The PNW is a beautiful, must-visit city.
When I lived there during the summers of 2015 and 2016, I worked at Seattle magazine, and had the chance to explore the city inside out. With rich outdoor activities and unique local hotspots, it’s a perfect place to visit year-round. Here are my musts: sees, dos, and eats during a quick Emerald City trip.
Must-See:
Kerry Park
With the best views of the water and iconic Seattle cityscape, Kerry Park is the best place to stop for that picture-perfect photo.
Waterfall Garden Park
Tucked into an unassuming street in Pioneer Square, this beautiful waterfall and garden park has seats for a midday meal or quiet reflection.
Must-Do:
Pike Place Market
It’s famous for a reason. Spend an afternoon exploring the hidden shops and array of eats.
Shop at Kinokuniya
The Japanese-based retailer’s location in Seattle features a variety of books, magazines, and THE MOST DROOL-WORTHY COLLECTION OF STATIONERY.
Theo Chocolate Tour
Learn how the local chocolate company sources and makes its famous chocolate. Tasting is essential!
Browse Indie Bookstores
Search for your next read at Elliott Bay Book Co. or Third Place Books, a pair of the city’s best bookstores.
Ride the Ferry
Enjoy the views of the Puget Sound with a ferry to Bremerton or Bainbridge Island. A picturesque ride that’ll give you time to chat with friends, enjoy quiet reflection and sea breeze, and see a new close-to-the-city spot.
Must-Eat:
Market Grill
While there are myriad of delicious eats to choose from in Pike Place Market (including Piroshky, Piroshky and Beecher’s), Market Grill is at the top of my list. Tip: Get the blackened salmon sandwich. FANTASTIC.
Salumi
One of my all-time favorite places to eat. Unassuming but spectacularly good, Salumi is a family biz that boasts mouthwatering meats and the best darn porchetta sandwich.
Dahlia Bakery
While known for its famous coconut cream pie, Dahlia Bakery boasts a menu full of can’t-go-wrong treats and bites. I recommend the breakfast sandwich and doughnuts.
Oddfellows
Delicious for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Oddfellows ambient atmosphere makes it a must-visit eatery. Bonus: it’s next door to the city’s local bookstore so you can browse after brunch.