Kevin 1/2/24 Kevin 1/2/24

2024 Snoqualmie Falls Guide

Nestled just 30-minute or so drive from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle in the beautiful Snoqualmie…

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Nestled just a thirty minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Seattle in the beautiful Snoqualmie Mountains is one of Washington State’s most popular attractions, the 270-foot tall, Snoqualmie Falls.

While the falls have always been an amazing sight to see, an explosion of popularity occurred in the early 1990’s when the waterfall was prominently featured in the hit TV series “Twin Peaks”. It now brings in 1.5-million visitors, annually.

No visit to the area would be complete without at least making a quick stop to view it from the upper deck. Whether you spend ten minutes or two hours, coming out is worth the effort.

So whether you're looking for great day trips from Seattle or you want to spend a day away from the city, this guide has you covered. Let’s get into it.

Getting to Snoqualmie Falls

If you’re like most people, you’ll be coming to the falls from Seattle. It’s a fairly straight forward drive from the city to the upper plaza, making it the perfect day trip.

The exact milage will vary depending on where you’re starting from generally, it's a bit more than thirty minutes, one-way, with only a few turns.

From Seattle, the directions are as follows:

Look for signs pointing you to I-5 South and get on it.
Follow the signs to the I-90 East turn off and stay on it.
Take exit #25 toward Snoqualmie Pkwy and turn left on WA-18E
Turn left on Railroad Ave then stay on Railroad Ave after the traffic circle (3rd exit)
Shortly after, you’ll see the entrance for the falls on your left.

Parking at Snoqualmie Falls

You’ll have two options for parking and they’re both incredibly easy:

Option #1 would be the main lot right off the rim. It’s large enough to accommodate many vehicles but since it’s closest to the falls, there’s a fee. It’s $7 for a two hour period and $5 for each additional hour. The fee can be paid at the self-serve kiosks near the Visitor Center (you will need to know your license plate number).
Option #2 is the larger parking lot across the road that connects to the park via an overhead bridge. This lot can accommodate many more vehicles and is free. It’s also ADA accessible. So if the main lot is full, fret not. Just head across the street.

The recently renovated Visitor Center and Gift Shop are fully open to the public. It includes new exhibits, restrooms and an ice cream shop. Their hours are as follows:

Monday - Friday: 10am - 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: 9am - 4pm

Snoqualmie Falls Upper Viewing Deck

If you type “Snoqualmie Falls” into your phone’s GPS, it’ll likely take you the parking lot at the Upper Plaza. It’s the most visited area of the park as it provides that classic view of the falls from the rim.

Here is where you’ll see an exhibit of an old, used turbine. These are used in conjunction with the force of the falls to generate energy for the surrounding area.

We’ll go over this further into the post as it’s the Lower Plaza where you’ll see a grandeur example of this at work.

To the right of the turbine is where you’ll find the beginning of the trail that leads to another viewpoint and to the Lower Plaza below.

This trail is less than half a mile but you will drop you nearly 300 feet. While it’s fairly easy going down, coming back up will be challenging, unless you’re in decent shape.

Before descending the trail, there’s another viewpoint worth checking out. This is called the, “Peregrine Viewpoint”. Named after the birds who inhabit this area. It’s a little further down and it’s a slightly more straight-on view of the falls.

Lower Park Plaza

The Lower Plaza is not as well known. It is here where you’ll get the “down below” view, access to the Snoqualmie River and see the energy producing turbines up close and personal.

You have two options to get the lower plaza from above:

As stated above, you can hike the roughly half mile trail. It’ll take you straight to it but you will have a jaunt going back up. It’s not advisable if you’re not in decent shape and/or don’t have the proper footwear.
Your other (much easier) option would be to drive to it. Turn left out of the main lot or right out of the free lot and head down the road for a few miles. You’ll turn left on Fish Hatchery road and follow that until it terminates at the lower plaza parking lot.

You’ll find the trail leading to the lower viewing deck to the right of the visitor center. Before reaching the boardwalk, you’ll see further examples of turbines and other process equipment with literature explaining how they were used.

