Exploring Seattle:

A Washington Local’s Guide to the Emerald City

Seattle is a vibrant destination with iconic attractions, incredible food, and stunning natural beauty. From exploring Pike Place Market and enjoying breathtaking views at the Space Needle to discovering hidden gems in unique neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone. But what truly sets Seattle apart is its easy access to outdoor adventures—whether it’s hiking in the Cascade Mountains, kayaking on Lake Union, or taking a scenic ferry ride to the San Juan Islands. Whether you're a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, Seattle offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and outdoor exploration. Our teammate, Courtney, a local Washingtonian, shares her favorite things about this Pacific Northwest City.

City & Elliott Bay View from Pike Place Market

Where to Stay in Seattle

Seattle offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with waterfront views to cozy boutique stays and budget-friendly options. For a unique experience, consider staying in a houseboat on Lake Union or a trendy Airbnb in Capitol Hill. Whether you’re visiting for business, a romantic getaway, or a Pacific Northwest adventure, Seattle has the perfect place to stay.

Hyatt Olive 8 - Eco-friendly boutique hotel in a great location downtown.

Hotel Andra - A stylish hotel in an ideal location downtown. 

The Edgewater - A historic hotel where the Beatles once stayed - Seattle's only over-water hotel.

Hotel Ballard - Upscale boutique hotel in the Ballard neighborhood - full of shops, cafes & more.

Inn at the Market - Luxury hotel located in the iconic Pike Place Market.

Monorail Coffee in Downtown Seattle

Where to Eat in Seattle

Seattle’s food scene is a mix of fresh seafood, artisanal coffee, and diverse global flavors. Start your day with locally roasted coffee, enjoy a brunch featuring classic or international dishes, and indulge in fresh-caught salmon, oysters, or chowder. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, fine-dining lover, or adventurous eater, there is something to satisfy every craving.

Bakeries & Cafe's
Three Girls Bakery - Grab a sweet treat here from the first business licensed to women in Seattle in 1979!

Storyville Coffee - Artisan Seattle coffee roaster that has a mission for cause.

Anchorhead Coffee - 4 Locations around the city with great coffee and baked goods.

Monorail Espresso - Local coffee shop since 1980 with multiple locations.

Petit Pierre Bakery - French style bakery found in the Magnolia & Greenwood neighborhoods.

Brunch:
Portage Bay - Local & organic spot great for brunch - try their waffle bar!

Saltys on Alki Beach - Great seafood for any meal, especially recommend their buffet brunch. You get waterfront skyline views too!

Dinner Restaurants:
The Pink Door - A single pink door in an alley of Pike Place Market leads to this beautiful italian restraunt.

El Gaucho Steakhouse - Beautiful ambiance with an open kitchen.

Spinasse - Award winning restuarnt that features cuisine from the Piedmont region of Italy.

Cutters Crabhouse - Delicious seafood with views looking over Puget Sound.

Elliot's Oyster House - A must visit seafood resturant - sit on the patio in the summer.

Lola - Mediterranean meets the PNW. They have a great brunch as well. Located inside Hotel Andra.

Quick Bites:
Pike Place Chowder - Award winning food with small seating space inside Pike Place Market.

Beechers - Cheese lovers - do not miss this. Handmade cheese and yummy sandwhiches and bites. A great stop for lunch!

Ivars - PNW staple for great clam chowder - their salmon chowder is good too!

Piroshky Piroshky - An Eastern European bakery you don't want to miss - their piroshkys are divine!

Pike Place Market

Where to Shop in Seattle

Seattle offers a diverse shopping scene, from high-end boutiques to quirky local markets. Explore trendy fashion, artisanal goods, and unique souvenirs in vibrant neighborhoods like downtown, Capitol Hill, and Ballard. You can find vintage treasures, outdoor gear, or locally made gifts.

Pike Place Market - A must-visit for handcrafted items and fresh local produce.

Pioneer Square - Downtown Seattle neighborhood with shopping malls, local boutiques, art, food & more.

Magnolia Saturday Farmers Market - Find farmers markets in various locations through the week in Seattle. Magnolia Saturday market is one to check out, they also have some great local shops in the area.

Ballard - Ballard Ave & NW Market St. - A vibrant neighborhood in NW Seattle that is on the waterfront and has a Scandinavian hertiage. Its full of local boutique shopping and wonderful restraunts. Be sure to stop in Studio RA boutique while you are there.

Bellevue Square Mall - The largest shopping mall in the area with over 200 stores and great places to eat as well with restaurants including Din Tai Fong.

U Village - Outdoor shopping area near University of Washington that is fun to wander!

Space Needle View in Seattle Center

Things to Do In Seattle

Seattle offers endless activities, from exploring scenic waterfronts and lush parks to visiting world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods. Adventure seekers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and city skyline views, while art and culture lovers can explore galleries, live music, and theater performances.

Chihuly Gardens & Glass - Exhibition dedicated to glass artist Dale Chihuly. It's a mix of his colorful glass and gorgeous gardens - a must visit!

The Space Needle - The symbol of Seattle built during the World's Fair in 1962. Take a ride to the top for 360 degree breathtaking views!

Wings Over Washington - An interactive ride that the whole family will enjoy. A 15 min simulated experience showing the sights, sounds and smells of Washington State.

Day trip ferry to Bainbridge Island - Take a scenic 30 min ferry ride to Bainbridge for a day of local shopping, biking, hiking and relaxation.

Kerry Park - If you want an iconic view of the Seattle skyline head here - its where I took the first photo in this blog. On a clear day you can also see Mt. Rainier. 

Hike in Mt. Rainier National Park

Enjoy Nature & Getaways Near Seattle

Just outside Seattle, endless adventures await, from scenic hikes and lush forests to picturesque islands and stunning national parks. Nature lovers can explore breathtaking trails, waterfalls, and coastal views, while ferry rides offer quick getaways to charming island escapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, wildlife spotting, and serene mountain retreats—all within a short drive from the city. 

Mt. Rainier National Park - Head here for camping, hiking or even see stunning views from the visitor center. Make sure to check openings for the time of year you visit and make reservations ahead.

San Juan Islands - If you have more time take a little getaway to one of the San Juan Islands, you won't regret it!

Hiking Trails - You don't have to go far or even outside of the city to find some beautiful hiking trails. Check out Discovery Park and Green Lake Trail in the city or a few popular nearby trails are Mailbox Peak, Mt. McCausland, Pinnicale Pass and many more of various difficulties and distances. 

Olympic National Forest - Just a couple hours drive from Seattle, visit the only temperate rainforest in the US!

Must Have Bags for Seattle

Crossbody Backpack - Carry your daily essentials while city wandering or on outdoor adventures.

Zipper Pouches - Organize your items in your luggage and they can double as a clutch or wristlet for a day or night out.

Carryall Tote - Folds easily in your luggage and then pull it out for all the market shopping!

Puffer Fanny Pack & Flat Fanny Pack - Go handsfree while you are out on the town, seeing the attractions or marveling at nature.

Art Wall in Pike Place Market