Explore Seattle Through Its Waterways

Seattle, Washington has always welcomed and entertained its tourists through its waterways such as lakes. Ferries, boats, and yachts abound in the area. Water does not only have a historical importance to the city; it also bears significance as a social paradox to the city residents. Maritime activities have long been acquired by the city’s populace as part of their daily lives.

If you’ve decided to take a trip to Seattle, foremost on your to-do list must be a visit to the Pioneer Square Historic District, where the famous Underground Tour takes place. In this tour you will embark on a chronological account of the city’s history with its waterways. A particularly interesting part of the tour is when you get to see cityscapes underground to solve issues with plumbing. You can also learn about how the phrase “Skid Road” became popular and in which context it was originally used.

With the numerous islands that surround Seattle’s periphery, the ferries travel and course through the waterways carrying passengers and freight alike from one spot to another. In Seattle, this mode of transportation is a regular sight to residents and is used by travelers in moving around the city as well.

Part of the tourist attraction requires commuting through the waterways especially during adverse driving conditions, thus everybody is bound to set foot on a ferry at least once on his or her stay in Seattle.

Pier 52 showcases concerts along the ferry terminal during summer. An event called Picnic at the Pier is held at the terminal every last Friday of the month starting June until August. The event starts at 3pm and lasts for 3 hours.

Puget Sound offers 10 highly reachable ferry neighborhoods that excite tourists during their visit. You probably won’t be able to visit all of them, but you can choose one or two and take a day trip instead as this will suffice to make your Seattle trip unforgettable.

The Center for Wooden Boats offers a distinctive travel experience in Seattle. Entrance is free and you can get magically transported to rustic landscape that’s sure to soothe your spirit and calm your nerves. Not only do you get to observe the magnificently designed boats being crafted, you can also enjoy a peaceful ride through one of these sailboats free of charge, particularly on Sunday afternoons.

If you want, you can also rent any of the boats if the weather permits. There are also beginner’s classes for sailing, plus a more advanced training session for those who want more than the basics.

You won’t have a hard time thinking of stuff to do in Seattle if you love being in the water. There are various activities such as boating, ferrying, water skiing, and others which you will absolutely enjoy during your visit.

Take precautionary measures when on the water, but do let loose and enjoy the calm winds and great scenery that Seattle has to offer. Learn more about the city’s rich cultural heritage and traditions with its waterways.

Tourist Spots in Seattle

Seattle, one of the largest cities of United States is situated in the state of Washington. It is a coastal port city which had an estimated metropolitan population of 3.4 million. Emerald City, the nickname given to Seattle is due to the presence of abundant evergreen trees present in the city as well as the areas surrounding it. The city has also other names such as Jet City, Rain City, Gateway to Alaska, Coffee Town etc. The city has a reputation of being the hometown of grunge music. More over the city is also famous for coffee production. The world famous coffee manufacturers such as Tully’s, Starbucks, and Seattle’s Best Coffee etc are Seattle based companies. The city is also an international center for business.

Seattle is one of the major tourist centers of US as the city has lots of attractions to visit. There are a lot of places and sights to visit in Seattle. It is a city where extraordinary is common. Seattle’s temperate climate, lush of evergreen trees, snow covered mountains, lakes and other such nature’s gift drew millions of tourists every year. Apart from sight seeing, Seattle offers you many enthralling entertainment activities such as scuba diving, sailing, rowing, rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking etc.

Though almost all the spots in Seattle are attractive, the most frequently visited places by tourists are listed below.

Space Needle

Space Needle, the 600 feet high building is the major landmark of Seattle. You can go to the top of the building where you can make an aerial view of the city. On the top of the tower, there is a famous revolving restaurant named Sky City which is popular throughout US.

Museum of Flight:

When you think of Flight museum, you may assume it as an average museum. But it is such a big museum that consists of three sections. One section deals with NASA and space programs whereas other two sections are about the two World Wars. The museum also has a wide collection of war planes.

Woodland Park Zoo:

Woodland Park Zoo, the largest zoo in Seattle as well as in the west Coast includes several rare species. It can be assured that children will be excited very much.

Seattle Boeing Plant Tour

The Boeing Plant situated at Seattle is another major tourist spot visited by millions of people every year. Here you can learn the history of Boeing with the help of video representation before entering the factory. The factory is situated in one of the largest building where you can see the assembly line of Boeing airplanes.

Seattle Aquarium

Seattle aquarium which includes a large species of aquatic animals offers you fun as well as education.

Seattle Underground Tour

Visit the underground city and learn the history about how the city was created. The visit will be truly exciting and will be definitely a new experience to you.

