Daytrip to Seattle - What to See and Do

Living so close to the border, I've always wanted to visit Seattle.  Starbucks originated in Seattle and Vancouverites can't get enough of it here.  The rain is another thing we have in common.  Of course, there's always the sports teams too.  They support our hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks and we support the Seattle Seahawks, their NFL team.  We are like sister cities on each side of the border.  So, I decided to head down there to see just how much we really are alike.  I found the people friendly, it has many attractions and the vibe of the city is very relaxed, just like Vancouver.  I felt very safe there.  It is a small city along the coast which makes it easy to get around too.  So, here are a few things that I think are worth checking out.

1. Space Needle

The Space Needle is Seattle's greatest icon.  It was built for the 1962 World's Fair and has become the heart of the city.  Take the elevator up to the observation deck for views of Mount Rainer, Elliot Bay and the Cascade Mountains.  Grab a space needle souvenir from inside the large gift shop located at the base of the needle.

Location: 400 Broad Street, Seattle, WA
Fees: Prices

2. Pike's Place Market

Pike's Place Market is a great place to find a bargain.  Choose from fresh flowers, to fresh fish to hand-made jewelry and other products.  You really can't go wrong.  The fish market will put on a show for visitors by throwing fish from one side of the store to someone who would catch it without dropping it.  After the show, grab your lunch and take it outside to eat and enjoy the views of the ocean.

Location: 85 Pike Street, #500, Seattle, WA
Fees: Free


3. Seattle Great Wheel

The Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel located at the tip of Pier 57. The wheel revolves around for 10 revolutions before you can get off.  On the way up, you can see city views of the skyline and feel like you might be lingering over the water as it comes around.  The enclosure is all glass so there is nothing to obstruct your view.  There is comfortable seating inside to enjoy during the ride.  I took my niece and it was a fun experience for both us.  Definitely go for a spin on the great wheel if you get a chance.

Location: Pier 57
Fees: Prices


4. Chihuly Garden and Glass

This is not your typical garden.  Chihuly Garden and Glass is located next to the Space Needle so it is easy to find.  Outside of the garden, you will find large magnificent sculptures of glass flowers.  Inside, you will be amazed at the glass flowers hanging from up above the glass house.  The artist, Dave Chihuly, is known for his art in large-scale glass blown sculptures.  Take a tour of the beautiful glass garden.  It will blow you away!

Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA
Fees:  Prices

5. Waterfall Garden Park (Hidden Waterfall)

This waterfall was a blessing to find as it was hidden in the middle of the city.  It was a hot day and we were all tired from the walking and exploring in the hot sun.  Once we found it, we stayed here for half an hour and relaxed.  The noise from the rushing water of the waterfall drowned out the outside hustle and bustle city noise.  It was enclosed with gates and surrounded in trees for shade and a perfectly placed table and chair for those who want to relax and take a break from the office next door.  The spray of the water and white noise was enough for us to rejuvenate ourselves and continue on our trek of exploring downtown Seattle.

Location: 219 2nd Ave S, Seattle, WA
Fees: Free

6. Occidental Park

Occidental Park is a great place to come spend some time.  There are always some types of activities happening throughout the year.  We went during the summer and there were many tables and chairs set up with people playing board games and playing Jenga.  Sometimes they even have a large chess board set up to play.  Its a great use of space with trees to shade people from the stinging sun rays of summer.  If I had more time, I would have sat down and played a game or two.

Location: 117 S Washington St, Seattle, WA
Fee: Free

7. Gum Wall

One of the cringe worthy attractions is the infamous Gum Wall located in Post Alley at Pike's Place Market.  The gum first started appearing on the wall in 1993 when patrons of the Unexpected Productions would stick gum with coins inside and plaster it to the wall.  It was scraped off twice before they gave up and it became a tourist attraction in 1990.  We added our contributions to the wall in awe and tried to be careful not to get anything on our shoes or clothing.  Look around and you will find some creative messages in the two inch layer of gum.

Location: Post Alley, Pike's Place Market
Fees: Free

8. Chinatown

No trip is complete without a visit to Chinatown.  The colours, diversity and buildings are always a delight for the eyes.  I walked around a little and saw some great things at Hing Hay Park.  A very large chess board, an outside gym, surrounded by unique little shops and restaurants.

Location: Seattle Chinatown - International District
Fees: Free

9. Bruce Lee's Grave

Fun Fact: Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee are buried in Seattle.  Their graves can be found at Lake View Cemetery.  I remember watching Bruce Lee movies with my brothers and Uncles when I was younger.  Bruce Lee was buried here in 1973.  The graves are shaded by a large tree and is surrounded by shrubs to the back of the cemetery.  If you are a huge Bruce Lee fan, take your camera, brings some flowers and pay your respects to the legend.

Location:  1554 15th Ave E, Seattle, WA
Fees: Free

10.  The Halal Guys

The Halal Guys had recently opened up in Pioneer Square when I went in August.  It is a famous halal chain with restaurants all over the world.  They serve the best chicken and gyros with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours.  Great halal option for those craving a shwarma downtown!

Location: 105 Yesler Way, Seattle, WA
Fees: Prices

11. Ride the Monorail

Besides the Space Needle, the Monorail is the only other item left behind from the World's Fair in 1962.  This iconic train system delivers passengers between a one mile route along 5th Ave between Westlake Center and Seattle Centre. I used the monorail to get to the Space Needle from Westlake Center. It was fun and easy.  I would take it again!

Location: Westlake Center
Fees: Prices

12. Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is full of coffee shops, art galleries and trendy bars.  The Halal Guys are also across the street.  It offers an guided Underground Tour of Seattle in the subterranean streets.  I didn't have time for this but will do it next time I'm there.  There is also a little park with tables and chairs where one can sit on their lunch break and enjoy a slice of pizza, if they wish.  A little game of Bocce never hurt anyone either.

Location: 614 1st Ave, Seattle, WA
Fees: Free

13. Kerry Park

Kerry Park is a great place to get a great shot of Seattle's skyline with the Space Needle and if you are luck, Mt Rainier in the background on a clear day.  Located at the south slope of Queen Anne Hill.  Tourists can flood the area because of the great views, so come early to avoid the crowds and grab yourself a great spot for the perfect picture of Seattle.

Location: 211 West, Highland Dr, Seattle, WA
Fees: Free