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5th Avenue Theatre

This gorgeous historic theater first opened in 1926 as a vaudeville venue and silent picture theater. The theater's interior features an ornate Chinese-inspired design that echoes the brilliance of Beijing's Forbidden City. Today, the theater is Seattle's premier showcase for musicals, concerts, lectures, and films. More »

Alki Beach

In 1851 on the cold stormy point at Alki Beach, the first white settlers that would go on to settle in Seattle, stepped down at the sandy beach just west of downtown and the Duwamish River. Today, Alki Beach has been incorporated into the park system extending from Alki Point to the mouth of the Duwamish River at Duwamish Head for 2.5 miles. Duwamish, a Chinook word meaning "many-colored water," was one of the original names picked for the city before Seattle was chosen. Fifty years after the landing at Alki Beach, the beach had become a popular destination for Seattle's residents, and in 1907 an amusement park was built to accommodate the city's entertainment needs. Luna park had many attractions including the "Powers Natatorium and Bathhouse" that had several heated pools of saltwater, a German carousel, ferris wheel, roller coaster, restaurant, and the original "Splash Mountain" sluice ride that takes riders on a boat chute into a "tub" of water. Today, Alki Beach is a great place to go for a hike and enjoy the view over the Pacific from Elliott Bay. More »

Art/Not Terminal Gallery

In 1988, Lonny Johnson (a founding member of Art/Not Terminal), started a one month lease to show a variety of his own art. At the end of November, other artists wanted to extend the lease further to display their own art until in 1989, Art/Not Terminal became a permanent fixture through the support of the completely volunteer individuals who set out to keep the artist-run and non-profit gallery operating. The new official location of Art/Not Terminal was located just a short from its original spot in the former Trailways bus terminal. The name comes from this double pun of being "not a terminal" and also that art itself is not "terminal." In fact in the early days, Art/Not Terminal Gallery used to get people wandering into the building actually looking for the bus terminal, which had since been moved just a few blocks away. Art/Not Terminal Gallery is an eclectic display of various works of art covering all different disciplines of painting, drawing, and sculpture. Be prepared to find young artists offering their work at reasonable prices assisted by the fact that the gallery is completely volunteer-run. More »

Bainbridge Island

Across Puget Sound from the city, is the idyllic community on Bainbridge Island. Its community is one of the most affluent communities in the United States, and there is a huge focus on preserving greenspace and keeping development to a minimum. In 2005, CNN/Money and Money magazine named the island as the second best place to live in the United States. Bainbridge Island barely has any crime, and they pride themselves in excelling with sports. In 1792, George Vancouver entered Puget Sound on the HMS Discovery while they surveyed the surrounding areas. They remained anchored off of Restoration Point on the southern tip of the island while Vancouver mapped places like Rich Passage, Port Orchard, and Sinclair Inlet. Years later, Bainbridge Island became the epicenter for the logging and shipbuilding industry, largely in part to the large abundance of cedars on the island. At Bainbridge Island, you can enjoy the quiet village and unique shops that call the island home as you walk around the greenspace and incredible views offered from the coast. More »

Ballard

Northwest of downtown, west of Fremont and Green Lake, sits the ever-interesting town of Ballard. Unlike other working-class neighborhoods-turned-fashionable, Ballard still attracts folks looking for no-nonsense venues, where you can eat a greasy breakfast, drink cheap beers, and listen to good folk or rock n' roll. Settled principally by Swedes, Norwegians, and Danes in the 1900s, Ballard has a distinct Nordic flare, with specialty shops like Olsen's Scandinavian Foods selling Scandinavian favorites. A historic designation helps protect Ballard from over-commercialization or other undesirable growth: any proposed development has to be approved by a board of locals, and the locals are pretty picky about who they'll let in. There's a good collection of galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars. More »

Bellevue Arts Museum

When the Bellevue Arts Museum was founded in 1975, you have to look at the previous thirty years when the Pacific Northwest Arts and Crafts Association was created in 1947. As one of the main supporters of the museum is the Pacific Northwest Arts and Crafts Association, who has been vital in providing public events to the public, and drawing artists from around the region. From the beginning there were essentially two main goals that the association and the museum wished to achieve: "to promote artists and crafts people of the northwest region, and to establish a cultural and educational center serving Bellevue." Since the formal establishment of these two groups, a wide focus as been community-based as seen the in the series of art festivals and events held in the Northwest every year. In addition to that the Bellevue Arts Museum has garnered a strong reputation in the showing of contemporary art through their high quality exhibitions. Today the Bellevue Arts Museum continues that righ heritage in community involvement and arts crafts, as they strive to continue educating and supporting northwestern artists. More »

Bellevue Botanical Garden

Located in central Bellevue, the Botanical Garden provides a serene, quiet site to sit and relax. It is spread out over 36 acres and showcases various display gardens, such as wetlands, meadows, fuchsia garden, rock garden, nature discovery garden, and others. Each garden presents plants from its appropriate region; for example, the Alpine Rock Garden features plants that generally grow at high altitude, as well as the specific, high-drainage soil that they need to survive. The garden also puts on various classes and special events throughout the year, such as a flower light-making class and the popular 'Pops in the Park' outdoor concerts. More »

Bellevue Municipal Golf Course

Opened in 1968, the Bellevue Municipal Golf Course is a public golf course maintained by the city of Bellevue. The course shoots just over 6,000 yards with a course rating of 68.4 and a slope of 117". The course was designed by David W. Kent, and has a beautifully lined fairway of trees, challenging the golfer's ability to play with precision. A great way to start for beginners or people working on their short game, this course will test your ability to avoid the hazards and find the good lies on the fairway and green. Attracting a large number of waterfowl, chances are you'll see a variety of birds on the course. If you have a large family or company event, the clubhouse can help coordinate your event with a room and additional assistance. More »

Belltown

This bustling area of Seattle is known for its trendy, young professional crowd--and the restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques that come with it. Due to its proximity on the waterfront, it's one of the most densely populated (and highly popular) areas of the city. The residents of the area enjoy an urban lifestyle, which is embodied in the many lofts, high-rises, and renovated warehouses re-purposed into studios that line the streets. Originally, Belltown was called Denny Hill--a steeply rising hill that posed various city-planning challenges, including a sharp cliff that formed the hill's western border and dropped down to Elliott Bay below. Reginald Heber Thompson, the city's engineer in the early 1900s, decided to "regrade" (flatten) the hill to make way for the transit lines, hotels, apartments, and warehouses that would come to populate Denny Hill throughout the 20th century. Today, the area bustles with life and culture, making it a great place to take a walking tour if you're visiting or living in Seattle. More »

Benaroya Hall

Home to the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, stunning Benaroya Hall surrounds you with the feeling of luxury the minute you walk in. Symphony goers can take in excellent views of Elliott Bay from the glass-enclosed lobby of the performance hall; on sunny days you see clear across to the snowy peaks of the Olympic Range. Even if you're not attending the symphony, you can walk through the foyer and galleries, marveling at the art, created by such masters as famed Tacoma glass maker Dale Chihuly. More »

Blake Island

The only way to get to Blake Island, a state park, is by boat. This made it a safe place for the 1993 APEC conference, where President Bill Clinton met with 14 Asian leaders. The most popular facility on the island is Tillicum Village, which features the Northwest Coast Indian Cultural Center & Restaurant. Half-day boat trips depart from Pier 55 in Seattle and include a traditional Indian salmon bake, dancing, and a film about Northwest Native Americans. After the meal, you'll have time for a short hike or a bit of souvenir shopping. More »

Bloedel Reserve

This sprawling 150-acre forest and garden was once home to the Prentice Bloedel, the vice-chairman of a lumber company. Located on Bainbridge Island, the nature conservatory features the private home and gardens of the family in addition to the varied gardens and altered landscapes scattered throughout the tranquil setting. The once private estate is now open to the public, although visits are through reservation only and are time limited so each visitor may experience the peaceful woodlands and gardens to their full potential. The Reserve is complete with the Bird Refuge, Reflection Garden, Moss Garden, and notably the Japanese Garden. To schedule a visit to the Reserve, reservations can be made online or by phone. More »

Blyth Park

Located in the town of Bothell, this park is a favorite of locals because of its easy access to miles of trails, big playground, and large stands of shady trees. It is centrally located along the Sammamish River, which also gives the park's most popular trail its name, the Samamish River Trail. This winding stretch of pavement stretches for 11 miles to Marymoor Park in the town of Redmond and from there, connects to a network of other great trails. Blyth Park is a wonderful place to go for an afternoon picnic or to meet up for a game of flag football--as long as the weather cooperates and the notorious Seattle rain doesn't make an appearance. More »

Bremerton Historic Ships Association

This memorial is dedicated to all of the men and women who have served in the US Navy, not only those at sea, but also those who stay on land and build and maintain the all-important ships. The main attraction at the Bremerton Historic Ships Association is the naval ship USS Turner Joy, a destroyer that served in various Naval tours, including the Vietnam War. It has been permanently docked here and now serves as a museum where visitors can walk through and tour all aspects of the ship, from the engine room to the gun towers to the captain's bridge. Everything inside the ship has been preserved to the same state it was in when the ship was in commission from September 1957 to November 1982. This museum is a great place to explore, and is sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages. More »

Burke Museum

To get your fix of natural history, head to the Burke Museum. Here you'll find great hands-on exhibits that spotlight the natural history of Washington state and the Native tribes of the Northwest. Check out the reptile and dinosaur displays to get an idea of the beasts that once roamed the land long before humans made an appearance. The museum covers over 500 million years of history in the Life and Times of Washington State exhibit, and spotlights various fossils found in the Northwest--there's even a complete skeleton of a mastodon. The other permanent exhibit, Pacific Voices, focuses on the rich culture of the state and surrounding area, and features informative exhibits about the Native tribes who originally inhabited the Pacific Northwest. More »

Burke-Gilman Trail

The intensely popular Burke-Gilman Trail winds for 16.5 miles, from Ballard to Kenmore on Seattle's east side. Initially planned in 1885 as a railway that would allow trains to cross Washington State and connect to rail lines in Canada, the route never made it across the border, but it was a busy regional route until the 1970s. Thanks to citizen groups, the City of Seattle, University of Washington, and King County, the trail was transformed into the incredible walking, cycling, and recreation trail it is today. More »

Camp Long

Camp Long is one of Seattle's best-kept hidden secrets. Located on the west side of the city, the camp covers over 68 acres and is a great place for families to go to be immersed in the wilderness while still being conveniently located in the city. The camp offers great open space, treed forests, and even a rock climbing area if you're interested in trying a new (or familiar) sport. There are also rustic cabins for rent here, allowing groups, families, or other visitors to unroll their sleeping bags and really enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Seattle. More »

Capitol Hill

One of Seattle's oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods, Capitol Hill is also the center of the city's gay life and home to disaffected young hipsters sporting tattoos and piercings. In short, this is a wildly mixed neighborhood. Pubs and cafes are ubiquitous and make good vantage points for people-watching. A counterculture oasis, there are probably more nose rings, tattoos, and poetry readings on Capitol Hill's Broadway St than anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest. Both trendy young students and urban homeless street kids share the sidewalks and cafe tables. East of Broadway, on 15th Ave, you'll find a more subdued commercial area that serves some of the city's wealthiest residents, who live in the grand old mansions that line the lovely treed streets. More »

Carkeek Park

Located near the Broadview neighborhood of northwest Seattle, Carkeek Park offers hiking trails, great beach access, and wonderful views of Puget Sound. One of the park's main highlights is the Environmental Learning Center which serves as a great resource for visitors interested in learning about environmental sustainability and stewardship. The Learning Center also serves as a community gathering venue for groups, classes, and meetings throughout the year. One notable aspect of the Learning Center is its commitment to sustainable building practices. Some of these practices include: over 80% of the construction waste was recycled or salvaged, water collected from the rooftop is recycled for use in the building's toilets, solar panels provide most of the Center's energy, and landscape plants were chosen for the salmon and stream friendly qualities. More »

Center for Wooden Boats

The Center for Wooden Boats allows visitors to get a glimpse of the past, when wooden water craft ruled the lakes, rivers, and seas. Visitors can learn about the construction and navigation of these priceless antiques, from how to work a tiller to instruction on how to shape a boat's oak frame. The Center aims to provide maritime education through hands-on learning, so if you've ever wanted to learn to sail or even effectively caulk a wooden boat, this is the place for you. It was started back in the 1970s when founder Dick Wagner needed a place to store his growing collection of historic wooden boats. Today, the center houses over 100 boats and serves as a public resource for anyone who wants to learn about and share the art and passion for wooden boats with the volunteers who work there. More »

Center on Contemporary Art

The Center on Contemporary Art's mission is to spotlight all kinds of contemporary art, from sculpture to music to painting, from both local and global artists. They focus on sharing the art with the public in hopes of growing the development and understanding of the genre. Some of the exhibits that have been showcased here include: Darin Shuler: Time Elastic, A Group Exhibit: Inquiry as Collection, and Black History Month: Faces. The exhibits here are constantly changing (about every two months), so be sure to call ahead and check what's on display before visiting. More »

Chapel of Saint Ignatius

Located on the campus of Seattle University, the Chapel of St. Ignatius is both a modern work of art and a tranquil religious venue. Although small, the chapel amazes visitors with its simple and contemporary design, and is well-known for its use of natural light and color. Architect Steven Holl designed it around a theme of "A Gathering of Different Lights", which is manifested in the way the chapel is purposefully illuminated with different colors at different times of day. Holl focused his design to meet the needs of local students, and even utilized their ideas in his final construction. The chapel's design has won various accolades, including a prestigious award from the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects. More »