Enjoy the Lush Countryside at Seattle State Parks

A visit to Seattle, Washington is an invitation to experience the stunning outdoor views in this splendid city. This is truly among the few areas in the United States that are enveloped by a natural beauty, where tourists and locals alike can marvel at the vast expanse of beautiful bushes and at streets lined by greenery and trees.

Although the populace experience rain during half of the year, it is not a hindrance to an excursion of the natural wonders that surround the city. The cool humid temperature is as enticing as the abundant greens and will encourage even the harshest critic to step outdoors.

With a number of state parks that have been established along the area, it appears that there are already countless admirers of the natural beauty that is thriving in Seattle. Not only are these state parks within reach, going there is effortless and hardly ever complicated. Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers similarly traverse these state parks with a hushed audacity, as these state parks are as awe-inspiring as the rest of nature. For nature aficionados and backpackers, each visit to these state parks is a marvelous treat.

Going through the list of must-see places in Seattle for the adventurous camper in you, the Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is among the recommended attractions. Considered more of a memorial shrine than a state park, this 110,000-acre monument was erected after the Mt. St. Helens eruption in 1980 to encourage continuous research and development.

Next is the Mt. Rainier National Park. Just a few miles away from Seattle, Mt. Rainier was converted into a state park in 1899 and is considered an inactive volcano. This state park welcomes about 2 million visitors every year. With activities that include camping, trekking, horseback riding, mountain climbing, and fishing, this state park offers a lot of things to do.

Situated around 2 hours beyond Seattle, Washington, the North Cascades National Park offers a striking view of the place. More of a mountain range and popularly called the North American Alps, a wide range of activities is provided to anyone interested in conquering this huge boulder of land.

Aside from the usual outdoor camping, hiking, mountain climbing, and fishing, there are also float trips available to skid through the Skagit and Stehekin waterways. Even a day trek would enamor any visitor to appreciate the wonders of this majestic earthly structure. The best activity for kids though is still a float trip along the rivers. Not only will this encourage children to recognize the natural beauty of Seattle, it will also let them grasp the importance of taking good care of the environment.

Seattle state parks offer such an exciting array of sights and sounds that make it highly recommended for all tourists. The finest vacation is one that offers a tingling of all senses. It is a welcome respite from the industrial chaos of daily city life.

Things to Do in Seattle on a Rainy Day

A trip to Seattle, Washington during the rainy season creates a feeling of warm welcome with its rejuvenating cool atmosphere. Known to be a haven for nature lovers with its great outdoors, tourists and locals alike enjoy the invigorating spritz of the breezy weather. Never mind the umbrella. As long as you’re cozy in your protective boots and your water-resistant clothes, all you need now is a hip headdress and you’re ready to enjoy the natural scenery.

You can enjoy any delightful activity even on a rainy day, as most Seattle folk thrive in these weather conditions and consider having a good time even in the stormiest weather. If going outdoors in this weather appears too adventurous for you, then a backup plan such as indoor recreational activities would do you good. What’s great is that, no matter which activity you crave for, you can always find something worth doing in this great city.

Shopping is an excellent way to pass away time with all the stores full of goodies. Visiting local stores where artists showcase their craftsmanship in exhibits allows you to catch a glimpse of their creativity and skill. Although we do have shopping malls back home, it is refreshing to know more about the city’s culture and history.

A number of indoor tourist spots include the Experience Music Project, the Seattle Children’s Museum, the Pacific Science Center, the Spirit of Washington Dinner train, Redhook Brewery tours, plus the SeaBear Smokehouse tours. And a trip to Seattle is never complete without having the ride of your life in the Space Needle. If these local attractions are a bit expensive for your taste, save up for the tours and bring packed lunch.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg, as Seattle offers a different kind of sightseeing in the Boeing Aviation Center, where massive aircraft are designed and constructed. You can also hop over to the Museum of Flight. Rated as among the outstanding museums in the country, this is where you can sift through the vast collection of planes in aviation history. If you’re an avid moviegoer, then gear up your goggles for the IMAX Theater. Or if marine ecosystems are your thing, go and say hello to the sea creatures at the Seattle Aquarium.

Seattle produces delightful flavors and there are numerous eateries to choose from. The Center House in Seattle Center is widely known for its reasonably priced menus with a huge variety of food and drinks. You may also stop over at the Northwest Craft Center Gallery to browse through the assortment of Native American handicrafts and local art pieces.

The Pike Place Market is a gustatory experience, a feast for the eyes as you can experience the joy of seeing your meal prepared right in front of you. And if cooking is right up your alley, then PCC Cooks can teach you a thing or two in preparing classic gourmet meals that’s sure to pique your interest.

Planning your Seattle trip means jotting down your itinerary whether it be your primary destination or a contingency activity. Don’t let the weather spoil your fun. Instead let it be the stimulus of a wonderful stay in Seattle.

