“So, this flannel thing. Is that a nod to the crispy Seattle weather, or are you just trying to stay warm in front of the refrigerator?”
Cher in the movie Clueless
Known largely for it’s weather, Seattle has so much more then rain and coffee to offer. If you're looking for lifestyle (and who isn't these days?), Seattle has it in spades. From flannel shirts to Nirvana, more than any other city in the region, Seattle epitomizes what people know of the Pacific Northwest… It’s fun to play outside.
When to Go
Averaging only 55 days of sunshine a year, you can pretty well expect to see some form of fog, mist or cloud while you're there. This pervasive grayness tends to make the city's otherwise moderate temperatures - winter highs top out around 50°F (10°C), summer highs float between 75 and 85°F (25 to 30°C) - seem downright frosty. The majority of rain falls between November and April. Snow is unusual, though when it comes, it comes down heavy. Summer is the choicest time for a visit, when marine clouds in the morning tend to burn off completely by afternoon.
What to See
Pike Place Market: Nearly a century old, Pike Place is one of Seattle's most popular landmarks, as famous for the theatrics of its boisterous vendors as it is for its vastly appealing edibles. Its most popular buildings are the Main and North arcades, with their artfully arranged banks of produce, and fresh fish, crabs and mollusks piled high on ice. The best bet for enjoying the market is to go on an uncrowded weekday morning. Wander slowly, sample frequently and remember to keep your eyes peeled for flying fish: the fishmongers hurtle huge salmon between their stalls at breakneck speeds!
Seattle Center: The 1962 World's Fair, also known as the 'Century 21 Exposition', brought in nearly 10 million visitors from around the world for a glimpse of Tomorrow, Seattle-style. What remains of the futuristic enclave of exhibition halls, arenas and public spaces is today called the Seattle Center.
Space Needle: A 600 ft rocket-styled observation station and restaurant. After the 43-second zip up its elevators to the top, the brave of stomach are treated to breathtaking 360° views.
Puget Sound: Island-strewn, misty and mysterious, Puget Sound is a great area to explore via ferry. The most popular ferry trip for visitors is the link between Seattle and Winslow, Bainbridge Island's primary town. Winslow has an array of shops and restaurants within an easy walk of the dock, but most people take the ferry simply for the ride and the great views of Seattle. The Bainbridge Island Winery in Winslow is a good destination both for cyclists and wine buffs.
Move...
Thinking of moving to Seattle? Be sure to check Seattle Truck Rental before you rent a truck.
More...
For more information please visit the Seattle Yellow Pages, which features maps,
directions, hotels and local businesses.