Chateau Ste. Michelle

As one of the state's oldest wineries, Chateau Ste. Michelle has a place in Washington's history. It was founded in 1934, right after the United States repealed its Prohibition laws, and has been producing high-class wine ever since. In the 1950s, grapes were planted in the Columbia Valley, leading to the winery's first bottles produced under the Chateau Ste. Michelle label. The winery is also one of the first to have established two separate winemaking facilities, one for making reds and one for making whites. Although all the wines made by Chateau Ste. Michelle are excellent, their most award-winning and acclaimed varieties are Merlot, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery is open for tastings of its delicious wines, as well as guided tours of its facilities that discuss winemaking, the history of the winery, and information about the area. More »

Children's Museum

Spread over 22,000 square feet, the Children's Museum offers kids of all ages a place to explore, discover, and play while learning. There are many types of hands-on exhibits here, and kids can participate in activities such as mountain climbing, learning about different cultures from around the world, or playing with cogs and pulleys to learn about the rules of cause and effect. There is even an area called Discovery Bay that was created especially for the youngest ones in the group. Designed for infants and toddlers, Discovery Bay lets kids explore the underwater world while checking out the fish aquarium and touring a ferry boat. There's so much to see and do here, you'd better plan on blocking out a few hours of your schedule to let the kids roam the Museum. More »

Children's Museum of Tacoma

The kids will love visiting the Children's Museum of Tacoma because it allows them to discover, play, and (most importantly) have fun! The Museum contains both permanent and rotating exhibits that have children exploring the fields of art, science, and educational play. A sampling of the exhibits that have been showcased here include: New Digs, Soar into Story: The Adventures of Raven and Coyote, and Learning Lounge: Emotions Matter. The Museum also puts on many programs throughout the year, including group outings to the zoo and aquarium and language and culture instruction from different countries. More »

Chism Beach Park

This local park located in Bellevue and is a favorite of swimmers and divers. It's a very lush, green park that features great water access, picnic areas, a dock, and other features. There are plenty of wide open spaces that are perfect for group rentals, gatherings, or events. Chism Beach Park also offers wonderful hiking trails and great, winding roads that lead to scenic vistas overlooking the lake and trees below. On hot summer days, this park can be crowded, as it is one of the most popular places to take a dip in the area, so be prepared to share beach real estate with groups of locals. More »

Columbia Center

Formerly called the Bank of America Tower and the Columbia Seafirst Center, the Columbia Center is a little bit of a misnomer for people living outside of Seattle. It is the common belief that the Space Needle is the tallest building in the Seattle skyline, but the truth is that the Columbia Center soars to an unparalleled height of 937 feet, over 300 feet taller than the popular Seattle landmark. At the time of its construction between 1982-1985, the Columbia Center was the largest building west of the Mississippi, and today it is the second tallest building on the west coast. The building was designed by architect, Chester L. Lindsey Architects, who intended the three geometrical arches on each side to mimic the existence of three buildings. The building was originally named the Columbia Center, but was changed to Bank of America later on for the occupancy of the bank's offices. In 2005, the building's name was changed back to the Columbia Center. If you are looking for the best vantage point over the entire city and Pugent Sound, then you have to come to the Columbia Center the best view you'll find in the whole city. More »

Columbia Winery

Columbia Winery has the distinction of being one of the state's first premium wineries. It was established in the early 1960s by a group of friends and professors from the University of Washington who wanted to test their theory that grapes that were usually associated with Europe could also grow in their state. It turned out that their hypothesis was true, and the grapes flourished, causing the winery to take off. In 1979, the group hired one of the most distinguished wine makers in the country, David Lake, to head up their operation. David led the winery to fame, producing some of the first varietal wines in the state, including Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Gris. A trip to Columbia Winery offers visitors gorgeous views of the rolling green hillsides of Washington, and, of course, the opportunity to taste some of the state's most delicious vino. More »

Cornish College of the Arts

This Capitol Hill-area college is small but inspiring. It's constantly buzzing and crawling with talented art students--from musicians to painters to dancers to actors--and their works. The school was founded in 1914 by an enterprising voice teacher and pianist, Nellie Cornish, who filled the role of school director for over 25 years. Although it started out in rented space, the campus is now permanently anchored in its main building, Kerry Hall, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The school continues to enroll promising art talent from around the globe, and works to encourage the arts by partnering with local, national, and international businesses and communities to provide a strong base of support for its students and faculty.
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Cougar Mountain Park

As one of the largest parks in the King County Park system, Cougar Mountain covers over 3,000 acres and is one of the most wild and untouched in the system. There are more than 36 miles of hiking trails here that pass by stunning waterfalls, tall groves of trees, and reach beautiful summit vistas. Equestrians will also love to explore this park, as it provides about 12 miles of bridle trails that make for nice afternoon horseback-riding routes. One of the hiking trails here (The Indian Trail) is even storied to be an original Native trade route with a history that stretches back 8,000 years. Park visitors will love the serenity and beauty of this park, as well as the chance to see some of its abundant wildlife. Animals that frequent the area include bobcats, black-tailed deer, black bears, bald eagles, coyotes, and others. More »

Cougar Mountain Zoo

This zoo is dedicated to caring for threatened and endangered species. The zoo is home to such unique animals as the Formosa sika, the red-ruffed lemur, rare Bengal Tiger Cubs, and cougars for which the park is named after. Cougar Mountain Zoological Park, which is operated by the Washington Zoological Society, has a general admission from Wednesday through Sunday, but tours, outreach programs, and Tiger Cub encounters all occur outside regular hours. More »

Coulon Beach Park

This popular park sprawls along the southeast corner of Lake Washington and provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy the lake and surrounding area while also enjoying the modern amenities of the park. In addition to the usual park features, such as playgrounds, restrooms, and horseshoe pits, there are also plenty of water-related areas here, including eight boat launch lanes, a sandy swimming beach, and a fishing pier. Feel free to bring food along on your visit to enjoy a nice afternoon picnic, or (just in case you forgot the vittles) take advantage of the two food concession choices located at the park--Ivar's Seafood and Kidd Valley Burgers. There are also plenty of trails to explore at Coulon Beach, including great walking/jogging paths and interpretive trails. More »

Denny Park

Denny Park sits on land that was originally owned by pioneer David Denny, who donated the land to the city for use as a cemetery in the early 1860s. Later on, in 1883, Denny and his wife re-designated some of the land they donated as a public park, so the city moved the gravestones and re-purposed it as one of Seattle's first parks. It was planted with formal flowerbeds, trails, and playgrounds to make a nice gathering place for the local residents. A Parks and Recreation building was constructed on the grounds in 1948, and still serves as an administrative center for Seattle Parks and Rec employees and programs. More »

Discovery Park

This scenic park offers both plenty of land and Puget Sound shoreline to explore. It covers 534 acres, making it one of the largest parks within the City of Seattle. There are over two miles of shoreline here, so there are lots of tide pools, coves, and sandy stretches to explore. Want to discover some of the area's most beautiful forests? Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the over 11.8 miles of hiking trails located in the park; the Loop Trail is one of the most popular, as it gives visitors a tour of the park's various ecosystems, from beach to meadow to forest. A stop at Discovery Park is a great way to see the natural side of Seattle and experience its magnificent geographical assets. More »

Downtown Park

Located in the beautiful neighborhood of Bellevue, Downtown Park offers a great place to relax and enjoy green surroundings while still being conveniently located in the city. There are plenty of great places to take a walk here or enjoy the various water features, from small ponds to fountains. One of the park's most stunning features is a 240-foot wide illuminated waterfall that marks the end of a canal that runs through the park. Spread over 20 acres, Downtown Park makes for a great space not only for adults looking to relax, but also for kids to run around. The playground here features a castle theme, which will excite the little ones and keep them entertained for hours. The formal garden in the park is a beautiful addition to the green space, and features various types of flora such as roses, irises, and azalea. More »

Elk Run Golf Club

Although it's located about 30 miles southeast of Seattle, Elk Run Golf Club is worth the drive for the beautiful scenery, well-manicured greens, and affordable prices. The course is an 18-hole course, which stretches over 5724 yards from the longest tees and makes for a total par of 71. Elk Run was designed by golf course architect Pete Peterson and opened in 1989 for the enjoyment of both locals and visitors. On site at the golf course is Elk Run's Lodge--a popular place to host events such as weddings, banquets, and meetings. There's also a driving range here, which comes in handy if you want to practice that swing before hitting the links. More »

Elliott Bay Book Company

Elliott Bay Book Company, on the corner of south Main St. and 1st Ave., is Seattle's premier bookstore and literary gathering place. This rambling bookstore, which opened in 1973 in the 1890 Globe Hotel building, takes up an entire block of historic storefronts in Pioneer Square. The interior, all exposed red brick, cozy nooks, and high ceilings, is absolutely stuffed full of books and browsing customers. Downstairs is a popular cafe. Elliott Bay is the local leader in author appearances, with writers giving readings or signings almost nightly. More »

Experience Music Project

It's the ultimate in music history and memorabilia, and the building is even shaped like a smashed guitar! The Experience Music Project (EMP) originally opened in 2000 and has been stunning visitors ever since. The EMP spotlights different genres of music (such as jazz, blues, and rock 'n roll) and also the legends who made these styles popular. There are fascinating exhibits here on artists such as Jimi Hendrix, grunge bands such as Nirvana, and a showcase on the history of guitars. You can also make your own music in the Sound Lab, using guitars, drums, and keyboards to pound out your song. More »

Fairmont Olympic Hotel

One of the classiest remnants of Seattle's early-20th-century heyday is this fine hotel at 5th Avenue and University Street. This block-square building is sober and un-revealing on the outside, but journey through the revolving doors to discover a sumptuous lobby dominated by chandeliers, marble walls, and exotic carpets--testimony to a distant, more glorious era. Peek into the Georgian Room to see a dining room right out of a stylish 1930s film. Interestingly, University Street got its name because the original building of the University of Washington once stood on the location of the hotel.
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Fall City Farms

This local farm is located just outside of the city of Redmond and makes for a convenient place for visitors to check out the area's local produce. A wide variety of activities abound at the farm, such as u-pick fruits and vegetables, farm tours, seasonal classes and workshops, and the opportunity to visit the animals. In the summer months, there is even a pond at the farm that's a great place for family fishing outings. Bring your reusable bags, baskets, or boxes and pick up some great fresh ingredients; a sampling of the delicious produce you can find here includes cucumber, squash, pumpkins, strawberries, carrots, apples, and much more. The farm also makes a good backdrop for any special event, meeting, or celebration. More »

First Hill

With its commanding position directly to the east and above downtown, First Hill became the foremost status neighborhood for early Seattleites. Throughout the area you'll still find traces of the early glory, including a few magnificent old mansions and some excellent examples of early Seattle architecture. Now known to many as "Pill Hill," First Hill is home to three major hospitals and their accompanying research and support facilities. More »

First Thursday Gallery Walk

The beloved social event and the pinnacle of all art walks, the First Thursday Gallery Walk takes place--you guessed it--on the first Thursday of the month from 6-8pm. This artsy, fun event is focused in Pioneer Square, Seattle's premier gallery district, and spills into nearby downtown. Many galleries time their newest exhibits for unveiling on First Thursdays, so you'll catch the freshest shows in town. More »

Fisherman's Terminal

Located along Seattle's famed waterfront, Fisherman's Terminal offers visitors a glimpse into the exciting world of deep-sea fishing. There are many boats docked here, from small dinghies to huge fishing vessels that measure up to 250 feet in length. The main attractions here, though, are the vendors selling the fresh-caught seafood; from crabs to salmon to shrimp, you can directly purchase the delicacies right off the boat--at great prices. Head over to Salmon Bay to find the stalls stocked with some of the best freshly caught and freshly cut seafood around. There are also a smattering of restaurants nearby, if actually taking the fish home and cooking it isn't your specialty. Fisherman's Terminal has been a popular place for boat (and seafood) lovers for over 80 years, and is still a great place to visit for a look at one of Seattle's most important industries. More »

Fort Casey State Park

Located on beautiful Whidbey Island, Fort Casey State Park is a great place to visit for a history lesson and to run around. There is ample space here to bring the family for a picnic and a game of tag on the Fort's wide expanse of grass. After your picnic, visit the Admiralty Head Lighthouse (which stands overlooking the sea on the Strait of Juan de Fuca) and learn about the light's and Fort Casey's history. Arguably, the main attractions at Fort Casey are its abandoned military batteries that house two of its original seacoast artillery guns on disappearing carriages (inactive, of course). Families will love exploring the corridors, entrances, ladders, and stairways of the concrete batteries; they provide a good precursor to a lesson about war, as well as a good place for everyone to stretch their legs. More »

Fort Worden State Park

Covering over 434 acres along Admiralty Inlet near the town of Port Townsend, Fort Worden is a former military complex that now is home to a variety of attractions. The Port Townsend Marine Science Center attracts visitors who want to learn about the local marine environment and ecosystems--it's a great place to stop before heading out to walk on the beaches and shoreline. There are 2.1 miles of shore and oceanside cliffs to explore at the park, as well as 12 miles of hiking trails and paths to choose from. Other things to see here include the Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum, abandoned military bunkers (great for exploration), a balloon hangar, and the Point Wilson Lighthouse. The Fort is also currently used as a conference center, and is equipped with a variety of meeting rooms, dining facilities, and accommodations that serve many groups throughout the year. More »

