OT: Vacationing in Seattle in Aug. Suggestions?

[SQ]

For all you Seattle folks...

The family and I will be going to Seattle 8/7 for 9 days. What are your "must-see/do" recommendations? TIA

[Jewel]

Well isn't this interesting! My BIL and SIL will be in town from Austin, TX that very same week and they've never been up to see DH's 'habitat' as he calls it before! He's lived here for 14 years and he gets a bit miffed when he realizes that none of his brothers have ever been out here from TX or PA. Anyway, they asked us the same thing!

They're flying in and renting a car, and they're very outdoorsy folks. We've forwarded them a map of the campgrounds and lodges in the area so they can kind of make a 2-3 day loop to see the wilderness surrounding us. They're also taking the Victoria Clipper ferry to Victoria, BC while they're here, and they plan on seeing Mt. Rainier. Of course when they decide they've had enough of the bush and want to see SEATTLE we're making sure we get them up in the Space Needle, to Pike's Place Market (public market) and to the Experience Music Project, the new Paul Allen extravaganza. Also, until the beginning of September the Titanic Artifact Exhibit is at the Seattle Center. I haven't seen it yet, but we are definitely going...I'm a Titanic scholar from my elementary school days! There's plenty to see and do, from the camping and hiking aspect to the 5 star restaurants and attractions. Anyone else have any input? I know I forgot all kinds of things! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[husky-fan]

In addition to all of Jewel's wonderful suggestions, I'd also add a ferry ride. The shortest trips are from Seattle over to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton (30-60 minutes one way). Or if you can spend a whole day or more, go further north into the San Juan Islands. A good day trip is to Friday Harbor. Lots of cute shops and cafes in town, plus many good whale watching vantage points around the island. I hope you have a great trip!

[SQ]

Thanks Jewel and Husky-Fan. From what I gather, 8 days just won't be enough time in your beautiful part of the US! BTW, what should we bring - shorts or pants...jackets??

Also, any favorite local restaurants?

[LGBurns]

Here's a good website with lots of info: http://www.pan.ci.seattle.wa.us/html/visitor/

Seattle is one of my favorite cities--I totally agree with all of Jewel's suggestions. If you have time, I would also suggest driving out to Olympia National Forest--it's spectacular. If you enjoy hiking, there are lots of wonderful trails. If you decide to go to Victoria, be sure to check out Buchart Gardens (I actually found the rest of Victoria to be a little too touristy for me but Buchart Gardens alone is worth the trip--amazing!).

[Jewel]

Originally posted by SQ:
Thanks Jewel and Husky-Fan. From what I gather, 8 days just won't be enough time in your beautiful part of the US! BTW, what should we bring - shorts or pants...jackets??

Also, any favorite local restaurants?

As for clothing, bring something of everything! My parents (from CA) made the mistake one summer of bringing only shorts and sandals and it rained and got chilly! Bring at least a windbreaker jacket and a pair of walking shoes and long pants, but have a pair of shorts and sandals available too! The standard motto in Seattle is "Don't like the weather? Wait 5 minutes and it'll change!"

As for restaurants, we all have our different tastes. One of our local favorites is a mongolian grill called 'Changs'. There's one in Kent (south end) one in Everett (north end) and one in downtown Seattle up on Capitol Hill. Fill your bowl with fresh veggies and frozen thin sliced meats, make up your own sauce from vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame and chili oil, ginger, etc. and they grill it for you on a huge round grill, then put it on your plate. It's a 'go up as many times as you want' place, and is really healthy because they don't use very much oil, they cook the meats with hot water on the grill! Wonderful...I've converted several people to Changs! There's also a great restaurant downtown on Union St. called the Union Square Grill. It's pricey, but worth it!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif



[This message has been edited by Jewel (edited 06-19-2001).]

[SQ]

Originally posted by Jewel:
The standard motto in Seattle is "Don't like the weather? Wait 5 minutes and it'll change!"



That's funny; we have the same saying in New England!

[KValley]

Just a couple of things to add:

Here is the Washington State Ferry website: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/index.cfm

As has already been mentioned, a trip to the Olympic Peninsula and/or the San Juans is a must. Head over to the Olympic Peninsula, stay the night in Port Angeles and spend the next day in the Olympics or catch the Coho Ferry to Victoria. Or better yet, stay 2 nights. The Olympic National Park and Hoh Rainforest are priceless. The Hoh is the only temperate rainforest in the lower 48 (and in North America, I believe).

