Showing posts with label Tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tourism. Show all posts

Thursday, 11 August 2011

Seattle Day Trip



When you find yourself noticing the smell of strongly brewed coffee mingling with the salty scent of the Puget Sound, you will know you are in Seattle. Home of the freshest seafood, most microbrews, and the original Starbucks, Seattle seems to have it all. A Seattle day trip through the city can include a stroll along the waterfront or a trip to the top of the Space Needle. However you plan to tackle your Seattle tours, make sure you do it with a trusty cup of coffee in one hand and a reliable umbrella in the other.

Downtown

It is absolutely possible to see the best of Seattle’s downtown area in a day. A Seattle day trip of the downtown area should begin first at Pike Place Market; perhaps the most famous landmark in Seattle. Although there are multiple levels to the market, if you only have a day you’ll likely want to concentrate on just the upper level. Here, you’ll find carefully prepared foods from all around the world, handcrafted art and jewelry, and of course stands selling all the fresh seafood you could ever hope for. From the market, head to the nearby waterfront via one of the free buses in that operate in the downtown area. The Seattle Aquarium and an IMAX theatre are also located here. From the waterfront, take the bus north to see the Space Needle and the Experience Music Project Museum.

Mt. Rainier

If you’ve never been, a day trip from Seattle to Mt. Rainier is a must. Seattle day trips to the mountain are full of great sites and are an excellent way to break loose of the city. Mt. Rainier is the tallest mountain in Washington State and is also an active volcano. Pack a lunch and head off into the mountains for a day of hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, or just viewing wildlife and taking pictures. If you like, you can also check out nearby Mt. St. Helens.

San Juan Islands

Just a ferry ride away, a day trip from Seattle to the San Juan Islands is a rare treat. A day trip from Seattle to the San Juan Islands offers Seattle tours of the surrounding ocean and a view of some of the most pristine and breathtaking island scenery in the area. Seattle day trips to the San Juan Islands will need to be focused on just one of the islands. Orcas Island and San Juan Island are the two most popular stops for Seattle day trips to the San Juan Islands.

Olympic Peninsula

To reach the Olympic Peninsula, you can drive or take a ferry. Once you’ve reached the peninsula, you’ll take Highway 101 and choose one of the multiple routes for hiking or camping that best fits your travel plans. Seattle day trips to the Olympic Peninsula will reveal incredible northwestern rainforests, gorgeous ocean views and delightful beaches. Camp, hike, fish, or simply take pictures. Seattle tours and Seattle attraction tours of the Olympic Peninsula are truly like nothing else in the world.

Seattle Central Library

Even if you don't feel like checking out any books, the Central Library is worth seeing. The building itself has won a number of architectural awards, and is one of the most unique structures in the nation. Tours of the library are available.

Woodland Park Zoo

A lovely zoo just north of downtown, Woodland Park has exibits focusing on Alaska, Asia, Africa, and more. Extensive exhibits featuring lions, brown bears and more exotic animals abound. The surrounding park is also filled with great trails, and located right near the popular Green Lake, where travelers can go for a walk or rollerblade around the lake.

Friday, 8 July 2011

Christmas in Seattle, Washington

Christmas in Seattle is a time of great joy and celebration. Wonderful holiday displays put an attractive bow on this already picturesque city by the sea, and there are numerous Christmas shows and events to select from. Among the most popular Seattle Christmas events is the Tree Lighting Celebration & Holiday Parade, and if you want to treat yourself to a Christmas show, taking in the Pacific Northwest Ballet's production of The Nutcracker is one of the tantalizing options. When you're not enjoying these kinds of things during your 2011 Seattle Christmas vacation, there will be plenty of other ways to stay busy. The Emerald City shines in many different ways, and there's never a lack of things to do regardless of the time of year.

Winterfest and the Tree Lighting Celebration & Holiday Parade are Seattle Christmas events that essentially get the holiday season started. Winterfest opens on the day after Thanksgiving, and this is the same day that the Tree Lighting Celebration & Holiday Parade is held. As far as Winterfest is concerned, it is a Christmas celebration event that lasts until December 31. Seattle Center, near downtown Seattle, is the site for the event, and among the things that visitors can enjoy are free concerts, tasty holiday foods, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The overall atmosphere is festive indeed, and capping the five-week festival off is the spectacular Space Needle fireworks display on New Year's Eve.

The Tree Lighting Celebration & Holiday Parade is a verifiable Seattle holiday tradition. Held in the downtown district, this merry affair sees a colorful Christmas parade kicking off at 8:45 a.m. Once the parade is over, revelers head to the Westlake Center to see the lighting of both the Holiday Tree and the Macy's Star. This lighting ceremony starts at at dark and is accentuated by a dazzling fireworks display. Should you be wondering about the parade route, Seventh Avenue is the starting point. From there, the parade members march down Pine Street and University Street before arriving at the Westlake Center and Macy's.

When celebrating Christmas 2011 in Seattle, another fun event that you might try to include on the itinerary is the Christmas Ship Festival. This three-week festival sees a collection of boats taking to the area waters on a nightly basis. The boats are decorated in a seasonal manner, and leading the flotilla, if you will, is the Argosy Christmas Ship. This large, multi-tiered ship cruises to more to more than 40 waterfront destinations, and onboard choirs sing Christmas carols at the various stopping points. Onshore, people surrounding bonfires can enjoy the show. It is possible to secure a spot on the Argosy Christmas Ship during the Christmas Ship Festival, and you can also try to get tickets for a ride on one of the ships that follow it. Anyone with their own boat can also join in on the fun. The festival starts in late November, and the starting and ending points vary depending on the night. One night sees the Argosy Christmas Ship departing from Kirkland and ending its journey at Gasworks Park.

