Seattle, WA Things to Do and Attractions
Located just north of downtown Seattle in the middle of Salmon Bay, the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks are a fascinating site to see. Opened in July of 1917, the Locks primarily function to maintain the water levels of Lake Washington and Lake Union,
Located just north of downtown Seattle in the middle of Salmon Bay, the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks are a fascinating site to see. Opened in July of 1917, the Locks primarily function to maintain the water levels of Lake Washington and Lake Union, while serving as a means for boats to travel between the varying levels of Seattle's waterways. However, the locks also prevent the salty water of the Puget Sound from mixing with the fresh water of Seattle's lakes.
Visitors can watch as boats seem to mysteriously move between Lake Union and the Puget Sound. Breathtaking views along the 100 foot wide and 30 foot deep canal heighten this magical experience. The attraction also includes an English-style Botanical Garden with over 570 species of plants and a circular walk affording spectacular views of the canal. Between the months of June and October, visitors will particularly enjoy watching salmon migrate through the fishing ladders. Free guided tours of the attraction are offered from March to November.
Seattle Aquarium welcomes visitors to embark upon a magical underwater adventure with exhibits like Life on the Edge, Life of a Drifter and The Underwater Dome. Life on the Edge was the aquarium's 25th anniversary present to the Seattle community
Seattle Aquarium welcomes visitors to embark upon a magical underwater adventure with exhibits like Life on the Edge, Life of a Drifter and The Underwater Dome. Life on the Edge was the aquarium's 25th anniversary present to the Seattle community and includes two large exhibit pools with touch zones, allowing visitors to participate in a hands-on experience of the tidepool life of Washington's outer Coast and Seattle's inland sea. Whether young or old, guests are sure to find pleasure in the Life of a Drifter Exhibit, as they are encircled by a 12-foot-high crystal ring of life filled with dozens of moon jellies.
The Underwater Dome is Seattle Aquarium's largest and most impressive exhibit holding more than 400,000 gallons of water and providing visitors with a 360 degree view of hundreds of unique and colorful fish. The Dome has become one of the most popular event sites in the Seattle area and can hold up to 800 people for any occasion.
The Space Needle was designed by artist Edward E. Carlson for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair, known as Century 21. During the fair, over 2.3 million people visited the revolving restaurant and observation deck. Towering 605 feet above the city, the
The Space Needle was designed by artist Edward E. Carlson for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair, known as Century 21. During the fair, over 2.3 million people visited the revolving restaurant and observation deck. Towering 605 feet above the city, the Space Needle has become the most celebrated symbol of Seattle, as well as one of the most identifiable structures in today's world.
The Space Needle can accommodate groups with its two sophisticated, private SkyLevel rooms that offer picturesque views of Downtown Seattle, Ellicott Bay, Puget Sound, Capitol Hill and the Cascade Mountains. The rooms can be used separately for smaller functions or can be combined to host larger events. An additional eight meeting rooms are located on the Seattle Center grounds. All banquet spaces are equipped with the most advanced technology available and offer full service catering.
Affording breathtaking views of Seattle, the Argosy Cruises provides numerous lunch and dinner cruises on Elliott Bay, through the Chittenden Locks and to Tillicum Village. The Beatles Cruise is one of visitors' favorites. Here, fans of all ages come
Affording breathtaking views of Seattle, the Argosy Cruises provides numerous lunch and dinner cruises on Elliott Bay, through the Chittenden Locks and to Tillicum Village. The Beatles Cruise is one of visitors' favorites. Here, fans of all ages come together to join in a Beatles sing-a-long led by local cover band, The Nowhere Men.
With its mahogany trim, marble table tops and ornate chandeliers, the Royal Argosy is known as one of the Northwest's most exceptional event settings. The spacious and lavishly decorated ship is the perfect place for corporate meetings, a product launch, seminars, business celebrations or holiday parties for any size group.
Located in the heart of Seattle's historic Belltown district, Belltown Billards combines professional-quality billiards, an affordable menu and one of the largest bars in town. In addition to the tables, guests can enjoy games on the 120-inch
Located in the heart of Seattle's historic Belltown district, Belltown Billards combines professional-quality billiards, an affordable menu and one of the largest bars in town. In addition to the tables, guests can enjoy games on the 120-inch high-def television, or hit the dance floor to the live DJ and music pumping every night of the week. The casual environment marked by high stools, comfy leather couches and exposed ceiling piping are also a great place to just enjoy a drink during happy hour.
Belltown Billiards can accommodate groups of 20 to 288 people. It can open early for large luncheons and afternoon parties as well. Belltown Billiards is open Tuesday through Saturday from 4 PM to 2 AM.