Past here, you'll head down a series of stairs and onto a scenic boardwalk with the roaring Snoqualmie River on one side and beautiful moss covered trees on the other. This short journey to the deck is worth the visit all its own.

I didn’t check the exact amount of time it took to reach the deck from the parking lot but including stops to check out the turbines and take photos, it probably took me less than 10 minutes.

The deck is fairly small and can comfortably fit a dozen or so people at a time. Keep this in mind if you’re visiting on a particularly busy day.

The view of the falls from the deck is unique compared to the top. In my opinion, it’s superior to the rim view, as you get the river and surrounding greenery creating a magical scene.

Once you’ve gotten your fill of the views and took your pictures, simply turn around and head back the same way you came in.

Best Time to Go

That’s relative to your personal tastes. Most will tell you spring is the best time due to the fresh run-off from the mountains. If your goal is to see Snoqualmie at its fullest, spring would be the time.

I was here in early March (not quite spring). The runoff was decent and there were no crowds to deal with. Weather wise, the warmth of summer would be the way to go, but it’ll be the most crowded.

Late September and October will bring beautiful fall foliage to complement the scenery around the falls. Winter, while easily the least crowded of any season, brings cold weather with possible snow and ice.

My personal recommendation would the months of eMarch or April. Chances of snow and ice are minimal, as are the crowds. The runoff, in my experience, is good but your results may vary. It was a bit chilly during my visit, but the lack of crowds made it worthwhile.

Nearby Attractions

While making the trip from Seattle to Snoqualmie to see the falls is more than worth the effort, it isn’t exactly an all-day outing.

We were able to see the falls and what it had to offer in a couple hours. Since you’re heading out there anyway, may as well see what else Snoqualmie has to offer.

Hiking Trails

There are many hiking trails in the area. The most popular being Rattlesnake Ledge. The trailhead is located about 10 minutes from the falls in Snoqualmie Point Park and while it requires some effort to complete, it’s short and sweet with an epic payoff. Check out AllTrails for more information on that.

Historic Train Museum

Located on the side of the road heading into downtown Snoqualmie is a line of preserved, historic trains, free for public viewing.

There’s an easy, paved trail that runs alongside all of them and makes for an excellent outing for families with small children.

Local Shops & Restaurants

Along the main road that cuts through town you can find many local shops and eateries to dine at. Supporting local businesses, especially now, is a great way to complete the experience. My personal favorite, Caadxi Oaxaca, serves up amazing spicy pork and fish tacos

Lodging

If you’re keen on staying in the area, you have a few options. You have your standard chain options such as Holiday Inn and SpringHill.

If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member, you have a couple options in nearby Redmond and Bellevue. The best option, however, would be the Salish Lodge and Spa. It overlooks the falls at the rim and is an utterly beautiful property.

IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT SNOQUALMIE FALLS, DM ME ON FACEBOOK HERE.

17 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Seattle

Let’s face it, Seattle is not a cheap city to visit. Hotels, restaurants, attractions, and the like. While a lot of them are worth what they cost, it helps to…

Let’s face it, Seattle isn't a cheap city to visit. Between hotels, restaurants, attractions, bars, etc, it adds up. While a lot of them are worth their cost, it helps to have free or cheap options to offset that.

We visited the Emerald City in 2020 and 2021. Between the two visits we experienced everything listed below and some! Because we saved so much doing these, we just had to share them with you.

The following list is of 17 attractions, activities, or eateries that are either free or close to it. In each listing we list the cost (or as close to it as we can) so you’ll have a good idea of what to expect.

1. The Fremont Troll

Cost: Free

If you’re going to visit Seattle, you’ll need to pay toll to the Fremont Troll. It was constructed by four local artists in an attempt to help rid the area of drug dealers and other undesirables.

It’s made up of steel rebar, concrete, and wire and weighs 13,000 pounds. While it’s free to check out, parking is limited and there are no public restrooms. You’ll also be contending with crowds during the tourist season as this spot is popular with Instagrammers.