Also, July is prime whale birthing season- you should schedule a whale-watching or sea-kayak trip in advance. THere are several organizations- just do a web search on Whale Watching San Juans...

Ray's Boathouse in Seattle has one of the most beautiful views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, an incredible wine-list and outstanding food. Here's the website: http://www.rays.com/

Capitol Hill, particularly Broadway, has loads of ethnic restaurants and you can eat (much) more cheaply than Downtown. It's also a funky, interesting district in which to just window-shop and people-watch.

If the Mariner's are in town, SAFECO stadium is fabulous- true SODO MOJO http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif! Ichiro brings the crowds to its feet with, chanting Ichi-RO, Ichi-RO! A seat in the upper decks between first and second base give you a bird's eye view of the Olympics- an evening games gets you the setting sun- so lovely.

The Seattle Aquarium and lunch at Ivars is a must.

Edmonds is a lovely community just north of Seattle- you can catch the Kingston ferry there for the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsula- it runs every half hour (double check on the ferry schedule website above). Try a Sunday breakfast at Chanterelle's. The Smoked Salmon Scrambler is to die for!

And, I would be remiss if I didn't highly recommend a trip east of the mountains. It is a completely different world here- geographically, culturally- no less beautiful, but the desert canyons and sagebrush take most visitors by surprise. Bring lots of sunscreen- it doesn't rain in the summertime! The primary wine regions of Washington state begin just a three hour drive from Seattle (Yakima Valley). Stop in for lunch in Ellensburg (where I'm located) and eat at the Valley Cafe on 3rd street- an award-winning collection of Washington state wines is available, or at the Yellow Church Cafe on Pearl Street. We have some of the best antique shops in the state, if that is your thing. Take the Yakima River Canyon Road on your way to the wine country- the canyon will take your breath away.

The mighty Columbia River is 45 minutes from Ellensburg, through some very desolate, haunting topograhy- be on the lookout for coyote and rattlesnakes!

You can also head a bit further north to the Alpine mountains and valleys of the North Cascades and visit the Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth (a bit kitschy, but the scenery is magnificent).

On your way back west, just off of I-90, you can take a detour to Roslyn, where "Northern Exposure" was filmed. The Brick Tavern is the oldest continously run tavern in the state; the Roslyn Cafe is great for lunch; the Roslyn Cemetary is fascinating- you would never guess that such a tiny town tucked away in the mountains would have had such tremendous ethnic diversity, but when the mines were running, the town was booming.

Goodness, didn't I say I had just a few things to add? I love this place so much- I can't imagine living anywhere else. Now, why was I away for 8 years....??

Have a great visit! Julie




[This message has been edited by KValley (edited 06-19-2001).]

[Veronica]

We love Seattle and the surrounding area. Some things we've done and really enjoyed: Snoqualmie & Salish Lodge, Cascades, Mt. Baker, ferry to Victoria, boating in the San Juan Islands (I agree with husky-fan - Friday Harbor is nice), downtown Seattle - all the things Jewel mentioned as well as the underground tour, which was informative & fun. You'll have plenty to do. The scenery is beautiful & the air clean & crisp. We just love it. Have fun!

[mommywannabe]

I'll second the visit to EMP (Experience Music Project), but give it plenty of time. I went with a group from work and we were there for 6 hours and I didn't see everything. It's kind of spendy to get in, but it's well worth it.
Pike's Place Market is another must...even just walking the waterfront is a great time with all of the shops and restaurants. Hit the Aquarium and the IMAX theater while you're there.
As for food...there's a great little Mexican restaurant (emphasis on the "little") called Mama's. They have great food for a really reasonable price. I think it's somewhere around 2nd & Bell in Seattle.

[kentgirl]

I heartily endorse the ferry ride to the San Juan Islands as well. The islands are absolutely beautiful! Our favorite place to stay is at Roche Harbor on the San Juan Island. If you go there, you must dine at Madrona Grill at the Roche Harbor Resort. Jimmy Buffet sings about a "cheeseburger in paradise" in one of his songs, and he was referring to the cheeseburger served at Madrona Grill. I've never heard the song, but the cheeseburger is the best I've ever had! Also try their Bloody Mary's! Here's their site: http://www.sanjuanguide.com/Washington/San_Juan/San_Juan_Island/Roche_Harbor/Madrona_Grill.htm

If you do travel to the islands, you must also visit Orcas Island. There's a place there called Mt. Constitution that has a view that "will knock your socks off". This was an actual quote from a guide book I read, and it was not an exaggeration! Here's a picture of the view to give you an idea of what I'm talking about: http://www.thesanjuans.com/gallery/mtconst.htm

Also, the Chateau Ste. Michelle winery in Woodinville has tours and offers outdoor summer concerts, which are very popular. During the time you'll be here, you can see Gypsy Kings or Wynonna.

