Why is the PNW so beloved? Let us count the ways and turn you on to some of our favorite things about the center of our universe. Wondering what to do on a Saturday? Looking for cool restaurants? Want to find unique experiences? You can start with Alki Beach and go down the list alphabetically to discover and enjoy the gems that PNW culture has to offer!
*Where to eat & drink with out-of-towners – Seattleites get a lot of visitors. Here are the best places to impress them.
10 Classic Restaurants Every Seattleite Must Try – With a seemingly constant stream of buzzy new restaurants in Seattle, old, reliable spots can get forgotten. Here are 10 classic Seattle restaurants that have stood the test of time, operating for twenty years or more and still going strong. Time to get nostalgic.
18th & Union – is a performance space in Seattle’s Central District that serves as a home for solo and other portable performance and visual art, including theater, music, dance, comedy, and improv. Find a reason to visit this cool vintage Seattle space and enjoy a performance or two while you’re there. (Central District)
20 Northwest Day Trips to Make the Most of Fall – Fall foliage, haunted parks, enchanted islands, unforgettable museums—all less than two hours from Seattle. (PNW)
25 Seattle-area chefs and restaurants named James Beard semifinalists (2019) – Hungry? Looking for a new culinary experience? Have a craving for an amazing pasty or mixed drink? Need a cool place to take a date? Enjoy Washington’s best in the categories of Best New Restaurant, Outstanding Baker, Outstanding Bar Program, Outstanding Chef, Outstanding Pastry Chef, Outstanding Restauranteur, Outstanding Restaurant, Outstanding Service, Outstanding Wine Program, Outstanding Wine Spirits or Beer Producer, Rising Star Chef of the Year, Best Chef: Northwest.
Airbnb Experiences in Seattle – Top rated things to do in Seattle for tourists and locals like seeing a secret jazz club, visiting the outdoor rabbit wonderland and taking an epic hot air balloon ride by Mt. Rainier. (All over Seattle)
Ada’s Technical Books & Cafe – where the technical mind finds what it craves. Our store sits in Capitol Hill, Seattle. And is home to the kinds of books, gifts, workshops and events, that beckon to the geek {and the geek in all of us.} (Capitol Hill)
Alki Beach – A long beach strip that runs from Alki Point to Duwamish Head on Elliott Bay. It’s a great spot for a 2.5 mile walk (with or without your dog) and great eats any time of year, and in the summer draws joggers, rollerbladers, volleyball players, beachcombers, sunbathers, bicyclists and strollers out to enjoy the sun. (Alki)
Alki Kayak Tours – Enjoy hourly kayak, stand up paddle board, cruiser bike, longboard and inline skate rentals to paddle or cruise by Alki Beach, explore the Duwamish River Head and Jack Block Park. Hourly and daily rental rates are available to suit your kayak and stand up paddle board rental needs.
Aqua Verde Paddle Club – Explore Seattle the way it’s meant to be viewed–from the water. We offer kayak and paddle board rentals March through October. Embark from beautiful Portage Bay explore Seattle’s diverse and vibrant house boat community. Cross the Montlake Cut to drift among herons and turtles in the serene Washington Park Arboretum. Or, sail under the freeway bridge toward Gasworks Park for beautiful views of the Seattle skyline. After your adventure is done, top it all off with margaritas and delicious Mexican food from upstairs. Kayaks, food and ambience may just be the best way to explore Seattle. (Portage Bay)
Argosy Cruises – They say the only thing better than having a boat is having a friend with a boat. And for over 60 years we’ve been proud to be Seattle’s “friend with a boat,” showing locals and visitors a side of Seattle they rarely get to see. Since our early days as Seattle’s Spring Street Water Taxi, Argosy Cruises has been a Seattle institution. As a family-owned and operated company, we’re part of the community and take pride in showing it off, as well as in giving back. And we consider it a privilege to be able to share this area’s breathtaking beauty and fascinating history. Currently, Argosy Cruises operates a variety of vessels providing private and public cruises around the Puget Sound area. Argosy Cruises offers must-see tourist attractions, such as the Lakes, Locks and Harbor Cruises and hosts countless weddings, trips to Blake Island for the Tillicum Village Excursion, corporate events and community activities, including the Christmas Ship™ Festival, and Camp Goodtimes, a non-profit that provides cost-free, medically-supervised “camp experiences” for children with cancer.
Art – How to navigate the Seattle art world on a budget. Here are some of the best programs for promotions and discounted tickets to live music, dance, theater, opera, and comedy around the city.
Artusi – The celebrated, casual bar next door to its notable, Northern Italian sibling restaurant, Spinasse. It is the perfect stop on Capitol Hill for an expertly crafted cocktail and a light bite. (Capitol Hill)
Asian Art Museum – A museum of Asian art located inside Volunteer Park in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. (Capitol Hill)
Ballard Farmers Market – Open since 2000, Ballard Farmers Market is Seattle’s first year-round neighborhood farmers market selling produce exclusively from Washington state farmers. For 15 years of Sundays, the Market has operated along the historic cobblestone stretch of Ballard Avenue NW between Vernon Place and 22nd Avenue. In the spring of 2016, the Market expanded onto 22nd Avenue, extending to NW Market Street. We hope you will visit us soon and plan to spend the day exploring one of the gems of Seattle. (Ballard)
Ballard Kayak – As sailors, kayakers, paddle boarders and outdoor enthusiasts, John and Becca, started Ballard Kayak and Paddleboard to share their love of the Puget Sound with the many residents and visitors of Seattle, WA. Ballard Kayak’s mission is to provide Seattle and its visitors a means to experience the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest while prioritizing safety and having a darn good time. We emphasize environmental protection and education by teaching customers about the local ecology and offering simple ways to positively impact the shoreline and waterways, like picking up trash and minimizing harmful runoff.
