Seattle, Washington
Exploring Seattle - from Pikes Place Market to the Space Needle
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 4/10/2025
At the time that we made this trip, our son was a rower for the Sarasota Crew and as he was nearing the high school graduation stage of life - plus being interested in possibly rowing for the University of Washington - the motivation for a weekend trip to Seattle was established.
The planning for such a trip was relatively simple - we knew that since none of us had ever been to Seattle, that we wanted to stay in the general downtown area, and that we would want to utilize some of our Hilton Hotel membership club points. This took care of the accomodations step.
As we are long-time United Airlines "Mileage Plus" members, we already knew that we would prefer that airline to be able to collect the points (points are just about as good as money!)
Rental car selection was simple, and with those logistical decisions made, we were ready to go - off we went to downtown Seattle.
Seattle Information Map
Below are some Seasttle facts,some interesting historical facts and a few frequently asked questions we've seen that are useful. Click the above map link to view where Seattle is located.
- The land that is now the city of Seattle has been inhabited for at least 4,000 years.
- Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks, the world’s largest coffee chain.
- The bridge that connects Seattle and Medina across Lake Washington is the world’s longest floating bridge.
- Medina, WA is the home of the United States’ wealthiest man, Bill Gates, co-founder and former chairman of Microsoft.
- Seattle is home to the world’s first gas station.
- People in Seattle buy the most sunglasses per capita than any other U.S. city.
- Seattle was the first city to have police on bicycles.
- The largest man-made island in the U.S. is Seattle’s Harbor Island.
- The Boeing Company, founded in the Seattle area by William Boeing, was originally a boat company. Mr. Boeing was fascinated with flying and airplanes.
- Is Seattle a safe city? - Yes, a 2023 Gallup poll ranked Seattle as one of the top three safest cities in the US. However, like any major city, there are some public safety issues.
- Is there public transportation from the Seattle airport into Seattle? - Yes, there is a light rail train from SeaTac to downtown Seattle. Click here to view the Sound Transit Guide information.
- Seattle has the world's first revolving restaurant - built in 1961 atop Space Needle.
- What are the top rated seafood restaurants in Seattle? Click here to view a Google Search Results list of the most popular seafood restaurants.
Where to stay in Seattle
As of 9/8/2024 Google says there are over 65 hotels in the downtown Seattle core, with nearly 17,000 rooms. 8,500 of those rooms are within a 6-block radius of the Seattle Convention Center. Below are the top five most popular hotels in Seattle with prices less than $300 per night - note that there are a number of far more expensive hotels, click here to view the full Google Search Results list for all Seattle Hotels.
- Arctic Club Hotel: Commercial area with an observation deck at the Columbia Center, upmarket eateries & fashion chains. (4.5 guest rating)
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle: 6-minute walk from the Seattle Art Museum and a 10-minute walk from the Washington State Convention Center. (4.4 guest rating)
- The Maxwell Hotel: A Seattle boutique hotel featuring colorful and original interiors and warm service at The Maxwell Hotel, located at the base of Queen Anne Hill. (4.6 guest rating)
- Hotel Five - A Staypineapple Hotel: This funky hotel is a 12-minute walk from the Pacific Science Center, and 1.3 miles from Waterfront Park and the Seattle Aquarium. (4.4 guest rating)
- Hotel Sorrento: Set in a 1909 landmark building in downtown Seattle, this elegant Italian-influenced hotel is 0.9 miles from the Seattle Art Museum and 1.2 miles from CenturyLink Field. (4.4 guest rating)
We selected The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel during our trip planning because of it's good downtown location. Yes, this hotel is more in the southern portion of downtown, but it provides quick access to I-5 and it is a few blocks to the harbor area and a number of good restaurants that we had already researched.
This was a very comfortable hotel, generous sized room with two king beds, an office area and a good sized bathroom. The view facing south was nothing to brag about but everything else was quite good. If you want a view of Seattle Harbor you would need to be higher up and on the west side of the building.
The Arctic Club Hotel in Seattle is a historic, elegant boutique hotel housed in a Beaux-Arts building dating back to 1917. Originally built as a private club for wealthy adventurers who prospered during the Klondike Gold Rush, the hotel retains much of its original charm, with intricate architectural details, such as terra cotta walrus carvings, a grand lobby with vintage decor, and the iconic Dome Room featuring a stained-glass ceiling. The hotel is less than one mile to major attractions like Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market.