So much to do…so little time!

[SQ]

Thanks so much to everyone for the time you took to give me your suggestions. Can't wait to see everything! If you have any other ideas, let me know; I'll continue to check this thread.

[browneye]

You have plenty of great ideas!! Are there any special interests you have? Or certain budget restrictions or not? I'll add my $.02 and some tips for navigating the area without too much pain..August is PEAK tourist season in Seattle, and you can get into some unpleasant lines, etc. Here are some tips for you:
If you do a ferry ride, try to get to the San Juans..try to go on a weekday instead of a weekend, or go outbound on a Sunday, opposite the flow of the crowds. Also, to avoid long ferry lines, you can walk onto the ferry, and easily get all over Friday Harbor on foot, or rent a MOPED or Bicycle when you get there. Friday Harbor is on San Juan Island.
Another idea for the San Juans: Walk onto the Ferry at Anacortes, go to Orcas Island on a friday,do see Mt. Constitution, then, there is a marvelous seafood buffet atRosario Resort, ($35.00 per adult, kids less) which is a historic waterfront estate, built around 1900. Teak, mahogany, sweeping views, old pipe organ recitals in the evenings, or stay there and enjoy a first class place. Or rent a Kayak! and paddle around.
A few great restaurants downtown Seattle that feature Northwest Cuisine:
Dahlia Lounge $$$, YUMMY!, also Flying Fish $$, Palace Kitchen$$. Cascadia $$$.
For the best view of Elliot Bay and the Ferries in and out, dine outside on the Deck at Anthony's Pier 66.$$$ or at least stop by there for a glass of wine and appetizer on a gorgeous day.
Best Pizza: Pagliacci Pizza (three locations!, exceptional crust, There is one on Capital Hill!
Best Sushi: I Love Sushi on Lake Union, watch the seaplanes take off and suck down maki rolls!
Better yet hop on one of those planes to the San Juans or Victoria!
Best Mexican: Mama's, as mentioned above
Best Cheap Eats: Ivar's Fish and Chips, on the Pier, or Steamers. The Honeybear in North Seattle, Taco del Mar- multiple locations, (they build HUGE burritos) Changs (as mentioned above)
Go to the International District on a weekday, and do Dim Sum at the House of Hong! (starts at 11:00 am) For a truly adventurous meal! Kids also find this fun even though some of the items are challenging!
One of my favorite day trips is over to Port Townsend, across the Hood Canal Bridge. It is a Victorian town, with lots of restored mansions, on the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It has lovely shops, restaurants and a great Ice cream Parlor, the beautiful Fort Worden State Part with a Lighthouse, turn of the century officers quarters which you can actually rent and stay in!, etc. There is a Marine science center and it is a perfect place to fly a kite! There is a summer ferry from Pt Townsend to the San Juans (private operation, not a Wa State Ferry) also, to Victoria. Head up to the Manresa Castle and look around. They also have a fancy restaurant.
In Port Townsend, eat at Fountain Cafe, Lanza's or Lonny's, or The Public House is casual and fun.
Also, in Seattle, Get stuff for a picnic at the Pike Place Market, then head across the Fremont bridge to the Ballard Locks and sit on the green hills overlooking the locks and eat your picnic while watching the boats go through. Also see the salmon go through the fish ladders in the viewing area below! Do you have kids? Do the aquarium! (Down on Pier59) Also, there is a Children's museum in the Seattle Center where the EMP is.
Here are some favorite Seattle parks: Discovery Park, 3801 Government Way- 534 acres of woods and miles of trails, cliff views of the Sound...right in the city!
Washinton Park Arboretum, 200 acres, walking and running trails, Japanese garden, etc..also, Volunteer Park 1247 15th Ave East, features a popular view froom the top of the water tower, and a 1912 conservatory full of hothouse plants!
Go up to Green Lake in North Seattle, rent bikes or skates and skate around the lake! and people watch! There are also shops and restaurants around the lake.
Another very interesting day trip, in addition to the previously mentioned Mt. Rainier, is Mt. St Helens... there is a scenic drive that takes you to a bird's eye view of the crater , at Johnston ridge Observatory, on Highway 504. This is about a 50 mile deal, but if you really want to be wowed by an ACTIVE volcano, this is the one to do.
Well, I am considering changing careers and becoming a Seattle Tour guide!
Have fun, hope this helps.