Ballard Locks – A National Historic Site, busiest locks in the Nation and major tourist attraction…open daily 24/7 for vessels, 7:00 am to 9:00 pm for visitors. Watch large ships & small boats up close and personal. View migrating salmon from June through September. Tour the visitor center/museum and historic admin building. Stroll the world class botanical garden. Summer activities include summer concerts, picnics and weddings.
Ballard Loft – Ready for fun? We’ve got it all. 16 flat screens. Free shuffleboard. One pool table. Steel tipped darts. Video games, including Big Buck Hunter and Golden Tee. Great music. A garage door opens to front patio on Ballard Avenue, an ideal spot to enjoy summer nights. Bring your friends or make new ones. Either way, as soon as you walk through the door, you will feel at home at Ballard Loft! (Ballard)
Bell Street Pier and Observation Deck – Check out the quiet rooftop deck full of benches to sit and enjoy the scenic views of the Sound. The Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal anchors an 11-acre complex along Seattle’s downtown waterfront. Pier 66 is home to Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises, which offer weekly sailings to Alaska. Pier 66 is an easy walk to the famous Pike Place Market, Seattle Aquarium and the Great Wheel. The iconic Space Needle is also nearby.
Best Parks and Beaches in Seattle – We have a lot of beautiful parks and beaches that are great for leisurely strolls, picnics, or low-level hikes, all within the city limits. Enjoy them!
Best Spots to Snap Sunsets – We have plenty of amazing spots to take photos of the skies — like Golden Gardens, Gas Works Park, and the appropriately-named Sunset Hill Park. But which ones are irresistibly photogenic? We reached out to some local photographers to learn a little more about their favorite spots around Puget Sound…
Beveridge Place Pub – Located in West Seattle, the Beveridge Place Pub is a premier destination for great beer. Enjoy local, regional and international draft beers on tap and by the bottle. Our impressive array of taps includes 36 handles pouring a rotating selection of ales, lagers, ciders, and seasonal selections from near and far. We offer one of the deepest bottle lists of any bar in the city – over 150 bottles! (West Seattle)
Bizzaro Italian Cafe -a Seattle favorite since it opened in 1986 by original owner, chef and visual artist David Nast. He converted the building which was originally an auto workshop into his dream restaurant on a shoestring budget with a lot of hardwork, ingenuity, artistic inspiration and love. Bizzarro still holds true to its fun and non-pretentious heritage with most of the employees all involved in artistic endeavors and the décor is still as engaging. The restaurant itself has evolved into a high quality Italian restaurant using the finest of ingredients with almost everything being hand made in-house from the pasta to the breads and the decadent desserts. (Wallingford)
Book Larder – Offering a carefully selected collection of new, collectible, and imported cookbooks to lovers of food and cooking in Seattle and beyond. We are also a spot to gather for author events, cooking classes, demonstrations and other food related discussions, both formal and informal. When you visit, we hope you’ll linger over titles that catch your fancy, and make yourself at home around our big kitchen counter.
Brouwers Cafe – Hip pub offering Belgian-style grub, punk rock music, hundreds of beers & over 50 scotches in a former warehouse. (Fremont)
Buckley’s Belltown – Buckley’s is the best place in Belltown to cheer your favorite football team on to victory! Locals and tourists alike love the electric atmosphere and infectious team spirit. (Belltown)
Byen Bakeri – Owned by former VP of concept innovations at Starbucks; as a member of the community our modern Nordic cafe is a friendly place to enjoy some work time or meet with friends. Everything we serve is made with the finest ingredients and crafted daily with care and love. Our offerings are inspired by passion and heritage.
Cafe Allegro – Seattle’s oldest coffee shop. (University District)
Can Can Culinary Caberet – While also offering a market fresh menu of seasonal delights and libations carefully curated and prepared by Chef Roman Turner. Founded in 2005 by artistic director Chris Pink and nestled underneath the world-famous Pike Place Market, Can Can’s intimate underground setting is evocative of Paris at the turn of the 20th Century. (pike Place Market)
Capitol Hill Block Party – A 3-day music and arts festival, celebrating Seattle’s iconic arts and music center. (Capitol Hill)
Cascade Loop – Endless tulip fields to snowcapped mountains. The mighty Columbia River to open range. The great American road trip is alive and well on Washington’s Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. (Snohomish River Valley, Stevens Pass Greenway, Levenworth Cascade Foothills))
Center for Wooden Boats – A hands-on maritime museum where every visitor has opportunities to engage in heritage experiences. CWB is a laboratory of learning using hands and minds. Come as you are and you will leave with calluses on your hands, shavings in your hair, maritime skills in your brain and pride of what you have achieved. (South Lake Union)
Cheap eats – Costs keep rising, bills are due, and oh my god do you really have to pay parking meters until 10pm now? Here are the city’s best places where a relatively small outlay* can carry you through the day.
Cinerama – Seattle’s most epic movie theater and one of only three theaters remaining worldwide that can show Cinerama-format film. Walk into the theater with its wide curved screen, reclining red seats and star field-like ceiling panels and it, “just looks like a spaceship,” Seattle Cinerama Manager Ethan Caldwell said. “It truly does. You look at our screen when the curtains open and I like to think of it as the window looking out of the spaceship.” (You can take a virtual Google Maps tour here.)