Pan Pacific Seattle

The Pan Pacific Seattle Stands In The South Lake Union Neighborhood Of Seattle, Wash., At The Edge Of Downtown. This Stylish Property Is Surrounded By Boutique Shops And Restaurants. The Seattle Streetcar Line Picks Up Passengers Directly In Front Of The Hotel. Seattle Center Is Located One-half Mile From The Hotel.

Hotel Features:

An Intimate Fireplace, West African Zebrawood, Jerusalem-limestone Floors, Asian Artwork And Artifacts, And Angular, Modern Furnishings Decorated In Soothing Earth Tones Establish The Lobby’s Ambience. The Hotel Is Connected Via Interior Hallway To A Starbucks Outlet. There Is An Onsite Restaurant And The Bar Serves Seafood Dishes As Well As Non-alcoholic Beverages, Wine, Beer And Cocktails. Two Complimentary Computers Are Available For Guest Use. Wireless Internet Access Is Complimentary Throughout The Hotel. A Total Of 5,000 Square Feet Of Function Space Accommodates Up To 180 People. The Pan Pacific Seattle Offers A Complimentary, 24-Hour Health Club, Located Across The Courtyard. The Health Club Contains Free Weights, Cardiovascular And Weight-training Equipment, Saunas And An Eight-person Spa Tub. The Hotel Concierge Arranges Priority Appointments At The Adjacent Vida Wellness Spa, An Independent Facility That Offers Ayurvedic And Western-style Massage Therapies.

Guestrooms:

This 11-Story Hotel Offers 160 Hirsch Bedner-designed Guestrooms Decorated In Taupe, Slate And Cream Tones. Shoji Doors Open Onto Bathrooms With Glass-door Showers, Deep-basin Bathtubs And West African Zebrawood Cabinets. Bathrooms Are Stocked With Yui Toiletries. Hypnos Beds Are Draped With 360-Thread Count Sheets, Down Duvets, And Mohair Throws, And Are Topped With Six Pillows In Three Levels Of Firmness. Coffeemakers Are Stocked With Torrefazione Italia Coffee.

Expert Tip:

The Pan Pacific Seattle Hotel Is Conveniently Located Above A Whole Foods Store That Offers Gourmet Organic Meals, Perfect For Enjoying While Watching A Movie On The Guestrooms’ 32-Inch, Plasma-screen Televisions.

Book Your Room At The Pan Pacific Seattle Here For The Best Rates Online!

Sheraton Seattle Hotel

The Sheraton Seattle Hotel Comprises Two Towers That Rise Above The Downtown Shopping And Entertainment District Of Seattle, Wash. The Washington State Convention & Trade Center Is Located Adjacent To The Hotel. Westlake Center Is Located Two Blocks From The Hotel.

Hotel Features:

The Sheraton Seattle Hotel Lobby Displays Private Artwork And Sculpture, Including Blown-glass Pieces Crafted By Northwest Artist Dale Chihuly. Hotel Dining Options Include The Daily Grill That Serves American Fare And Home-style Favorites. The Daily Grill Short Order Eatery Offers Sandwiches, Pastries, Fruit, Beverages And Specialty Coffee Drinks. The Lobby Lounge Overlooks Busy Pike Street And Serves Seattle Microbrews And Wines. A Total Of 75,000 Square Feet Of Function Space Accommodates Events. The Hotel Houses A Business Center, An Internet Kiosk And Three Sheraton Link Stations. Wireless Internet Access Is Complimentary In Public Areas. The Northwest Traders Shop Offers Clothing Items And Northwest-themed Souvenirs. This Property Is One Of Few Seattle Hotels That Offers An Indoor Pool. The Fitness Room Contains Cardiovascular And Weight-training Equipment.

Guestrooms:

This Smoke-free Property Offers 1,258 Contemporary Guestrooms Furnished With Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds. Beds Feature Pillowtop Mattresses, 300-Thread Count Sheets, Duvets And Four Down Pillows. Guestrooms Contain Numbered And Signed Artwork By Renowned Glass Artist Dale Chihuly. Marble Bathrooms Feature Rainforest Showerheads, Curved Shower Rods And Shine By Bliss Toiletries. Rooms Include Wireless Internet Access For A Fee, And Flat-screen Televisions.

Expert Tip:

The Sheraton Seattle Hotel Occupies A Prime Location One Block From The 5th Street Theatre That Mounts 150 Musicals Each Year. The Hotel Is Also Located Six Blocks From The Famed Pike Place Market Where Everything From Handmade Crafts And Artworks, To Farm-fresh Fruit And Vegetables Attract Tourists And Locals Alike.