Some wonderful Seattle holiday shows serve to complement the city's other fun holiday events. In addition to seeing the Pacific Northwest Ballet perform The Nutcracker, area residents and visitors can take in a performance of A Christmas Carol at the ACT Theatre. More original Seattle holiday shows are put on by the Book-It Repertory Theatre and the Taproot Theatre Company, and if you want to switch things up, you can grab some tickets for a Seattle Symphony holiday concert at Benaroya Hall. The arts are definitely alive and well in Seattle, and the Christmas season is as good a time as any other to enjoy performing arts events. Shopping downtown is also a great pursuit as the tree-lined streets are festively lit up with twinkling Christmas lights.

When planning to spend Christmas in Seattle, you don't have to go it alone. Christmas vacation packages that include time in Seattle and other Washington State destinations are out there. Among the things that these vacation packages can help you arrange are ice skating sessions at the Seattle Center, unique Seattle shopping tours, or even a high-speed catamaran cruise through the scenic Puget Sound. The sky is the limit when it comes to exciting ways to spend your holiday season time in Washington State and its largest city.

Best Time to Visit Seattle city, Washington

Seattle weather might have a reputation for rain, but once you dig a little deeper, you’ll find more complexity to local weather patterns. Seattle actually gets less rainfall—about 37 inches each year, on average—than cities such as New York, as it’s more prone to misty days with light rain and gray skies than to heavy storms.

Winter: While it doesn’t get as cold as cities in the northeast, the temperatures do allow for some snowfall. In Seattle, it is cloudy an average of 200 days per year, and the heaviest rainfall comes in the fall and the winter. Typically, winter days have highs in the low 40s, though they can dip into the 30s in some cases, and the low temperatures can hover around freezing. When it does snow in the city, however, it rarely sticks, so don’t expect much accumulation. The days are quite short, with less than 12 hours of daylight, so the sunshine never lasts long, even on clear days.

Spring: Seattle warms up in the spring, though consistent rain continues through April and the warmer temperatures may not arrive at the same time every year. It can be in the 60s and 70s around Memorial Day or remain in the 50s with a damp chill, so be sure to check the forecast before your trip. Regardless of temperatures, the tulips bloom around April and the landscape turns vibrant and green. The city's parks and waterfront get more popular as the weather heats up.

Summer: As most of the precipitation is in the fall and winter, the summer months are often sunny and beautiful. On hotter days, the temperatures can reach into the 80s, but highs are typically around 75 degrees, and the humidity is very low. Due to the northern latitude, it stays light until well after 9 pm, but Seattle summer evenings can be cool, typically dipping into the 60s or occasionally the high 50s, so be sure to bring a jacket even in July, which is typically the warmest month.

Fall: The temperatures cool in the fall, but days in September and October still have average highs above 60 degrees, which is perfect for walking around and enjoy the different neighborhoods. In November and December, the temperatures drop into the 50s and 40s, respectively, and as the year draws to a close, you’re much more likely to see rainy days than in September—on average, December is the wettest month. Being prepared with an umbrella or a rain jacket is always wise.

Waterfront in Seattle , Washington

The Seattle waterfront was once an industrial center of the city, but since all maritime freight moved to the container port to the south in the 1960s, it has transformed its original piers into a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Running along Elliott Bay between the neighborhoods of Pioneer Square and Belltown, there are several passages that connect the waterfront with other major Seattle attractions. If you're feeling adventurous, ascend the Pike Hill Climb stairs to the Pike Place Market or the Harbor Steps to the Seattle Art Museum.

The Seattle waterfront offers many activities for visitors. Enjoy an afternoon at the Seattle Aquarium between Piers 59 and 61 for an award-winning glimpse into the sea life within Elliott Bay and around the world. Take in the views from Waterfront Park on Pier 58. Travelers with children will enjoy Pier 57, also called the Bay Pavilion, which offers shops, Seattle waterfront restaurants, an arcade, and a twentieth-century carousel. Just north of the Seattle waterfront is Olympic Sculpture Park, celebrating art in an outdoor atmosphere. Sleep over the waters of Elliott bay at Seattle's unique over-water hotel, the Edgewater Hotel.

Shops abound all along the Seattle waterfront. Perhaps the most popular store is Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, selling unique Northwest souvenirs direct from the artists. In addition to the items on sale, Ye Olde Curiosity shop also displays, quite fittingly, curiosities. These include a mummy, shrunken human heads, a hat worn by Chief Seattle, and fetal conjoined twin calves. As a nod to Seattle's trading past, Trident Imports on Pier 56 offers shoppers items from around the world, including furniture from Asia and chocolate from Europe.

Several piers on the Seattle waterfront still operate provide great maritime resources for enhancing and expanding your visit to Seattle. If you wish to remain local, the Elliott Bay Water Taxi runs between Pier 55 and the neighborhood of West Seattle between May and October. See the Seattle skyline from the water on one of Argosy Cruise lines unique harbor tours, departing from piers 55 and 56. The Washington State Ferry Terminal, one of the largest ferry fleets in the world, uses Piers 50 and 52 to run passenger and vehicle ferry service between Seattle and neighboring ports across the Puget Sound.