CityPass Seattle – Enjoy our amazing city like a tourist to see some of our greatest attractions at a discount.Visit the Needle for spectacular views twice within 24 hours – once during the day, once at night. Discover playful sea otters, graceful octopuses, luminous moon jellies and more at the Seattle Aquarium. Learn about Seattle on this entertaining, one-hour, live-narrated cruise of Elliott Bay and the Seattle Harbor. Experience the power of pop culture in EMP Museum’s colorful Frank Gehry-designed building! Hands-on experiences, iconic artifacts, and award-winning exhibitions featuring luminaries in the fields of music, literature, television, video games, and film make EMP a destination unlike any other. Discover the world of gorillas, grizzlies, lions, birds, snakes, turtles and more at a top award-winning zoo. See penguins “fly” underwater along a stunning desert coast on an Argosy Cruise Harbor Tour. Explore hundreds of interactive exhibits, wander among fluttering butterflies, touch live marine animals, explore distant galaxies and immerse yourself in a giant-screen IMAX® movie at he Pacific Science Center. Immerse yourself in a world where curiosity, creativity and color come to life at the Chihuly Gardens. (All across Seattle)
Concerts at the Mural – Take advantage of the warm summer nights and take in the tunes from some of KEXP’s favorite artists. The four FREE all-ages shows are tailored to the culturally curious who seek to discover the best of the area’s independent music scene. Come early to get your seats, enjoy the beer/wine garden, and visit our sponsor booths. (Seattle Center)
Cupcake Royale – Seattle’s first cupcake bakery and café. In fact, Cupcake Royale is the nation’s first cupcake bakery to open outside of NYC! We also believe in creating a sustainable and viable local economy. We partner with Washington farmers and producers to bring you the best our neighbors have to offer, because we believe that buying local is vital to building a strong community (and it tastes a lot better). We are committed to giving back to our community and annually donate over 40,000 cupcakes to help raise funds for local non-profits. We care deeply about baking delicious cupcakes, crafting amazing espresso, and creating sustainable communities and joyous experiences. (Capitol Hill, Madrona, Ballard, West Seattle, 108 Pine, Queen Anne, Pagliacci’s in Bellevue)
Darrell’s Tavern – Where your dad used to drink. We are a popular dive north of Seattle on 180th and Aurora. Dive being the operative word; we like it that way. Carpet on the walls, classic decor and limited lighting are the perfect backdrop for cheap drinks and entertainment; blues, jazz, rockabilly and rock of all kinds. (Shoreline)
Daybreaker – An early morning dance movement in 25 cities around the world and growing. We start with a one hour yoga + fitness experience and then dance with reckless abandon for two hours before work.
Derby Restaurant – Located inside The Shop – a state of the art facility for car and motorcycle enthusiasts to indulge all aspects of their passion. Chef Nick prepares classic comfort foods with the best meats and produce that Washington has to offer. Northwest beers and bourbon, with a large selection of scotch. Open for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour (daily 3pm-6pm) – seven days a week in SoDo.
Dick’s Drive-In – Where taste has been the difference since 1954. Great burgers. Hand dipped shakes. Real Potatoes. Customer donations have raised over $800,000 in Dick’s Change for Charity boxes. (Wallingford, Broadway, Holman,Lake City, Queen Anne, Edmonds)
Discovery Park – A 534 acre natural area park operated by the Seattle Parks and Recreation. It is the largest city park in Seattle, and occupies most of the former Fort Lawton site. (Magnolia)
Eater Seattle – Our favorite shortcut to finding the best places to eat in Seattle and over 20 other great cities in America. Discover the best bars, coffee shops, ramen place, Thai food, pasta, ice cream and so much more. (Online)
El Diablo Coffee Co – Cuban-style espresso plus Mexican hot chocolate, fruit shakes, wine & beer in a comfy cafe setting. (Queen Anne)
Everywhere Calendar – A compilation of awards ceremonies and sports events to watch on TV, eclipses and other astronomical events, UN “International Days,” major US holidays and observances, and other events to keep track of—no matter where in the country (or world) you are. (Everywhere, …including Seattle)
Foundation – Together, we build experiences that gather community around the celebration of our local creatives, producers, and scholars—all who want to teach their passions and share their inspiration with others. We work to make sure you walk away from each Foundation experience discovering something new, meeting a new person, and feeling more connected to community. To design these experiences, Foundation works to bring your ideas to life. (Seattle)
Fremont Market – Welcome to Seattle’s favorite year ’round Sunday Market. It was founded in 1990, and modeled after the popular European markets enjoyed by the travelers Jon and Candace Hegeman who loved the vibrancy, color and activities they brought to communities. By 1999 Fremont Market outgrew its boundaries spawning sister Farmers Market in Ballard, Madrona, Wallingford, Georgetown, Queen Anne, Capital Hill and Interbay neigborhoods. The Market also contributed to the zany special attractions like the Fremont Outdoor Movies and the Red White & Dead Zombie Walk. The Fremont’s Walking Guides and Historical markers were created by the Market to cement Fremont’s urban legend and bolster its appeal. (Fremont, Ballard, Madrona, Wallingford, Georgetown, Queen Anne, Capital Hill and Interbay)
Fremont Solstice Fair – Naked bicyclists. ‘Nuff said. ..but if you need more – 100,000 revelers visit the Fremont neighborhood for Solstice festivities. (Fremont)
Gas Works Park – Has a play area with a large play barn, and big hill popular for flying kites. Special park features include a sundial, and a beautiful view of Seattle. Burke-Gilman Trail runs past Gas Works parking lot and follows the Burlington-Northern Railroad 12.5 miles north to Log Boom Park in Kenmore. It’s real live steampunk. (Kenmore)
George and Dragon Pub – Since 1995 a little bit of Britain in Seattle. Located in the Fremont area of Seattle. Serving cocktails, fine ales and great food. The only proper place to watch a good fubol match, especially the FIFA World Cup. (Fremont)
Green Lake Park – One of Seattle’s most beloved parks. Its expanse of water and green space in the center of a dense urban neighborhood draws thousands of people daily from all over the city. The park serves as a natural preserve for hundreds of species of trees and plants, as well as numerous birds and waterfowl. The newly reconstructed 2.8-mile path around the lake provides a perfect recreational spot for runners, bikers, skaters and walkers. Many others use the athletic fields or visit the park for boating, picnics and swimming. (Green Lake)
Green Leaf Restaurant – Experience the pho and great Vietnamese culture. (Chinatown, Belltown)
Hamilton Viewpoint Park – The best place to see Seattle views at sunset. With a stunning view of the city, Elliott Bay, the harbor and the Cascade Mountains, Hamilton Viewpoint showcases Seattle’s urban and natural beauty. (West Seattle)
Happy Hour Heat Map – It’s not hard to find a decent happy hour in Seattle (there’s also an essential happy hour map for some true greats and a late-night happy hour guide for the night owls), so this guide collects the hottest new offerings. Some not-so-new restaurants are just now getting into the happy-hour game. Others, brand new to the city, have rolled out happy hours from the very beginning, and some standbys offer retooled menus that serve the latest whims from the kitchen. (King County)
