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Are you planning a family vacation to the scenic Seattle, Washington area? You’ve picked a perfect destination, as Seattle offers some of the finest, family-friendly entertainment around. Here are but a few of the things to do in Seattle.
Things To Do In Seattle
Of course, around Seattle there also is much to see and do. If you have a chance, it is great to get out into the nearby mountains for a hike or take a ferry to the nearby San Juan Islands or British Columbia. Whatever you decide to do, Seattle offers fun and adventure for people of all ages and interests.
Pike’s Market
Located in downtown Seattle, Pike’s Market, also known as Pike Place Market, has been called The Soul of Seattle. It has been in continuous operation for almost a century and offers several acres of multi-level shopping. Featuring plenty of Seattle flavour, along with fresh produce, curious antique shops, and more, your kids will especially love seeing the flying fish.
At the open fresh fish markets, employees wait for someone to make a purchase. When you hear a voice call out, FRESH FISH FLYIN’! you had better look around if you want to see a whole salmon sail through the air on its way to the purchaser. Not to worry though; another employee will catch it with a flourish and hand it safely over.
Take a ferry
There are several ferries on the Seattle waterfront just begging for you to board. You may drive on or walk on to cruise across the Puget Sound. Catch a ray out on the deck, or sit comfortably inside the spacious ferry and observe the waves from the glass walls. Waiting for you on the other side are such local spots as Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, and Vashon Island. Kids are naturally drawn to the water, and it’s a great opportunity for Mom and Dad to rest their feet while the kids point out every sea bird and cloud in the sky.
The Seattle Aquarium
Featuring over 380 different species of fish and marine animals, the Seattle Aquarium is an ocean lover’s paradise. Kids will be overjoyed to find they can have some hands-on time at the tide pool area, carefully handling such creatures as sea anemones and starfish. Showcasing amazing sea birds, colourful fish, entertaining and humorous otters, the mysterious jellyfish and many more specimens, the aquarium is a place that you really just have to see to believe. Staffed by knowledgeable naturalists, the Seattle Aquarium is a wonderful place to learn about sea life in an exciting way.
The Children’s Museum of Seattle
Look no further for a place to make the kids happy. The Children’s Museum of Seattle is a wonderful way to spend a day with your children. Encouraged by hands-on opportunities, your children will learn in wide-eyed wonder about such subjects as the forest native to the Pacific Northwest, villages and cultures from around the world, the communities around us and so much more. There are exhibits and activities for even the youngest toddlers, so be sure to bring the entire family.
The waterfront
A stroll along the waterfront in Seattle can help unwind the little ones (and the adults!) after a day of sightseeing and exploring this beautiful city. The breezes are cool, the boats are as colourful as butterflies, and the cries of the seagulls are peaceful. Catch the sunset for an awe-inspiring ending to a destination like no other this is Seattle, Washington.
Pioneer Square
Also in the downtown area is the historic Pioneer Square. This is Seattle’s oldest neighbourhood. Pioneer Square is wonderful for walking around while shopping, visiting art galleries or enjoying great coffee shops, restaurants and bars. The area becomes a gathering place for sports fans heading to see baseball or football games at the two stadiums located just south of this interesting, historical neighbourhood.
Space Needle
The space needle is a must on most visitors’ trips to Seattle. This relic of the 1962 World’s Fair is a distinctive part of the Seattle skyline. The observation deck is located more than 500 feet above the ground and offers visitors a 360-degree view of Seattle and the surrounding area. From Mt. Rainier to the Puget Sound, from downtown to the Cascades, you will not believe the magnificent beauty of the Pacific Northwest. After you enjoy the view, you can take a break at the Sky City restaurant from which you can view the city or mountains while enjoying a snack or meal.
Experience Music Project
Near the Space Needle are a few other attractions for you to enjoy. One such destination is the Experience Music Project (EMP). The EMP was developed to tell the story of American popular music in an interactive and descriptive way. The result is a hands-on museum that allows visitors to see more than 800 artefacts from popular musicians and even try their own talents out by creating music and playing instruments. The EMP is a multi-sensory experience that will engage the young and old alike on a fascinating musical journey through history. The Pacific Science Center and Children’s Center are two more nearby attractions families may wish to explore for an afternoon.
Gasworks Park
Gasworks Park is a great find if you wish to spend some time outdoors while in the city. At the north end of Lake Union, this park gives you a spectacular view of the lake and the city skyline. The park is the host to many festivals throughout the summer and is a great place to hang out whether or not there is an event going on. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch, sit on the hill and watch seaplanes fly in and out.
Washington Park Arboretum
Another outdoor attraction is the Washington Park Arboretum. This park is made up of more than 200 acres of green space filled with paths and benches so visitors can enjoy all its beauty. Throughout the arboretum, you will find hundreds of plants and flowers – all with labels so that you can identify and learn more about what you see. Many of the plant collections found in the arboretum are recognized as some of the largest and best in the country!
Image Credit: Depositphotos