If you wish to travel even further, consider taking the Victoria Clipper from Pier 69. This popular nautical day trip carries travelers internationally between Seattle and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. There are multiple passenger-only departures from Pier 69 every day. The most attention-grabbing sea vessels docking at the Seattle waterfront, however, are at the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66. During the summer season, this pier operates as a major cruise ship departure point for Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise lines, carrying thousands of passengers throughout Alaska and British Columbia, Canada.

Some of the best eats in the city are offered at Seattle waterfront restaurants. Experience Seattle history at Ivar's Acres of Clams restaurant on Pier 54, serving fish and chips to hungry Seattleites since 1938. Choose between a leisurely meal at the full-service restaurant or a quick bite from the fish and chips bar. Another delicious option of Seattle waterfront restaurants is Anthony's on Pier 66. Serving local seafood specialties, Anthony's also offers a choice between a full service restaurant, the more casual Anthony's Bell Street Diner or the classic Anthony's Fish bar with quick service. For fine dining options with stunning views of the bay, try The Crab Pot and The Fisherman restaurants on Pier 57 or Elliott's Oyster House on Pier 56. All three specialize in exquisitely prepared fresh and local seafood.

Space Needle in Seattle, Washington

Space Needle - Interior A futuristic addition to the skyline of the Emerald City, the Space Needle is one of the biggest landmarks of the city. Set in the Seattle Center, which has a number of other attractions, this is a prime spot for tourist sightseeing. The Seattle Center is a campus around the needle with museums, food courts, galleries, shops, fountains, and amusement rides.

Built in 1962 for the World's Fair, the Space Needle, a 9,550-ton structure, is just over 600 feet high and built to stand up to 200 mile an hour winds and earthquakes.

When it was erected, the Seattle Space Needle became an instant landmark. When the Space Needle Seattle was built, it was by far the tallest building this side of the Mississippi. 2.3 million people had a chance to see the Space Needle when it was new at the World's Fair.

This 43-second ride takes you slowly up to the top of the Space Needle to its observation deck, which is at 520 feet. From this vantage point, one can see Elliott Bay, Downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier and the Cascades, as well as the Islands in the sound and the Olympics beyond. The ride up to the top of the Seattle Space Needle goes a comfortable 10 miles an hour to the top, so it's not a scary ride for anyone.

You can see even more when you look through one of the free telescopes. You can zoom in on the sailboats floating on Lake Union, and the ferryboats as they cross Elliott Bay. This observation deck encircles the Space Needle Seattle; giving you commanding views of Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountain range, which hugs the Puget Sound.

There are helpful signs that are colorful and easy to read, helping you learn more about the sights you're enjoying. There are also educational displays on the interior wall with even more history and facts about the Seattle Space Needle and the Seattle Center.

If you really enjoy being high over Seattle, you can extend the experience by having a meal at the Sky City restaurant. This is a circular restaurant that rotates about one time an hour. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu as well as the sights around you.

The food is distinctly Pacific Northwest, with alder-smoked filet of salmon and grilled rare Ahi steaks. The brunches here are excellent, serving anything from mouth-watering Belgian waffles to an excellent clam chowder. Save room for the ice-cream sundae, which is served in a bowl that has a replica of the Space Needle in the center of it with fog pouring over out its sides.

Incredible views, excellent food, and friendly locals combine to make a visit to the Seattle Space Needle will be a part of your trip that you will not forget.

Smith Tower in Seattle, Washington

Seattle Smith Tower There are many reasons why Smith Tower, Seattle has achieved fame throughout the years. Some visit the Chinese Room to enjoy the fabulous display of Chinese antiques, while others enjoy the open-air Observation Deck for stunning view of the city and surrounds. Still others are impressed with the building's overall beauty and history.

Smith Tower Located in Pioneer Square, not far from Qwest Field, the Smith Tower Seattle was built between 1912 and 1914 by the typewriter and firearms magnate Lyman C. Smith. All Smith wanted to do was build a simple, fourteen-story building; however, his son convinced him that Seattle needed a huge, impressive skyscraper. He argued that since Smith produced office equipment, the office building should be impressive. Smith then contacted Seattle's political elite. He told them of his plans to build his impressive edifice, but he added one stipulation: Seattle's municipal government offices needed to be located within four blocks of his tower. The City Council was amenable to his request. As a result, the magnificent Smith Tower, Seattle was built. At the time of its completion, it was the fourth-tallest building in the world. On July 4, 1914, 4,000 people visited the new building. They rode to the 35th floor and looked in awe at the city below and the water and mountains all around them.

Since it is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture, the Smith Tower is still one of the major Seattle tourist attractions for students of architecture. Its outer skin is composed of granite on the first and second floors, and the rest of the building is off-white terra cotta. The elevators have brass and copper cages; the doors are latticed, which allows riders to see into the hallways on each floor. The Smith Tower is one of the few buildings on the West Coast that have elevator operators.

The 35th floor of the tower comprises the Chinese Room and open-air Observation Deck. The room has hand-carved furniture and a hand-carved ceiling that were gifts from the last empress of China; the panels use Chinese characters to tell the history of Seattle. Seventeenth-century art panels and sixteenth-century temple doors were installed by later owners of the building. From the elegant room and observation deck, spectacular views abound in all directions, including vistas of Mt. Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. In the evening, guests enjoy delightful views of the Seattle city lights.

Be sure to take a look at the famous Wishing Chair. Legend has it that a single woman sincerely desiring marriage who sits in the chair will be a bride within a year. The Chinese Room is a very popular Seattle wedding reception venue, as well as a frequently visited attraction. The Chinese Room has a capacity of 99 guests. If you are looking for a Seattle wedding reception location, or a space for a rehearsal dinner, the Chinese Room is an excellent choice!