Foster Golf Links

Since it opened in 1925, Foster Golf Links has since remained a popular local golf secret of the Seattle area. Although it's short (4804 yards from the longest tees), the 18-hole, par 68 course offers challenges for every level of golfer. The course was built on the homestead of government scout Joseph Foster, and was one of the original public fee golf courses in the West. Located on-site is the course's new 15,000 square-foot club house, complete with a stocked 1200 square foot pro shop. There's also an instruction studio, banquet rooms, outdoor patio, and Gordon's on the Green restaurant located within the gigantic club house. More »

Foster Island Walk

The Foster Island Walk is conveniently located just north of the Washington Park Arboretum, close to the University of Washington campus. There is a great variety of plant and animal life to see here, from willow trees to cattails to marsh wrens. The trail offers great views of Lake Washington, and, if you're lucky and the sky is clear, the Cascade mountain range and Mt. Rainier. Foster Island Walk is definitely a great place to take an afternoon stroll, and offers a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. More »

Foster/White Gallery

This Pioneer Square gallery exhibits a range of exceptional quality contemporary paintings, sculpture, ceramics, and glass. You'll find pieces from some of the Northwest's favorite artists, including Mark Tobey, Morris Graves, Kenneth Callahan, and George Tsutakawa, plus works from Pilchuck glass artists such as Dale Chihuly, William Morris, and Benjamin Moore. The gallery has a second location downtown on Rainier Square. More »

Francine Seders Gallery

This quiet gallery showcases great art from local Northwest artists. It was opened over 40 years ago by its namesake, Francine Seders, the gallery has always been dedicated to finding and showcasing mostly regional talent, with nationally-known and emerging artists also featured occasionally. Gorgeous artworks adorn the walls of the gallery, giving it a very sophisticated feel, but don't let that dissuade you from looking around--not everything here is expensive; the gallery also sells postcards, posters, and books of the art. Art lovers will love it here, so if you're visiting, be sure to block out enough time to enjoy all of the pieces. More »

Freeway Park

Centrally located downtown, Freeway Park makes for a convenient place for city visitors, businesspeople, and shoppers to take a break and relax. It has a very unique design (just as its name connotes) because it's located on an overpass that crosses the city's busiest interstate and a large parking lot. The park is filled with greenery, but also fits in with city buildings due to its geometric concrete art. The park opened in 1976 and now spreads over 5 acres in downtown; it's split into three different plazas and green spaces connected by walkways. There's even a fountain in the park, adding to its serenity (and helping to mitigate loud freeway noises). More »

Fremont

A fun-loving neighborhood known for its untraditional public art, junk stores, boutiques, outdoor movie festivals, and general good spirit. Fremont's motto, "De Libertas Quirkas," encourages its residents to embrace the "Freedom to be Peculiar." The neighborhood is peppered with excellent restaurants, pubs, and coffee shops. More »

Frink Park

This lush parkland was donated to the City of Seattle in 1907 by former Washington Senator John Frink. It was upgraded and renovated by the Olmstead Brothers' city park plans in 1909, just in time for the Alaska Yukon Pacific exposition. Today, the park spreads over 17.2 acres as it tumbles down a hillside in the Leschi neighborhood of Seattle. It used to be heavily overgrown, but thanks to the "Friends of Frink Park" group that formed in the 1990s, it is once again a beautiful green park that showcases the natural urban forest of the area. There are also great hiking trails and roads that snake through Frink Park, allowing for nice views of the hillside and ravine. More »

Frye Art Museum

This public museum is dedicated to showcasing 19th and 20th century art from a wide range of artists. The collection originated with the private amassment of Charles and Emma Frye, who had collected over 230 paintings throughout the 19th-20th centuries. In 1952, the museum opened with their collections and was one of the city's first free museums. In Charles' will, he made it clear that his paintings should be displayed in a specific way (in terms of lighting, sizes of rooms, etc.), as well as made the stipulation that it should always be free to view his collection--all rules that made the Seattle Art Museum disinterested in acquiring his works. More »

Future of Flight Aviation Center

The Future of Flight Aviation Center is a must for anyone who's ever looked up as a jet passed overhead, and wondered how it stayed in the air. Open since December 2005, the $23 million dollar project features interactive exhibits, graphics, and videos to educate and entertain all ages. Take a ride on the multi-passenger XJ5 Flight Simulator, or digitally design your own jet. Try out the next generation of in-flight entertainment centers, or just read the interactive exhibits to learn about the technology that keeps these finely tuned crafts flying. Afterward, don't miss a tour through the 472,000,000 cubic feet Boeing Everett factory to see the technology in action, and follow the production of a jetliner from design to take-off. More »

G. Gibson Gallery

To keep abreast of what's going on in the contemporary art world, head to the G. Gibson Gallery. It opened in 1991 and has been a major part of both the local and international art scene ever since. On display here are stunning pieces of contemporary art, from paintings to sculpture to installations, although the gallery's real specialty is mid-20th century fine art photography. The gallery has been a participant in major art shows in various places across the globe, such as Switzerland, New York, and San Francisco, and prides itself on representing and showcasing both local and international artists. More »

Gas Works Park

Located on the site of a former Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant (which converted coal into carbon monoxide and hydrogen for energy), Gas Works is a favorite park of the locals in the area. The land was acquired by the city in 1962 and was opened to the public as a park in 1975. Many parts of the old plant are now incorporated into the park, such as the old exhauster-compressor building that serves as a children's play structure, and the broiler house that shelters picnic tables. Both kids and adults will love to come here to play around on the equipment (it's been repainted and made safe for playing, of course). Gas Works is definitely a must-see if you're visiting Seattle with the family, as it's probably one of the most unique parks you'll ever see. More »

Glass Eye Gallery

This unique gallery focuses on creating pieces as a team, utilizing the ideas of the sales staff, customers, and designers to make beautiful pieces of art. The studio produces various product lines, such as ornaments, vases & bowls, paper weights, votives, and more. They also produce pieces based on different themes, such as images of ocean waves and trees in the "Environmental" category, planet and stars models in the "Celestial" category, and coral and urchin look-alikes in the "Sea Life" category. Glass Eye Studio sells their wares in various retail outlets across the country, or you can purchase their items while visiting the studio. More »

Golden Gardens Park

Near the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, Golden Gardens is a local favorite for sunset-watching, strolling along Puget Sound, and stunning views of the Olympic mountain range. It has a great beach if you want to lounge or swim (only on the warmest summer days, of course), and maintains a wild, nature-y feel even though it's located near town. There are also BBQ pits at the park that make for a great afternoon or evening picnic. If fishing is in your schedule, feel free to bring a small boat to the park's boat launch area, or just bring along a pole, as many people enjoy casting their lines right off of the fishing pier. Fido is also welcome here, as there is a great off-leash area for our canine friends, located in the northern end of the park. Of course, the park also offers a nice play area for the kiddos and wonderful walking trails for those looking to get some exercise. More »

Gordon Woodside / John Braseth Gallery

This pioneering gallery was established in 1961 and has since been one of the more respected galleries of the Pacific Northwest. A variety of Pacific Northwest artists are shown here as well as other established artists from around the country and world. Paintings, sculptures, drawings, and graphic art can all be found here within any given exhibit, holding true to its range of artistic styles. Beyond the rotating gallery exhibits, the gallery plays the role of representative to many well known Pacific Northwest artists and often acquires particular works for local collectors. Contact the gallery for a description of the latest exhibit. More »

Green Lake Park

Centrally located in the neighborhoods of north-central Seattle, Green Lake Park attracts visitors who want to take a stroll around the lake, swim, fish, or boat. Thousands of people visit the park daily because of its convenient location and great amenities. The 2.8-mile path around the lake is especially popular, and, on nice days, is usually very crowded with walkers, joggers, bikers, and roller-bladers. The lake itself is said to have formed over 50,000 years ago by the Vashon Glacial Ice Sheet that moved across the region and also created Lake Washington, Lake Union, and other lakes in the area. In addition to providing a great space for outdoor recreational activities, Green Lake Park also houses a Bathhouse which serves as a theater for local plays, a Community Center complete with gyms and restrooms, and a wading pool for children. More »

Greg Kucera Gallery

The Greg Kucera Gallery has been featuring the best in contemporary artists since it quietly opened its doors in a dilapidated warehouse in 1983. Since then, it has become one of Seattle's favorite galleries for showcasing both emerging local artists and international artists in painting, drawing, and photography. The galley staff puts much effort into fund raising and supporting political and cultural initiatives. In 2004, the galley went under massive renovations to add even more exhibit space.
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Grover/Thurston Gallery

Locally known as one of the best regional galleries in town, the Grover/Thurston Gallery showcases the Northwest's best artistic talent in mediums such as paintings and sculpture. One of the Gallery's most popular artists is Fay Jones--a local painter who uses bold colors to create light, playful pieces; many of her works are even displayed in various public spaces around the city. Grover/Thurston is a popular place, and can be very crowded, especially around the holiday season and on First Thursdays (when galleries around Pioneer Square keep their doors open late for visitors to wander and browse). More »

Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery

Located in Kirkland, Washington (about 10 minutes from Seattle), this gallery specializes in expressionist and playful art. It opened in 1991 as one of the town's first galleries, and is now a local favorite. Gunnar Nordstrom, the gallery's founder, originally started his business selling original prints from international artists such as Miro, Chagall, and Warhol, and soon thereafter opened his gallery in Kirkland to focus on regional art. He not only specializes in showcasing and selling great local art, but also puts on exhibitions, seminars, and shows throughout the year to educate clients and locals about the rich art scene in the Northwest. More »

Henry Art Gallery

This contemporary art gallery is located on the University of Washington campus and is a great place to check out what's new on the modern art scene. They not only feature great local artists, but also works from artists around the world, creating an intriguing mix of exhibits. The museum was founded in 1927, making it the first public art museum in Washington state. In addition to showcasing some of the finest new art, the museum is focused on developing dialogue about issues in modern culture, society, and politics using visual art. Since the museum is located on the U of W campus, they have been successful in fostering a wonderful relationship with students and faculty and have become a great resource for everyone on campus. More »

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

Located in Seattle's Lake Washington Ship Canal, the Hiram H. Chittenden Locks have been working tirelessly since they were constructed in 1917. Their main purposes are to maintain the water levels of both Lake Washington and Lake Union, to move boats between Puget Sound and the lakes (which are at different levels), and to prevent the mixing of the Sound's salt water with the lakes' fresh water. The locks complex comprises a large lock (which can accommodate a ship as long as 760 feet), a small lock, a spillway for changing water levels, and a fish ladder to help migrating salmon get through the locks. Visitors to this site will love watching the boats being moved up and down in the water, checking out the viewing window to see salmon moving up the fish ladder, walking through the on-site botanical garden, and browsing the gift shop for souvenirs and information from the insightful staff. More »

Hoh Rain Forest

As one of the last existing rain forests in the temperate west zone, Olympic National Park's Hoh Rain Forest is a must-see when visiting Seattle. It has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, and is home to thousands of species of animals and plants--even some that aren't found anywhere else on the planet, such as the Olympic torrent salamander, Olympic snow mole, and the Olympic marmot. Be sure to bring a raincoat and good shoes when visiting the forest, as (just like its name connotes) the Hoh Valley usually sees over 145 inches of rain annually. The forest is shrouded in green, dense vegetation, and there are many trails to choose from to wander through the emerald ecosystem. One of the most popular is called the "Hall of Mosses" because it goes through a particularly mossy part of the park, passing by stands of trees completely covered in moss.

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Howard/Mandville Gallery

Since opening as a frame shop in 1972, the Howard/Mandville Gallery has been a popular institution in the Seattle area. After moving a few times, Pat and Dan Howard finally settled on their current 4,000 square-foot gallery in Kirkland, to house their art business. They have steadily gotten more involved in the regional art scene, and showcase artists from the Northwest in their gallery (although there are plenty of national artists featured here as well). You'll find both paintings and sculpture at Howard/Mandville, both of which would make great souvenirs or gifts for art-loving friends. More »

Howell Park and Beach

Although it's a bit out of the way, Howell Park offers a nice, quiet spit of land to sunbathe, swim (when the weather's warm enough, of course), and play on the large expanse of grass. The park is a popular place in the summertime for locals and neighborhood residents to go and take a dip, even though the shoreline is a bit rocky. Even in the winter, this park beckons visitors as it provides a serene place for contemplation and is a great vantage point for watching the waves of Lake Washington wash ashore. More »

International District

East of Pioneer Square is the International District, Seattle's Chinatown, where Asian groceries and restaurants line the streets. Though much smaller than Chinatowns in San Francisco or Vancouver, Seattle's Chinatown represents an important part of the city's heritage. Chinese were among the first settlers in Seattle, followed by Japanese, Filipinos, Vietnamese, Laotians, and others. Later immigrants settled just to the east of the older Chinatown of the early 20th century, in an area known as Little Saigon. The International District is located between Second and 12th Avenues running east-west, and Washington and Weller Streets running north-south. Many Seattleites refer to the area as "Chinatown" or simply "the ID."

