Seattle, washington
Seattle's Unique Blend
I flew in Seattle, Washington from San Francisco, California. As I mentioned earlier in my San Francisco story that I reckon most cities are pretty similar, featuring a Central Business District or Downtown (as my North American friends call it), alongside various landmarks and buildings scattered around. Seattle's no exception to that.
But what makes Seattle stand out is that on a clear day, you can see these amazing mountains called Cascades from the city. It's like nothing else. Seeing those big peaks in the distance adds something special to Seattle, making it different from other cities where you might not have that kind of natural beauty right on your doorstep. It's a unique blend of urban life and scenic beauty that sets Seattle apart.
Enjoy a glimpse of the city's downtown in the YouTube short. Just press play.
Where did I stay and what did I do in Seattle?
Even though Seattle is in Washington State, when I walked into the MarQueen Hotel where I was staying, it felt like I'd stepped into the atmosphere of the famous 'Hotel California' song. The hotel's vibe seemed to have this timeless and mysterious feel, similar to what's described in the song. As soon as I entered, it was like being transported to another era. The place had this old-world charm with dim lights and fancy decorations that made you wonder about its history. Despite being far from California, the MarQueen Hotel had this uncanny ability to make you feel like you were part of a captivating story, leaving a lasting impression of fascination and wonder. Don't believe me? Click on this link to see it for yourself.
The hotel's convenient location near famous attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market made it easy to explore Seattle's top destinations. Being close to the Climate Pledge Arena was a bonus, especially since I got to witness my first ice hockey match between Seattle and Vancouver there. The atmosphere was electric, and watching the game was a thrilling experience. Seattle's victory made me feel like my presence might have brought some good luck to the team.
During my five-day stay, I explored the surrounding areas of Seattle through day trips. One destination on my itinerary was Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Its streets, adorned with alpine architecture, felt like stepping into a European fairy tale.
Another memorable stop was North Bend, offering a taste of small-town charm amidst the picturesque Snoqualmie Valley. Its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere were complemented by its connection to popular filming locations, including those featured in the television series "Twin Peaks."
No trip to the Seattle area would be complete without a visit to Snoqualmie Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading over 250 feet into a serene gorge below. The sight and sound of the rushing water, framed by lush greenery, offered a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.
Every drive around Washington state near Seattle and its national parks led to delightful discoveries. Whether it was Sultan's cute Alpine vibe or Port Townsend's historic charm, each village was a little gem worth pausing for. It was a chance to take a break, soak up the scenery, and explore somewhere new.
Things to do in Seattle
Space Needle: Take a trip to the top of the iconic Space Needle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Pike Place Market: Explore this bustling market, known for its fresh produce, seafood, local crafts, and the famous flying fish.
Climate Pledge Arena: Catch a live event or game at this state-of-the-art arena, which hosts concerts, sports events, and more.
Seattle Waterfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the bustling harbour.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Immerse yourself in pop culture at this interactive museum, featuring exhibits on music, film, video games, and more.
Chihuly Garden and Glass: Marvel at the stunning glass artworks of Dale Chihuly in this unique exhibition space near the Space Needle.
Seattle Great Wheel: Take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel on Pier 57 for a bird's-eye view of the city and waterfront.
Day Trips from Seattle
Leavenworth: Experience the Bavarian charm of this picturesque village in the Cascade Mountains, known for its festivals, shops, and outdoor recreation.
North Bend: Visit this charming town nestled in the Snoqualmie Valley, famous for its connections to the TV series "Twin Peaks" and its scenic beauty.
Snoqualmie Falls: Witness the breath-taking beauty of Snoqualmie Falls, one of Washington's most iconic waterfalls, and enjoy scenic viewpoints and hiking trails.
Sultan: Explore the quaint Alpine vibe of Sultan, a small town surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures.
Port Townsend: Discover the historic charm of Port Townsend, known for its Victorian architecture, art galleries, maritime heritage, and scenic waterfront.
Olympic & Rainier National Parks: Explore Olympic National Park's diverse ecosystems and Mount Rainier's majestic beauty during the summer months. I couldn't do it because the roads were closed due to excessive snowfall.
State of Washington was a journey of discovery and personal growth
My time in Seattle was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of discovery—a testament to the boundless wonders that await those willing to explore beyond the familiar. In conclusion, my journey to Seattle has been a transformative experience, particularly through the exploration of its surroundings on my own. Navigating the roads, often unfamiliar and on the opposite side, has been a lesson in resilience and adaptability. Driving through diverse landscapes, encountering different traffic rules, and manoeuvring through unknown territory have all contributed to my personal growth. This experience has not only expanded my horizons but also reinforced my ability to adapt to new and challenging situations. As I reflect on my time in and around Seattle, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and newfound confidence, knowing that I have emerged from this adventure stronger and more resilient than before.
Next, I fly over to Calgary, Alberta, Canada, for an epic Canadian adventure with an old friend. Click next