We hope that you can make the most out of your visit with additional travel outside of the wedding weekend. Here are our favorite things to do in Seattle and Western Washington.
Pike Place Market is Seattle's original farmers market and the center of locally sourced, artisan and specialty foods. Not just for tourists from around the world, it is a favorite of ours, where we regularly run into other Seattleites too! They have wonderful food and local art.
An iconic attraction at the heart of the 1962 World's Fair grounds now known as Seattle Center. In addition to spectacular views of the city, bay, and Mt. Rainier from the top, its restaurant one level down has recently been replaced by an enclosed observation deck with a glass floor that allows you to peer about 600ft below. Not to fret! That part is optional.
MoPOP is home to the worlds most immersive pop culture experiences, showcasing iconic moments in TV, rock n roll music, science fiction, and much more. They have a constantly rotating array of famous costumes, movie props, and other memorabilia. We have been members at this museum for a few years now. It is a can't miss if you are visiting Seattle!
On the shores of Lake Union opposite downtown Seattle, Gas Works Park was built on the location of a former coal gasification plant. The site offers unrivaled panoramic views of the lake and downtown skyline. Fun fact, it was in the movie "10 Things I Hate About You." It is a great place to roam on a sunny day, enjoy the view of the skyline, and have a picnic.
If you like airplanes and/or history this is the place for you. The Museum of Flight has an amazing collection. It walks you through the history of flight and even allows you to interact with some of the planes. As a Boeing engineering manager and airplane enthusiast, Aldo is a big fan of this spot. Even Rachel admits that it is really cool and you should see it if you can.
Forget Ivar's Seafood. This is the best chowder in Seattle. The line in the summer can be atrocious, so try going at a weird time if you can. Regardless, it is worth the wait.
Seattle has a thriving International District, which is especially known for its Chinese cuisine. Most of us locals agree that Jade Garden has the best dumplings. If you are not familiar with authentic Chinese food (or even if you are), we recommend giving this a try.
There are several locations throughout Seattle. They have a great selection of rotating flavors and options that meet every dietary restriction (I think, don't quote me on that).
Our favorite brunch spot! They have a few locations. Make a reservation ahead of time because they are beloved and often busy.
At the back of Tavern Law is a bank vault door and a rotary phone. Call on the rotary phone with your reservation to gain access to Needle and Thread Speakeasy, a hidden bar within a bar that serves high end cocktails. Reservations can be made 7 days in advance.
An active volcano, glaciers that create 5 different rivers, and the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range.
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands. It boasts beautiful nature, which is easily enjoyed through hiking and whale watching. This particular island convinced Rachel to move to Seattle when she was 14 years old. You can reach it either via ferry or a short sea plane ride.
A German-style town in the Cascade Mountains. It is a great place for food, drinks, shopping, and hiking. Take a day trip or visit for a couple of days.
Snoqualmie Falls is a popular scenic attraction. Salish Lodge and Spa has a restaurant with views of the falls. Otherwise, there is a nice walking path to fully experience the area.
The Olympic Peninsula has some of the most beautiful and interesting nature in the world. It is easily accessed from Bainbridge Island, where the wedding is being held.