Hawks Nest – Where the 12’s watch their Seahawk games. (Stadium District)
Historic Panama Hotel (Bed & Breakfast and Teahouse) – LOVE this teahouse!! You’ll dig the unique atmosphere that’s as refreshing as the fantastic teas they serve. Schedule business meetings or romantic rendevous here. “Experience the Romance of a Simpler Time”. Serving the finest teas from around the world. Proudly serving LAvAzza – Italy’s #1 coffee. (Business District)
Hot Dog Stand In Front of Neighbors – Don’t forget to add cream cheese. (Pike)
Hot Tub Boats – Yes, this is real. Real amazing! Hot Tub Boats are available for rent and purchase. Due to our design and engineering, a valid driver’s license is all that is required to rent out our boats. All of our boats are custom built, in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle. (South Lake Union)
Hula Hula Karaoke & Tiki Bar – Hula Hula opened its doors to Seattle in 2006. Centrally located in Lower Queen Anne, we are proud to be the neighborhood’s tropical oasis. A perfect place for an after work drink, happy hour, pre-Key Arena meeting spot, girls’ night out or rockin’ the best karaoke in Seattle, seven nights a week. (Lower Queen Anne)
IdeaX Makerspace – The Bellevue Library ideaX Makerspace features introductory workshops and drop-in sessions for collaboration and creation. The space encourages creativity through art, design, coding, recording, and more through emerging technologies, traditional mediums and explores the space between. (Bellevue)
Intentionalist – An online guide to intentional spending that supports small businesses and diverse local communities. We make it easy for you to find local restaurants, bars, gyms, shops, and more owned by women, people of color, veterans, LGBTQ, families, and differently abled people. Beyond serving as a directory, Intentionalist supports community connection through business profiles based on interviews with local business owners, and meet-ups that provide the opportunity to meet them and learn about the stories behind their businesses. It all starts with everyday decisions about where we buy a cup of coffee, work out, or pick up a birthday gift. Whether you identify as a localist, activist, or just a good neighbor, Intentionalist helps you contribute to the businesses that keep our communities vibrant and diverse. (Seattle)
Jacobsen Observatory – Built in 1895, the Observatory with its 126-year old, 6-inch refracting telescope is still offering celestial views of the wonders of the Universe. Here you will find information on opened nights, making reservations, a history of the telescope, a history of astronomy at the UW, and even an operating manual for the telescope.
JarrBar – Having co-authored In the Kitchen with the Pike Place Fish Guys with the World Famous fish throwing guys of Pike Place Market, Bryan has a deep love for all things from the sea and the history and pulse of the Pike Place Market. While traveling, Bryan was inspired by the intimate neighborhood bars found in almost every city and town. Delectable anchovies and a plate of ham along with a cold beer made a great meal any time of the day. Thus JarrBar was born. An intimate place featuring cured seafood and meats paired with classic cocktails, wines from Iberia (and a few closer to home), and cold beer. Bryan also co-owned Madison Park Conservatory, a place that did not last but created some amazing food and memories.
Kelsey Creek Farm – Watch a sheep being sheared, learn to ride a horse, and meet a 750 pound hog in downtown Bellevue. What? Really? Yes! Kelsey Creek Farm retains the feel of country life while being centrally located in downtown bellevue. Home to ponies, sheep, goats, chickens, pigs, rabbits and waterfowl, our farm dates from the 1930’s, complete with white rail fencing, beautiful lawns and fields. Bring your family to view our farm animals out in their pastures every day of the years from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Our playground, picnic tables, and picnic shelter are open every day from dawn to dusk. Reservations are not needed to visit the farm and there are no entrance fees. (Downtown Bellevue)
KEXP – Where the music matters. (On radio waves at 103FM and on interweb live streams everywhere)
KEXP Gathering Space – Hang out to work or take a meeting in this huge lounge with couches, comfy chairs, tables, a vinyl store, a coffee shop, and KEXP playing live. KEXP’s Gathering Space was created as a place for the community to connect and share their love for music and the arts. It is a welcoming and inviting space for Uptown neighbors, freelancers, travellers and music fans, providing free wi-fi, comfortable seating, and featuring the music of KEXP as the central soundtrack. (Seattle Center / Queen Anne)
Knee High Stocking Club – Hidden in plain sight, Knee High Stocking Co. is a speakeasy cocktail bar in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. Our mission is to chase perfection and share our love-affair with the cocktail. Building on the great traditions of classic American and French cocktailing from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, our drinks are accurately crafted, flavor balanced, full-bodied, and strong. We’ve tailored our menu to satisfy a variety of palates, and our professional bartenders will always create a new cocktail to your individual tastes. (Capitol Hill)
Kubota Garden – Hidden in South Seattle, Kubota Garden is a stunning 20 acre landscape that blends Japanese garden concepts with native Northwest plants. The city acquired the property, which is an historic landmark, in 1987 from the estate of master landscaper Fujitaro Kubota. Kubota was a horticultural pioneer when he began merging Japanese design techniques with North American materials in his display garden in 1927. The Gardens are a spectacular setting of hills and valleys, interlaced with streams, waterfalls, ponds, bridges, and rock out-croppings with a rich array of plant material. (South Seattle)
Lady Yum Macarons & Mischief – We bring the magic of the PNW to life through our delectable macarons, champagne, wines and artisanal products from the area’s most adventurous and passionate makers. We hope your Lady Yum experience awakens your inner child, shows you how enchanting life in this city can be, reminds you how much there is to be thankful for and inspires you to find the rabbit in your hat. Because that, my friends, is where the magic happens. (Pioneer Square)
Living Computer Museum – Dedicated to preserving and displaying working examples of those computers that tell the story of our journey away from computing as a difficult and expensive undertaking toward the universal access to information technology we enjoy today. (SoDo)
Local 360 – A sustainable restaurant in the heart of Belltown. Our emphasis is on local sourcing, with the majority of our ingredients falling within a 360 mile radius of Seattle. (Belltown)
Lola – Amazing breakfasts! Renowned chef and author Tom Douglas’ Lola restaurant is a staple of Seattle’s dining scene. Lola features the classic produce of the Pacific Northwest mingled with cooking styles of Greece; the menu offers modern Mediterranean and North African riffs on local ingredients such as Anderson Valley lamb, Penn Cove shellfish and wild Bristol Bay sockeye salmon. (Downtown)
Map of Seattle’s Iconic Murals – Want to get to know vintage Seattle? Check out the Evergrey’s map of iconic Seattle murals and take a Saturday to visit them. This’ll take you in and out of some of Seattle’s historic neighborhoods and you’ll get your art fix on at the same time. Double bonus! (from Lake City down to South Seattle and many locales in between).
