For some people, Seattle is recognizable for its connection to E.L. James’ 50 Shades trilogy and the popular television show Grey’s Anatomy. However, some may not even think of Seattle when they think of the west coast. Below are three great reasons why a trip to Seattle should be on your travel bucket list and starred on your map.
1. Seattle is eclectic. What do I mean by that? I mean that it is a city for all types of people. Whether you love your artsy roots, want to embrace your hipster looks or are super sophisticated, Seattle has a neighborhood for you! Capitol Hill is an edgy area that caters to the younger crowd. However, what is a hill if it did not have two sides to it? On the other side of Capitol Hill, the elegant upscale 19th century mansions line the streets, and the quaint towns have bookstores, parks and unique boutiques on every corner. If you find yourself along the Pike-Pine corridor, you’ll know you are in shopping central! For the performing arts enthusiast, make your way over to Benaroya Hall, the one and only concert hall where the Seattle Symphony Orchestra plays. Don’t miss the Dale Chihuly glass art, the focal point of the lobby.
2. Seattle is organic. Organic in the sense that you will not feel that you are in a major metropolitan area as you are all-surrounded by nature. They don’t call this city the “Queen City” for no reason. Situated on the Puget Sound, with the Olympic Mountains and Cascade Range to the east and west, you are sure to soak in some beautiful scenery and get your dose of nature.
3. Seattle is historical. Pike Place Market! This market is the home of the oldest farmers’ market in the United States. And if you were unaware, it is the address of the very first Starbucks Coffee shop! What is not to be excited about? Overlooking the Elliot Bay, this historic market district alone attracts 10 million visitors a year. Pioneer Square is the original downtown Seattle, but it has most recently become the home to art galleries, cafes, and bookstores. Its brick and stone buildings have been maintained for decades now that they are beautiful examples of Romanesque Revival architecture.
I have barely scraped the surface of the endless things to do and see in Seattle. I encourage you to visit Fodor’s website or seattle.gov to plan your very own trip and visit the neighborhoods that best suit your personality and taste. In such a diverse community, you are sure to find yourself somewhere. And, I hope you explore Seattle all the way to the city limits and try something new you never thought you would enjoy before. According to our Seattleites, Seattle is the “center of the universe,” so you better book your trip soon to see what it’s all about!