This bar-restaurant-dance-club offers one of the largest dance floors in Seattle for guests to salsa, swing or even Lindy Hop the night away. The calendar of events varies, but generally guests can come early for a dance lesson and stay to practice
This bar-restaurant-dance-club offers one of the largest dance floors in Seattle for guests to salsa, swing or even Lindy Hop the night away. The calendar of events varies, but generally guests can come early for a dance lesson and stay to practice their moves. Guests can also sign up for weekly classes or private lessons.
Across the hall from the ballroom, the Tin Table restaurant invites dancers to fuel up for the night. Savory selections include Thai pork ribs, mahi mahi tacos and a lengthy list of cheeses to sample in 1-ounce portions. In addition to red, white and sparkling wines, guests can also enjoy specialty cocktails such as the Amendment 21 of Plymouth gin, Strega and grapefruit juice and the Corpse Reviver of Aviation gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, Absinthe and lemon juice.
Century Ballroom and Cafe is available for rentals when a month has a fifth Friday. The space can accommodate up to 300 people, and rental includes a DJ sound system. Right across the hall from Century, the West Hall has a capacity of 99 people and is available for both day and evening rentals.
Dance and show schedules vary. The Tin Table is open Tuesday through Sunday from 3 PM to 1 AM. Entrance to night lessons and dances vary, but they generally cost about $7. Dinner entrees at Tin Table range from $7 to $15.
This unique, 140,000-square-foot, free-form structure, made out of stainless steel and painted aluminum opened in the summer of 2000. While those passing by are often baffled by architect Frank O. Gehry's design choice, it is the building's bizarre
This unique, 140,000-square-foot, free-form structure, made out of stainless steel and painted aluminum opened in the summer of 2000. While those passing by are often baffled by architect Frank O. Gehry's design choice, it is the building's bizarre character that draws visitors to its doors.
The Experience Music Project showcases close to 80,000 artifacts, sound archives, costumes and musical instruments, helping visitors gain an understanding of the history of music and how it has shaped the world. The Northwest Passage is one of the museum's most popular exhibits, featuring musicians and groups like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden. Guests not only have the chance to learn about the artists' of the great rock music era, but they even have the opportunity to make their own music in the Museum's Upstairs Sound Lab.
An amphibious World War II vehicle makes for a particularly unique tour experience. Guests begin their tour by driving past major downtown area attractions. Then, they take things from land to the waters of Lake Union for a look at the famous Seattle
An amphibious World War II vehicle makes for a particularly unique tour experience. Guests begin their tour by driving past major downtown area attractions. Then, they take things from land to the waters of Lake Union for a look at the famous Seattle houseboats and yachts.
Whether visitors are in search of an educational sightseeing tour or a wild party on wheels, "Ride the Ducks" will provide a remarkable Seattle experience. "Ride the Ducks" even offers a personal charter option that caters to any request, no matter how strange; tourists can stop at Starbucks, Krispy Kreme or stop just about anywhere else imaginable.
The chic and trendy See Sound Lounge is a Belltown fave. Guests can relax amongst low, sleek furniture, a television screen that runs soothing deep-sea scenes and disco lighting, or they can hit the dance floor to the tunes of the house DJ. See mixes
The chic and trendy See Sound Lounge is a Belltown fave. Guests can relax amongst low, sleek furniture, a television screen that runs soothing deep-sea scenes and disco lighting, or they can hit the dance floor to the tunes of the house DJ. See mixes up a range of creative cocktails. The Razbubbles is made from Stoli Razberi, Champagne and a drop of grenadine, while the rich Lime in de Coconut features Malibu Coconut and Triple Sec with fresh lime, pineapple and cream. Patrons can also nosh on snacks such as coconut prawn skewers, crab cakes with red pepper aioli, and ginger beef skewers with Asian slaw.
The lounge is available for private functions of five to 250 people. It offers a 100-inch projection screen, two 50-inch plasma televisions, full-service catering and other top-notch amenities. See Sound Lounge is open daily from 6 PM to 2 AM. Happy hour is held daily from 6 to 10 PM and boasts $3 drinks and a $5 menu.
Tillicum Village has attracted thousands of visitors since its opening in 1962. In order to arrive at the village, tourists must embark upon an eight mile voyage across Seattle's waterfront to Blake Island State Park. The park, an ancestral
Tillicum Village has attracted thousands of visitors since its opening in 1962. In order to arrive at the village, tourists must embark upon an eight mile voyage across Seattle's waterfront to Blake Island State Park. The park, an ancestral campground for the Suquamish and Duwamish Indian Tribes, offers a wide range of activities for the adventurous traveler including numerous hiking paths, 51 campsites and five miles of beach. Boats run daily from May to September and offer four hour tours ranging in price.