Seward Park in Seattle, Washington

Seward Park Seattle is one of the city’s best destinations for enjoying the great outdoors and plenty of green space. The allure of local parks for travelers to the Emerald City is hard to ignore, as they’re a budget traveler’s dream and a great way to get out of the tourist areas. Seward Park is particularly popular for its large expanses of space and beautiful scenery—you won’t feel like you’re in a city at all.

Known for its stunning views of Lake Washington, Seward Park is located in south Seattle, occupying all of the Bailey Peninsula, which juts out into the lake. The park offers 300 acres of old-growth forests, miles of hiking trails, a native plant garden, and, of course, those views of the water. Visitors explore this park for fitness, for family picnics, or for a few hours of breathing fresh air.

Aside from the natural attractions, one of the biggest draws here is the Seward Park Environmental & Audubon Center. The mission of the center is to inspire exploration of the natural world through programs that promote sustainable communities. Seattle is a city that is very concerned with its environment, and this park is a great place to learn more if you’re interested.

One of the fascinating aspects of a visit to Seward Park and the Bailey Peninsula is it gives you an idea of what Seattle must have been like before settlement. When you’re hiking through the old-growth forests, it will be almost mind-blowing to envision the entire area covered with these types of beautiful trees. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the chance to explore the forests and lakefront of Seward Park, particularly if you’re visiting in the long days of summer or during the peak foliage weeks in the fall.

Kerry Park in Seattle, Washington

Kerry Park is possibly the most recognizable destination in Seattle, though most visitors wouldn’t realize it ahead of time. If you’re looking for a place with incredible views of the Seattle skyline, this is it. Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, Kerry Park has sweeping views of the Space Needle, downtown, Elliott Bay, and (on a clear day) Mount Rainier. Most postcard photos of the city are taken from this area, and during the sunny summer months there is almost no better place in all of Seattle to plan a picnic.

Beyond the summer, there is one other time when Kerry Park Seattle is especially popular. On New Years Eve, local residents from the Queen Anne neighborhood bundle up in plenty of layers and head to the park to watch fireworks over the Seattle skyline. This neighborhood is also known for its excellent restaurants and bars, so you could easily make a night of your visit to Kerry Park.

The most striking feature from Kerry Park is undoubtedly the view of the Space Needle. If you take the time to visit this attraction and go up to the observation deck, it is incredible to see it from the different perspective of the park. In 1927 the park was donated to the city by Mr. and Mrs. Albert Kerry so that everyone could enjoy the spectacular view. While views are breathtaking at many times of day, visitors are most attracted to sunset when the buildings are all glowing in the evening light.

Kerry Park Seattle is so beautiful that you shouldn’t be surprised to see a wedding or photographs of a bride and groom taking place. While there are other popular parks throughout the city, including Discovery Park and Golden Gardens, both locals and residents alike have a certain affinity for the park on top of Queen Anne Hill that sheds a new light on a familiar skyline.

Discovery Park in Seattle, Washington

Discovery Park is beloved among travelers who love to seek out green spaces while on vacation. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, northwest of downtown and Seattle Center, this is the largest public park in the city, covering 534 acres. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just looking for a place in Seattle to get in a morning jog, Discovery Park will be the perfect spot. First-time visitors to Seattle will soon learn that this is a city that takes its parks seriously. Green space and being conscious of the environment is something Seattle is known for across the country. Once you see the beauty of Discovery Park Seattle, you’ll understand why.

One reason travelers—especially families—love Discovery Park is for its wildlife. While the birds are incredible and diverse, with more than 200 species spotted in the park, the real wildlife attraction is harbor seals and sea lions. Calling the bay home, these incredible creatures are fascinating to see in their natural environment. The best way to enjoy Discovery Park Seattle is to hike the Loop Trail which includes forest, meadows, and offers incredible views of Puget Sound. The park is also known for its beaches, which are perfect for a picnic on a sunny day.

Discovery Park is also popular for locals and visitors with a fitness focus. The park offers almost twelve miles of walking trails. If you hate jogging in a circle, this is the park in Seattle for you. It also contains some beautiful historic attractions that you might encounter on a jog, including the West Point Lighthouse. Both for leisure and fitness, this park is a beautiful place to spend a few hours during a visit to Seattle. Don’t leave without seeing the dramatic sea cliffs—they are definitely a highlight of this destination.

Seattle is full of urban pleasures, from museums to fine dining to two giant sports stadiums. However, a trip to this city might not be complete without experiencing the natural side of the city. A visit to Discovery Park Seattle allows you to take in all the different local landscapes. From a hike through the fragrant forest to sinking your toes into the sand on the beach, this park offers many pleasures of the great outdoors. If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for free things to do in Seattle, you can’t beat a visit to Discovery Park. The Magnolia neighborhood also has great restaurants, many of which are budget-friendly, so you can pick up a cheap lunch at the local Greek deli or sandwich shop and bring it out the park for a picnic.

While Seattle is known for its rain, that doesn’t stop locals from enjoying Mother Nature. If your idea of a trip to Seattle is filled with sunshine, plan your trip during the summer months. This season is also when Seattle offers a wide range of festivals and events. Not only will you have the excellent weather to enjoy a bike ride through Discovery Park, but you can also go to a food festival, go kayaking on the lake, or explore the Woodland Park Zoo. While Seattle is a great destination at any time of the year, it really shines during the summer months when attractions like Discovery Park are at their peak.

