The evergreen city of Seattle, Washington is one of the true gems of the Pacific Northwest. Known for its vibrant culture, amazing seafood, passionate sports fans and incredible views, Seattle is increasingly listed as one of the most desirable cities in America to work, live and play.

So, of course, it makes sense to add it to your vacation hot spot list any time of year. With a relatively mild climate, Seattle is the perfect place to escape from the heat of the summer or enjoy a mild winter to hide out from the snow.

There’s so much to do and see in Seattle, we better get started!

Food and Drink

Market

There are two things Seattle might be most famous for coffee and seafood. It’s here where the world wide coffee chain Starbucks first started (you can take a pilgrimage to the first store). However, if you want to find some wonderful local brews, check out Cafe Allegro, Victrola Coffee Roasters, or Seattle Coffee Works.

For food, most people will head to the famous Pike Place Market, here you can grab supplies to cook your own dinner or some snacks for a picnic lunch nearby. For seafood check out Tanglewood Supreme, Dick’s for amazing drive in burgers, or Local 360 for the best in PacNW sourced eats.

Culture

Seattle Ferris WheelOnce you’ve had your fill of caffeine and good food, it’s time to get out and explore Seattle. One great way to do that is hop on the Washington State ferry you can see picture perfect views of the city and Puget Sound.

For entertainment on dry land, tour the Washington Park Arboretum, or the spectacular Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. The Seattle Art Museum also operates both the Asian Art Museum and the free outdoors Olympic Sculpture Park right on the waterfront past Pier 70.

Sports

Sounders Stadium

You might not know it given the laid back atmosphere that you feel on the West Coast, but Seattle is known for having some of the most dedicated and enthusiastic sports fans in the entire country. Sports teams operate here all year round, so it’s going to be easy to get your fix while here.

Choosing between the perennial Superbowl favorites Seattle Seahawks, the historic Seattle Mariners and the relatively new kids on the block Seattle Sounders can be difficult, but no matter which team you pick, you’re in for a great time.

Getting Around

There are plenty of ways to get around Seattle, the downtown corridor is relatively compact, so it’s r easy to wander around the city and take in the sites on foot (or bike). If you drive yourself, your best bet for parking will be one of the many garages around the city, as street parking can be hard to find.

If you prefer public transportation, Seattle has you covered. The city operates not only a bus system but also street cars, a light rail and a monorail system in and around the city itself.

There you have it, a quick and easy way to take in some of the very best of Seattle the next time you’re there. Of course, don’t forget to do a little wandering yourself, some of the best ways to find the best (hidden) stuff in any city are to stumble upon it yourself.

What are some of your favorite must see spots in Seattle?

Quick Guide to Seattle