The above images are the property of Hilton Hotels
Where to eat in Seattle
We had several memorable meals while we were in Seattle, and we have listed below the top five most popular seafood restaurants. Click here to view the complete list of popular seafood restaurants on a Google Search Results list.
- Salty's on Alki Beach: Upscale seafood & steak outpost in a waterfront locale serving a luxurious buffet brunch. (4.6 guest rating)
- Chinook's At Salmon Bay: Local institution serves up seafood in an airy, industrial dining room or on the waterside patio.. (4.5 guest rating)
- RockCreek Seafood & Spirits: Bi-level eatery serving eco-friendly seafood from worldwide sources in airy, cabinlike quarters. (4.6 guest rating)
- The Fisherman's Restaurant Seattle: Casual seafood place with basic fare, family-style dinners & outdoor seating right on the water. (3.9 guest rating)
- The Crab Pot Seattle: Relaxed eatery & bar known for seafood served on paper-covered tables to diners with bibs & mallets. We ate lunch here and it was delicious - most patrons were having platters of gigantic crab legs! (4.2 guest rating)
Our first order of business (after unpacking) was dinner, and as we had already researched a restaurant just a few blocks away from the hotel, we hurried to get there. I do have to admit that Von's 1000 Spirits may sound like a raucous bar but it is in fact a "gustobistro" and has a good Yelp rating - and each of our dinners was excellent.
Von’s is a lively and popular gastropub known for its craft cocktails, extensive spirits selection, and comfort food with a gourmet twist. Located near Pike Place Market, it has a welcoming atmosphere with a blend of vintage and modern decor. Their menu features house-made sourdough pizzas, burgers, and seafood, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is particularly famous for its creative cocktails, including signature martinis and barrel-aged spirits. Von's vibrant bar scene and friendly service make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Distance to Von's from our hotel was only .4 mile, so we were able to leave the rental car in the garage and walk to the restaurant. Admittedly, it was a chilly walk, but since we knew we were headed for a good meal, it gave us motivation to walk faster!
More Info for Von's 1000 Spirits
Image Credits:
Pike Place Seattle Map
Seattle is surprisingly "walkable" as can be seen by this day's adventure. We got a late start due to jet lag, grabbed a quick coffe and then we walked up to the Pike Place area (.8 mile from our hotel) so that we could visit the famous market and watch the "fish throwers".
The Seattle Fish Market, also known as Pike Place Market, is an iconic landmark and a must-visit for any seafood lover in Seattle, Washington. Established in 1907, it's one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States, attracting over 10 million visitors annually. The market boasts a vibrant atmosphere, overflowing with fresh seafood, local produce, and handcrafted goods. But what truly sets it apart is the fishmongering tradition of throwing fish. Skilled fishmongers expertly toss salmon, halibut, and other catches across the counter to waiting customers, creating a lively and entertaining spectacle.
In addition to shopping, Pike Place Market is home to a vibrant array of street performers, from musicians to magicians, adding to the lively atmosphere. The original Starbucks store, known as the "First Starbucks," can also be found here.
This bustling marketplace is a captivating amalgamation of fresh food, artisan crafts, eclectic shops, and a rich history.
More Info for Pike Place Market
Image Credits:
- Image # 1 is the property of John Anderson via Wikimedia Commons using the CC BY-SA 2.0 Creative Commons license.
- Image # 2 is the property of Dschwen via Wikimedia Commons using the CC BY 4.0 Creative Commons license.
- Image # 3 is the property of Epp via Wikimedia Commons using the CC BY 3.0 Creative Commons license.
- All other images, unless otherwise noted, are the property of Just Traveling Thru, LLC.
University of Washington Seattle Map
Montlake Cut
Montlake Cut
Montlake Cut
University Washington Boathouse This was the original purpose of this trip, visit the University Campus, tour about, visit the Boat House and generally get a feel for the school. As I mentioned earlier, our son was a rower for Sarasota Crew and as this school had a good rowing program, he was very interested in perhaps being recruited.
The first two images above, were taken as we explored the Montlake Cut, which allows the University of Washington rowers to get to Portage Bay and Lake Union from the school boathouse.
The third image is the Montlake Bridge which spans the canal.