2. Gas Works Park

Cost: Free

Located on the north end of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is a 19-acre public park that was once the site of the Seattle Gas Light Company. Nature has been slowly overtaking the rusted process equipment and makes for an excellent place to explore and photograph.

Near the entrance of the park is a small playground for kids, partially made up of the abandoned equipment. This park is a wonderful place to hang out, enjoy a picnic, or to take in the views of the downtown lights at night.

3) Eat Your Way Around Pike Place

Ginger Beers at Rachel's Ginger Beer in Seattle, WA.

Cost: Less than $10 per item

Man oh man. If you haven’t experienced any of the many awesome eateries in and around Pike Place, you’re missing out on some goodness. From Rachel’s Ginger Beer (pictured above) and Pike Place Chowder to Beecher’s and Piroshky Piroshky, you’ll never go hungry.

Best of all, most of these places offer small entrees below $10 bucks and they can be split between two people. When you compare that to most other restaurants throughout the city, it’s a cheap activity for the foodie in your group.

4) Photograph the City at Night

Pike Place Market at night. Seattle, WA.

Cost: Free

My personal favorite activity in Seattle is grabbing my camera, heading out to nearly anywhere in the city, and photograph the area at night.

Yes, Seattle isn’t without its problems and you will need to be mindful of your surroundings, but I have never been in a position where I felt like I was in danger.

Pike Place and the surrounding downtown areas are my personal favorite locations. You will need the proper equipment but as long as you have those, this activity is totally free.

5) UPS Waterfall Garden

Cost: Free

Also known as UPS Park, this pocket park was built in the 1970’s in Pioneer Square near the original United Parcel Service building. It features a man-made, 22-foot waterfall surrounded by colorful floral and greenery. There is seating in the upper deck providing a wonderful place to sit and relax for a bit. The waterfall wasn’t operating when we were here so unfortunately, we have no photos to show you. You can follow this link to the official website of Pioneer Square to see one.

6) Downtown Murals

Cost: Free

There are murals literally all over the city. So much so, you’d be hard pressed to not see one. While my personal favorites are in the Greenwood neighborhood (as stated in this article), the downtown area has a lot worth searching for.

There’s no real starting point. Especially if you’re staying in the downtown area. If so, simply leave your hotel and start walking around. It won’t take long.

7) The Post Alley Gum Wall

Cost: Free

It may be called the gum wall, but it really should be called, “Gum Alley”, because it is far more than just one wall. A good chunk of this section of Post Alley is covered floor to ceiling, on both sides, in gum.

It’s quite gross if you think about it, especially considering the times we’re in. Regardless, it’s still something you have to see at least once. You can even add to it, if you wish. There’s a gumball machine further down the alley.

8) Support Local Coffee Shops

Cost: Around or less than $10

Supporting local restaurants, shops, operators, etc, is super important. Now more than ever. Even if you’re a Starbucks diehard, you’re in Seattle. The practical birthplace of the coffee shop.

There are dozens of amazing shops in the city. My personal favorite being, “Anchorhead”. Ever had a “Quaffle”? It’s a waffle and croissant combination. You’re not going to find anything like that at Starbucks.

9) Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls from the lower viewing deck. Seattle, WA.

Cost: Free parking available and free entry. We spent just over $9 bucks in gas, round-trip

While not in Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a simple, 30-40 minute drive from the downtown area and is more than worth the trip.

If you’ll need to rent a car, then this would not be a super cheap outing (although our rental only costs us $45 bucks for 24 hours). If you already have a vehicle, it’s just gas.

There’s a free parking lot at the falls across the street, no entry fee, and it’ll cost you a minimal amount in fuel. Check out our article here for all the information you’ll need to plan a visit.

10) Take in the Views

Cost: Free (mostly)

I say ‘mostly’ because while you can go to dozens of spots throughout the city to get an amazing view, a lot of them will charge you for the privilege.