Volunteer Park in Seattle, Washington

Volunteer Park is the perfect destination if you want to maximize your time during a trip to Seattle and see more than one type of attraction in any given day. This can be difficult to do in some cases, if you want to explore both green space and the urban attractions in the area, but travelers who love art as well as the great outdoors will be delighted to know that Volunteer Park Seattle and the Asian Art Museum are located right next to each other in the heart of the city.

While some parks in Seattle are worth a day all to themselves, such as Seward Park in South Seattle or the vast spaces in Discovery Park, it is easy to include a short visit to Volunteer Park during your trip. This 48-acre park was originally planned to be a cemetery (which is now located on an adjacent plot of land), but it became a public park in 1887. Its name honors the volunteers of the Spanish-American War.

There are a few attractive features of Volunteer Park Seattle including a conservatory, a water tower with an observation deck, and one unusual art deco building that is home to the Asian Art Museum. There are also statues and sculptures that make a walk through the park especially nice. On a sunny day, you will find many families enjoying the meadows and making use of the tables for a family picnic. As it’s located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park is also close to many terrific local and budget-friendly restaurants.

Many parks in Seattle offer a view of the skyline, and Volunteer Park is no exception. Like most views, the famous Space Needle is prominently featured. If you happen to be visiting Seattle during the summer, the park also hosts many free outdoor concerts and theater events. These free events are a great way to stretch a budget during a trip to Seattle.

Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Washington

For over 100 years, the Woodland Park Zoo has been a famous part of the Emerald City and strolling through its acres of beautiful exhibits is considered one of the best Seattle activities.

Supporting conservation and education, this Seattle zoo also participates in animal rescue and efforts towards rehabilitating and rescuing endangered species. Set in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, near Green Lake and Fremont, the Zoo is part of Woodland Park. The area that was split up into Woodland Park and the Woodland Park Zoo once covered an area of 188 acres. A Boston firm called the Olmstead Brothers then began the process of designing the new public Seattle parks.

A short drive north from downtown Seattle, the Woodland Park Zoo Seattle is considered one of the best on the globe. It is filled with authentic habitat that allows the animal to have the most comfort and a pleasant setting for them to live. Woodland Park and the Seattle Zoo are both open daily. The park is free but the there is an entrance fee for the zoo.

At the Woodland Park Zoo, you need to spend at least four to six hours to fully take in all the exhibits and displays. Over one million visitors visit the Seattle Zoo every year. There are over 300 animals on display, and there are over 65 acres of excellent naturalistic exhibits and habitat recreations. Snow leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, and hippos will awe you when you see them in their natural settings at the Woodland Park Zoo Seattle.

The Woodland Park Zoo hosts a number of fun events around holiday like the Bunny Bounce in the spring or the lavish annual themed benefit Jungle Party. Also, two Sumatran tiger cubs were born at the Zoo recently, part of a successful breeding program at the Woodland Park Zoo Seattle.

There is an African Savanna exhibit at the Seattle zoo that has a recreation of an African Village. Other award winning exhibits include the Tropical Rain Forest exhibit, the Elephant Forest, and the Northern Trail exhibit.

If you want to have an experience you won't find anywhere else in the country, a visit to the Woodland Park Zoo will impress and delight you. Adults are children alike love to come to the zoo again and again.

Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle, Washington

Visiting the Park
Admission: Free
Park Hours:
Oct-Apr: 7 am - 6 pm
May-Sep: 7 am - 9 pm

Combining the artistic skills of critically acclaimed sculptors with the natural beauty that Seattle has always been known for, Olympic Sculpture Park is nine acres of some of the most notable artwork in the city. From Alexander Calder’s award-winning Eagle to Louise Bourgeois’ semi-controversial Father and Son, the Seattle Art Museum Sculpture Park has spared no expense in rewarding visitors with preeminent examples of modern art. Though Seattle has long been on the forefront of the music and (occasionally) literary scenes, it’s largely been ignored as a notable art town. But that may no longer be the case now, as the park is now one of the largest urban art spaces in all of America.

The grounds on which the Olympic Sculpture Park Seattle were not always so sought after – used as an oil depot for much of the past, this waterfront plot in Elliott Bay was long considered an eyesore. The railroad tracks, now such an integral part of Teresita Fernandez’s “Seattle Cloud Cover,” did little to help the area’s reputation. Years of clean up, however, have culminated into the opening of the Seattle Art Museum Sculpture Park, capitalizing on the advantages of the region – the waters of Puget Sound and the distant Olympic Mountains make a perfect backdrop for the sculptures on display. The layout of the Sculpture Park Seattle accentuates this by placing small groves of trees and plants, along with a handful of trails throughout, even a beach that will, considering the city’s temperamental weather through most seasons, rarely get much use.

But it’s really the art that will keep visitors coming. The free admission will also help. Many of the works in the Olympic Sculpture Park have been displayed from New York to Paris. And the Seattle Art Museum plans to keep the park in a permanent state of flux – few of the pieces are permanent, and new works are already being commissioned to be added to the Sculpture Park Seattle. The current lineup is pretty outstanding as it is, featuring some of the most recognized contemporary sculptors in the country, like Richard Serra (his piece, “Wake” is alarming in its immensity) and Alexander Calder, to smaller, local artists like Roy McMakin (who’s “Love and Loss” will convert more than a few fans), the Seattle Art Museum Sculpture Park seeks to show how a sculpture’s setting can bring new meaning to the work. And the park itself is a giant step forward for the city of Seattle, adding yet another sparkling attraction to its bustling downtown district.

