Top 10 Seattle Experiences

400 N 35th St, Seattle, WA 98103 (map)

Anyone interested in sampling local beers should seek out a table at this most comprehensive Fremont beer bar. The beer list includes offerings from around the world, and with 64 beers on draft and plenty more by the bottle, Brouwer's has plenty of interesting regional offerings to choose from. Both Seattle and Washington are home to some talented craft brewers; let the bar staff guide you to some favorites.

1201 Alaskan Way, Pier 56, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

There is perhaps no better place in the city to get acquainted with regional oysters than this waterfront seafood house. The staff will assist oyster neophytes with the finer points of ordering and slurping. Beyond bivalves, the menu features sustainably sourced regional seafood specialties, including salmon, crab, and the mystifying, yet delicious, geoduck.

85 Pike Street Suite 500, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

Second only to the Space Needle in Seattle icons, the historic public market encapsulates both the city’s history and its current obsession with fresh, local food. Wander the stalls and climb the stairs of the Corner Market Building for a scenic, seasonal lunch at Matt’s in the Market.

400 Broad Street, Seattle, WA 98109 (map)

Crowded? Sure. Heavy on the tourists? You betcha. But the Space Needle has symbolized Seattle since 1962, and it remains a focal point of the city. It’s not totally necessary to spend the $18 to get up to the observation deck--though the 360-degree views are stunning. Head to Kerry Park on Upper Queen Anne for the perfect photographic vantage point.

Pier 55, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

A quick, inexpensive trip between the downtown terminal and West Seattle combines beautiful city views with a chance to get out on the water that shapes and defines the city. Plus, when you dock in West Seattle, you can enjoy more spectacular skyline views from Alki Beach. Have a scenic lunch at Salty’s or, in sunny weather, head to the beach for some people-watching.

1426 First Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

Indie groups, up-and-coming local bands, and more established acts perform at this historic venue just steps from Pike Place Market. Showbox is large enough to attract strong acts, but still small enough that even the furthest vantage points from the stage feels intimate.

1400 E. Prospect St., Seattle, WA 98112 (map)

The sleepier sibling to downtown’s Seattle Art Museum is located in scenic Volunteer Park, where ogling the surrounding mansions is also a cultural experience. A quick spin lets you absorb the special exhibit and permanent collection items, and the Art Deco building itself is a gem. Save some time to visit the lush Volunteer Park Conservatory.