The Space Needle, Columbia Center, etc, all come at a fairly significant cost. If you want free views; the waterfront, Kerry Park, the ferry (small fee), Lake Union, and Gas Works Park are great options.

11) Seattle Public Library

Cost: Free

Chances are good that during your visit to the emerald city, it will rain at least once. That’s just a fact of life in Seattle. If the weather service is predicting a particularly heavy rain day during your visit, you may want to consider checking out the Seattle Public Library. There’s no admission fee and you’re free to read all you want while you’re there. What draws locals and visitors here is the architecture. The interior is simply stunning and unlike any Library you’ve seen.

12) Check out Historic Boats on Lake Union’s South Shore

Cost: Free

Located on the south shore of Lake Union you’ll find, “The Center for Wooden Boats”. They’re an indoor/outdoor museum showcasing the history and modern use of wooden boats.

They feature free programs for all such as providing a one-hour rental in one of their peapod rowboats that accommodate up to 5 and toy boat building lessons for kids.

Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit in 2021. You can visit their website for up-to-date information.

13) Take the Ferry to Bainbridge Island

Cost: $9.05 per adult and $4.50 per youth (6-18) and seniors (65 +)

A ride on the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island and back is reasonably priced and once you’re on the island, it’s an easy walk from the terminal to the main strip where a lot of the shops, restaurants, and museum are.

There’s also a few taxi services available to take you around. We took “Viking Taxi” from the terminal to Bloedel Reserve and we paid $15 for a one-way trip.

If you have kids, the ferry ride alone will probably excite them. You can visit the Bainbridge Island website for a complete listing of all there is to do.

14) Bainbridge Island Museum of Art

Cost: Free

Since we’re on the subject of Bainbridge Island, while you’re there be sure to stop by the Museum of Art. It is located at the beginning of the main strip and is a short walk from the ferry terminal.

On the second level, they have multiple paintings from Kimberly Trowbridge of the Bloedel Reserve and some Native American art pieces. The bottom floor features artwork inspired by social justice.

The pieces are truly beautiful and inspiring. Visit their website for current hours and exhibits. Admission is free but they do appreciate donations.

15) Tour the Amazon Spheres

Cost: Free

Amazon built the spheres for their employees as a place they can go to escape the typical office environment and be inspired by this urban jungle that houses over 40,000 plants from 30 countries.

Non-employees (tourists) are allowed to visit this amazing place on the weekends and can take part in guided, informative tours. Currently, due to covid, the spheres are temporarily closed to the public.

16) Shop the Pike Place Vendors

Pike Place Market crab for sale. Seattle, WA.

Cost: Varies, but usually not much

Pike Place has a variety of vendors and after a rough 2020, they need your support now more than ever. You’ll find vendors of all kinds here.

Produce, jams, artwork, jewelry, spices, seafood, flowers, and more! If you can think of it, Pike Place will likely have it.

17) Stroll the Waterfront

Cost: Free

There a fewer things more beautiful than Seattle’s waterfront. Especially at night. With so many shops, restaurants, and attractions to choose from, you could spend a full day here.

No money is required to walk along the multiple piers, go for a jog, or break out your camera and shoot away. Currently, there is a lot of construction going on as the city works to improve and add to the area.

*Side Note…

We’re often asked about the equipment we use to capture the photos used on this website. Below, we’ve included Amazon links to those products. If you decide to purchase, Amazon pays us a small commission. This helps us keep the site running and doesn’t cost you anything extra.

Nikon D780 Camera

Tamron 24mm - 70mm 2.8 Lens

GoPro Hero 10

GoPro Media Mod

K&F Concept ND Filter

Mosiso Camera Bag

Visiting Seattle’s Iconic Space Needle

The Emerald City has so much to offer its visitors. So many parks, museums, coffee shops, and more to choose from, you’ll never be able to do it all in one trip. There is one…

The Emerald City has so much to offer. So many parks, museums, coffee shops, and more to choose from you’ll never be able to see it all in one trip. There is one attraction however, that stands out from the pack (literally). That attraction would be the 605-foot tall, “Space Needle”.

Constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, millions of visitors have stood atop its 520-foot indoor/outdoor, saucer-shaped observation deck that offers unobstructed views of downtown Seattle, the Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, the beautiful Cascades, and the Olympic mountain range.

We visited it for ourselves for the first time in 2020 (just before covid began to run rampant) to document and gather all the necessary information to help you plan a visit for yourself. So read on below to find out how you can experience this Seattle icon for yourself.

Location & Tickets

Seattle Center

The Space Needle is located at, “Seattle Center”. Seattle Center is an arts, entertainment, tourism, and education center that spans 74 acres housing several attractions such as the needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Popular Culture (or, “MoPOP”, for short).

If you’re driving, the address for the Space Needle is as follows:

400 Broad Street. Seattle, WA 98109

If you’re walking from your hotel, you can simply ultilize Google directions and tap the walking tab for step-by-step directions. Likewise, if you’re using Uber or Lyft just punch, “Space Needle”, into the search bar.

Tickets & Where to Get Them

When it comes to purchasing tickets, you have more than a couple options. Your first and best one would be to purchase your tickets online in advance of your trip. You just go to the official website, select your date and time of arrival, pay, and you’re done.

When you arrive, your experience begins immediately. You could also purchase tickets at the kiosks on site or at the ticket window. Keep in mind, if you wait until the day of, you may experience lengthy wait times or even worse, no availability. This is especially true in the summer months.

General Admission

If all you’re looking to do is the Space Needle, this is the ticket for you. It gets you admission the main observation deck and access to , “The Loupe”. The world’s first and only rotating glass-bottom floor.

Combo Ticket

This is my top recommendation as it grants you access to not only the Space Needle, but the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum as well. You save $18 bucks versus buying them separately. So if Chihuly is also on your itinerary (and it should be), this ticket is the way to go.

City Pass

This is another great option, as you get 5 of Seattle’s top attractions for one low price. Currently, City Pass gives you access to the Space Needle, the Aquarium, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Woodland Park Zoo, and Chihuly Garden & Glass. This is a big money saver.

For further information or to purchase your tickets online, go here.

The Experience

With ticket in hand (or on your phone), you’ll arrive to the entrance on the date and time you selected. If your visit is outside the busy summer months, chances are good that you won’t have much of a wait. I visited in March and had no wait at all.

Shortly after entering the building, you’ll go through a security check point where they’ll check to make sure you’re not bringing any banned items such as weapons, drones, etc. For me, the process was quick and painless.

If you end up having to wait, all throughout are information boards detailing the history of the needle, it’s construction, and milestones accompanied by photographs. There’s a lot of interesting information here so be sure to check it out even if you don’t have a wait.

The end of the line is where you’ll enter the elevator. This is an experience all in itself especially if your operator has a sense of humor. The first couple hundred feet or so is enclosed but before long it’ll open up to clear glass and you’ll have an amazing view as your continue your ascent.

The Top House

At the end of the ride, you’ll step out of the elevator and into what’s referred to as the, “Top House”. On the inside, you’ll find plenty of seating throughout and viewing areas for those who don’t want to go outside. There’s also a refreshment stand that features a few snack items and Starbucks coffee.

Outside on the observation deck is where you’ll get amazing, 360-degree unobstructed views of the city and beyond. There’s benches all along for those brave enough to lean back on and even automated camera stations you can use to snag a free souvenir from.

The Loupe

The observation deck is cool and all, but perhaps the best feature of the needle is the semi-newly created, “Loupe”. It is the worlds first, and only rotating glass floor. Be warned, if you’re afraid of heights, you may want to skip this. If you’re not, it’s one of the coolest experiences you’ll ever have and alone is worth the price of admission.

To get to the Loupe from the observation deck, simple use the staircase adjacent to the refreshment stand. Called the, “Oculus”, this grand staircase is beautifully made with wood, steel, and glass. By the way, the area in between these two floors is where you’ll find the rest rooms.