To have the ultimate Tillicum Village experience, visitors are encouraged to start the day exploring the island and finish the day dining on authentic Native American salmon while enjoying an interactive celebration of the Tillicum Village culture. Enjoy an evening of live performances of traditional Native American dances and listen to stories about the first inhabitants of the Northwest.
Stretching across 92 acres of land and holding the largest collection of live animals in Washington State, the Woodland Park Zoo has been at the heart of the Seattle community for more than 100 years. Generations of families flock to the zoo to
Stretching across 92 acres of land and holding the largest collection of live animals in Washington State, the Woodland Park Zoo has been at the heart of the Seattle community for more than 100 years. Generations of families flock to the zoo to observe animals like the African Elephant, Tree kangaroo, Sumatran tiger, Snow leopard, Colobus monkey and Red panda every year.
The zoo is home to more than 1,090 individual animals representing 300 species, including 35 endangered and five threatened species. It not only serves as home to thousands of animals, but it also serves as a habitat for thousands of trees and shrubs.
The Woodland Park Zoo offers several ideal sites for weddings, fundraisers, picnics or corporate events. The zoo is open daily, October 1 to April 30, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM and daily, May 1 to September 20, from 9:30 AM to 6 PM. Regular admission is $8 for children ages 3-12 and $11 for adults; summer admission is $11 for children and $16.50 for adults.
Located in Seattle's Pike Place Market, 94 Stewart is one of America's most well-renowned restaurants. An eclectic Northwest-style bistro with velvet curtains and a checkered tile floor, 94 Stewart is fashioned to seamlessly meld with its historic
Located in Seattle's Pike Place Market, 94 Stewart is one of America's most well-renowned restaurants. An eclectic Northwest-style bistro with velvet curtains and a checkered tile floor, 94 Stewart is fashioned to seamlessly meld with its historic surroundings. Specializing in uniquely prepared fresh seafood and local farm raised meats, the restaurant's menu highlights include duck breast with pomegranate reduction, gulf prawns with fresh strawberries and port butter, and fresh halibut poached in white wine and Dijon. A fine complement to any meal, the wine list boasts over 200 bottles, many of which are regional selections.
94 Stewart serves lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and Saturday from noon to 3 PM. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday from 5 PM to close. Entrees range from $20 to $34.
BluWater Bistro at Lake Union provides a cozy and welcoming environment where, thanks to its lakefront location, diners can marvel at seaplanes taking off and landing right outside the window. While the menu is simple, the bistro is known for its
BluWater Bistro at Lake Union provides a cozy and welcoming environment where, thanks to its lakefront location, diners can marvel at seaplanes taking off and landing right outside the window. While the menu is simple, the bistro is known for its mouth-watering steak. The dry-aged Nebraska New York steak, grilled halibut sandwich, and crab and shrimp stuffed mahi make up three of BluWater Bistro's favorite entrees.
BluWater Bistro offers full-service catering services and a private dining room with views of magnificent Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. With a fireplace, dark wood accents and leather furniture, the bistro's 1,500-square-foot private dining room creates an elegant and romantic setting for any type of meeting or event. The room can accommodate 90 people for a seated dinner or 130 people for a standing reception.
BluWater Bistro at Lake Union serves lunch daily from 11:30 AM to 4 PM and dinner nightly from 4 PM to 1 AM. Seafood entrees start at $16.50 and meat entrees start at $18.
Situated on a hill overlooking magnificent Lake Union, this charming restaurant attracts the prosperous, those seeking a romantic atmosphere, and anyone that is in search of a special place to celebrate. Canlis has been serving Seattle for over 57
Situated on a hill overlooking magnificent Lake Union, this charming restaurant attracts the prosperous, those seeking a romantic atmosphere, and anyone that is in search of a special place to celebrate. Canlis has been serving Seattle for over 57 years and remains to be locals' first choice of restaurants for graduations, reunions, promotions and anniversaries.
Hardwood floors, the soft glow of Japanese paper-lanterns, and cozy stone fireplaces create a warm and inviting environment to enjoy a meal of some of Seattle's freshest seafood. It selection of regional cuisine includes such dishes as Pacific King salmon with potatoes and parsley and Muscovy duck with fennel and black pepper jam. The 12,000-bottle wine cellar can provide the perfect complement to any dish.
