We are currently in the middle of the busy season for Washington, so there is still a chance to jump on a last-minute flight deal to Seattle for an impromptu holiday. Seattle is a worthy holiday destination any time of the year, but it is especially popular during the summer, thanks to the warm weather and local outdoor activities and events. If you are considering or planning a holiday here, then we’ve got just the thing to get you started. Here are our picks for the can’t-miss attractions for a trip to Seattle this summer.
Space Needle
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The Seattle Space Needle is probably the city’s most iconic attraction, thanks to it being such a recognisable part of its skyline. Originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair, this 184 metre tower is meant to pay tribute to the aspirations of space travel that had taken the world by storm during that time. Here you can get a 360 degree view of Seattle offering a stunning look at the city, the ocean, and even Mount Rainier on a clear day. The lounge here serves drinks and some small bites, so it's a good place to put up your feet and revel at the magnificent beauty while sipping on a cocktail.
Seattle Waterfront
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You may know of the Seattle Waterfront along Elliott Bay thanks to attractions like the Great Wheel, a huge Ferris wheel by the water, or the Seattle Aquarium, where families can take part in hands-on exhibits. But in recent years, the city has done much to revitalise the area as a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. New parks, added piers and walkways, and art installations are just a few of the renovations that have added a new shine to this already-iconic attraction. Take a stroll down these bustling streets, do some souvenir shopping, and grab a bite to eat while you are here.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
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Located in the middle of Seattle right by the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a stunning exhibit dedicated to the works of Washington local, Dale Chihuly. It features a series of indoor galleries, a vibrant outdoor garden, and a conservatory filled with 100-foot-long suspended glass sculptures. The gardens here seamlessly blend glass sculptures with live plants for out-of-this-world scenery that looks like it could be ripped straight from a sci-fi film. Of all the must-see attractions Seattle has to offer, this is by far the most dazzling.
Pike Place Market
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Pike Place Market has been open to the public since 1907, meaning it isn’t just a great place for shopping and dining, but also a place to get in touch with the history and culture of the city. Here you can get the freshest caught seafood, hand-made crafts, local antiques, and much more.You can also check out historic eateries, like the first ever Starbucks which has been operating for over a hundred years. With a century of history, tons of bustling activity, and plenty of commerce, Pike Place Market is definitely a must-see destination for any trip to Seattle!
Discovery Park
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There are plenty of parks to visit during a trip to Seattle, but Discovery Park stands out for a few reasons. For one thing, it is the largest park in Seattle at over 500 acres. It is also only a few minutes from downtown and has an impressive range of wilderness settings, from lush forests to rolling sand dunes. The park is tied together by 12 miles of trails connecting stunning landscapes to tranquil hideaways, so hiking enthusiasts will be right at home here. One of the most iconic features here is West Point Lighthouse (pictured above), offering panoramic views of the bay and providing the perfect escape from all the urban activity of the surrounding city.