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Jackson Park Golf Club

Jackson Park Golf Course is generally one of the busier courses in the area, and for good reason--it's one of the driest courses in Seattle! There are two courses to choose from here, an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole executive course, so it's easy to customize a golf outing here, depending on how much time you have to play. Since Jackson Park is a public course, it's maintained by the City of Seattle and is a nice and relaxing place to hit the links. There's also a pub on-site that serves up great food and drinks, a double-decker heated driving range, as well as a put course to practice your short game. This is the perfect place to come play a casual round of golf; the course is open seven days a week and has twilight and early bird greens fee specials. More »

James Harris Gallery

The James Harris Gallery opened in its Pioneer Square location in 1999, then moved to its current venue on 2nd Ave. It's a great gallery, displaying stunning art on its large wall space, and rotating the pieces so the exhibits are always new and fresh. The space is split up into smaller rooms, which allows Harris to show three or four pieces of art by the same artist in one room, giving the visitor a chance to have a more intimate, in-depth look at the art. The art you'll find here isn't like many of the other, more "corporate" galleries you can find in the area, the pieces on display at this gallery are always innovative and unique in style. More »

Jefferson Park Golf Club

Jefferson Park Golf Club is located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Seattle and is a very popular course with locals. The views from the course are stunning, as golfers are treated to vistas of the surrounding city skyline and breathtaking sights of Mt. Rainier. The course stretches for 6,200 yards and was designed by renowned golf course architect Thomas Bendelow, who designed over 600 courses in his illustrious career. The Jefferson Park course is a public course maintained by the City of Seattle, and is very well kept--the greens are perfectly manicured and the course is always clean. It's a convenient place to go for a nice afternoon round, especially if you don't have the time to drive out of the city. More »

Jimi Hendrix Gravesite

Although Jimi Hendrix's relatives have plans to re-inter his body in a larger and more ornate memorial, the legend currently lies in a rather austere gravesite, the headstone adorned only with the basic information and an engraved guitar. However, his grave is always nicely decorated with fans' flowers, notes, pictures, and drawings. For those who want to make the pilgrimage, Jimi is buried in the Greenwood Cemetery in the town of Renton. More »

Kirkland Arts Center

This center is both a school for visual arts and a gallery. It offers many classes and workshops for those interested in learning about art, developing their skills, and gaining an understanding and appreciation for various art mediums. The Center originated in 1962, when a group of dedicated art lovers (the Creative Arts League) gathered together and decided they wanted to establish a place where artists and citizens of the community could come together to participate in and appreciate art. The building that houses the center, the Peter Kirk Building, is a historic landmark in the town of Kirkland, and has been preserved and maintained well by the League, and now serves as a wonderful teaching institution, arts studio, and beautiful exhibition gallery. More »

Kirsten Gallery

Culture often follows climate, and so it is with the Kirsten Gallery, which features art from all around the Northwest, as well as native art, maritime-inspired art, and an outdoor sculpture garden. Local art of many different media dominate, and for art lovers, this is a good opportunity to take in some of Seattle's fine arts scene. You may have to twist the arms of your fellow compatriots in your group should they not be particularly interested in the art of the region, but at the same time, they might find they like some of it too. So don't hesitate to twist them a bit. More »

Klondike Gold Rush - National Historical Park

The 19th century was captivated by many speculators to travel to where gold had been discovered, or at least, where there were rumors. One of those discoveries was up in the Klondike region of Alaska and Canada at the turn of the century, and travelers made their way up the trail through Seattle, an important outpost on the trail where speculators chased the dream of the gold rush. The old Cadillac Hotel, which the National Parks Service has preserved as a museum (and somewhat confusingly named as a "national historic park," though no green here!), was an important place where travelers gathered, bought supplies, and saddled up for the long road north. The exhibits and staff do a great job of bringing you back to that unique time and place--it's great for kids and adults, but most especially those interested in the frontier spirit of the West. More »

Lake Sammamish State Park

Popular with locals, this 512-acre park includes over a mile of waterfront to spread out and enjoy Lake Sammamish. Boating, fishing, waterskiing, and all kinds of water activities are found here, and the surrounding area includes hiking trails, volleyball courts, soccer fields, softball fields, and even some horseshoe pits. Definitely pick up some food if you're going to make a day of it, though picnic table space can be hard to come by, so if you're going with family and they might have a camping table, that'd be ideal. It's a great public park and heavily used by folks on the weekends when it's sunny outside, so be forewarned. More »

Lake Union

Smack dab in the middle of the city is Lake Union, a glacial lake that was carved by a receding glacier, a force of nature that also carved surrounding water basins including the much larger Lake Washington. It's still pretty large in its own right, with some 600 acres of lake in the center city. The views of downtown Seattle are amazing, and the marinas and floating houses which line the shoreline of Lake Union are a real trip for out-of-towners. It's popular among recreation-minded Seattle residents and tourists, too, be it in a kayak or on a sailboat. July 4th is the time to hang around down here as the spectacular fireworks show that takes place is something you don't want to miss if at all possible. More »

Lake Washington

Although usually too cold for swimming, Lake Washington still provides fun for joggers, walkers, and cyclists along its shoreline paths and boat rentals for those who want to get out on the lake without actually getting in. The lake is 18 miles long and nearly 3-and-a-half miles wide, and the water is largely free of pollutants, thanks to a clean-up campaign launched in the 1960s. Follow Lake Washington Boulevard alongside the coast for some great views not only the lake but also of some of Seattle's most interesting, and upscale, domestic buildings. More »

Lakeview Cemetery

One of the more scenic views in all of Seattle is from atop Lakeview Cemetery, which overlooks Lake Union, Lake Washington, and the cityscape below. It is the final resting place of many of Seattle's founders and also Bruce and Brandon Lee, father and son film stars. Even if you're not a Seattle history buff, the views are worth a trip here, if just to walk around for a bit. Cemeteries can be a bit morbid for some, but on the other hand, sometimes reflecting on mortality outside of a funeral can be worth the time. This hillside cemetery is nothing if not reflective. More »

Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center

Dedicated to the groundbreaking writer Langston Hughes, this performing arts center, located in Central Hill in a former synagogue, is an ode to African-American performance art and culture. It was established in 1972 by the city of Seattle and remains under the city's purview, though the cultural programs are also supported by private donations and event fees. For the past three decades-plus, it has been home to plays, performances, classes, lectures, and everything in between--often for free. Check the website for a schedule, you may find yourself in town for one of these great events. More »

Linda Hodges Gallery

Founded in 1983, this Pioneer Square art gallery showcases mostly regional Northwest painters and sculptors, although a few national artists' works are on display here as well. The Gallery's owner, Linda Hodges, has over 25 years of experience working with clients consulting about and acquiring fine art, so if you're looking for advice on your next art purchase, she's the person to speak with. Over 30 different artists are spotlighted here at one time, so there are plenty of pieces to choose from. Examples of some of these artists include: Chester Arnold, David French, Cynthia Krieble, and Gayle Bard. More »

Lisa Harris Gallery

The Lisa Harris Gallery features contemporary art, and although many of the pieces feature whimsical and expressionistic themes, the art is timeless. It's located at Pike Place Market, so it's a convenient place to shop for art, and a great place to get away from the busy market below. Lisa Harris opened the gallery in 1984 and has since been focusing on helping develop and promote emerging artists with connections to the West Coast and Northwest. The gallery always showcases rotating exhibits, so you'll be sure to see new things here with every visit; they also participate in First Thursdays, so feel free to stop by on Thursday evenings after hours to browse the beautiful art. More »

Log House Museum

This renovated log home was originally constructed in the early 1900s. It once served as the carriage house of the "Fir Lodge"--a large home built in the Alki area by early Seattle settlers and prominent citizens, William and Gladys Bernard. Over the years, the Log House has had various occupations (aside from the carriage house) including serving as the residence of countless Seattle families and being used as an antique shop. In 1995, the Southwest Seattle Historical Society purchased the house and restored it to become the Log House Museum, which officially opened in 1997. Today, the museum houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of Seattle's history; they also put on various cultural programs that educate visitors about the history of the Duwamish Peninsula (the western area of Seattle where the community of Alki is located). More »

Luther Burbank Park

This popular park is located on the northeast corner of Mercer Island and is a great place to go for an afternoon filled with activities. There is a lot to do and see here, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, tennis, and (of course) playing. The park comprises 77 acres, so there is plenty of room to spread out, as well as take in the incredible array of wildlife that call Luther Burbank home. In fact, much of the park has not been developed purposefully to encourage the natural wildlife to thrive; over 135 species of birds as well as muskrats, raccoons, beavers, and many more animals have chosen to make their home here. On warm days, this park can be very crowded, as it's a favorite place to take the family for a nice day at the park. More »

Madison Park & Beach

Madison Park offers visitors a wonderful green space to play and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Seattle. It is located on the western edge of Lake Washington and boasts one of the city's best swimming beaches--there's even a floating raft and diving boards here (no wonder it's a favorite!). The park was established in the late 19th century by Seattle Judge John J. McGilvra. Back then, in its heyday, the park featured amazing amenities such as a promenade, paddle wheel boat, floating bandstands, beer halls, and much more. Although the park today doesn't offer the same amenities as it did when it first opened, it's still a great place to come play and swim on those warm summer days--just be sure to set up your beach towel and umbrella early, as the beach can get crowded! More »

Madrona Park

Located on the western shores of Lake Washington, this park is situated in the Madrona neighborhood of Seattle and is a popular place to relax in the area. One of the park's best features is its beautiful wooded hillside that runs down to the grass and beach area. The park also has a great swimming beach complete with a bathhouse and lifeguards on duty during the summer. In addition, there's a walking path that goes along the lake, which is a favorite of local joggers, walkers, and cyclists. Bring along your basket and sandwich fixins' when you visit Madrona Park, as there are great picnic areas scattered about the park. More »

Marina Park

Located on the shores of the city of Kirkland, Marina Park serves the community as a gathering and play place, swimming area, and boat dock/launch. In addition to a variety of activities that the whole family will enjoy, the park also offers great views of Lake Washington and Seattle's skyline. During the summer, stop by the beautiful open-air pavilion to treat your ears to the great summer concert series that's open to the public. Other events that are held at Marina Park throughout the year include Summerfest, Kirkland Uncorked, and a rockin' Independence Day celebration. Although it is very easy to access the park by foot or vehicle, those arriving via boat also are welcome, as there are over 70 slips available for overnight (up to three days) moorage. More »

Marion Oliver McCaw Hall

This $127 million, 295,000 square-foot center was completed in June 2003 with grandiose results: a 17,800 square-foot plaza serves as an entry way to the center's 2,900 seat auditorium, lecture hall, cafe, and five-story glass Grand Lobby. Not only was the hall built to be one of the best of its kind in design, convenience, and state-of-the-art technology, but it is also one of the few performance halls constructed with Green principles in mind; in fact, it is comprised of 25% recycled content materials, and 75% of the construction waste and debris were recycled. The center is now the home of the Seattle Opera and the Pacific Northwest Ballet, as well as many other festivals, productions, performers, and even weddings. More »

Marymoor Park

Owned and operated by King County, Marymoor Park is a popular place to go for sprawling open wilderness. It spreads over 640 acres near the city of Redmond, Washington, and offers a plethora of activities for everyone. Features of the park include wide green fields, protected wetlands, farmland, a climbing rock, lighted baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, a 40-acre off-leash dog park, rowing areas, and much more. Be sure to stop by Clise Mansion when visiting the park--it's an early 20th century country estate that has been beautifully restored. The mansion is a great place for the whole family to explore, as well as a popular venue for event rentals. More »

Mercer Slough Nature Park

Located in the Bellevue neighborhood of Seattle, Mercer Slough is a gorgeous park that encompasses one of the largest natural wetland/marsh areas of Lake Washington. Is spreads over 320 acres and provides a wonderful setting for various recreational activities such as hiking, bicycling, canoeing, and even blueberry picking. The Slough is a protected wetland ecosystem that is home to over 170 different species of wildlife and hundreds more species of plant life, so be conscious of not disturbing the fragile ecosystems when you visit. Head to the on-site environmental education center for an in-depth lesson in the ecology of the area, as well as a great place to plan your visit to the park. If you're in the mood for snacking, the blueberry farm is the place for you; there are great u-pick opportunities here, as well as seasonal fresh produce sales. More »

Ming's Asian Gallery

Head to Ming's to feast your eyes on a stunning array of antique Asian furniture and beautiful art. You'll find things from paintings to armoires to ivory carvings here, all beautifully displayed in a gallery fashion. The Gallery prides itself on creating a true experience for shoppers so they're not just buying a household accessory--each piece here comes with a story, so buying a chair here means buying a piece of history as well as a piece of furniture. There are many countries/nationalities represented here, so if you're looking for something from Cambodia, China, Nepal, or a number of other Asian countries, Ming's is the place to visit. More »

Mount Rainier National Park

Sprawling over 235,625 acres, Mount Rainier National Park is one of those places you can visit over and over again and not see the same thing twice. It was established as an official National Park in 1899, and was immediately popular--today the park sees over two million visitors annually. Many visitors come to see the park's namesake, Mt. Rainier (which towers at 14,410 feet), and even more come just to see the stunning beauty of the Washington wilderness. The park features over 50 hiking trails, countless lakes and streams, and great climbing routes, whether you want to scale Mt. Rainier or boulder at lower elevations. There are multiple Visitor Centers located within the park, so you'll never be at a loss for park information, whether it's about the area's best hiking trails or the history of the old-growth forest. More »