Seattle Parks, Washington

Mountains, forests and scenic bodies of water surround the Emerald City. Seattle parks highlight the natural beauty and scenic vistas of this part of the Pacific Northwest. From the exotic animals at the Woodland Park Zoo to learning about the history of Seattle parks in an old water tower in Volunteer Park, going to a public park is one of the most popular Seattle activities.

One of the biggest and most impressive Seattle Parks is Discovery Park. There about 12 miles of hiking trails in Discovery Park, making it the largest public park area in the city. There is an Indian cultural center on the grounds with commanding views of Puget Sound. The shoreline of Discovery Park awards you with pristine beaches and unmatched views of the glacial peaks of the Olympic Peninsula. There is an Army base on the park"s grounds, but it doesn't interfere with the Seattle activities enjoyed by visitors to the park.

To the south, and also on the waterfront is Myrtle Edwards Park. This is a less crowded alternative to the busy weekends around Green Lake. There are two separate paths at Myrtle Edwards, one for bicyclists and the other for pedestrians. This is also the setting for the most popular Seattle activities in the summer. The grassy fields right next to the Puget Sound are a great place to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks show.

Green Lake is one of the busiest Seattle parks. It is a lovely 2.8-mile path around Green Lake. You will see bicyclists, dog walkers, and city residents enjoying outdoor Seattle activities that help give the area its reputation for having an especially fit population.

Surrounded by water, Montlake is one of the most scenic parks in the city. There is a trail along the water, which takes you by Portage Bay and the Yacht Club's Marina. Being right on the water, Montlake is known for its canoeing, fishing and waterfront views. Just relaxing and watching the boats come and go is one of the most enjoyable Seattle activities, and Montlake Park is a great place to do this.

Aside from great Seattle Parks, if you visit Redmond you will find a one-of-a-kind park, with an off-leash area for dogs. There is a rock climbing wall and an indoor cycling arena at Marymoor Park in Redmond. Boating, fishing, and other Seattle activities can be enjoyed far from the bustle of the big city. There are great architectural features at Marymoor Park like the Dutch windmill and the Clise Mansion, which houses a museum about Marymoor and the area. This park is great for bird watching and hiking on its scenic trails.

Gas Works Park overlooks Lake Union, and has unique mechanical structures that are part of Seattle's industrial past. Gasworks is popular with dog lovers as well, and has great views of Seattle and the lake. Gasworks is one of the few areas around the lake that is not commercially developed, so you can enjoy open views of the lake without the eyesore of condos.

Seattle Center, Washington State

Seattle Center was first called the Century 21 Exposition; it was a large complex of buildings built by the city of Seattle for the 1962 World’s Fair. Today, these remain a center of community for the city, renamed the Seattle Center. The futuristic design of the original structures designed by World Trade Center architect, Minoru Yamasaki, remains intact in the majority of the campus. This includes the iconic Space Needle and the Monorail, connecting the Seattle Center with Westlake Center in Seattle's central business district. As the 50th anniversary of the Seattle Center approaches in 2012, many changes and improvements are on the horizon. However, the Seattle Center remains one of the most popular places in Seattle for both visitors and residents.

The Seattle Center is home to majority of the arts programs in Seattle. The Pacific Northwest Ballet is based out of Marion Oliver McCaw Hall. Nearby, the Seattle International Film Festival Cinema and the Seattle Repertory Theatre offers shows and films. The Seattle Center is also home to the Seattle Opera and the Seattle Shakespeare Company. If your passion is music, wander through the Experience Music Project, an eye-catching museum dedicated to the history and appreciation of music. If you’re looking for a good show, indulge your inner circus performer at Teatro ZinZanni, a five-course dinner accompanied by an enjoyable circus and cabaret performance. Nearby Key Arena is the premier entertainment venue in Seattle for large concerts, conventions, and sports games. Key Arena is also the home of the Seattle Storm woman's basketball team.

The Seattle Center is also the heartbeat of Seattle's many festivals. Possibly the most popular of all Seattle Center events is Bumbershoot, Seattle's Labor Day festival that has been celebrating music, film, comedy, spoken word, dance, theatre, performance, and visual arts since 1971. All throughout the year, Seattle Center events honor the different cultures of the world through the Festál Festivals. Commemorate the Japanese culture at the Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrate the French on Bastille Day, or dance to a mariachi band at Fiestas Patrias. Hungry Seattleites flock to the Seattle Center every July for The Bite of Seattle, highlighting the culinary expertise of local restaurants and eating establishments.

Seattle Center events celebrate the seasons, as well. During the summer, the grounds and fountains of the Seattle Center fill with locals and visitors enjoying the weather. Children play in the large International Fountain. Outdoor concerts and late night movies are offered at the Mural Amphitheatre. The Seattle Shakespeare Company performs Shakespeare in the Park. When the weather cools, the Seattle Center hosts Winterfest, a holiday celebration complete with ice-skating, fireside carol singing, a winter village and festive performances by music groups from local schools and universities.

The Seattle Center is a wonderful place for children. The Children's Museum, recommended for kids up to age 10, encourages children to discover and use their imaginations through their hands-on exhibits. Interactive programs include art projects and treasure hunts. The most popular exhibition for kids is the Pacific Science Center. Here, families can participate in interactive exhibits that teach about science and the world around us. They include Dinosaurs: a Journey through Time, a tropical butterfly house, an insect village, a saltwater tide pool, a planetarium, laser light shows in the Laser Dome, and two IMAX theatres. Visitors can also experience science by turning a two-ton granite ball with their bare hands or riding the High Rail Bicycle fifteen feet above ground. In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Pacific Science Center also hosts science-themed featured exhibitions that rotate frequently.