Book Your Room At The Sheraton Seattle Hotel Here For The Best Rates!

The Edgewater-A Noble House Hotel

The Edgewater-A Noble House Hotel Extends From Pier 67 Over Elliott Bay In Seattle, Wash. This City Landmark Is Located Adjacent To The Bell Harbor International Conference Center And The Bell Street Pier Cruise-ship Dock.

Hotel Features:

The Edgewater-A Noble House Hotel Gained International Attention In 1964 When Photographers Captured The Beatles Fishing From Their Guestroom Window. This Northwest Lodge-style Property Features A Rustic Lobby With Tree-bark Wall Treatments, Knotty Pine Furniture, Deer-antler Chandeliers, Massive River-rock Fireplaces And Two-story Windows Overlooking Elliott Bay And The Olympic Mountains. Six Seven Restaurant Serves Pacific Northwest Cuisine Seasoned With Native Herbs. Indoor And Outdoor Seating Overlooks Elliott Bay And The Olympic Mountains. Specialty Cocktails Such As Pineapple-infused Vodka Martinis, Homemade Gin And Tonic, And The Gingerita Are Showcased At The Six Seven Lounge. The Lounge Hosts Happy Hours And Friday-night Bands. The Business Center Is Available 24 Hours. Wireless Internet Access Is Complimentary In Public Areas. A Total Of 10,000 Square Feet Of Function Space Accommodates Events. The Complimentary, 24-Hour Fitness Center Affords Waterfront Views And Is Equipped With Cardiovascular And Weight-training Machines. A Gift Shop Offers Northwest-themed Clothing And Souvenirs.

Guestrooms:

This Four-story, Smoke-free Property Offers 223 Guestrooms Decorated With Custom, Northwest-style Furnishings. Nature-themed Lampshades And Throw Pillows, Gas Fireplaces, And Custom Armoires And Dressers Create The Feel Of The Great Outdoors. Beds Feature Pine Headboards And Are Draped With 250-Thread Count Sheets And Plaid Bedspreads. Bathrooms Feature Ceramic Vessel Sinks, Makeup Mirrors And Stone-clad Showers With Rainforest Showerheads. Waterfront Premium King Accommodations Boast Stone Showers And Claw-foot Bathtubs. Select Guestrooms Feature Flat-screen Or Plasma-screen Televisions. This Property Is The Only Waterfront Hotel In Seattle That Offers Unobstructed Views Of Elliott Bay.

Expert Tip:

The Edgewater Offers Complimentary Shuttle Service Within Two Miles Of The Hotel Which Includes Destinations Such As Pike Place Market And The Pike And Pine Streets Shopping District.

Book Your Room At The Edgewater Here For The Best Online Rates!

The Westin Seattle

Positioned In Downtown Seattle, The Westin Seattle Is One Block From The Shops At Westlake Center, Five Blocks From Pike Place Market, And One Mile From Baseball At Safeco Field.

Hotel Features:

This Property’s Twin- Tower Cylindrical Design Ensures That Every Room Boasts A View Of The Seattle Skyline And Its Surrounding Natural Beauty. The Heated Indoor Pool Also Shares Cityscape Vistas. Guests Can Work Out 24 Hours Per Day In Either Of Two Fitness Centers Located On The Fifth Floor. The Indoor Pool And Spa Tub Are Also Located On The Fifth Floor. A Family Pleaser, Children Ages 11 Years Old And Younger Receive An Activity Bag At Check-in. The Westin Seattle Has 21 Meeting Rooms, The Most Expansive Of Which Accommodates 2,000 Guests And Features High-speed Internet Access. The Hotel Also Offers A Staffed Business Center With Wireless Internet Access. Debuted In 2005, The Coldwater Grill Serves Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner, Placing Emphasis On Fresh Seafood And Northwest Regional Cuisine. The Fifth Avenue Corner Bar Is Open From Early Morning Until Mid-evening.

Guestrooms:

The Westin Seattle Features 891 Guestrooms Decorated In Earth Tones. Contemporary Dark Wood And Leather Furniture Complement Sleek Chrome Lamps. The Rooms Feature Westin’s Signature Beds With Custom-designed Pillowtop Mattresses, Triple Sheeting, Down Blankets, Comforters, Crisp White Duvets And Five Goosedown Pillows. Bathrooms Feature Robes, Double Shower Heads And Designer Toiletries. Guestroom Amenities Include Multi-line Phones, High-speed Internet Access And Laptop-sized Safes.

Expert Tip:

A Monorail Stop Is Just Two Block From The Property Transporting Passengers To The Space Needle, Experience Music Project, Pacific Science Center, Key Arena, Mccaw Hall, And The Seattle Center.

Book Your Room For The Westin Seattle Here For The Best Rates!