Park - Seattle’s largest park and downtown nature preserve. There are many trails that appeal to hikers, bikers, bicyclist and others. Open year round, it is a favorite of campers and naturalist—especially those interested in wildflowers, birds and sea life.
Gas Works Park - This 20 acre park was originally gas plant; however, today it is a favorite spot for kite flying. Other family fun can be found as you enjoy a picnic in what was originally the broiler house and watching the kids climbing, swinging, and laughing in the colorful Play Barn playground. For more energetic fun, the 12 ½ mile paved Burke-Gilman trail begins here.
Green Lake Park - As a mecca for joggers, bikers, and cyclist as well as having an assortment of water activities, this park is a favorite for many. Other activities include a “Pitch and Putt” golf course, tennis, an indoor pool, a children’s playground and picnic area.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park - Here you can learn about Seattle’s history and gold rush heritage as you view the exhibits, documentation and audiovisuals and listen to ranger led programs.
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest - For snow skiing adventures, camping and picnicking as well as fishing and hunting, visit some of the 8 wilderness areas found here.
Seattle Learning Fun
Center for Wooden Boats - Whether your interest is in boat building, sailing/sailing lessons, or maritime history, this is a great place to visit. While here you can learn everything you ever wanted to know about boating, kayaking, and canoeing from master craftsmen and sportsmen.
Northwest Outdoor Center - For Washington state water adventure extraordinaire, book your place at N.O.C. The Center has a store and rental shop as well as a guide service. Or, if you want, there are an assortment of sea kayaking lessons from which to choose. Also, if you have the time, there are guided tours of various lengths that roam the waters of Puget Sound, Lake Union, Lake Washington and the San Juan Islands.
Pacific Science Center - Especially for the young and young at heart, this educational facility encourages hands-on learning. You will find progressive technology being used to teach such concepts and topics as astronomy, computer graphics, and dinosaurs as well as interactive displays on butterflies and the Puget Sound.
Seattle Architecture & Gardens
Golden Gardens -Forest trails along the bluffs, beaches and a teen center make this a favorite hangout for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Washington Park Arboretum - With over 5,000 varieties of trees and shrubs from all over the world, numerous rhododendron, azaleas and cherries, and a Japanese Garden with ornamental plants, pools and a pagoda, this could be called one of Seattle’s most beautiful locations.
The Space Needle - Originally designed as the theme for the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, the 605 foot tower is topped with a flying saucer. At its summit there is an observation deck and a revolving restaurant. There is also a gift shop 100 feet above street level.
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