Conclusion

Once you feel like you’ve gotten your fill of the views and plenty of photographs, you’ll simply head to the elevator and make your way back down. In true tourist fashion, you’ll be dropped off in the gift shop on the bottom level and it is here where you’ll find the exit.

Safe Travels

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Kevin 2/19/21 Kevin 2/19/21

15 Awesome Things You Can Do in Seattle

In this list, I’m going to cover 15 of the best things you can do in Seattle during your first (or returning) trip. I don’t expect you to get to all of them, but my goal is to provide you with an extensive variety of activities to choose from. Here we go…

I visited Seattle for the first time in March of 2020. Yes, right as Covid-19 was beginning to take hold in the states with Seattle (at the time) being ground zero.

Given what we know now, I probably would have delayed the trip to another time, but hindsight is 20/20, right? So with sanitizer in hand we boarded our plane, touched down, and had a blast. After a mere few days, Seattle became my favorite city.

1) Seattle Space Needle

Kicking off the list is the ultra-touristy, but at the same time must-do (especially if it’s your first time), The Space Needle. Standing at a commanding 605 feet, the, “Needle”, offers visitors a 360 degree view of the city below.

The main deck is where you’ll find the indoor observation deck and open-air viewing area at 520 feet. The second level observation deck features a glass floor for you to test your bravery on (if you dare) and get a clear view of the ground 500 feet below.

Check out our article on the Space Needle here.

2) Chihuly Garden & Glass

Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum exhibit.

Located next to the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the awe inspiring glass artwork of Washington native, Dale Chihuly. Visitors move from room to room viewing examples of his work and descriptions of how they came to be.

In the garden, demonstrations take place on a regular basis. Local glass artists break down the painstaking process of forming and coloring the glass. A CityPass can be purchased that’ll give you access to the Space Needle, Chihuly, and more for a discounted price.

3) Catch a Game

Seattle is home to both the Mariners (baseball) and the Seahawks (football). Regardless of which team your favorite is (even if you despise both teams), it never hurts to check out a local game if you can. Especially if your favorite team happens to be in town.

If you happen to be here during the off seasons or they’re on the road, you could always book a tour of either stadium to see the ins and outs. If you’re a fan of either team, this is a must.

4) Local Coffee Shops

“Coming to Seattle and drinking Starbucks is the same as flying all the way to Italy and dining at Olive Garden”. That is a direct quote said to me by a Seattle local. While Starbucks was born here and as much as I love my white chocolate mocha, I’d have to agree.

Seattle is littered with dozens of amazing local coffee shops and bakeries. You’d be hard pressed to visit even half of them during a single visit (though you’d have a lot of fun trying). One of our favorites, “Cafe D’arte”, serves up amazing coffee in historic Pioneer Square.

5) Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls outside Seattle Washington.

Nestled in the Cascade Range and only a 30 minute or so drive away from the city is the beautiful, 270-foot tall Snoqualmie Falls. It would be a crime to come to Seattle and not see one of the most famous natural attractions in the state.

If you’re flying in and don’t plan on renting a vehicle, don’t fret. You can book a highly rated tour on Viator that’ll not only take you to the falls and give you time to look around, but you’ll also receive access to the winery for a wine tasting before bringing you back to Seattle.

Check out our article on Snoqualmie Falls here.

6) Post Alley Gum Wall

The Gum Wall in Pike Place Market. Seattle.

Seattle may be well known for being the home of many artists and their respective art forms, but this may be taking it a bit too far. Located under Pike Place in Post Alley is where you’ll find Instagram famous, “The Gum Wall”. It’s literally an alley with each of its walls covered in gum chewed by locals and tourists alike.

You may be thinking to yourself that this is gross and, well, you’re not wrong. It is. However, don’t knock it ‘till you try it as it’s interestingly gross. It’s one of those things you must experience for yourself to fully appreciate.

To find it, head left down the ramp at the main entrance of Pike Place Market. When you get to the bottom of the ramp, turn left.

