It’s hard not to love Seattle, with its vibrant central city, miles of shore, and easy access to the surrounding wilderness.
Downtown Attractions
Downtown includes both the city’s modern business district with its high-rise towers a well as the historic business district preserved in Pioneer Square, the waterfront terminals and parks, and Pike Place Market.
- Pretty in Pink (fall 2013)
- Not-Shopping in Seattle (May 2009)
- Downtown Seattle (June 2007)
Pike Place Market
Does anyone visit Seattle without stopping here? I thought not. And why wouldn’t you? It’s crowded, but fun. Just be sure to do your part and actually buy something!
- Not-Shopping in Seattle (May 2009)
- Back at the Market (February 2011)
Pioneer Square
The beautiful historic heart of Seattle, Pioneer Square still struggles to overcome its long-term role as the home of the homeless. There are beautiful buildings and parks, high quality shops, and delicious dining to be found here – but be prepared for panhandlers and obvious signs of poverty. It’s safe (at least during the day), but still gritty.
- First Street to Pioneer Square (February 2011)
Space Needle
It’s iconic and it’s totally touristy. And, on a clear day (or at least a semi-clear day – this is Seattle, after all) the view is amazing.
- Space Needle (May 2009)
Seattle Central Library
Whether or not it works as a library, this boldly colored box is fascinating as a piece of art. Best of all, anyone can visit and there isn’t any entry fee.
- Library Redux (February 2011)
Seattle Neighborhoods
Each of Seattle’s neighborhoods has a character all its own.
- Visit Seattle has information on Seattle’s neighborhoods
Ballard
Ballard was once an free-standing town that was home to Norwegian immigrant fisherman. Today it is one of the city’s trendy neighborhoods. My best friend has lived there for many years – long before it became a trendy place with lots of shiny new condos – so I’ve had the opportunity to watch its transformation over time.
- Ballard Sunday Market (fall 2013)
- Around Ballard (spring 2009)
- Sunset at Sunset Park (spring 2009)
- Celebrating Syttende Mai in Ballard (spring 2009)
Information on Ballard:
- InBallard includes dining and shopping opportunities;
- My Ballard has daily updates on what’s happening in the neighborhood; and
- The Ballard News Tribune carries news stories and other information about the neighborhood
- Seattle.gov has information on the Ballard Avenue Historic District
various neighborhoods, including Ballard.
Fremont
One of Seattle’s most artsy neighborhoods and the one where a time traveler from the Summer of Love would feel most at home. Greet the troll under the bridge and you can be sure your day will go well!
Phinney Ridge
- The View from Phinney Ridge (May 2009)
West Seattle
Seattle’s funky outpost across the water.
- West Seattle via Water Taxi (May 2009)
Attractions in and around Seattle
Art in Seattle
Best known for glass, Seattle is a city filled with art of all types.
Parks and Gardens
Seattle is a city filled with parks and gardens.
- Discovering Fall in Discovery Park (fall 2013)
- Washington Park Arboretum – Azaleas (and Rhododendrons too) (spring 2009)
Traveler basics
Transportation
- There’s Almost a Light Rail Stop at the Airport (February 2011)
Travel Journals
- Looking for Leaves (October 2013)
- Seattle in February (2011)
- Spring in Seattle (May 2009)
More Washington state posts