Aquarium in Seattle , Washington

The Seattle Aquarium is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and with all the water in and around the city, a visit to this destination will fit right in. This is the seventh-largest aquarium in the country and has been delighting locals and visitors alike since it opened in 1977. While there are many museums and attractions throughout Seattle that travelers are particularly drawn to, the aquarium has a real connection to the local landscapes. To add an educational slant to your trip, search for Seattle Aquarium coupons before you leave home and enjoy the exhibits.

There are six major exhibits at the Seattle Aquarium. Each of them is fascinating enough that it will be hard to tear yourself away to move on to the next. Everyone will have their own favorite exhibit between the Pacific Coral Reef, Puget Sound Fish, Puget Sound Orcas, Marine Mammals, Life on the Edge, and Window on Washington Waters exhibits. From glowing jellyfish to comical otters, there is so much to see at this top Seattle attraction. The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm, though it is closed on major holidays. There are admissions discounts available for kids and as part of packages such as the Seattle CityPass, which includes tickets for several major attractions for a much lower price than visiting them individually.

Before visiting the aquarium, there is a little research to be done. Savvy travelers will look for Seattle Aquarium coupons online. You will also want to do some research about the location of the aquarium in relation to your hotel. The Aquarium is located on Pier 59 on the waterfront, within walking distance of Pike Place Market and the ferry terminal and piers where harbor cruises depart. If you choose to drive your rental car, there are parking spaces available, but many visitors arrive on foot or use the local buses. One fun way to reach the aquarium is to walk from the market along the Pike Street Hillclimb.

Beyond the regular exhibits, there are other fun features at the Seattle Aquarium. Each day naturalists who work at the aquarium give talks during feeding or training time with the animals. These events offer a rare opportunity to see how the animals and their trainers interact. When planning a visit, check the schedule of talks on the aquarium website the day before. This way, you can plan to attend whichever talk interests you the most. Don’t be surprised to see the employees here in all sorts of situations, from feeding the mammals to scuba diving in the 120,000 showcase tank.

Even if you can’t find Seattle Aquarium coupons, the exhibits are well worth the entrance fee. Here you will see an incredible variety of fish including salmon, rockfish, and other native Washington marine life. The mammals exhibit offers the chance to encounter sea otters, fur seals, and harbor seals. At the Orcas activity center you can learn more about the most famous inhabitant of the Puget Sound. Families traveling to Seattle will want to visit the Space Needle, the Pike Place Market, and Qwest Field, but they definitely shouldn’t miss the fascinating exhibits on offer at the Seattle Aquarium.

Safeco Field in Seattle, Washington.

Safeco Field is the home field of the Seattle Mariners, in Seattle, Washington. Located just south of Qwest Field, home to the Seahawks football team, Safeco is also close to Pioneer Square and its many bars and restaurants, and it's a short walk from Pike Place Market and other major Seattle attractions. Due to its lively central location, there are many Safeco Field hotels to choose among.
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The creation of the Safeco Field stadium had its beginnings years before it was built. The Kingdome was the stadium that was in use at the time, shared bt the Seattle Mariners and the football team the Seahawks, who now play at Qwest Field.

This new ballpark was built in the style of stadiums as they existed in the "old days." The field is real grass, and there is an open roof to the sky, giving Safeco Field a breezy, open air feel. There is a motorized roof that can be used to cover most of the ballpark from the wind and rain. These features contrasted with the artificial turf in the closed-off Kingdome. Other features at the new Safeco Field baseball stadium was a museum dedicated to the history of baseball, a team store, a kid"s play and picnic area, as well as a Mariners team store.

Whether you're visiting the Emerald City or are a Washington native, you should definitely experience a game in this clean, modern baseball stadium. The Seattle Mariners schedule follows the regular baseball season, which is from April to early October. You can go to any online ticket outlets, sports websites, or the Mariners homepage to find out what days they are playing. There are 162 Mariner games every season, 81 at Safeco Field and 81 away from home field.

There are lots of different options for getting Seattle Mariners Tickets. You can do a group outing, which can be a group of up to 40 that gives you combined seating with the people in your group, and two complimentary tickets, as well as a personalized welcome on the matrix scoreboard.

Some of the Seattle Mariners Tickets that sell the fastest are the ones for the suites. These can be private, group, or home plate suites. While these tickets cost slightly more, you have access to private parking, a concierge and a waiter to bring you drinks and food.

Diehard fans follow the Seattle Mariners schedule closely and make sure not to miss a game by buying season tickets, which guarantees their seat location for every game and assures that they have a ticket for the major games of the season. When you purchase Seattle Mariners tickets for the season, you get a 10% discount at the team store and the options of pre-booking a parking spot and the ability to make advance reservations at the Hit it Here Cafe. You can purchase Seattle Mariners tickets for the full season or just part of it. You can also resell your tickets on the website if you are unable to attend one of the games.

Just about half of the fans who come to the Safeco Field ball park to see the Mariners are from outside the immediate Seattle area. There are tons of different concession stands you will pass on the way to your seats if you're here for a game. You can eat the popular garlic fries, a good old fashioned hot dog, and wash it all down with an ice cold beer.

The idea was to keep the Mariners in Seattle by giving the team a new stadium to replace the crumbling Kingdome. Construction on Safeco field began with a groundbreaking featuring a then-member of the Seattle Mariners, Ken Griffey Jr. on March 8, 1997. The Seattle insurance company Safeco purchased the naming rights, giving the baseball stadium its current name, Safeco Field. The first game to be played in Safeco Field by the Seattle Mariners was against the San Diego Padres on July 15, 1999.