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

While a trip to Mount St. Helens from Seattle makes for a long day, the sights here are absolutely unique. For anyone interested in geology and natural history, this trip is well worth the effort. For most people in the Pacific Northwest, the events of May 18, 1980 are welded into memory. That's when Mt. St. Helens erupted, leveling hundreds of square miles of forest and spreading volcanic ash across the Northwest. After the smoke cleared, Mount St. Helens, once a symmetrical 9,677-foot mountain covered with glaciers, had blown 1,300 feet off its peak and deposited a mile-wide crater on its north side. In 1982, 172 square miles around the mountain were included in the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. More »

Mount Zion Baptist Church

This historic church has one of the largest African-American congregations in the state of Washington and is a popular community gathering place. The church itself can trace its roots all the way back to 1890, when a group of Baptist members began to meet in homes around the area. They finally erected their first actual building in 1907, then moved to their current location on 19th Ave in 1918. The church's congregation grew quickly in the 1940s during World War II, as there was a great influx of people who moved to Seattle to work for Boeing and other war-related companies. Over the years, Mount Zion has not only established a committed congregation, but also a daycare center, a kindergarten, a scholarship fund, and other community-based institutions. More »

Museum of Flight

This comprehensive museum's mission is to preserve and educate the public about flight, from exhibits about the first flying machines to current trends in space travel. They have preserved many historic flight artifacts, including World War II aircraft and a recently retired Concorde airliner, to name a few. Visitors can get up close and personal with the museum's exhibits and experience fun aviation themes such as testing out flight simulators and learning about the air traffic control system, air mail, and the Bush pilots of Alaska. Or, take a tour of the first presidential jet plane that served such esteemed American leaders as Eisenhower, Kennedy, Nixon, and others. The Museum of Flight is a great place to take aviation buffs and could keep them entertained for hours, as there is so much to see and do here. More »

Museum of History & Industry

The Museum of History & Industry offers an engaging journey through the history of Seattle in its core exhibit, "Essential Seattle," which traces the arrival of settlers up through the present, with films, oral histories, stirring images and fascinating artifacts. MOHAI also offers traveling exhibits from around the country, including John James Audubon, American Artist and Naturalist and Lincoln: the Constitution and the Civil War from the National Constitution Center. MOHAI offers lectures, walking tours, family programs and other events. With 2 million historic images, MOHAI is an important resource to the community. More »

Myrtle Edwards Park

This park is known for its great views of Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. There's a popular 1.25-mile trail here that winds along the bay and is great for walking, jogging, or bicycling. The park was named after Myrtle Edwards, former Chairwoman of the Parks and Public Grounds Committee, and former President of the City Council. She worked hard to preserve and protect Seattle's precious natural resources and beauty by creating city parks and enhancing them with gardens and sculptures. In 1976, Myrtle's family gave the city permission to re-name Elliott Bay Park after their loved one, and Myrtle Beach Park was officially established. More »

Newcastle Beach Park

Located in the Bellevue area of Seattle, Newcastle Beach Park is one of the largest beach parks in the area, but has managed to remain fairly unknown. The people who do know about it come here to sunbathe and swim on warm summer days, and stroll and enjoy the scenery on colder days. There's even a nature trail here, so folks can not only get exercise walking on the path, but also learn about the surrounding environment. The park also features a few picnic areas, some with shelters and BBQ pits, so feel free to bring a lunch along for your day at the park. More »

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1974 for the protection of native wildlife and migratory birds, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge covers more than 3,000 acres at confluence point of the freshwater Nisqually River and the saltwater Puget Sound. The area is biologically diverse and fragile, as it comprises a multitude of ecosystems, including wetlands, estuary, and riparian woodlands. Over 275 species of migratory birds call the area home (as well as thousands more animal and plant species) and the Refuge has established various programs to preserve them, such as habitat restoration and invasive species management. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center to view the educational exhibits and learn more about the Refuge's ecosystems and wildlife; there's also a gift shop here where you can pick up souvenirs and gifts to remember your trip. More »

Nordic Heritage Museum

This unique museum is dedicated to the Scandinavian heritage of the Northwest and is one of the only museums of its kind in the U.S. The countries represented here include the five Nordic countries of the world: Iceland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Exhibits here showcase such themes as Dream of America and Latvian Art: Past and Present; there are also whole rooms here dedicated to each of the five Nordic countries, which all feature clothing, tools, relics, household items, and other memorabilia. Aside from the great exhibits on display at the Nordic Heritage Museum, be sure to check out some of the classes and workshops offered by the museum's staff. You could learn how to do Nordic woodworking, Viking cooking, or Hardanger embroidery in any one of these fun, interactive classes. More »

Northwest Craft Center

This is a great place to go if you're looking for beautiful, one-of-a-kind art pieces. The variety of mediums/styles that are represented here is astonishing--from glass to prints to jewelry to paintings, you'll be sure to find just the piece you're looking for. The Center's main highlight, though, is ceramic art, including both aesthetic pieces (like sculptures) to more functional items (such as bowls, plates, etc.). Opened in 1963, the Northwest Craft Center is one of the area's oldest art galleries, so be sure to stop by to pay homage to the Center's appreciation of art over the years. More »

Northwest Puppet Center

Showcasing local, national, and international puppeteers, the Northwest Puppet Center has become a favorite community entertainment venue. The Center is owned and operated by Chris and Stephen Carter, who both have gone through master puppeteer training in Sicily, Romania, and China. They opened their current operation in 1993 in the Maple Leaf neighborhood of Seattle and have been enchanting audiences with their performances ever since. Featuring the Carter Family Marionettes, the Center puts on over 250 shows throughout the year, including such favorites as Cinderella: Italian Fairytale, Don Quixote, and The Adventures of Sinbad: Persian Stories. They have different schedules for weekdays, weekends, holidays, and school performances, so be sure to check the website to see what's playing before stopping in. More »

Occidental Square

Less crowded than nearby Pioneer Square, Occidental Square offers pedestrians a tree-lined walk surrounded by many of Seattle's best cafes, galleries, and Victorian homes. This square also holds four totem poles, carved by Northwest artist Duane Pasco, featuring important figures from Native American legends. Additionally, there is a memorial to Seattle firefighters who died in the line of duty. More »

Odyssey: The Maritime Discovery Center

This museum covers everything maritime, from boat operation to dock work to the fishing industry. Since Seattle is a huge port city, this museum is a great place to go to learn about one of the city's most important industries and how it shapes the area's culture and lifestyle. There are over 45 interactive and educational exhibits to see here--check out the "Sustaining the Sea Gallery" to learn about fish catching statistics, harvesting, processing, and selling; or head over to the "Harborwatch Exhibits" for information about the ships that use Seattle's harbor, from navigation to carrying cargo. This is a great place to bring the whole family, especially those who love boats, fish, and water. More »

Olympic National Park

This gorgeous park is a great site to visit, as it encompasses three stunning ecosystems/regions in one park. Visitors will be treated to experiencing the Olympic mountain range, the Pacific coast, and a temperate rainforest when they tour the park. The mountain range boats beautiful views of the forest and coast below, as well as a multitude of snow-covered craggy peaks that are home to many ancient glaciers. The rainforest lies on the western side of the park, and comprises two different rainforests, the Hoh and the Quinault, which make up the wettest area in the continental United States. Finally, the park's coastline is a ruggedly beautiful strip of sand beach lined with lush forest; the beach runs for 73 miles, so there are plenty of opportunities for long walks on the beach, if you can brave the cold. Olympic National Park is one of the best places to go if you're looking for true wilderness; since the park is huge (about 922,000 acres), and much of its interior is only accessible by hiking trails, there plenty opportunities to hike and camp for days without seeing another person. More »

Olympic Peninsula

Located in western Washington, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean, the Olympic Peninsula is one of the area's most scenic places. There are various parks and open spaces to visit here, including the popular Olympic National Park, the rugged and coastal Cape Flattery, Salt Creek county park (which offers great tide pools), and the Dungeness Spit and Wildlife Refuge--a great beach-hiking spot. In addition to park-hopping, be sure to stop by some of the quaint coastal towns in this area. Sequim is a cute little town that's famous for its lavender cultivation; in fact, it holds the title of "Lavender Capital of North America", and has one of the best climates in the world for growing the fragrant plant. Port Townsend and Port Angeles are also, as their names infer, great port towns to visit, as well as the tiny town of Forks, a popular jumping off point for fishing excursions in the nearby fish-filled rivers and streams. Overall, if you're looking for a great place for a multi-day car trip or even a day trip in Washington, the Olympic Peninsula can't be beat for its scenery, unique communities, culture, and raw natural beauty. More »

P-Patches

Stemming from a unique idea of letting neighborhoods cultivate the land they live on, P-Patches are plots of land spread throughout the Seattle area that are open for organic community gardening. There are more than 2500 plots that encompass about 23 acres of land throughout the city, and about 6000 community members utilize them to create their own gardens. The city supplies the land, and residents supply the gardening and eight hours per year of volunteer time that's required to participate in the program. Currently, the gardens produce many tons of organic homegrown produce that's enjoyed by local residents, and they also donate about 7 to 10 tons of the produce to local food banks per year, so the gardens not only benefit the gardeners, but also the greater good of the community. The P-Patch program was started about 35 years ago by the P-Patch Trust group in Seattle, and has grown in scope and popularity since then to create successful local gardens all over the city. More »

Pacific Place

Located at 6th and Pine Streets downtown, Pacific Place is Seattle's upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment center. Retailers include Tiffany & Co., MaxMara, and Coach, along with J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Helly Hansen, Pottery Barn, and Williams-Sonoma. There's also an 11-screen AMC Theaters complex, plus a Skybridge connection to the flagship Nordstrom store. More »

Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection

Known as an "outdoor museum of living art", this bonsai collection is displayed almost as an art gallery, with the delicate, shaped trees elegantly showcased among perfectly manicured garden grounds. The collection features about 60 trees and represents six different Pacific Rim nations--China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Canada, and the United States. Although the collection is owned by Wayerhaeuser Company (one of the largest forest products company in the world), and it may seem strange that a company that makes products from trees would showcase a display of trees, the collection is still a worthwhile sight to see, as the trees are truly works of art. Wayerhaeuser established the collection in 1989, as part of the State of Seattle's centennial celebration, and sees it as a symbol of their commitment to their partners in the Pacific Rim by honoring the cultures and art of the region. The collection is free and open to the public for all to enjoy. More »

Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is a kid's paradise. It features multiple buildings with hundreds of permanent interactive displays, as well as temporary rotating exhibits that spotlight a certain theme, such as the "Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia". Stop by the "Insect Village" to get a glimpse of what an insect's life is like, from understanding different insects' metamorphosis processes to learning about each insect's super power. Or, head over to the Body Works exhibit to test out various computer games in the Nutrition Cafe, or learn how many calories you burn while riding a bike--this exhibit is all about the human body. If you're tired of wandering around inside, head outdoors to try some more fun experiments, such as moving a two-ton granite ball with your hands, or riding the bicycle that's suspended on a one-inch-wide track 15 feet above the ground. Whatever part of science you're interested in, there are enough exhibits here to provide hours of learning and fun. More »

Pantages Theater

This gorgeous old theater is located in the heart of Tacoma and is the venue for the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts. Constructed in 1918, the theater's architects designed its style after an ornate theater within the Palace of Versailles in France. After being the venue for live theater and then a movie house, the building was completely renovated in the 1980s and renamed the Pantages Theater, as it is today. These days the theater hosts a variety of events from live music to film festivals to theater. More »

Peter Kirk Park

This beautiful park is a popular place for locals to go for a fun family afternoon. Named after Peter Kirk, one of the early founders of the city of Kirkland, the park features wonderful open green space, and also a slew of nice amenities, such as a renovated public pool, basketball court, tennis courts, playground, teen center, skate park, and much more. There is also a nice array of lawn sculptures scattered around the park's grounds, giving it a bit of an artsy feel, and adding to the park's aesthetic appeal. Those looking for exercise (besides chasing the kids around on the grass) will love the paved paths that meander around the park and link it to a nearby parking structure. More »

Pike Place Fish Market

For the best fresh seafood around, and some fun entertainment, the Pike Place Fish Market can't be beat. This lively stand sits at the entrance to the Pike Place Market and sells freshly-caught seafood, which includes everything from wild Alaskan King Salmon to Live Manila Clams to sashimi-grade Yellowfin Tuna Steaks. The "fishmongers" (or the guys who work behind the counter here) love working at Pike Place Fish, and customers can tell. Part of the experience of coming here is watching and listening to the fishmongers who yell out orders, throw fish, and joke around with not only with each other but also with the crowd of customers that always gathers around the watch the spectacle. This definitely isn't your average fish market, and it always makes for a fun place to visit, whether you're six years old or sixty. More »

Pike Place Market

You can't visit Seattle without a stop at Pike Place Market. Quintessentially Seattle, the Market boasts countless stalls and vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, crafts, and many more conventional and unique items. With shopping areas both inside and out, the market provides a good venue for wandering, whether it's raining outside or not--just remember to bring a basket or bag to bring home all of your purchases! Hunger is sure to strike after hours of wandering the Market, and there are a wide variety of dining options to choose from--from fresh seafood to great coffee houses to bars, there's something to for everyone. The Market has been around since 1907, giving it lots of history and local appreciation--in fact, the Market has become such a part of the city that it's been called "The Soul of Seattle". More »

Pike Place Starbucks

The world's very first Starbucks store opened here in 1971 as a coffee bean roasting house. It began selling retail coffee in 1983, after marketing genius Howard Shulz joined the company and traveled to Italy, where he fell in love with delicious espresso and cappuccino. He envisioned a new era of coffee culture and soon brought (and quickly expanded) the tradition of the neighborhood coffee house. Today, you can still get your favorite Starbucks drink at the Pike Place Market location. More »

