Washington (Seattle)

Seattle has been inhabited by Native Americans for over 4,000 years. English settlement began in the 19th century. Seattle is named after the Seath, the chief of the two local tribes. Nick names include: "Gateway to Alaska", "Rain City", "Jet City", influence of Boeing, and the "Emerald City".

Seattle is the birthplace of music legends and grunge music including: Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and the infamous Jimmy Hendrix. Seattle has a reputation as a coffee capital. Coffee companies founded or based in Seattle include Seattle's Best Coffee, Tully's, and Starbuck's. Starbucks has been at Pike Place Market since the coffee company was founded there in 1971. There are many successful independent artisan, espresso roasters and cafes located throughout the city. Pikes Place Market place located at the water front, is an open air market place where you can buy or just browse the fresh catches of the day and view the local artisan's crafts.

Seattle is located between an inlet of the Pacific Ocean to the west called Puget Sound and Lake Washington to the east .Lake Washington Ship canals are a series of two man-made canals, all part of Puget Sound. This beautiful area offers fishing, sailing, skiing, bicycling, camping, and hiking almost year-round.
The Space Needle is Seattle's most recognizable landmark Famous for television and movies including: series Grey's Anatomy, Frazier and iCarly, and films such as Sleepless in Seattle. The fairgrounds surrounding the Needle are somewhat carnival like, the younger kids enjoyed. Much of the area has been converted into Seattle Center, site of many local civic and cultural events, such as Bumbershoot, Folklife, and the Bite of Seattle. The View atop the Needle is quite spectacular. Dinner at the top can be expensive, and you must make reservations.

Most unexpected fun, Ride the Ducks! A fun filled guided tour of Seattle via a water and ground siteseeing vehicle. Thats right its a street vehicle and watercraft in one.

Seattle's annual fairs and festivals: Seattle International Film Festival, Northwest Folklife, over the Memorial Day Weekend, Seafair events throughout July and August , the Bite of Seattle, and one of the largest Gay Pride festivals in the United States. Bumbershoot, the art and music festival which programs music as well as other art and entertainment over the Labor Day weekend. Also Hempfest and 2 Fourth of July celebrations.

Just a quick note on Hotels . We love Marriot... the most comfortable beds, cleanest rooms, and reasonable rates. Join the points club and get nights free.
Best Vacations, Mom of Five