A location just south of the site of the original Kingdome was selected for the new Safeco Field. Safeco has been in Seattle since 1923, so this was an appropriate company to take the naming rights of this landmark facility, which was host to many major events like the All-Star game, in 2001, and the dramatic public retirement one of the most beloved players on the team, Edgar Martinez, who ended his long career with the Mariners with much sentimental reluctance in October, 2004.

Much to the delight of local fans, the Seattle Mariners will be around at least until 2019, when the 20 year lease the Mariners signed to stay at Safeco Field will end.

CenturyLink Field, Seattle

Qwest Fields - Seating Home of the Seattle Seahawks football team, CenturyLink Field is the home stadium for the local team of Seattle Washington. The stadium, known until 2011 as Qwest Field, was built where the Kingdome used to stand, and is now one of the most well-known concert and sports venues in Seattle. The Kingdome used to be the home field of the Seattle Mariners and other local sports teams. It was demolished on March 26, 2000 to make way for the new stadium. This was the largest implosion in the world of any concrete structure and it cleared the way for the new state-of-the-art football stadium. The stadium's location near Pioneer Square and downtown Seattle means there are many great hotels near CenturyLinkField, as well as plenty of restaurants, bars, and attractions including Pike Place Market.

The Seattle Seahawks also used to make their home at the Husky Stadium. This was one of the noisiest stadiums in the country, so it was hard for players of the visiting team to hear what their quarterbacks were saying. Husky Stadium, which is the home of the University of Washington Huskies football team, was home to the Seahawks team throughout the years briefly in 1994, 2000, and 2001.

Qwest Fields - Press BoxThe name of CenturyLink Field used to be "The Hawk", or "Seahawks Stadium" before the company Qwest purchased the naming right. From June 2, 2004, until 2011, the Seattle Seahawks stadium was called Qwest Field; it became CenturyLink after that company purchased Qwest and bought out the contract on the naming rights. The Seattle Seahawks have been a part of the NFC since 1976. The National Football Conference lost the Seahawks when they joined the AFC, where they remained until 2002, when the Seattle Seahawks returned to play in the NFC.

The Seahawks made history during the 2005-2006 season when they won their first conference championship and a trip to Super Bowl XL against the AFC champion Pittsburgh Steelers. The Seahawks lost the Super Bowl matchup 21-10, but the showed the world that Seattle had world-class talent as well as some of the loudest and devoted fans around. Those fans call CenturyLink Field, also known as the Clink, their football home.

Tickets to see the Seattle Seahawks are harder to come by every year. Fall tickets for Seahawks games at CenturyLink Field art regularly sold out. If you"re a season ticket holder, you are guaranteed tickets, but not necessarily the seat you want. The key to enjoying a great game by the Seahawks is to get in line early, have patience and smile.

Lakes in Seattle

The lakes in Seattle are hard to overlook—this is a destination that is known for its water, and no trip would be complete without gazing out at Puget Sound, climbing aboard a ferry, or giving kayaking a try. While the bays are well known to travelers, there are also plenty of lakes that offer both great views and plenty of activities. The most famous—and the largest—is Lake Washington Seattle. This large, freshwater lake is located adjacent to Seattle and stretches for 18 miles in length, separating Seattle from the city of Bellevue and the rest of the East Side. While any trip to Seattle is bound to be full of dining, nightlife, and visits to museums, taking the time to enjoy the great outdoors will complete your trip.

The city is located on the stretch of land between Lake Washington and the Puget Sound. The bright blue waters of this Seattle lake are recognizable in photographs of the skyline. The lakes in Seattle are always bustling with fishing vessels, yachts, kayaks, motorboats, and even seaplanes. During a trip to Seattle, you can participate in any of these activities. From going out on a fishing excursion to renting a kayak, hiring your own yacht or speeding along in a motorboat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Lake Washington.

Another significant lake is Lake Union Seattle. Located north of downtown and in the center of the city, Lake Union separates Seattle Center and the southern half of the city from the northern neighborhoods including Fremont, Ballard, and the University District. This lake is a popular spot for boaters, kayakers, and rowers. One of the reasons Lake Union is famous is for flanking the neighborhood of Fremont that once made a declaration that the neighborhood was an independent republic of free thinkers. Today, visitors head to this neighborhood for its eclectic bars and sidewalk cafés. If you want to get out on the water during your trip, you will have many opportunities between Lake Union Seattle and Lake Washington.

Beyond these two major bodies of water, there are also other lakes in Seattle. Green Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Greenlake neighborhood. This lake is surrounded by a paved path of almost three miles in length, and many locals and visitors come to Green Lake park for cycling and jogging. The park itself is a beautiful place to spend a few hours outdoors or enjoying a picnic. If you’re interested in getting out on the lake, motorized boats aren’t allowed, but non-motorized vehicles such as canoes and paddleboats are very popular here. That makes this a very family-friendly lake in Seattle, especially as it’s a very short distance from the Woodland Park Zoo.

Spending a day on a boat of Lake Washington Seattle or Lake Union isn’t the only way to enjoy the great outdoors. Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle, and offers almost a dozen miles of trails through forests and providing excellent views of Puget Sound. Some visitors are fascinated by the history of places like Lake Union Seattle. These bodies of water were actually carved by glaciers. Before heading out on a boat on one of these gorgeous lakes, read up a little on their history to enjoy the ride even more. Seattle is full of surprises, from its beautiful lakes to its quirky shops.