Pioneer Building

Several magnificent old structures face Pioneer Square, including the Pioneer Building. Built in 1891, it is one of the finest Victorian buildings left in Seattle; many mining companies had offices here during the Klondike Gold Rush years. It now houses Doc Maynard's Public House, a handsome old bar and restaurant. It is also the starting point for the Underground Tour. More »

Pioneer Square

Browsing Pioneer Square area is rather like visiting a movie set of early-20th-century Seattle, except that the food and the shopping are better. This is the birthplace of Seattle, and the red-brick district of historic buildings and totem-lined plazas is still a real crossroads of the modern city. Pioneer Square was in decline for years until cheap rents and Historic Register status brought in art galleries, antique shops, and interior design shops. Many Pioneer Square restaurants celebrate the frontier image while serving excellent food. Pioneer Square is also a major center for live music and nightlife. Right at the corner of Cherry St and 1st Ave is the original Pioneer Square--a cobblestone triangular plaza where Henry Yesler's sawmill cut the giant trees that marked Seattle's first industry. Known officially as Pioneer Square Park, the plaza features a bust of Chief Sealth (the town's namesake), an ornate pergola, and a totem pole. More »

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Tacoma's favorite attraction, this zoo and aquarium sit in the middle of dramatically situated Point Defiance Park. There's something for everyone here. Several cafes will provide you and your troops with plenty of sustenance, and an excellent gift shop holds many unique treasures. More »

Port Angeles, Washington

Located on the northern part of the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles is a busy port town, servicing popular ferry routes to Victoria, British Columbia in Canada. It's a great central point for visiting other local attractions on the Peninsula or for starting out on (and stocking up on supplies for) a kayaking, bicycling, fishing, or hiking adventure. There are plenty of small boutique shops located in downtown Port Angeles, selling everything from nautical souvenir treasures to local artwork, so if you need to pick up a gift for loved ones at home, it's a great place to wander. This town is simply a nice, laid-back port community that makes for a perfect low-key escape from the busy city. More »

Port Townsend, Washington

Port Townsend is a small town on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula that's sure to enchant any visitor with its unique Victorian architecture. It's a port town, hosting many incoming and local boats and watercraft, particularly antique wooden boats as there is a well-known community of maritime craftsmen and artists who live here. The town is definitely an artist community, as evidenced by the many art galleries and artist collectives located downtown. Port Townsend went through a big economic boom during the 19th century, as the shipping industry was strong and many prominent figures in the industry constructed large homes in the area and fueled the economy. Today, many of these buildings remain in the town, giving it a cozy, antique feel that visitors love. The town is also home to various festivals throughout the year that draw crowds from all over the region; examples include the Wooden Boat Festival, the Kinetic Sculpture Race, the Port Townsend Jazz Festival, and many others. More »

Queen Anne

Rising above the Seattle Center is prestigious Queen Anne--an old neighborhood of majestic redbrick houses and apartment buildings, sweeping manicured lawns, and gorgeous views of the city and surrounding waterways. Situated on one of the original seven hills of Seattle, Queen Anne Hill is also the steepest and highest, rising precipitously above Elliott Bay and Lake Union. Named for the prominent Queen Anne-style houses first built on the lower slopes, the neighborhood now has a neat mix of architectural styles, reflecting the varying tastes and incomes of the neighborhood's first residents. Queen Anne has two distinct sides: the funky Lower Queen Anne (at the bottom of the hill) and Upper Queen Anne (on top), which has some great restaurants. More »

Qwest Field

The swanky home of the Seattle Seahawks football team, $360-million Qwest Field is located at the corner of S. King Street and Occidental Avenue bordering Pioneer Square and the International District. With a seating capacity for 72,000 screaming Seahawks fans, a roof that covers 70% of the field, plus state-of-the art amenities and excellent dining options, Qwest Field is a terrific place to watch a game. More »

Ravenna Park

Ravenna Park surrounds a half-mile wooded ravine, just north of the University District. The park spans almost 50 acres and is a popular spot for meandering along trails, jogging, and picnics. In warmer weather, you'll see many students studying on blankets, happy to be outdoors. Park features include a play area for children, a wading pool, baseball diamond, and tennis courts. More »

Redhook Ale Brewery

Established in 1981 by Paul Shipman and Gordon Bowker, Redhook has been a Northwest institution ever since. They decided on the Northwest because the people there loved their microbrews and the market for beer was increasing steadily across the country. Redhook's popularity grew and grew in the region, so in 1988, they had to move to a much larger brewing facility than their original 5,000 square-foot building. They, along with help from a German company, converted the Seattle Electric Railway's home into their base, and created a state-of-the-art brewhouse. Today, the brewery produces about nine different beers, including their very popular Redhook ESB, Blackhook Porter, and Redhook Blonde Ale, as well as a number of seasonal and limited release ales. More »

Remlinger Farms

This a great place to take the kiddos to learn about farming and other life questions such as where food comes from. Remlinger Farms began as a small fruit stand in 1965 and, over the past 30 years, has grown to the successful 200-acre farm and visitor attraction it is today. Today, they offer not only a nice place for families to check out farm life and learn about harvesting food, but there are also many other attractions that make up the Remlinger experience. Some of these attractions include: a restaurant, ice cream parlor, u-pick fields, picnic areas, and a whole "Country Fun Park" which features rides, a farm theater, canoe floating river, hay maze, ferris wheel, and more. More »

Rhododendron Species Foundation Botanical Gardens

This stunning garden encompasses over 20 acres and is located at paper giant Weyerhaeuser's corporate headquarters. The non-profit Rhododendron Species Foundation operates the garden, and has a mission of conserving, cultivating, and publicly showcasing a multitude of Rhododendron species. The collection at this garden comprises one of the largest groups of Rhododendron and Azalea flowers in the world--the Rhododendron collection itself includes over 10,000 flowers! The best time to visit the garden is March through May, when the blooms are abundant and amazingly colorful, although the flowers can be seen in bloom generally anytime from late January through late July. Aside from wandering the garden and looking at the plants, you can also purchase selected plants, seeds, and pollen from the Foundation's annual catalog or from their twice-yearly plant sales. More »

Safeco Field

This enormous field, home to baseball team the Seattle Mariners, was constructed in 1996 and opened for its inaugural game in 1999 with a Mariners game against the San Diego Padres. The facility is state-of-the-art, and features a retractable roof that weighs 22 million pounds and, at the push of a button, can be closed or opened in about 15 to 20 minutes to cover or uncover the entire stadium below. The playing field itself is comprised of four different types of Kentucky bluegrass and two other types of grass to create an optimal surface for the players. It also enjoys an advanced drainage system--perfect for those rainy Seattle conditions--that utilizes pipes, sand, gravel, and grass to keep the field nice and dry. With a seating capacity of about 47,000 people, Safeco field has become of Seattle's premiere athletic venues. More »

Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral

This beautiful Cathedral is located on the western side of Lake Union and has an interesting history. In 1889, plans to build a second Episcopalian church in Seattle were made, as the original Trinity church was getting too small for the congregation, and people wanted a "less formal" place to worship. The first St. Mark's was built in 1890, but was quickly outgrown by 1896, and a new, bigger church was constructed in 1897. Later, after the end of World War I, the diocese wanted to build a "Victory Cathedral", and land was purchased to complete this plan in 1923. By 1928, construction had started and the hopes for a magnificent St. Mark's Cathedral were on their way to becoming reality. When the Great Depression hit in the 1930s, the elegant plans for the Cathedral were altered, and it ended up as it stands today, affectionately called the "Holy Box". In 1941, the church couldn't keep up with its mortgage payments, and the building was officially closed. Soon thereafter, the U.S. military bought the building and used it as an anti-aircraft training center. Finally, in 1944, the structure was back in the hands of the church, and has been serving the Episcopalian community of Seattle ever since. More »

Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism

If you're looking for a place to learn about Buddhism and focus on your spiritual and personal growth, the Sakya Monastery is a great option. It's one of the only Tibetan monasteries in the United States and was originally constructed in 1928 for use as a Presbyterian church. In 1975, it was re-purposed as the Sakya Monastery and has been leading and teaching cultural and spiritual classes and workshops ever since. Instruction ranges from guided meditation practice to bead-making to the fundamentals of Tibetan Buddhism. If you're not interested in sitting in on a lecture or class, stop by this building to admire its architecture, glance through the gorgeous meditation rooms, or browse the library. More »

San Juan Islands

The San Juan archipelago contains 457 islands sprawled across 750 square miles of Pacific waters in the area where Puget Sound and the straits of Juan de Fuca and Georgia meet. Only about 200 of these islands are named, and only a handful are inhabited. Washington State Ferries provides service to the four largest islands--San Juan, Orcas, Shaw, and Lopez--while others are accessible only by private boat or plane. The islands are a major holiday destination, and many people come with their bikes to cycle around and explore. The islands are small, largely flat, and laced with deserted roads, making this a great getaway for cyclists. More »

Science Fiction Museum & Hall of Fame

Housed in the same unique, Frank Gehry-designed building as the Experience Music Project, the Science Fiction Museum & Hall of Fame (SFM) is home to a great collection of sci-fi memorabilia and exhibits. There are lots of displays and interactive exhibits here that focus on science fiction in the media, in literature, and in our own lives. Visitors will be treated to experiences such as an in-depth look at robots, discussions about the origination and ideas of the genre of science fiction, and exhibits about the future of our society, from cities in space to experimental societies. The Hall of Fame inducts influential people in the sci-fi world, from authors to movie directors to artists. It honors them and their pioneering work in the field and invites only four of these esteemed individuals to join the Hall each year. More »

Seattle Aquarium

Built in 1977, this nationally-renowned aquarium features great educational exhibits focusing on the understanding and preservation of marine life. It recently underwent a major expansion, which added 18,000 square feet of exhibit space to the original building, making room for such interesting attractions as an open 40-foot wave tank that showcases animals and how they live and thrive in turbulent sea conditions. Visitors will get a chance to see a variety of marine animals up-close here, including octopus, sea otters, and of course thousands of colorful fish. In the “Life on the Edge” tide pool exhibit, you'll not just get to see the animals, but can touch them, too; try stroking the rough arms of a sea star or brushing up against sticky sea anemone tentacles. Head over to the Underwater Dome to find out what it's like underneath the waves, as you look up at the underwater glass-ceilinged dome above you and gaze at the salmon, sharks, rockfish, sturgeon, and other creatures that swim above your head. The aquarium is one of the best places to visit to really understand the importance and beauty of our underwater ecosystems. More »

Seattle Art Museum

This popular art museum was founded in 1906, with the establishment of the Seattle Fine Arts Society. In 1931, a member of the Society, Dr. Richard E. Fuller, donated his collection of Chinese and Japanese art (and a large sum of money) to the City of Seattle for the creation of a city art museum. The museum was complete and opened to the public in 1933, and was a huge success from the beginning, as in its first six months of operation, it saw crowds in excess of 300,000 people come to visit. The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) currently showcases both temporary and permanent exhibits, spotlighting artists from around the world. There are over 25,000 pieces in SAM's collection, representing traditional European, ethnic, and modern paintings and sculpture. In addition to its main downtown museum, the Seattle Art Museum also operates two other art venues, the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park. More »

Seattle Asian Art Museum

Located in Volunteer Park, the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM) features art from various Asian countries, including China, Japan, Korea, South Asia, and the Himalayas. The building housing the collection used to be the home of the Seattle Art Museum, but when that collection moved to a building downtown in 1991, the SAAM moved in and has been awing visitors ever since. The museum has an impressive collection of Chinese terra cotta art, Japanese panel screen art, Chinese snuff bottles, as well as many other beautiful items. In addition to their permanent exhibits, the SAAM also features a variety of temporary exhibitions; recent favorites include: Inspired Simplicity: Contemporary Art from Korea, Discovering Buddhist Art--Seeking the Sublime, and Chinese Art: A Seattle Perspective. More »

Seattle Center

This 74-acre complex is the place to go for entertainment, art, cultural programs, and festivals in Seattle. The Seattle Center was originally constructed in the early 1960s for the "Century 21" World's Fair Exposition. Many of Seattle's most famous attractions are located here, including the Space Needle, the Seattle Science Center, the main terminal for the Seattle Monorail, Experience Music Project, Key Arena, and more. There is also a great park on the grounds of the Center, which provides the perfect place for families and visitors to gather and re-group before heading out to experience the other area attractions. Many of the city's festivals and events are also held at the Seattle Center, including the Bite of Seattle, the Northwest Folklife festival, Winterfest, and the Seattle International Children's Festival, to name a few--this area is always buzzing with people and entertainment. More »

Seattle Center Monorail

Whether a first time visitor or seasoned veteran, no trip to Seattle is worth making without a ride on the Seattle Center Monorail. Traveling high above the city streets, the Monorail provides a convenient link between the Seattle Center--home to some of Seattle’s most popular attractions--and all major downtown hotels, shopping, and eateries with the Seattle waterfront just beyond. Constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Monorail is a Seattle icon of the past and present, representing the possibilities for eco-friendly public transportation. More »

