things to do in seattle accoring to residents

Here are some insider tips on things to do in Seattle, according to residents:

Outdoor Activities

1. Discovery Park: A 740-acre park with miles of hiking trails, meadows, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
2. Kerry Park: A smaller park with panoramic views of the city skyline, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier.
3. Gas Works Park: A unique park built on the site of a former gas plant, with great views of Lake Union and the city.
4. Kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Union: Rent equipment and explore the city from a different perspective.
5. Hiking in the nearby mountains: Seattle is surrounded by mountains, including the Cascades and Olympics, with many hiking trails within a short drive.

Food and Drink

1. Pike Place Market: While touristy, the market is still a great place to find fresh seafood, local produce, and artisanal foods.
2. The Walrus and the Carpenter: A cozy oyster bar in Ballard with a great selection of oysters and craft cocktails.
3. Canlis: A fine dining institution in Seattle, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
4. Café Vita: A Seattle coffee institution, with several locations throughout the city.
5. Food trucks: Seattle has a thriving food truck scene, with many options serving everything from tacos to Korean BBQ.

Arts and Culture

1. The Frye Art Museum: A free art museum on First Hill, with a collection of 19th- and 20th-century European art.
2. The Henry Art Gallery: A contemporary art museum on the University of Washington campus, with a focus on innovative and experimental art.
3. The Seattle Symphony: Catch a performance at Benaroya Hall, with a wide range of classical music and guest artists.
4. The 5th Avenue Theatre: A historic theater in downtown Seattle, with a mix of musicals, plays, and concerts.
5. The Fremont Sunday Market: A weekly market in the Fremont neighborhood, with local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to street food.

Neighborhoods to Explore

1. Ballard: A historic Scandinavian neighborhood with a lively nightlife, great restaurants, and a bustling farmers market.
2. Capitol Hill: A vibrant neighborhood with a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as a thriving LGBTQ+ community.
3. Fremont: A quirky neighborhood with a mix of shops, restaurants, and street art, including the famous Fremont Troll.
4. Georgetown: A historic neighborhood with a mix of industrial and artistic spaces, including the Georgetown Steam Plant.
5. Columbia City: A diverse neighborhood with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Columbia City Theater.

Insider Tips

1. Avoid driving: Seattle traffic can be notorious, so consider using public transportation, walking, or biking instead.
2. Dress in layers: Seattle weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, sun, or anything in between.
3. Explore beyond downtown: While downtown Seattle has its attractions, many of the city’s best neighborhoods and experiences are found in other areas.
4. Take advantage of happy hour: Many Seattle restaurants and bars offer great deals during happy hour, which can be a great way to try new places without breaking the bank.
5. Be prepared for crowds: Seattle is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds at popular attractions and events.