Marco Polo Bar & Grill – Best know for our world famous fried chicken, Marco Polo has been satisfying local cravings for generations. Located on the edge of historic Georgetown, we are a celebrated neighborhood saloon loved by many regulars. Over the years Marco has transformed from a small tavern to a larger and full-sized bar while maintaining a family owned atmosphere. The best spot in Seattle to watch a Cougs game with fellow fans. (Georgetown)
Market Theater Gum Wall – A brick alleyway wall now covered in used chewing gum. Parts of the wall are covered several inches thick, 15 feet high for 50 feet. Anytime you visit you will see more selfies taken in a five minute period then you will probably see anywhere else in Seattle you visit. (Post Alley)
Marymoor Park – Interested in soccer, baseball, cricket or concerts? Need to take the dog for a walk? Want to try your hand at flying a radio-control airplane or climbing a 35-foot freestanding structure? Looking to enjoy the outdoors by strolling along a regional trail, picnicking on the lawn, or birdwatching on the shores of Lake Sammamish? Then Marymoor Park is the place for you! King County’s most popular park, more than 3 million people visit Marymoor annually to explore Marymoor’s 640 acres of recreational activities, rare amenities, and culturally-enriching events. (Redmond)
Miro Tea – Our dream with Miro Tea began with the simple idea that people could enjoy fresh, artisan-quality teas in a vibrant, community-oriented tea shop. Founded in 2007, Miro Tea was welcomed into the Ballard neighborhood as a centerpiece for connecting our community with the worlds finest grades of tea. Through our quality of service, knowledge and product we strive to evoke a the sense of warmth and renewal that is the most primary characteristic of a good tea. We welcome your visit and look forward to connecting with you over your next cup of tea.(Ballard)
Molly Moons – Ice cream. Seattle ice cream. (Wallingford, Capitol Hill, Madrona, Queen Anne, U Village, and ‘minimoons’ are available in vending machines on Washington State Ferries and locations across the region; Each vending machine benefits the community by giving back 1 percent of its sales to a nonprofit related to its new home.)
Mount Rainier – Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning six major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems. You can also discover 30 Unbelievably Interesting Facts About Mount Rainier. A lifetime of discovery awaits. (South of Seattle. It’s a mountain, you can’t miss it)
Mox Boarding House – Founded in 2011 by brothers John and Damon Morris, Mox Boarding House offers a unique experience that was created with the gaming community in mind. Mox Boarding House is part of the Card Kingdom family of brands, which was founded in 1999 and serves the needs of Magic: The Gathering players. Visit our award-winning game stores in Seattle and Bellevue, WA, and Portland, OR!
Myrtle Edwards Park – A 1.25-mile winding bike and pedestrian paths along Elliott Bay, fantastic views of the Olympics Mountains, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound, easy access from downtown and easy connection to bike paths to Magnolia. (North of Belltown)
Navy Strength – A tiki-inspired bar along a sleepy stretch of Belltown, that has been anointed “Best New American Cocktail Bar” by Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans, one of the drink industry’s highest honors. (Belltown)
Needle and Thread – Sophisticated, reservations-only, cocktail bar, accessed by a bank vault in the Tavern Law pub. (Capitol Hill)
Neko – A Cat Cafe – A unique and fun space in the heart of Capitol Hill. We’ve got coffee, beer, wine & light nibbles all in the company of CATS! We’ve partnered with RASKC to bring you adoptable cats of all shapes and sizes and personalities. Whether it be happy hour after work, a private party in your very own room, or Sunday morning coffee, we’ve got you covered! When reservations are full in the kitty room, don’t forget the cozy bar & cafe is always a great spot to chill. (Capitol Hill)
Northwest Outdoor Center – NWOC was founded by five paddling entrepreneurs in October of 1980. Our goal was simple: to provide safe, high quality boating instruction for people in the NW. Years later, the concept has expanded but the goal remains the same. NWOC is best known for its classes, rentals, and tours, which are detailed in our class brochure. We also have about 100 kayaks available for use right from our docks, on Lake Union. Most of our classes and tours are for the beginner, from Rescue classes to Whitewater to Whale Searching. We also offer surf technique classes for those who wish to elevate their skill level. We started selling gear because of customer demand for quality kayaking accessories. While we have more items in our store, this covers many of the items that kayakers can’t do without. Whether you visit us here in our store, or mail order some gear for yourself or a friend, we would love to help you. (South Lake Union)
Oddfellows Cafe – Go for the historic decor. Stay for a great meal. (Capitol Hill)
Old Stove Brewing – If you’ve been to Seattle’s Pike Place Market, you’ve watched fish fly, you’ve fed a bronze pig named Rachel, you’ve shopped endless rows of crafts, flowers and food, you’ve gazed out at Elliott Bay. And you probably got a little thirsty. carry on the Market’s “Meet the Producer” tradition by producing amazing beer onsite to be enjoyed in a comfortable and enticing taproom. Thanks to the vision and work of many, we have been able to create one of the best places to experience craft beer in Pacific Northwest. We invite you to bring your family and friends to see and taste for yourselves! (pike Place Market)