7) The “Postcard View” from Kerry Park

If you’ve been looking at pictures of Seattle, chances are you’ve seen this view. Photographers and Instgramers alike flock to Kerry Park to snap a photo of what’s known as the, “Postcard View”, of the skyline. On clear days, even Mount Rainier will make an appearance.

Be sure to bring a zoom lens and a tripod for stability because the view is actually much further out than it looks in most photos. Even if you don’t have those, though, you’ll still get a decent shot worthy of that share button.

The exact address for Kerry Park is:

211 West Highland Drive, Seattle, WA 98119

8) Gas Works Park

Located at the north side of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is a near 20-acre public park that was once owned and operated by the Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant in the early to mid 1900’s.

Today, visitors can see, explore, and photograph the remnants of the plant. There are also pathways for walking/jogging and reservable picnic areas perfect for family gatherings.

The exact address is:

2000 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103

9) Take a cruise on Seattle Harbor

Most people book a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island (rightfully so) without the realization that they could also book a cruise that sails along the Seattle Harbor and Elliot Bay. While you sail, a narrator details the history of the waterfront while the Olympic and Cascade ranges provide a spectacular backdrop for the city skyline.

10) Dine at Local Restaurants

Old Stove Brewery in Seattle Washington.

We have a rule when it comes to dining out while traveling; no chains or fast food whenever possible. Seattle has no shortage of amazing, local restaurants that are sure to appease every pallet.

You’ll find some good ones alongside and within Pike Place, but try to venture out into downtown and the local neighborhoods to find countless hidden gems. The pic of the flatbread above is from, “Old Stove Brewery”, in Pike Place. Amazing food, beer, and service.

11) Chris Cornell Statue at “MoPop”

Chris Cornell statue in Seattle Washington.

Being a huge Chris Cornell and Soundgarden fan, once I found out about his bronze statue outside of the Museum of Popular Culture (or MoPop), I knew I HAD to see and photograph it as he was quite the influence in my life.

If you’re a fan, there’s no debate. The statue can be found along the exterior of the Museum of Popular Culture on the street side. In my opinion, at night is the best time to view/photograph it.

*Unfortunately, in late 2020, the Cornell statue was vandalized. Efforts are currently underway to restore it.

12) Admire the Murals in Greenwood

Street art is everywhere in Seattle, but my personal favorites were found in the hip neighborhood of Greenwood. This is also where we booked our Airbnb for our Seattle vacation.

We found out about the murals after trying to get a table at, “Flintcreek Cattle Co.”, but ended up having about an hour to wait. So we walked around and found them. They’re ever changing so the art never gets stale.

13) Pike Place Market

Pike Place has it all. Visit the market while fishermen throw freshly caught fish over your heads as they prepare them for sale. Head deeper inside and see all the fresh crab, produce, homemade jelly, spices, gifts, and more!

If you’re like most people and want get a picture of the infamous Pike Place sign, the exact address is:

85 Pike Street #500, Seattle, WA 98101

As with most places in Seattle, I highly recommend photographing it at night for the full effect.

14) Ride the Great Wheel

Seattle’s Great Wheel on the waterfront.

Located at Pier 57 on Elliot Bay, Seattle’s Great Wheel is fun for every member of the family (unless you’re with someone who’s terrified of heights). It has an overall height of 175 feet and it was the tallest Ferris wheel on the west coast when it opened in 2012.

Sure, just about every major city has one of these by now but if nothing else, the views of the city and Puget Sound you’ll get from the top will more than make up for it being, “just another Ferris wheel”. Going at sunset or at night would be best. Get your tickets here.

15) The Underground Tour

Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour in Seattle.

I’ve saved what is perhaps the best for last; the underground tour. In the 1800’s, this part of the city was hastily built without any consideration of the rising tide that would regularly haunt them. Tons of muddy water would rush through town with enough force to consume children and small dogs.

In 1889, the Great Seattle Fire would burn around 25 square blocks worth of buildings to the ground. When the decision was made to rebuild, they did so by literally re-building on top of the remains of the old buildings and street. They accomplished this with retaining walls.