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The Emerald City, located in the Pacific Northwest is the largest city in Washington state and is filled with places to explore, things to see, and amazing food to eat! Below includes some of the top reasons to visit the Emerald City.
1. Nature and Hiking
📷 Photo of Mt. Rainier from Wikipedia
Seattle's surrounded by nature, with mountains like Mt. Cascades and Mt. Rainier nearby and different landscapes all around. There's a lot for nature lovers to do, from hiking to just enjoying the views! Encircling Seattle, the natural beauty extends to include not only majestic mountains but also serene alpine lakes and deep evergreen forests. Kayakers can take to the waters of Lake Union or Lake Washington, sharing moments with the city’s skyline as a backdrop. No matter where you look, every turn offers an opportunity to connect with nature and find peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life! During our AfroSeattle trip, we will be doing our own expert guided hike for our travelers that will be a breathtaking experience, hosted by Miles Hike Club.
2. Seafood Paradise
📷 Photo by Matt Mornick
The food scene in Seattle is fantastic. Being right on the Pacific coast, you'll find really fresh and tasty seafood everywhere. Whether you like oysters, tuna, or salmon, you're in for a treat! Restaurants and markets often highlight the day's catch, allowing diners to enjoy the ocean's bounty at its peak flavor. This focus on fresh, local fare not only supports the regional economy but also connects visitors and residents alike to the rich maritime heritage that Seattle so proudly celebrates.
3. Festivals All Year Round
📷 Photo by Blastfest Instagram
Seattle loves to party! With over 100 festivals throughout the year, there's always something going on, from food fests to arts and music. The city's diverse communities come to life during these festivals, sharing and celebrating their heritage and traditions, which adds vibrancy and color to Seattle's social calendar. From the lively Seattle International Film Festival to the energetic sounds of the Capitol Hill Block Party, there’s an event to match every interest and passion. On our July 25 -29th AfroSeattle trip, we will be front-stage VIP experiencing the annual Blastfest Afrobeats festival!
4. Eclectic Diverse Nightlife
📷 Photo by Nightflow
Seattle's nightlife scene thrives on its eclectic mix, with themed bars and speakeasies offering immersive experiences and craft cocktails. Patrons enjoy a rich variety of music genres that enliven clubs and live venues throughout the city. Reflecting its multicultural community, the city's after-dark offerings include diverse cultural tastes and global influences. This vibrant collection ensures Seattle's nightlife provides a unique journey for the senses, whether you seek lively dance floors or secretive, cozy corners.
5. Seattle Skyline
📷 Photo from Unsplash
No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle’s observation deck to take in the spectacular views! It's a must-do for the best city views mixed with the beautiful natural scenery around. The observation deck offers a 360-degree panorama that sweeps from the bustling downtown out to the tranquil waters of Puget Sound, and on clear days, the majestic outlines of Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains dominate the horizon. Visitors can capture unparalleled photos or simply take a moment to marvel at the sunset as it dips below the mountainous skyline.
6. Outdoor Activities
📷 Photo by Randy Woods
With its diverse wilderness, anyone can enjoy an assortment of outdoor activities in Seattle. Aside from hiking, you can also enjoy canoeing, skiing, sailing, and yachts! The city's unique position by the Puget Sound provides ample opportunities for both serene yachting and spirited sailing adventures. Whether on land or water, Seattle's natural environment presents endless possibilities for recreational activities against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning scenery!
7. Art Haven
📷 Photo by Seattle Art Museum
Seattle is full of cool museums and art places like the Seattle Art Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture, and more! Visitors can also find artistic inspiration at the Frye Art Museum, Henry Art Gallery, and amidst the freely accessible sculptures at Olympic Sculpture Park. The renowned Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, which beautifully melds art with nature, and the Seattle Center's public artworks offer inspiring experiences that highlight the city's commitment to integrating art into everyday life.
8. Coffee Culture
📷 Photo by Starbucks
Seattle's reputation as a coffee haven is well-deserved, with each neighborhood boasting its own unique coffee spots that reflect the local character and charm. From the original Starbucks to a wide array of cozy, independent coffee shops, there's no shortage of spots to enjoy a fresh brew and soak in the city's vibe. Whether you're looking for an artisan espresso or just a warm place to relax, Seattle's coffee scene is not to be missed!
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