Olympic Sculpture Park – A public park consisting of a 9-acre outdoor sculpture museum and beach. (Elliott Bay Waterfront)
Pagliacci’s Pizza – The Most Award Winning Pizza in the PNW. Just do yourself a favor and dig into a slice ASAP. (All across Seattle and Eastside)
Pegasus Pizza – Our most favorite pizza along with Pagliacci’s. Try the Alki Special and The Greek. Delicioso! (Alki, Bellevue)
Pike’s Place Market – Possibly you’ve heard of the Seattle icon where flying fish and spicy tea are but a fraction of the delicacies that await you. It’s much more than just a public market overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront in Seattle. The Market opened August 17, 1907, and is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. Great for picking up fresh fruits, vegetables and fish for home meals. (Elliott Bay Waterfront)
Pioneer Square – Seattle’s original downtown, dating back to 1852. The district is characterized by late nineteenth century brick and stone buildings, and one of the nation’s best surviving collections of Romanesque Revival style urban architecture. (Pioneer Square)
Portage Bay Cafe – Brunch like you give a damn. (Roosevelt, South Lake Union)
Private Clubs – …they’re private. Find someone who knows someone and you’ll be in! 🙂 (Puget Sound)
Post Alley Film Festival – A showcase for emerging and established filmmakers and focused on a wide variety of homegrown and international short films. Post Alley Film Festival is not restricted to screening only women’s work but it is a venue for female perspectives and it encourages film submissions focusing on female subject matter. (Pike Place Market)
Radiator Whiskey – Named by Zagat as one of the hottest bars in 15 U.S. Cities! “With its awesome cocktails, including barrel-aged creations, and fun menu items like cornflake-crusted chicken livers or egg-topped tater tots, this rocking spot across from Matt’s in the Market feels like a party. Their Beast Feast is featured in Zagat Seattle’s “8 Biggest Hunks of Meat in Seattle.” (Pike Place Market)
Ram Restaurant & Brewery – The Northgate location is where Husky fans watch their UW football games. (Northgate)
Rhein Haus – German biergarten with bratwurst, pretzels & schnitzels plus fireplaces & bocce ball courts. (Capitol Hill)
RockBox – A Japanese style karaoke lounge in Capitol Hill, Seattle with full bar. Sing and drink with your friends in a private room or karaoke box! (Capitol Hill)
Rock Creek – Our menu centers around globally sourced seafood from well managed fisheries; with offerings of local Northwest familiars like crab, oysters and mussels, to more tropical fish like Kona Kampachi or Hawaiian Ono, and East Coast staples like Striped Bass. Our preparations emphasize fresh ingredients that arrive daily, and pronounced flavors from around the world. Our urban-industrial two-story ‘fishing lodge’ was built with local and reclaimed resources by Dovetail Construction and Marian Built. Our tables were crafted from bark-beetle pine, and we even found a home for our favorite repurposed farm equipment! Our space includes the main dining area, our killer bar, a large modern patio and an upstairs loft and private dining room. (Fremont)
Rooftop Bars – Discover the best rooftop bars in Seattle!
Salumi Cured Meats – Amazing sandwiches. Combining the tradition of Italian salumerias with Northwest flavors since 1999. (Pioneer Square)
Seamonster Lounge – Seattle’shome for live soul, jazz, and funk music. Famous for their Funky 2 Death Fridays, and Latin and Cuban nights are cool too. (Wallingford)
Seattle 100 – Invites each of us to survey our own surroundings, our lives, our friends—and those not yet our friends—that make up the place we all live, whether thatʼs Seattle or anywhere else. The list is curated by award winning Seattleite Chase Jarvis who loves and evangelizes what’s best about Seattle culture.
Seattle.com – Everything Seattle. (Seattle)
Seattle Art Events – Discover local art openings, art walks and more vis The Stranger.(Puget Sound)
Seattle Art Museum SAM – Where the arts come alive in Seattle. (Seattle)
Seattle Comedy – Find details on stand-up, improv, and other comedy performances via The Stranger.(Puget Sound)
Seattle Community & Civics – Find details on political discussions, fundraisers, workshops, and other community events via The Stranger. (Seattle)
Seattle Festivals – Discover upcoming festivals from Vashon and Sequim to The Gorge at George, Washington via the Stranger. (Puget Sound)
Seattle Film Festivals & Events – Find film festivals, parties, lectures, and other special events here, and find regular movie times for all Seattle theaters on The Stanger’s movie times calendar. (Seattle)
Seattle Food & Drink Events – Hungry? Thirsty? Check out The Stranger’s guide to food and drink happenings around town. (Puget Sound)
SeattleFoodTruck.com – View our daily schedule to find your favorite food trucks in a neighborhood near you, or book a food truck for your upcoming event using our free online catering form! (King County)
Seattle Geeks & Gaming Events – Discover where geeks and gamers are meeting up. Also check out these tech event calendars. (Puget Sound)
Seattle Good Business Directory – a coalition of residents, local businesses, non-profits, and municipal organizations. We envision a vibrant, inclusive, local economy that supports resilient, prosperous, and joyful communities. Seattle Good Business Network connects and inspires people to buy, produce, and invest locally, so that everyone has a meaningful stake in the local economy.
