The Emerald City
What’s unique about Seattle? Why should we visit?
The people are what makes Seattle so special. From the local farmers, artists, and shopkeepers that have been here for generations, to the transplanted chefs, musicians, and students. The eclectic mix of personalities and priorities gives Seattle a hum that can be felt around the city.
Also, simply put, the city is gorgeous. On a sunny day, you’d really be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful location. Mt. Rainier is majestic, and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains in the spring time can have you feeling like you’re living in a stunning scenic painting.
If you want to learn about the real Seattle, stop in at a local business and chat up the owner. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the city and, most likely, a great list of recommendations of things to do and see.
Local Customs:
Say please and thank you, hold the door for others, and don’t cross against the light.
Where do the locals hang out?
When the rain is finally banished, locals head to Alki Beach in West Seattle for a taste of the sun and salt air. You’ll find volleyball games on the beach that are surprisingly competitive, bikers and joggers following the trail, and families walking along the sand. Throw in a dramatic view of the Seattle skyline and you’ll understand why it’s a great place to hang out.
Greenlake is also a local favorite. Located just north of downtown Seattle in the neighborhood of Greenlake, on any given sunny day, you will find Seattlites walking, jogging, or rollerblading around its almost 3-mile paved path.
For nightlife, head to Belltown, Lower Queen Anne, or Pioneer Square.
Featured Recommendations
FREMONT TROLL
The Fremont Troll lives under the Aurora Bridge and is Seattle’s most friendly and popular statue. The rumor in the early 1900s was that troll …
WATERFALL GARDEN PARK
Located in Pioneer Square on the corner of 2nd St and S Main St, you would never know this peaceful corner exists in bustling Seattle. …
SNOQUALMIE FALLS
A short 30-minute drive east of Seattle is Snoqualmie Falls. This historic waterfall is breathtaking in any season. View it from the top, and then …
WASHINGTON STATE FERRY
Ferries are always shown in ads for Seattle, so it’s only fitting that you should experience one yourself. Head downtown to Pier 52 to walk …
EMP MUSEUM
Music lovers will be enamored with Experience Music Project (EMP) a massive music museum inspired by Jimi Hendrix. See Nirvana’s original instruments, vintage pictures, and …
UNICORN & NARWHAL
Unicorn & Narwhal, two bars combined in one, they both have a fun carnival theme. Upstairs, the zebra heads and other decorations will capture your …
NEUMOS
One of the most popular music venues in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, there’s live music at Neumos almost every night of the week. It’s a …
NEIGHBOURS
Neighbours nightclub is the longest running LGBTQ-friendly club in Seattle. People of all ages can be found here dancing the night away. Every night has …
EL GAUCHO
El Gaucho has a few locations, this is my favorite Seattle steakhouse, and I recommend the Belltown location. It feels like a throwback to the …
CAFE FLORA
If you think vegetarian food is boring, you haven’t been to Cafe Flora. Try a delicious cinnamon roll and Bloody Mary (both vegan) for brunch, …