By Derek Topper
I recently took a road trip to Seattle, and I have to say, the city is full of gems. From quirky parks to world-class food, you can find something for everyone here. Here are my top five things to do and see in Seattle:
1. Explore Pike Place Market
Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but Pike Place Market is well worth a visit. Open daily, this bustling market is a sensory delight. You’ll find vendors selling fresh seafood, honey, handmade candles, seasonal fruits, and delectable cheeses. My favorite was Beecher’s Handmade Cheese—watching them make cheese right in the shop is a treat!
And of course, you can’t miss seeing the original Starbucks. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, it’s fun to take in the history. You can easily spend half a day here soaking up the lively atmosphere.
2. Wander Around the University of Washington
Seattle’s University of Washington isn’t just a school; it’s an architectural wonder. Established in 1861, the campus even hosted the World’s Fair.
The red brick buildings give it a Hogwarts-like vibe, and its library is stunning. With its grand architecture and resemblance to a European cathedral, the library makes the visit worthwhile. Walking around this picturesque campus feels like stepping into another world.
3. Visit Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s quirkiest spots. Located on Lake Union, just north of downtown, this park was once home to a gas refinery. Today, remnants of the refinery remain, giving the park a funky industrial vibe.
It’s also family-friendly, with a charming playground and many dogs to watch. The highlight is the spectacular view of the Seattle skyline and the iconic Space Needle. Bring a picnic, sit back, and soak in the sights.
4. Indulge in Seattle’s Restaurant Scene
Seattle is a foodie’s paradise, with unique restaurants catering to every taste. One standout spot for me was Nue, an eclectic eatery serving dishes inspired by global cuisines. Their menu is like a culinary passport, with highlights like Ecuadorian fish soup, Burmese tea leaf salad, Chengdu-style chicken wings, and Ethiopian-style rabbit.
For something more comforting, check out Morsel, a delightful biscuit shop. Seattle has a reputation for great biscuits, and Morsel does not disappoint. I tried their bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit with Spanish ham, manchego cheese, and a fluffy buttermilk biscuit. Hands down, one of the best biscuits I’ve had in my life.
Seafood lovers, don’t miss The Walrus and the Carpenter in the Ballard district. This oyster bar serves seven varieties of oysters, along with other stellar dishes like beef tartare, an asparagus salad, and geoduck crudo. It’s easily some of the freshest seafood I’ve had.
For dessert, make a beeline for Hot Cakes, a shop dedicated to molten chocolate lava cakes. They offer six incredible varieties, but my pick was the s’mores cake, topped with toasted marshmallows and homemade ice cream. My friend had the chocolate peanut butter cake, oozing with molten peanut butter at its center. Both were unforgettable!
5. Explore the Ballard District
Ballard is Seattle’s charming old-town area, packed with history and character. Today, it’s a lively neighborhood offering a mix of shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
From upscale stores like Patagonia to tiny boutique shops, Ballard has something for everyone. It’s perfect for strolling, people-watching, and discovering hidden treasures. Its inviting energy makes it easy to lose track of time as you wander and explore.
Seattle has so much to offer, and these are just a few of the standout experiences I had while visiting. Whether you’re into markets, architecture, parks, or food, this city has something to captivate you. I’m already looking forward to my next trip back!