Seattle Live Music – Feeling the need to rock out? Explore The Stranger’s guide to music happening around town. (Puget Sound)
Seattle Parks and Recreation – MUCH cooler than Pawnee, IN Parks and Recreation. Check out this list of the best of Seattle’s 500 parks. (Seattle)
Seattle Japanese Garden – The earliest postwar public construction of a Japanese-style garden on the Pacific Coast, and thus has had a strong influence on the design on Japanese gardens throughout the region. (Madison Park)
Seattle Office of Arts and Culture – Activating and sustaining Seattle through arts and culture. (Seattle)
Seattle Readings & Talk Events – Discover author readings and great talks around town via The Stranger. (Seattle)
Seattle Resistance & Solidarity Events – The best guide to political resistance events in Seattle via The Stranger. (Seattle)
Seattle Theater and Dance – Find details on every theater, dance, musical theater, cabaret, burlesque, and drag event here via The Stranger.
Seattle Underground Tour – A leisurely, guided walking tour beneath Seattle’s sidewalks and streets. As you roam the subterranean passages that once were the main roadways and first-floor storefronts of old downtown Seattle, our guides regale you with the stories our pioneers didn’t want you to hear. It’s history with a twist! (Pioneer Square)
Seattle Walks with Great Views – Want a walk with a view? Here are five easygoing, flat walks. Most are several miles, but easier to make shorter or longer. (Seattle)
Seattle Waterfront – With spectacular views of Elliott Bay, Seattle Waterfront is one of Seattle’s most unforgettable neighborhoods. Visitors can enjoy fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, eclectic souvenir and curio shops, scenic ferry rides, or a visit to the Seattle Aquarium. (Elliott Bay Waterfront)
SeaFair – Annual July/August festival with ship tours, air shows, hydroplane races, parades, and street performances on the shores of Puget Sound. (Elliott Bay, Alki Beach, Waterfront and Lake Washington)
Secret Seattle Beaches – Seattle has 149 secret beaches. They sit at the ends of public roads and dirt paths and seemingly private driveways. Nearby, razor wire and security cameras guard expensive private properties that have tennis courts, groomed gardens, guesthouses, and long docks. These beaches are tiny crevices of public space, little known and offering the average citizen a chance to quietly take in the view of a multimillionaire without the fear of being evicted.
Shultzys Bar & Grill – Rare, Interesting and Delicious Beers! Great German bar if you’d like to hang with the college crowd. Extensive menu of housemade wursts, burgers & cheesesteaks, plus 9 tap beers that rotate daily. (University District)
Sloop Tavern – Today the Sloop is the last tavern in Ballard. In 1977 then owner Joe Chase turned the sailor’s bar into a weekly clubhouse for his newly formed yacht club – The Sloop Tavern Yacht Club, which still has regular races in the summer to this day and has a large trophy case in the corner of the bar. With the addition of the yacht club the many boats of the Shilshole bay marina started adorning the walls of the Sloop.
Snoqualmie Falls – One of Washington state’s most popular scenic attractions. More than 1.5 million visitors come to the Falls every year. At the falls, you will find a two-acre park, gift shop, observation deck, the Salish Lodge and the famous 270 foot waterfall. (Snoqualmie)
Space Needle – It’s hard to take Seattle for granted when you see it from 520 feet on our Observation Deck. Trace the outlines of the Cascades against the misty horizon. Instagram Mt. Rainier. Track ferries and boats as they cruise through Elliott Bay. Listen to the distant hum of people, cars, trains, buses, and bikers bustling around Downtown Seattle. It’s all up here, ready and waiting to be seen. (Seattle Center)
Sports & Recreation – Explore upcoming opportunities observe or partake in sporting or recreational activities across this beautiful state of ours. (Washington)
SUGAR + SPOON – has introduced Seattle its first safe to eat cookie dough. Our product safely satisfies any cookie dough fan’s cravings. By using no eggs and heat treated flour in our recipe, you can finally enjoy your favorite treat the way you always wanted to. (Foodtruck at Westlake Park or order online)
Sun Liquor – An intimate neighborhood scratch cocktail lounge with two Capitol Hill locations. We quickly gained a reputation as a great place to get a quality classic cocktail. To ensure that our customers receive the highest quality cocktails, we use fresh squeezed juices, in-house made syrups & bitters and a diverse spirit selection, including those made at our distillery. (Capitol Hill)
Taneda Sushi in Kaiseki – We are pleased to welcome you to Taneda Sushi in Kaiseki. Enjoy the taste of our traditional and localized cuisines while immersing yourself in the history and union of Seattle and Tokyo, in this small but special space built in 1918.
Tech Event Calendars – In addition to our community calendar, you can check these calendars out to find events or to post your own! (Puget Sound)
The Evergrey – Live Like You Live Here. We’re connecting Seattle’s curious locals, and making media and events to help you explore, understand, and create the future of our city. Join their email list or scan their site to keep up on the community pulse of Seattle. (Seattle)
The Gorge Amphitheater – one of the most scenic concert locations in the world offering spectacular river gorge views and concert friendly summer weather as well as lawn terrace seating. Don’t believe us? See for yourself…a 20,000 plus seat concert venue that has played host to some big name performers such as Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Pearl Jam, Nickelback, The Police and more. (above the Columbia River in Washington, just 10 miles northeast of Quincy)
The Infatuation – Find the best restaurants in Seattle for everything from Date Night to Late Night Eats. Search thousands of reviews and guides and never have a mediocre meal again. (Seattle)
The Needling – The Needling’s intrepid and completely unbiased reporters provide Native Seattle-area residents, newcomers, California carpetbaggers and people born here sometime in the last century earnestly inauthentic analysis of local news and culture.