The fourth image above, is the "Conibear Shellhouse", located on the shores of Lake Washington. This state-of-the-art facility features boat storage, locker rooms, and a fully equipped ergometer room for indoor training. It also includes team meeting spaces, a study area, and a dining hall, creating a holistic environment for both athletic and academic development. This is where we started all of our school explorations.
More Info for the University of Washington
Image Credits:
All of the above images are the property of Just Traveling Thru, LLC, unless otherwise noted.
Space Needle Seattle Map
Space Needle
View of Seattle from top of Space Needle
View of Seattle from top of Space Needle
Space Needle Base InteriorSince our drive back to Seattle from the University of Washington would take us so close to the Space Needle (Washington route 520 to I-5 and exit on Mercer Street to route 99) - we decided to add a stop there. After all, if there is anything that you could say was "iconic" about Seattle, it would have to be the Space Needle!
The Seattle Space Needle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Pacific Northwest, instantly recognizable by its futuristic design that resembles a flying saucer perched atop a slender tower. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle was inspired by the era’s fascination with space exploration and modern technology, a theme reflected in its sleek, otherworldly appearance. The tower rises to a height of 605 feet (184 meters), making it one of the most distinctive structures in Seattle's skyline.
The observation deck, located at 520 feet above the ground, offers unparalleled 360-degree views of Seattle and the surrounding region. Visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramas of the cityscape, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges. On clear days, the views are truly spectacular, extending all the way to Canada's Vancouver Island. The deck features interactive displays that help visitors identify key landmarks and learn more about the region’s geography and history.
The SkyCity Restaurant, now known as The Loupe Lounge, sits below the observation deck and features a rotating dining experience. Diners enjoy sweeping views of the city and beyond as the restaurant makes a full rotation every 45 minutes, providing a constantly changing backdrop for their meal. The restaurant is known for showcasing the flavors of the Pacific Northwest, with a menu that highlights local ingredients and regional specialties.
The Space Needle’s design is a fusion of futuristic vision and practicality. Its distinctive shape was the brainchild of Edward E. Carlson, who initially sketched the tower's concept on a napkin. The structure was designed to withstand strong winds and earthquakes, with a foundation that extends 30 feet underground and a top-heavy weight distribution to ensure stability. The tower’s flying saucer top symbolizes the optimism of the Space Age, capturing the spirit of progress and innovation that defined the early 1960s.
More Info for the Space Needle
- Space Needle Wikipedia Article:
- Space Needle Google Images Set:
- Space Needle Parking: Here is a Google Map Link for parking lots in that area.
- Space Needle Tickets: Available online here, the current Adult price is $39.00.
- Space Needle Hours: 10.00am to 5.30pm, 7 days a week.
- Restaurants: Here is a Google Search Results link for restaurants near the Space Needle.
- Google Reviews: for the Space Needle
Image Credits:
All of the above images are the property of Just Traveling Thru, LLC, unless otherwise noted.
Space Needle Fun Facts
- The Space Needle was completed in just 400 days and opened to the public on April 21, 1962, just in time for the World’s Fair.
- It has 848 steps from the ground to the top observation deck.
- The Space Needle is painted in a distinctive color scheme, with the top deck often referred to as "Galaxy Gold", a nod to its space-inspired theme.
- It was originally designed to withstand 200 mph winds and a 9.1 magnitude earthquake, making it one of the most resilient structures in the city.
Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle Map
Since the Museum of Pop Culture was practically next door to the Space Needle, it became our next stop. Very interesting architecture!
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle is a vibrant, interactive museum dedicated to contemporary popular culture. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, its striking, undulating exterior reflects the museum’s creative spirit. Inside, MoPOP features diverse exhibits on music, science fiction, film, video games, and more, celebrating icons and phenomena that have shaped modern culture. Key highlights include collections focused on legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, both rooted in Seattle’s music history. It was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000 as the Experience Music Project. Since that time MoPOP has organized dozens of exhibits, 17 of which have toured across the US and internationally.
More Info for the Museum of Pop Culture
- Museum of Pop Culture Wikipedia Article:
- Museum of Pop Culture Google Images Set:
- Museum of Pop Culture Parking: Here is a Google Map Link for parking lots in that area.
- Museum of Pop Culture Tickets: Available online here, the current Adult price is $32.25 (price varies).
- Museum of Pop Culture Hours: 10.00am to 5.00pm, 7 days a week.