Private dining is available in three rooms for anywhere from two to 100 guests. Canlis is open Monday through Friday at 5:30 PM to close and Saturday from 5 PM to close. Entrees range from $28 to $72.
The Pacific Science Center initially opened as the United States Science Pavilion in 1962 for the Seattle World's Fair with a focus on the exploration of science and technology. Due to the museums success, it remained open after the Fair, operating
The Pacific Science Center initially opened as the United States Science Pavilion in 1962 for the Seattle World's Fair with a focus on the exploration of science and technology. Due to the museums success, it remained open after the Fair, operating under its current name.
While the museum is structured for the enjoyment of children, it offers exciting hands-on educational experiences for all age groups. Visitors can travel back in time to meet seven moving robotic dinosaurs from the Mesozoic Era; watch colorful dinosaurs fly through a sun-filled Tropical Butterfly House; observe real tides and currents at a 100-square-foot scale model of the Puget Sound; or spin a two-ton granite ball using only their bare hands. The center's many IMAX movies and spectacular laser show are also crowd-pleasers.
The Pacific Science Center is available for special events. Available spaces include its 405-seat Boeing IMAX Theater, Ackerley Family Exhibit Gallery, and professional boardroom for up to 25 guests.
The Pacific Science Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM with extended hours Saturday and Sunday until 6 PM. Admission to regular exhibits is $6 for children ages 3-5, $8 for juniors ages 6-12 and $11 for adults. Additional charges may apply for special exhibits.
This collection of markets has been drawing thousands of visitors since its opening on August 17, 1907 when an estimated 10,000 eager shoppers filled its stores. Known for its lively atmosphere and fish-throwing employees, Pike Place Fish Market has
This collection of markets has been drawing thousands of visitors since its opening on August 17, 1907 when an estimated 10,000 eager shoppers filled its stores. Known for its lively atmosphere and fish-throwing employees, Pike Place Fish Market has much to offer as it celebrates sights, sounds, and tastes from all over the world. Guests can browse through tapestries from Africa or folk art from Mexico, or purchase fresh seasonal produce from over 100 local farmers. Unique boutiques are the places to find specialty ingredients such as flavored truffle and olive oils.
To add to the lively atmosphere of Pike Place, street performers playing folk, classical, gospel, oriental music and more line the market's walkways. Meanwhile, over 50 takeout food shops, as well as restaurants serving everything from French to Russian to Middle Eastern to German delights, call the market home.
Alpine Adventures is an established outdoor recreation company that has been providing services to the greater Seattle area for the past 17 years. More than 43,000 people have participated in trips lead by Alpine Adventures. The Adventure Company
Alpine Adventures is an established outdoor recreation company that has been providing services to the greater Seattle area for the past 17 years. More than 43,000 people have participated in trips lead by Alpine Adventures. The Adventure Company offers rafting trips on the Wenatchee River, the Skykomish River, the Methow River, the Sauk River, the Nooksack River, the Tieton River, the Skagit River, the Suiattle River, the Cispus River, the Green River, and the Yakima River.
Regardless of visitors experience levels, Alpine Adventures has the ideal rafting adventure. The Skykomish River is filled with Class IV and V rapids to satisfy the appetite of the extremely adventurous, while the Wenatchee River is the perfect choice for those looking for a slightly less intense, roller-coaster style rafting experience. The waters of the Upper Skagit River of North Cascades National Park are the tamest and most recommended for family adventures.
Visitors can fish for salmon with Captain Carl Nyman, Seattle native and the owner and operator of Fish Finders Private Charters. Captain Nyman's expertise and love of the sport have enamored thousands of fishing enthusiasts since the skipper first
Visitors can fish for salmon with Captain Carl Nyman, Seattle native and the owner and operator of Fish Finders Private Charters. Captain Nyman's expertise and love of the sport have enamored thousands of fishing enthusiasts since the skipper first began his charter service in 1994. Located in the Ballard District, this ultimate fishing experience conveniently departs about 6 miles from downtown.
Since the boat only travels about 10 or 12 miles from port, guests can enjoy a full day of fishing, about five to six hours. For the seasickness fearers, this is an ideal trip as the Puget Sound rarely sees more than one- to three-foot wind waves. In fact, most days the Sound looks more like a lake than ocean.
The boat can accommodate six guests, but for the best experience, it is recommended to keep groups smaller with no more than three or four participants. For large groups (up to 18), guests can split up among two or three boats. Booking trips four to six weeks in advance is recommended. Fishing poles are provided and Captain Nyman will even clean and bag all fish at the dock.