Seattle Central Library

The Seattle Public Library has officially been in existence since 1891, when it opened its first branch on the fifth floor of the Occidental building in the city's Pioneer Square. Today, Seattle Central Library stands as both an important public institution of knowledge, and an architectural statement. The building was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas (along with his Office for Metropolitan Architecture and Seattle-based LMN Architects), chosen out of a pool of 29 competing firms from around the world to design the structure. The striking result of his designs is an 11-story, geometrically-shaped building "wrapped" in a skin of glass and steel that catches the eye of any downtown visitor. It comprises over 362,000 square feet and circulates a collection of about 4,760,000 books, along with millions of additional "other media" items (DVDs, CDs, etc.), throughout the Seattle Public Library system. Aside from the books, some of the building's most notable features include a 50-foot "living room" and the "Dewey Ramp" that houses the entire nonfiction collection in a continuous four-story ramp. More »

Seattle Children's Theatre

Whether you're a kid or a grown-up, the Seattle Children's Theatre (SCT) is a magical place where everyone is exposed to wonderful, professional theater in a casual, educational environment. The SCT is dedicated to exposing young people to the art of theater--to educate them about it and also create a lifelong interest and appreciation in the performing arts. The theater is one of the leading organizations of its kind, and has been inspiring and serving as a model for other children's theaters across the United States. It has been recognized for its original and innovative programing, producing over 170 plays since it began operating in 1975. Present and past examples of the theater's productions include: Hansel and Gretel, The Wizard of Oz, The Big Friendly Giant, Sideways Stories from Wayside School, and many, many more. More »

Seattle Chinese Garden

This garden encompasses 4.6 acres of gorgeous Chinese landscaping and is a great place to go for a bit of tranquility in the city. A wide variety of traditional plants are showcased here, as well as stone work, Chinese architecture, and strategically-placed water features that provide a peaceful soundtrack to the backdrop of the garden. There are also stunning vantage points from the garden, where visitors are treated to views of Elliott Bay and Seattle's surrounding mountain ranges. In addition, the garden features various buildings and architectural marvels, including a teahouse, education center, banquet hall, and a number of pavilions. More »

Seattle First Baptist Church

The First Baptist church is one of Seattle's oldest churches; its congregation has been worshiping in the Seattle area since 1869, when the Hanford family (early Seattle settlers) held a service in their home with 11 congregation members. Later, they constructed a small wooden church to hold their services, but that quickly became outgrown, forcing them to construct a larger building in 1889. When the city decided to embark on a major grading project that same year, the church had to move again, this time to its current location on Harvard Street. The current church was constructed in 1910, and held its first services in 1912. Today, the church stands as it was when it was originally constructed (although it has undergone various renovations over the years), and is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and tall green copper spire that can be seen from miles away. More »

Seattle Metropolitan Police Museum

Dedicated to the history of the Seattle police force, this unique museum features great collections of police memorabilia and archives. There are a variety of interactive displays and exhibits here that educate visitors about the development of Seattle's finest, from their roots as a force to restrain the corrupt frontier city, to their status today as one of the most respected law-enforcement agencies in the country. Visitors to the museum will be able to check out the interactive learning center to try on police uniforms, see the inside of a jail cell, look at weaponry, and more. There are great permanent and rotating exhibits here, and as one of the largest police museums in the West, this is not an attraction to miss if you're interested in law enforcement. More »

Seattle Waterfront

Stroll along the popular Seattle waterfront for fresh seafood, gorgeous views of Elliott Bay, and to see some of the city's best maritime-themed attractions. Stop by the Seattle Aquarium, which makes its home on the waterfront, to check out wonderful exhibits about the marine ecosystem around Seattle. The Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center is also located on the waterfront and is another great place to visit to learn about industry in the bay. If you're looking to catch the ferry to neighboring Blake Island and the popular Tillicum Village, the waterfront is the place to do so, as well as the place to sample from an array of fresh seafood restaurants. Walking past the promenade lined with shops and attractions, you'll find that the northern end of the waterfront is home to Myrtle Edwards Park, complete with benches, fountains, picnic tables, and enough room to spread out and relax. There is a streetcar running the length of the waterfront, making it easy to get around--or just providing a fun diversion between stops. More »

Seward Park

Although it's located in the city, Seward Park transports visitors to a quiet forest, complete with towering old-growth trees, hiking trails, and lush green meadows. The park encompasses 300 acres, part of which is comprised of the Bailey Peninsula that sticks out into Lake Washington, and is a glimpse of what the city would look like if it was never developed. In addition to the park's natural attributes, it's also home to an amphitheater, an art studio, and a native plant garden--all of which are enjoyed by the local community. Come here to enjoy the quiet solitude of the park, and maybe even bring along a bike or your jogging shoes, as there is a great multi-use path here that winds through the trees. More »

Silver Lake Winery

Sit back, relax, and taste some wonderful Seattle-region wines while enjoying beautiful views of the lush green forests around you. Silver Lake Winery started making wines in 1989 and has grown to a successful business that produces over 50,000 cases of wine each year. It's one of the largest locally-owned wineries in the state of Washington, as it operates under the shared ownership of 1200 partners. The winery makes a variety of different styles of wine, from Merlot to Chardonnay to Cabernet Sauvignon, and the well-informed staff at the winery will be happy to let you try them to see what is your favorite. There are three different groupings of wine made here, including cask wines, reserve wines, and grand reserve wines, and they're each made in a different way to create their own, unique flavors. More »

Smith Tower

This iconic Seattle building is the city's oldest skyscraper, as it was constructed in 1914. Standing at about 522-feet high (159 meters), Smith Tower was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River when it was originally built, but was overtaken when the Kansas City Power and Light Building was constructed in 1931. The main attraction of this building, aside from its historical significance, is its 35th floor Chinese Room, which is elegantly decked out with a carved wood and porcelain ceiling and hand-crafted furniture--all of which were gifts from the Empress of China to the building's founder, business tycoon L.C. Smith. The famed "Wishing Chair" also sits in the Chinese Room, and the story goes that any single woman who sits in this special chair will be married within a year--even Smith's own daughter proved the legend to be true. More »

Snoqualmie Falls

This thundering natural landmark is one of Washington's most visited sites, as it sees over 1.5 million visitors each year. The falls itself tumbles down about 270 feet, crashing on the rocks below, and continuing its flow down the Snoqualmie River until it meets up with the Skykomish River. The name "snoqualmie" means "moon" and was a Salish word for the Snoqualmie tribes that used to live in the area. Aside from providing a gorgeous scenic attraction for the area, the falls provides electricity from the two hydroelectric power plants that are located near the falls. The first hydroelectric plant was constructed in 1898 and is located at the base of the falls, buried in the rock 270-feet below the surface of the water. The second power plant is located downstream from the falls and was originally constructed in 1910. There are many great hiking trails and open areas at the top of the falls, making it easy to enjoy the gorgeous scenery; the historic Salish Lodge & Spa is also located near the falls, and is a cozy, world-renowned operation. More »

Snow Goose Associates

This unique gallery showcases art from various Northwest tribes, including Eskimo, Inuit, and other groups along the Northwest coast. You'll find neat, one-of-a-kind pieces here that make perfect presents for those at home, or for your own take-home souvenirs. Some of the items showcased here include wood and soapstone carvings, masks, baskets, jewelry, and a great variety of prints. In addition to having a wonderful spread of pieces to choose from, the gallery also boasts great prices, so if you're looking to buy Northwest art, it might be a good alternative to some of the pricier galleries downtown. More »

Space Needle

This iconic Seattle landmark rises 605 feet above the ground and offers spectacular 360-degree views of Seattle's skyline, Elliot Bay, and various mountains, including Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker. It was constructed in 1962 for the World's Fair, and was painstakingly designed to be able to withstand common natural forces, such as 200 mile-per-hour winds and 9.5 magnitude earthquakes. There are also more than 20 lightning rods atop the Needle's roof to prevent lightning strikes. To access the top of the Space Needle, visitors can take elevators that travel up to 10 miles per hour up the central pillar--a trip that only takes about 45 seconds. There is also an upscale restaurant located at the top of the Space Needle, if you're looking for incredible views as well as an incredible dining experience. More »

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

This beautiful domed building was constructed in 1962 by some of the same architects who were behind the Century 21 Exposition at the Seattle World's Fair. The church is famous for its annual festivals, most prominently its Greek Festival, which generally takes place every October, and is a busy multi-day gathering full of music, food, and culture. The Greek spiritual community has been gathering in Seattle since the early 1900s, and constructed their first church in 1919. The congregation has gone through various relocations, ups and downs in its population, and many priests, but is now a popular, firmly-planted church with a devoted following. It is part of the Greek Orthodox metropolis in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. More »

St. James Cathedral

This stately Roman Catholic cathedral was constructed in 1905-1907 and is well-known for its elegant Renaissance-style architecture and for being the seat of the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle. In 1903, Bishop J. O'Dea purchased land in the First Hill neighborhood of the city and made plans to build the grand cathedral. His plan was to construct an elegant building that "must surpass anything in the West". So, he hired an architecture firm from New York, Heins and LaFarge, and set the cornerstone of the building in 1905. The beautiful cathedral has undergone various renovations since it was originally constructed, most notably in 1916, when the heavy 40-foot dome that covered the central nave crashed down to the floor, and was replaced a year later with a flat roof. The building was refurbished again in 1950, and in 1994, creating the impressive structure that stands today. More »

St. Joseph's Parish

This stunning church was constructed in 1930 in Art Deco style and is one of the most unique religious buildings in the city. The congregation's original wooden structure was built in 1907, but by the late 1920s, it needed to be renovated as it was growing too small for its burgeoning group of parishioners. The church commissioned architecture firm Albertson, Wilson, and Richardson to build them a new structure, grand in scale and size. In 1929, their plans for a great, Gothic church came to a halt, though, as hard financial times hit during this era of the Great Depression. The original elaborate design was scrapped, due to a tightening budget, and the final church building was designed in the Art Deco style we see today, with simple lines, nearly-bare walls, and none of its planned fancy details (such as banks of stained glass windows and bells). Although the design was compromised by financial constraints, the church still retains a grandiose presence, with its large footprint, artsy design, and details such as beautiful mosaics, three stained glass windows, and carved stone art. More »

Temple de Hirsch Sinai

This immense building is the home of one of the first and largest Reform Jewish communities in Seattle--a branch of Judaism that seeks to combine the traditional tenets of the Jewish faith with modern culture. The congregation was founded in the Seattle area in 1899, and built its first gathering place in 1907. Then, after much consideration, growth, and building add-ons, they finally constructed their current structure in 1960; the building has a seating capacity of 1,000 people and is conveniently located downtown. In addition to offering popular mass services to its congregation, the Temple de Hirsch Sinai also runs various affiliate organizations, such as the Sisterhood and Brotherhood groups, which are highly involved in planning activities and services for the church and community as a whole. More »

Tillicum Village

Tillicum Village is a great place to learn about the Native Americans who used to call the Seattle-area home. Visitors hop a ferry to Blake Island, and head to the village longhouse for a delicious, traditionally-prepared native feast and a stage show called "Dance on the Wind", which presents people performing traditional Northwest Coast tribes' dances and legends. The meal is cooked 'potlatch' style, with whole salmon cooked on vertical cedar logs placed vertically around an alder wood fire; other dishes that are served include clams, salad, rice, bread, and more. The entire Blake Island is a state park, so aside from taking in the entertainment at Tillicum Village, find some time to walk around the beautiful island and enjoy its miles of trails and gorgeous shoreline. More »

Traver Gallery

Located near the Seattle Art Museum, the Traver Gallery was established in 1977 as a "theater for the visual arts". This mantra has remained the gallery's main theme by allowing artists to explore grand ideas, and giving them the exhibition space to share their contemporary art with the public. Owner William Traver has been well known in the art community to support up and coming artists by displaying their work in his space. More recently, Traver opened a retail shop, Vetri International Glass and opened a second gallery and retail store in Tacoma. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions from local artists featuring a variety of mediums from photography to blown glass. More »

University District

This area is the hangout for the University of Washington campus. There are many shops, restaurants, and coffee houses in the U District, as well as art galleries, theaters, and other entertainment venues. The area is famous for its festivals, and puts on such fun events as the Christmas-themed FestAVEall, and the springtime May U District Street Fair. The area is also home to a popular farmer's market that hosts a wide variety of vendors selling everything from the freshest local produce to hand-made crafts to baked goods. There are also many theaters located in the U District, including the landmark Neptune Theater, which was built in 1921, and the popular Grand Illusion Theater--a famous independent cinema. More »

University of Washington

As one of the top research universities in the country, the University of Washington maintains a student body of over 40,000 students each year who come to enjoy the urban Seattle campus, outdoor activities, and proximity to the Northwest's mountains, oceans, and forests. The UW campus was originally established in 1861 on a hilltop plot of land donated by a few generous philanthropists. When the University first opened in that same year, it was known as the "Territorial University of Washington", employed one professor (who taught Greek, Latin, English, algebra, physiology, and history), and enrolled about 30 students. After Washington officially became a state in 1889, UW's enrollment had jumped to about 300 students, and the University began to expand quickly (alongside the city of Seattle). Today, UW has garnered a reputation as an excellent higher education institution, and now operates three campuses in the state. More »

University of Washington Medicinal Herb Garden

This gorgeous garden is home to over 1,000 flower and plant species and is operated by the University's botany department. Most of the plants here have herbal or medicinal uses, so if you're interested in finding a plant to cure your next ailment, this garden might be a good place to look. The plants and garden beds here are well-labeled so you'll know your bearberry from your milk thistle by the time you've finished the tour of this garden. The garden spreads over 2.5 acres, and is jam-packed with plants, so it's best to schedule a free tour to see all that it has to offer and to learn all you can about herbal medicine. More »