- Restaurants: Here is a Google Search Results link for restaurants near the Museum of Pop Culture.
- Google Reviews: for the Museum of Pop Culture
Image Credits:
- Image # 1 is the property of Museum of Pop Culture via Wikipedia using the GNU Free Documentation License.
- Image # 2 is the property of Reywas92 via Wikipedia.
- All other images are the property of Just Traveling Thru, LLC, unless otherwise noted.
Boeing Aircraft Assembly Plant Everett, WA Map
The Boeing Everett Factory, located in Everett, Washington, is a monumental facility renowned for its significant role in aerospace manufacturing. Established in 1967 to produce the Boeing 747, the factory has expanded to accommodate the assembly of models such as the 767, 777, and 787 Dreamliner. The main assembly building spans 98.3 acres (398,000 square meters) and is recognized as the world's largest building by volume, encompassing over 472 million cubic feet (13.3 million cubic meters). The entire complex covers approximately 1,000 acres (400 hectares) and includes amenities like a fire station, medical clinic, and multiple cafes to support its workforce of around 30,000 employees. The factory is adjacent to Paine Field, facilitating the efficient transport and delivery of aircraft. Visitors can explore the facility through guided tours offered by the Future of Flight Aviation Center, providing an in-depth look at Boeing's production processes and the history of commercial aviation.
When we first started out on the drive north to Everett, the weather was like you see in image # 1. A little chilly perhaps but no precipitation. So consider image # 1 as the "before picture". Image # 2 was taken as we exited the Boeing plant tour several hours later! Fortunately for us, the snow did not extend all the way back to Seattle.
Boeing Aircraft Everett Factory
The Boeing Everett Factory is a monumental feat of engineering and one of the most iconic aircraft assembly facilities in the world. Located in Everett, Washington, on the northeast corner of Paine Field, this factory is renowned for being the largest building in the world by volume, with a staggering 13.3 million cubic meters (472 million cubic feet) of space. The facility covers an impressive 399,480 square meters (98.7 acres), equivalent to 39.95 hectares or nearly 0.4 square kilometers, making it a city-sized structure devoted to the construction of Boeing’s legendary twin-aisle, wide-body aircraft.
To give you a sense of the building's immense size: the entire Disneyland theme park in California could fit inside the Boeing Everett Factory — with room to spare!
Since its opening in 1967, the Everett Factory has been a cornerstone of Boeing’s aircraft manufacturing operations, particularly for its wide-body jets, which are among the most recognized and flown commercial aircraft in the world. The facility has been responsible for the assembly of the Boeing 747, 767, 777, and 787 Dreamliner — aircraft that revolutionized air travel and continue to shape the future of the aviation industry.
The Everett Factory tour takes place inside this building, however you must gather in the visitor center where they warn you that you cannot take cameras, bags, backpacks, binoculars, cell phones, etc into the building. Boeing is very sensitive to possible corporate spying, so they have plain clothes security wandering about to insure that you do not break any rules!
We had arranged our tour via Future of Flight primarily because we wanted to make sure that we could select a specific day & time. The tour is interesting & informative, go to the "Future of Flight" website if you would like to see some assembly line pictures.
There is a very good video of inside the Boeing Assembly Building at the CNN Website including some very good images.
More Info for the Boeing Everett Factory
Image Credits:
All of the above images are the property of Just Traveling Thru, LLC.
Some Useful Links for Seattle
- Just Traveling Thru Travel Planning Tips
- Seattle History on the "U.S. History" site
- Seattle History on the "Seattle City Archives" site"
- Google Search Results list for "Seattle Restaurants"
- Google Search Results for "seafood restaurants in Seattle"
- Google Search Results list for "accommodations in Seattle"
- Boeing Future of Flight Tour (now open again)
- Top 20 things to do or see in Seattle on the "Timeout" site
- Visit our Youtube Channel
- Space Needle Website
- Top 25 things to do or see in Seattle on the "Visit Seattle" site
- 55 Best Things to do in Seattle on the "Crazy Tourist" site
- Space Needle Tickets from the "Get Your Guide" site
- Amazon Search Results list for "Seattle Washington"
- Youtube Search Results list for "Seattle Washington"
- Museum of Pop Culture Website
- Von's 1000 Spirits Restaurant
- The 38 Essential Restaurants in Seattle from the "Seattle Eater" Website
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