Seattle Travel Tips
Keep in Mind...
- Remember your raincoat Seattle is known for its soggy climate, but don't let that slow you down. Just pack your galoshes!
- Spare some change Seattle's streets are lined with up-and-coming performers singing for their supper (or just to be heard). Carry some spare change for the ones that grab your attention.
- Grab a Seattle Weekly This free publication spotlights special events and performances. It’ll come in handy when planning a night on the town.
Seattle's laid-back attitude and diverse neighborhoods more than make up for its consistently cloudy weather. Plus its home to some of the country's best coffee and a thriving arts scene, plenty of history, culture and—when the weather stays dry—some exciting outdoor activities. Surrounded by water on many sides (and resting between Puget Sound and Lake Washington), the city's favorite outdoor pursuits include kayaking, hiking and camping. Not only that, but the nearby Olympic Mountains and the giant Mount Rainier are visible from many spots in the city; ski slopes are just a short drive away.
And while travelers often bemoan the weather, there's actually less annual precipitation here than in New York or Boston. Overcast skies rarely stop Seattleites from getting out and exploring the city -- and it shouldn't stop you either.
How To Save Money in Seattle
- Don't rent a car from the airport If you wait until you're in town to pick up your ride, you can avoid an exorbitant airport rental surcharge.
- Buy a CityPass or Go Card The Seattle CityPass and the Go Seattle Card are both good ways to save on some of the city's top attractions, including the Space Needle and the Museum of Flight.
- Dine Downtown This part of town is full of inexpensive places to satisfy your hunger.
Seattle Culture & Customs
The city's pub and coffee shop culture is renowned, and it perfectly accommodates Seattle's intellectual culture.
One of the most evident (and loudest) aspects of Seattle culture is its excellent alternative music scene, with famous clubs that include The Crocodile, Chop Suey and Triple Door. Also, be sure to check out the interactive exhibits at the Experience Music Project.
With Seattle's café and music scene, you might think the city has an "indoor" reputation, but Seattleites also take pride in getting out of the city for a camping or kayak trip. If the weather's suitable take a jaunt out to nearby Alki Beach.
Seattle Dining
Seattle restaurants dole out tasty local fare that's often infused with fresh seafood and flavors from across the world. The city's cafés and bars are also renowned for their ambience and fine draughts, often accompanied by stew or gumbo. Some also recommend a bite to eat at the famous Pike Place Market.
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Portland, OR
- Just as laid-back and quirky
- The beer is worth a taste
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Vancouver
- Not nearly as damp
- Perfect for the outdoorsy traveler
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San Diego
- Plenty of adventure to be had
- Much warmer and sunnier
