Seattle is a majestic location riddled with greenery and some of the more picturesque sights you’ll find in the United States. There’s plenty to do here when in the Emerald City. You’ve certainly heard about Pike Place Market. The Mariners, Sounders, Kraken, and Seahawks all play here. Those are fun activities to enjoy. However, we’ll stray away from those more common tourist attractions and focus on a few others off the beaten path.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly Garden and Glass offers you a two-for-one opportunity. This museum sits right next to the Space Needle. Skip paying expensive prices to go up in the Space Needle, and instead take beautiful pictures of it from all angles. Chihuly is one of the most unique attractions in Seattle. The brainchild of Dale Chihuly, it features colorful installments of blown glass. It isn’t easy to put into perspective how gorgeous these structures are. You may have seen them at the Bellagio in Las Vegas in the form of those beautiful glass flowers atop the ceiling. You can power through this museum in roughly 30 minutes, and the pictures you can grab will be well worth it.
University of Washington Campus
You’d be hard-pressed to find a more stunning setting of upper education. The UW campus is a dream. It features the classic red brick buildings of institutions on the East Coast and in the Midwest — yet it’s situated with Pacific Northwest scenery. Husky Stadium sits on the water and is a quick jaunt from anywhere on campus. You can easily access the campus on one of the Light Rail stops (a main source of public transportation within the city). Rarely can anyone enjoy a free activity while also getting some exercise in. Down the street is University Village. This place is LOADED with food options and shops — perfect for eating lunch and enjoying the energy of the college campus.
Neighborhoods Outside of Downtown
Downtown Seattle does have some nice things to take in. However, go visit some of the neighborhoods right outside of the city. The Ballard neighborhood has its little downtown area with some excellent food options and bars (such as San Fermo). Queen Anne is elevated up on the hill, and you can see some beautiful views of the city in this safe neighborhood (it’s where the iconic film 10 Things I Hate About You was filmed). Magnolia is a quiet yet upscale area right along the water. It has a fantastic Farmer’s Market on the weekend right in the middle of the main street going through its quaint downtown area. Between Stevens and Washington Park sits Mt. Bagel — one of the best bagel spots in the country. In each of these neighborhoods, you’ll be able to find really good breweries, eateries, coffee shops, and entertaining spots all as singular entities rather than chain organizations such as McDonald’s or Starbucks. It makes the experience far more enjoyable.
Bainbridge Island
Down at Pier 52 is where you can take the ferry to Bainbridge Island. Whether on a car or by foot, you can be transported across the water for roughly $8 RT to this sparking island off the coast of Seattle. This little community features multi-million dollar houses, wineries, parks, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to ride bikes. It’s very walkable, and it’s a nice change-up from being on the mainland. Plus, as you’re leaving the ferry terminal looking back at the city, you’ll see the entire Seattle skyline. It sets up a fantastic picture opportunity.
