Seattle Tourism - Things to do in Seattle

When you are planning your vacation to Seattle, it's important to remember a few things: Places to go, shopping bargains and delicious meals. Naturally, there are variations on all three themes, but let's start with the basics. Here's some things to do in Seattle. But first, when you get there, get a good cup of coffee. Hard to miss here in the birthplace of Starbucks. While Top Pot Doughnuts remains at the top of the heap in our book, we found a new spot, “Fonte”, right around the corner from the Four Seasons on First Ave. 

 

PLACES TO GO. Sometimes it's fun to head in a new direction every day. In Seattle--you can do that! On the first day, wander through Pike Place Market, then take a stroll through Pioneer Square. The shops are unique--and really give you a taste of the great Northwest!

The next day, plan a getaway from Seattle's waterfront. Choose a cruise to Victoria on the Victoria Clipper or take a scenic cruise with Argosy Cruises. Bring your camera, since it's a great way to see the Seattle skyline! Plus, you're likely to see some critters in the ocean. Whether it's a seal, a sea otter, a porpoise or a wild orca--keep your camera handy!

Learn more about the Northwest the next day. Check out the Museum of Flight--then head to Tacoma's exciting Museum District. There's the Museum of Glass, the Tacoma Art Museum and the Washington Museum of History.

SHOPPING BARGAINS. The center of the shopping universe is in downtown Seattle at Nordstrom's. This is the Mother Ship. Take a stroll around. It's fun! It's connected by a skybridge to Pacific Place. This four-story shopping mall has all kinds of specialty shops. Dozens and dozens of brand-name stores branch off in every direction, including Eddie Bauer, Coldwater Creek, Nike and Macy's. Did I mention Starbucks? Heck, there are only about a dozen shops in a two-block area. Be sure and see the FIRST Starbucks at Pike Place Market. The market, of course, is a great place to buy fresh fish, produce and flowers from the surrounding areas. This year is the market's 101st anniversary!

DELICIOUS MEALS. This is one of my favorite areas. Local restauranteur Tom Douglas has several eateries in downtown Seattle, including Lola, the Palace Kitchen, the Dahlia Lounge and Etta's. Splurge on a meal there! But there are a jillion other great places to eat! Try the Smash Wine Bar and Bistro in Wallingford. Or, the Union Bay Cafe in the University District. In Belltown you can always get a good meal and great wine at Queen City Grill . Take a drive over to Woodinville and explore the wineries, including Columbia Winery and Brian Carter Cellars--you can get lunch at the Redhook Ale Brewery and take a tour.

ORDER A PLANNING GUIDE. The Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau produces a great travel guide. Order it. It's free. Check it out here: Seattle Convention & Visitors Bureau.