Seattle Washington
Seattle is known as the Emerald City. Its greenness stems from its
abundant rainfall which encourages the growth of lush vegetation and also from
its reflection in the clear blue/green waters of the Puget Sound. Visiting
Seattle creates a mosaic of colorful impressions that shimmer in the imagination
long after the visit ends.
Mt. Ranier looks down on Seattle from its majestic heights. Driving through Seattle on a clear day has been compared to floating on a cloud in an emerald sky.
From the dining room atop the Space Needle, a meal can be enjoyed along with a panoramic view of the whole city.

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Pike
Street Market is a medley of fresh fish, fruit, vegetable and flower shops
right on the water. Sitting at a sidewalk café, one can watch the men who
work in the fish markets throwing the fish from back to front. As a customer
asks to purchase a fresh fish of a certain size, one man selects a fish from
the barrel of ice, throws it to the weigher who is positioned in front of
him, who in turn calls out the weight and throws it expertly to the wrapper
who packages it and hands it to the customer. It is not unusual to see huge
tubs of Alaskan salmon, king crab legs, and dungeness crab awaiting this
process in the market.
The old fishing village of Ballard sits on the locks. Relax for a while and watch the ships go from Lake Union to the Puget Sound. A short drive north of Ballard leads to the Woodland Park zoo. It is a distinct pleasure to stroll through the acres of well kept grounds and to watch the animals enjoying their spacious natural habitats.
When visiting a city, there is always the decision to be made as to whether to have a car available or to rely on public transportation. A car is not necessary in Seattle as there are several choices of bus, trolley and monorail routes. There are even convertible buses dually equipped with gasoline and electrical systems that go underground to double as subway cars! It is easy to drive in Seattle, however, and there is ample parking. An automobile is handy for exploring the sights beyond the city. Walking is another alternative. There are many interesting and beautiful walking tours. Remember, though, that Seattle, like Rome, was constructed on seven hills. Downtown is built on a slant, so a walk will provide a good workout and may be tiring to small children.
Family attractions are everywhere in the
city and suburbs. Seattle Center has a children's museum and interactive
science center; Imax theater and several buildings with hands on exhibits.
Around Green Lake in the center of Seattle children can roller blade, ride a
bicycle or jog. Nearby at the University of Washington which sits on
tranquil Lake Washington is a beautiful arboretum. There are parks
everywhere.
Venture back in time to the days of the original settlers and take a ferry ride on Puget Sound to Blake Island. Arriving at the Island, visitors are greeted with the offering of steaming cups of clams and broth prepared and served by Native American merchants. A delicious fresh salmon feast is then brought to the table after being cooked authentically in the traditional style in a Longhouse on the island. During dinner, dances are performed by Native American dancers.
The Seattle Symphony, Seattle Opera and the Pacific Northwest ballet are world class. Their performances are rated as "fabulous."
Sports fans enjoy the Seattle Mariners, Sea Hawks, Thunderbirds and Supersonics (NBA Basketball). TWO new stadiums host baseball and football teams.
There is something for everybody in Seattle!
Photos Courtesy of Dave Scott
Interestng facts about Seattle
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Seattle Washington Tours and Attractions
Choose from one of our many Seattle Sightseeing Tours, Activities, and Seattle Tourist Attractions
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Seattle CityPassGet the Seattle CityPass, the best deal in the Emerald City. Your Seattle CityPass gives you tickets to Seattle's premier attractions including the Space Needle, saving you time and money.

Seattle Dinner CruiseSit back and enjoy the scenery aboard the Royal Argosy on a 90 minute cruise admiring Seattle's waterfront against the city skyline. Step back in time as you enjoy turn-of-the-century elegance and stroll the cork decks as you relax and unwind.

Seattle Harbor CruiseEnjoy a narrated cruise on Elliot Bay and Seattle Harbor, as well as spectacular views of the Seattle skyline and panoramic mountain ranges.

Lake Washington Cruise from SeattleFrom picturesque houseboat districts to luxury waterfront homes and the Husky Stadium, former home to the NFL's Seahawks - this two-hour cruise is an unforgettable way to experience the best of Seattle. See dramatic scenery and the volcanic Mt. Rainier as the tour cruises Lake Washington.

Seattle Locks CruiseYou don't have to be a shipping enthusiast to be enthralled by the complex workings of the Seattle locks system - originally built to transport coal and timber from the eastern shores of Lake Washington. Along the way you'll be treated to stunning city skylines and mountain views, and a trip to the "Sleepless in Seattle" floating houseboat district.

Seattle Lunch or Brunch CruiseEnjoy a unique Seattle experience aboard the Royal Argosy. Come aboard and step back in time as you enjoy turn-of-the-century elegance, stroll the cork decks and savor a first hand look at the Seattle waterfront and city skyline.

Seattle Boeing Factory TourLove flying? Now you can tour the factory where they build and test the famous Boeing aircraft, the world's number one aerospace company! This amazing 1.5-hour tour showcases the magnificent 747, 767, 777 aircraft used worldwide and the Dreamliner which is currently in production, all housed here in the world's largest building. Book now for an experience unique to Seattle!

Show Me Seattle!A great introduction to Seattle! This tour is perfect for people wanting to get out and experience Seattle for themselves, but just need a helping hand in finding some of those out of the way places. Uncover the highlights of this fascinating city as you travel through and around the many distinct neighborhoods and attractions.

Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery TourOn the Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour you will see and taste wines at both the Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia wineries. This sightseeing excursion will lead you deep into the rolling Cascade foothills past lush horse ranches and flower farms, to popular Hollywood locations for such famous productions as Twin Peaks, Northern Exposure, and The Vanishing. Scenic single lane rural roads lead you up to the peaceful shadow of Mount Si through the Snoqualmie River Valley to the edge of the breathtaking 270 foot Snoqualmie Falls.

Go Seattleâ„¢ CardSee Seattle your own way with the flexible Go Seattle Card. Do as much or as little sightseeing as you like, at your own pace while saving precious vacation dollars. Receive free admission to popular Seattle attractions, and enjoy discounts on shopping and dining around town.

Seattle Duck TourYou haven't seen Seattle until you've seen it from a duck! Join this family friendly Seattle duck tour and explore the many sights aboard a World War II amphibious vehicle. Your Coast Guard certified sea captains quack you up with local history, folklore, funky music and just plain fun!