A Seattle question

[Gina O]

Up until about two minutes ago, Brian and I were planning to head to Seattle for our first visit over Labor Day weekend. Two minutes ago, I realized that the festival that weekend is not just a little arts festival, but a huge deal with Bonnie Raitt and REM. While I am sure it is a lovely event, it does not interest us.

My question, is my assumption that this would probably not be the best weekend to visit correct? We really want to do some of the seriously touristy things like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, along with exploring aviation and naval history. We have made no reservations (and do not need them very far in advance as I have a positive space ticket and he jumpseats) and depending upon availability will stay at the Marriott right by Pike Place Market. We were thinking that switching to the weekend after Labor Day, would that be a better option? Gina

[wallycat]

I can't answer all of your questions...but Pikes Market is ALWAYS swamped and crammed with people. I've gone at least 7 or 8 times, off-season, on-season, warm, cold, raining...it's ALWAYS packed :eek:

Have fun no matter when you go!!! I LOVE THAT CITY :)

[kwormann]

Originally posted by Gina O
Up until about two minutes ago, Brian and I were planning to head to Seattle for our first visit over Labor Day weekend. Two minutes ago, I realized that the festival that weekend is not just a little arts festival, but a huge deal with Bonnie Raitt and REM. While I am sure it is a lovely event, it does not interest us.

Gina

Bonnie and REM????? I will go that weekend FOR you:D:D:D

[Canice]

Sorry that this isn't specific to Seattle (fabulous place that it is) but I've got to say that, all things being equal, I would choose the second weekend in September for any trip! Though Seattle is certainly big enough to accomodate a major festival without choking the entire city, I think *every* city/town/destination is just packed and swamped Labor Day weekend. And the airports are a nightmare. If you can pick up a third day the next week, I say go for it.

[elissaballard]

I live in Seattle and being that the weather here is never predictable that is going to be one thing that indicates whether Bumbershoot (the festival over that weekend) is really crowded or not. The only thing that you would really be impacted by is seeing the Space Needle as Bumbershoot is at Seattle Center. As for Pike Place Market, the museums and such I don't think you should have any problem getting around to any of that stuff. And because the weather is not so predictable here a lot of Seattleites head elsewhere for that last weekend of summer. Have a fun trip!

Elissa

[Tracy Maury]

I'm answering this question a bit late, but here it goes: I live in downtown Seattle and believe that any weekend in September would be a fabulous time to visit the city -- Bumbershoot weekend (Labor Day) or not. The Bumbershoot festivities span three days and it can be a zoo. The entertainment is great, however, especially if you like a wide variety of music and food.

If you're into doing a lot of tourist activities, the Pike Place will be crowded on any summer weekend, but the crowds do tend to taper off after Labor Day. The waterfront will still offer some of your best tourist bets such as the Argosy harbor cruises and parasailing from a boat. The "Ride the Ducks" tour will also still be available. A trip to the maritime museums and to the Museum of Flight will not be influenced by the time of year, nor will the Underground Tour down in Pioneer Square.

Have a great visit. It's a fun city to live in and when the sun shines, you can't beat it.