[dotglee]

Don't miss a drive through the University of Washington. We think we have one of the most beautiful campuses in the country.

As for restaurants, I would second the recommendation for Ray's Boathouse in Shilshole or Anthony's next door. They'll do our local seafood any way you like, and a table near the water around sunset can't be beat.

[tobykitty]

Here's a web site that has great info for the Olympic Peninsula.
http://www.northwestsecretplaces.com/

Oh, I don't know if this was mentioned yet, but I love the underground tour of Seattle.

[McSix]

If you do go to Mt. Rainier, and unless you come from a mountainous state, you certainly should, please consider the short but incredible hike to Snow Lake. It isn't very impressive at first as you climb a bit on a dusty path, but then you travel through a wildflower meadow to one of the most beautiful spots I've ever seen. It's not a long hike and is easy to find.

[Jewel]

Fellow Seattle-ites...you do realize that by singing the virtues of our fair city that all we are doing is intriguing MORE people to think about relocating to this area, and in turn, we are adding to our extended commute on I-405? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

This place is boring as Heck, there's nothing to do, and it rains all the time. Go see Mickey Mouse instead!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[Grace]

SQ - Make sure you stop and get a cup of Seattle's Best Coffee while you're there! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif (hee hee)

[LGBurns]

I wanted to second the recommendation for the underground Seattle tour. I personally haven't gone, but a friend of mine just returned from a trip to Seattle and could not stop talking about how fascinating it was. Next time I go, that will definitely be on my agenda.

Jewel, your comment reminded me of a joke my husband and I shared the first time we were in Seattle. The weather was beautiful the whole time (it was February!) and everyone told us it was a miracle and that it had been raining constantly for months. When I returned home, I called my mom, and she said the same thing happened to her--the weather was beautiful when she was there (in the summer) but everyone kept saying that it had been raining for days and this was their first sunny day in ages. Our theory now is that it actually never rains in Seattle and the reports about the rain are myths started by natives to keep out all the people who want to move there (particularly the hoards of Southern Californians moving up there all the time). So, hi to everyone in sunny Seattle. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[KValley]

Originally posted by Jewel:
Fellow Seattle-ites...you do realize that by singing the virtues of our fair city that all we are doing is intriguing MORE people to think about relocating to this area, and in turn, we are adding to our extended commute on I-405? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

This place is boring as Heck, there's nothing to do, and it rains all the time. Go see Mickey Mouse instead!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif


I saw the following license plate holder a few weeks ago :WELCOME TO WASHINGTON...
...NOW GO HOME!

http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[KValley]

Originally posted by KValley:


I saw the following license plate holder a few weeks ago :WELCOME TO WASHINGTON...
...NOW GO HOME!

http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif
It's so funny reading your post, Jewel-
I just drove home this morning from Seattle- a rainy, damp, dark morning- took me 45 minutes to get from 522 at Bothell to 405 to I-90-a distance of what- 12 miles? It only took another 50 to go the 82 miles back to Ellensburg (okay, so I was going 85). Dad and I had breakfast and talked about the outrageous cost of living in the Puget Sound and the awful traffic.

At the top of Snoqualmie Pass the clouds broke, the sun burst through and now it's gorgeous. I don't want anyone to discover this little part of the state..y'all stay on the West side and leave us to our cow-tipping and sagebrush!

[LisaSue]

I went to Seattle for the first time last summer and absolutely fell in love with it. I second all the recommendations, especially the San Juan Islands (we stayed on Orcas Island), Mt. Rainier, and the Underground Tour of Seattle.


As far as the food goes, I found it impossible to have a bad meal there. If you like sushi, I had some of the best sushi ever at Nikko, next to the Westin hotel. Also check out Wild Ginger -- amazing pan-Asian food. Ray's Boathouse was very good and beautiful -- right on the water. For something ultra-casual, go to Pike's Place Market and get some fresh fruit (Mt. Rainier cherries are delicious!) and a fish sandwich and walk down to the water for a picnic.

[BosunsWife]

You guys are making me homesiiiiick! Born and bred Washingtonian (lived there til I was 30) sends! DH and I (with DD) are hoping to retire from the military in Washington and we'd like to buy a house over on the Peninsula.