University Temple United Methodist Church

Although the congregation of the Temple United Methodist Church had been gathering in Seattle since 1901, this historic church wasn't constructed until 1927. John Graham, a well-known Seattle architect, designed the stately Gothic building specifically to fit in with the rest of the University of Washington campus located directly across the street. In addition to its convenient location near campus, and its elegant architecture, this church is noted for its stained-glass windows. They were made by artist Anton Geza Rez, and feature depictions of the birth, life, and death of Jesus Christ in stunning arrays of color and arrangement. The church is also home to a large and beautiful pipe organ that is the centerpiece of the church's choir, and also attracts visiting musicians to play. More »

Vashon Island

More rural and countercultural than Bainbridge Island to the north, Vashon has resisted suburbanization--a rare accomplishment in Puget Sound. Much of the island is covered with farms and gardens, and its little towns double as commercial hubs and artists' enclaves. The island also provides unencumbered vistas of the Cascades, from Mt. Rainier in the south to Mt. Baker in the north. Vashon is a good island to explore by bicycle or car, lazily stopping to pick berries or fruit at a "u-pick" garden or orchard. Plan a hike in one of the county parks. More »

Victor Steinbrueck Park

This nice little park was named for architect Victor Steinbrueck, who had a hand in preserving and restoring the Seattle landmark Pike Place Market. The land the park sits on was originally home to the Washington State National Guard Armory, but after part of the Armory was burned down in a fire in 1962, it was converted into a park. The park's location allows for scenic views of Elliott Bay and the ships going in and out of the Seattle waterfront, and makes for a nice place to sit and relax after strolling Pike Place Market or the waterfront promenade. There is also plenty of green space here to spread out and enjoy the Seattle sun or to play a game of catch. Bring your lunch, because the park is littered with picnic tables and benches that are great places for an afternoon picnic. More »

Viretta Park

Although this park is small (about 1.8 acres), it has a unique following, due to its unofficial title of "Kurt's Park". The park has functioned as a shrine of sorts to Kurt Cobain, the late musician of Seattle grunge band Nirvana, because of its proximity to the house where Cobain died. Fans come here to leave flowers and write messages about Cobain on the park's benches. The park is actually named for its founder's wife, Viretta Jackson Denny, who was a relative of the 7th U.S. President, Andrew Jackson--although many people refer to it by its pop-culture-related nickname. More »

Volunteer Park

This beloved park was completed in 1912, after years of planning and construction. The city of Seattle originally purchased the 40 acres of land in 1876 from a local sawmill owner, and started making plans for the park in 1887. Assets that were added to the park during its 25-year building period included trails, flower beds, tables, a greenhouse, lily ponds, children's wading pool, and music pavilion. The park was named "Volunteer Park" in 1901 to honor those who volunteered to fight in the Spanish-American War, and a monument was erected in 1952. Today, a conservatory, water tower, memorial sculptures, a playsculpture, and a bandstand have been added to the park, to make it the popular local gathering place that it is. More »

Wallingford

Wallingford blossomed from an old working-class neighborhood along North 45th Street into a pleasant district of interesting shops, bookstores, and inexpensive restaurants, all just across the freeway from the University of Washington. Wallingford Center, a boutique and restaurant mall in the old Wallingford grade school, is the hub of the area. Out front, the "Wallingford Animal Storm Sculpture" depicts wildlife found in and around Wallingford. The best thing about Wallingford is that it's not built upon a gimmick or tourist draw. This is as real as a neighborhood gets. The people who hang out here live here; you can still find an old-fashioned hardware store and a local's pub among the espresso shops. More »

Warren G. Magnuson Park

Encompassing over 350 acres, Warren G. Magnuson Park is a perennial favorite for locals and visitors alike who are looking for a great place to relax and play. Formerly a Navy post, the park now hosts a wide variety of recreational activities, including swimming beaches, fishing locations, sports fields, tennis courts, walking/jogging paths, playgrounds, a community garden, and much more. Throughout the park, there are also wonderful displays of local public art, from sculptures representing surfacing pods of whales, to limestone pillars that represent the art of surveying, to a sound garden featuring pipes that create a variety of tones according to the speed and direction of the wind. The park is located in northeastern Seattle on the shores of Lake Washington, so there are great views of the lake and surrounding city here, as well as ample opportunities to enjoy nature. More »

Washington Park Arboretum

This beautiful green space is a must-see on your list when visiting Seattle. It boasts gorgeous collections of Pacific Northwest woody plants, such as Maple and Holly, spread over an area of 230 acres. The Arboretum was founded in 1934, when the University of Washington petitioned the City of Seattle to allow them to build an arboretum and botanical garden in the city's 200-acre Washington Park. The city allowed the plan to go through, and hired James F. Dawson and Frederick Law Olmstead to design the area. Since then, the gardens and arboretum have been utilized by the University's botany department, and have also been displayed for the enjoyment of the public. There are more than 20,000 trees, shrubs, and vines here, including 139 plants that are officially listed on the endangered species list. If you like plants and gardens, be sure to take some time to wander the paths through the Arboretum for a relaxing afternoon away from the bustling city. More »

Washington State Convention & Trade Center

This 200,000 square-foot building is the hub for Seattle events, conventions, and shows. The space is large enough to hold huge events such as the Macy's Holiday Parade Float Assembly, but it can also be split into smaller, more intimate rooms and halls to host meetings and conferences. The center boasts six halls, four lobbies, ballroom space, a full-service catering kitchen, and a glass-enclosed atrium that features beautiful waterfalls and greenery. If you're in the area, or in town for a conference, take some time to wander the airy Convention & Trade Center to check out its expansive, open spaces and modern architecture--maybe you'll even be so lucky as to catch one of the frequent, free concerts in the north galleria! More »

Washington State History Museum

Head to the Washington State History Museum to learn about the history of the state, its people, and its place in the country and world. Exhibits here are interactive and fun, as well as educational, which makes for a great experience for both kids and adults. Some of things you'll learn about at the museum include: profiles on a variety of local Washingtonians, history mysteries of the state of Washington, the railroad system, civil rights in Washington, and more. There are lots of memorabilia and artifact collections to see here, too, including photographs, paintings, and souvenirs from significant times in the state's past. The museum also puts on various programs and workshops throughout the year, such as a cultural film series, Native American storytelling and demonstrations, and model train festivals, to name a few. More »

Washington Wine Center

Because Washington state is one of the largest producers of wine in the United States, the Washington Wine Center was created. The wine industry in the state employs more than 14,000 people and contributes about $3 billion (USD) to the local economy. The Center was established to promote, showcase, and inform about the wine industry in Washington, and is a great place to come to learn all about wine in this state. For example, there are over 30,000 acres of vineyards planted in Washington, that grow over 20 wine grape varieties used to make the different wines produced in the region. Although the state is known for producing notable Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Syrah, wines, many other types are crafted here, and the Wine Center is a great place to go to learn about all of them. More »

Waterfall Gardens

To catch a little Zen in the midst of the urban city, come by the Waterfall Gardens in this Pioneer Square park. The dominant feature here is a large waterfall that does a pretty good job of drowning out the buzz and hum of the city's traffic. Beyond the nice little resting place that this park is, it also holds a certain bit of interesting history: this was the birthplace of the United States Postal Service. More »

West Seattle Golf Club

Featuring sprawling views of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay, the West Seattle Golf Course offers a mix of challenging and comfortable wholes to players. The 18-whole course is maintained by the City of Seattle. The flat front nine runs along Longfellow Creek with a 37 par while the back nine boasts more challenges and hilly terrain. The course was designed by the H Chandler Egan, an excellent player and architect who also worked on other famous courses like Pebble Beach. More »

West Seattle Junction

Located in the heart of West Seattle is the popular district known as The Junction, a great place for shopping and dining. Named after what once was the junction of two streetcar lines at California and Alaska streets, this neighborhood boomed with charm and remains a local favorite. Travelers looking to steer clear of big box chain stores will enjoy browsing the unique shops at The Junction that are independent and local to the neighborhood though the streetcars stopped running in 1940. While strolling the neighborhood, you won't want to miss the many art murals that adorn the buildings of The Junction. The Murals of West Seattle project was sponsored by the West Seattle Junction Association and the City of Seattle's Neighborhood Grants Program and today a total of 11 murals can be found in the heart of the neighborhood. As a thriving local community, visitors can find events, fairs, and farmers markets going on throughout the year. More »

Westlake Center

This decorative boutique mall in the heart of downtown at 4th Ave and Pine St is a four-story, glass-enclosed retail pavilion. Here you'll find shops like Fossil, Talbot's, Montblanc, Crabtree & Evelyn, Nordstrom, and the Bon Marche. There are some local stores as well, including an outlet of Fireworks, which offers inexpensive funky-arty gifts from regional craftspeople. More »

Whale Museum

Located on San Juan Island in the downtown area of Friday Harbor, the Whale Museum is the place to go to learn all about the wonder and beauty of whales. Come here to learn all about these magnificent and massive marine mammals in the Gallery of whales, which focuses on orcas, also known as killer whales, of the local waters. On display here are exhibits, whale skeletons, artwork, and artifacts, all dedicated to the the appreciation of whales while being able to educate the public. Inside, you can listen to recorded whale songs in the Whale Phone Boot and watch a video about the orcas of the Pacific Northwest. Step outside to see the whales in their natural habitat by taking a whale watching tour. More »

Whidbey Island

This scenic island is located in Puget Sound about 25 miles north of Seattle and is one of the islands that comprises Island County in the state of Washington along with the smaller Camano Island to the east, and other uninhabited islands. Most of the Whidbey Islanders, as the some 58,000 residents are called, populate the city of Oak Harbor in the north, the county seat of Coupeville, the city of Langley, and the village of Clinton in the south. A place of much natural beauty, the island features a number of nature reserves and parks including Ebey's Landing National Historic Reserve, Fort Casey State Park, and Deception Pass State Park, which is the most visited state park in Washington. Visitors can access Whidbey by ferry from Port Townsend. Travelers trek here for the pastoral landscapes, beautiful bays, mountain views, as well as an abounding amount of recreational and outdoors activities. More »

Wing Luke Asian Museum

This Asian-American focused museum is located in Seattle's Chinatown/International District--a popular neighborhood and a central point for Asian-American culture. The Wing Luke Asian Museum's mission is to tell the story of the Asian-American experience, culture, and history through museum exhibits, historical photographs, and art. This museum is named after the notable Seattle citizen, Wing Luke, who was a prominent local high school student, a veteran of war, and a successful lawyer and Assistant Attorney General of the State of Washington, spending his career fighting for civil rights. Before his tragic death due to a plane crash, Luke dreamed of being able to tell the Asian-American story and history, and his dream came true with the founding of this educational and insightful museum. More »

Winthrop

This charming little town is located in the beautiful Methow Valley, on the eastern side of the North Cascades with a population just under 400. Though Native Americans called this land home for thousands of years, the town of Winthrop was originally settled in the late 1800s for the lure of gold. This once mining town has today been completely redone in the American Old West style and theme, complete with false building fronts, making this charming small town a popular tourist destination. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Warmer months in this area make for great hiking, biking, climbing, fishing, river rafting, and horse-back riding. More »

Wolf Haven International

Located just south of Olympia in the city of Tenino, this complex is an internationally renowned rescue and rehabilitative center for wolves. Established in 1982, Wolf Haven has since rescued more that 100 wolves born in captivity. These wolves have come from a variety of places such as private owners, animal collectors, and even roadside zoos. The facility rescues and nurses these wolves along with a few wolf-dogs, coyotes, and foxes. The sanctuary is not only a great place for wolves to be nursed back to life and cared for, but it's great fun for families and travelers to learn more about these interesting and beautiful creatures. More »

Woodland Park Rose Garden

Located just next to the Woodland Park Zoo at its south entrance is the beautiful Woodland Park Rose Garden. The garden's 2.5 acres is home to over 280 varieties of roses with over 5,000 individual plants. Green thumbs and beauty seekers alike will enjoy this peaceful and colorful garden, which has the distinction of being one of only 24 All-America Rose Selections Test Gardens in the country, in which new types of roses are continuously being tested here in the hopes of becoming officially named and cultivated for rose enthusiasts. The garden is most picturesque during the summer months, but is open daily throughout the year. The Rose Garden opened in 1924 thanks to the Seattle Lion's Club and the Seattle Rose Society in hopes of providing a free display of roses for the locals and visitors of Seattle, and has remained true to its original goal today. More »

Woodland Park Zoo

The 92-acre zoological and botanical treasure is an award-winning zoo noted for its naturalistic animal exhibits and education programs. Discover grizzly bears, wolves, mountain goats, and otters in the Northern Trail; lions and giraffe on the African Savanna; and Sumatran tigers, jaguars and dozens of rare and exotic species of reptiles, birds and insects throughout the zoo. Zoomazium is an indoor nature play space made especially for kids up to 8 years old to discover the joys of nature. Plan for an exhilarating day seeing and learning about some of the world's most intriguing animals. More »

Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

Need to buy tacky souvenirs? Well, this is the place. Located at the heart of the Waterfront, this unusual shop carries all sorts of curiosities, from shrunken human heads to walrus tusks, incense to smoked salmon. In addition to "I love Seattle" T-shirts, you'll find a decent collection of Northwest coastal art, including jewelry, carvings, and baskets. More »