The Pink Door Restaurant – Homespun Italian-American food, free provocative live entertainment, trapeze artists above the diners, and a view of Elliot Bay in a romantic setting inside a historic building with a mysterious ambiance. What’s not to love? (Post Alley)
The Royal Room – Sexy and intimate jazz club. (Columbia City)
The Shop – The country club for gear heads. Climate controlled storage of classics cars and motorcycles, private members lounge, in house detailing and car washing service, lifts available for reservation, comfort food and drink in the Derby restaurant, conference room, shared work spaces, private card room, special events, classes, meetups, and door to door covered transport services. (Georgetown)
The S.L.U.T. – Ride it and then buy a tee to let everyone know that you rode the S.L.U.T. (South Lake Union)
Touchdown City – The place to be before Seahawks home games. Admission is FREE and open to all Seahawks fans three (3) hours before each home game. (Stadium District; CenturyLink Field)
Top Ten Things to Know About Seattle – Discover the main aspects of Seattle culture that make up how Seattleites live, work and play together in our fine city. The bottom line is that we’re very humanist, collaborative and believe it’s better to live in a dolphin tank culture than a shark tank culture.
Town Hall Seattle – A vibrant gathering place in the heart of Seattle, Town Hall fosters an engaged community through civic, arts, and educational programs that reflect—and inspire—our region’s best impulses: creativity, empathy, and the belief that we all deserve a voice. (Downtown Seattle)
Travelers Thali House – The word “thali” refers to the platter that holds an array of individual dishes that make a complete Indian meal (no need to order a la carte!). Our thali menu changes monthly to feature dishes appropriate to the season, and to use what’s best in the market. Meals are served on traditional stainless steel thali plates. If you love Masala chai, enjoy it in the restaurant and then bring a gallon home to enjoy in at home. (Beacon Hill)
Uncle Bucks Fish Bowl & Grill – Bowl in the Ocean! Many full lanes of bowling offer a unique underwater ocean experience! Custom bowling balls that bear the likeness of octopus, mermaids, camouflage and more! “Dock” wooden lanes feature underwater scenery of sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and other saltwater species! Handpainted murals and fish hanging from the ceiling bring everything together for a deep sea dive like no other. You have to see it to believe it! (Tacoma)
Uneeda Burger – Doesn’t the name say it all? …and the fact that it’s located in the center of the universe? Premium beef, craft brews ,and wine make up Fremont neighborhood roadside-style burger spot Uneeda Burger. Equipped with a patio out front, you can chow down and tan at the same time. (Fremont)
Unicorn Narwhal – Two carnival themed bars located on Capitol Hill, Seattle. Each packs its own vibe into one location offering whimsical food & drink options. Also featuring an arcade, claw machine, pull tabs & photo booth. Weekly events include Mimosas with Mama, live shows, karaoke, trivia and more. …try the corn dogs. (Capitol Hill)
Uwajimaya – Quality is what matters – in relationships, experiences, knowledge, health and food. Family-owned, Uwajimaya has been serving the local Northwest community since 1928. Today, at our four locations in Washington and Oregon, you will find the freshest selections of produce, seafood and meats alongside a large assortment of quality Asian gift and grocery items. Come visit us today and check out what makes Uwajimaya a unique and quality shopping experience. (International District)
UW’s Medicinal Herb Garden – Tucked behind an assortment of trees along UW’s Stevens Way is a garden unknown to many. The UW Medicinal Herb Garden is home to about 1,000 plants from around the world, spread out across seven plots, and provides a relaxing escape from the surrounding campus.
Vito’s -An iconic restaurant and lounge located on First Hill. Opened in 1953, it has a history rich in cocktail culture, organized crime and east coast, family style Italian food. Known to have rare whiskey brands, fantastic jazz, and amazing food. (First Hill)
Volunteer Park – Includes a conservatory (a designated city landmark), completed in 1912; a water tower with an observation deck, built by the Water Department in 1906, a fenced-off reservoir; the dramatic Art Deco building of the Seattle Asian Art Museum (a designated city landmark); a statue of William Henry Seward; a memorial to Judge Thomas Burke;[7] and a sculpture,Black Sun, by Isamu Noguchi (colloquially referred to as “The Doughnut”) around which a scenic view of the Seattle skyline that prominently includes the Space Needle can be seen, as well as several meadows and picnic tables. The wading pool is operational in the summer months and operated daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Volunteer Park is also well known for its extensive dahlia garden in season. There are also Koi ponds at the park which contain fish during the summer months.(Capitol Hill)
Washington Park Arboretum – A 200-acre park on the shore of Lake Washington, in the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle, with over 40,000 trees, shrubs and vines from all around the world. (Lake Washington)
Washington State Adventures – Washington State has it all, and when it comes to outdoor activities you could spend a few years exploring what the state has to offer. Explore the stunning coast, massive volcanoes, incredible mountains and so much more. Like most of the American West, the natural areas in Washington State are best explored on foot, ski or two wheels.
Washington Trails Association – The voice for hikers in Washington state. They protect hiking trails and wild lands, take volunteers out to maintain trails, and promote hiking as a healthy, fun way to explore the outdoors. If you love hiking they have all the details you’ll need to enjoy our beautiful state – hike finder map, hiking guide, trip reports, hiking with kids, hiking with dogs, hiking by season, trail smarts, passes and permits, ranger station info, youth programs, trail work parties and more! (Washington State)
Waterfront Activities Center – Located directly behind Husky Stadium on Union Bay and the Montlake Cut, offers canoe and rowboat rentals, storage of non-motorized craft. Best. Canoeing. In Seattle. (Union Bay)
Water Taxi – See some of the best views of the city and venture across the water. (West Seattle, Pier 50)
Where to Swim in Seattle – It’s not like Los Angeles or Chicago, where the beaches are obvious. You need a guide to figure out where to go. But I’m convinced there is more water here than anywhere else in the world. This city has two public outdoor pools, eight public indoor pools, three lakes, and Puget Sound.
Zig Zag Cafe – Internationally recognized as a pioneer of the classic cocktail revival. The bar is a labor of love, envisioned by its creators as an ideal workspace that would allow bartenders to perform their craft at the highest level. The atmosphere is cozy and unique. The entrance is hidden and not easy to find. Visit for a one of a kind experience. (Pike Place; see site for map)
