Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Seattle - Local Points of Interest

1  Pike Place Market: This bustling nine-acre center is many things - an enormous farmers' market, a collection of stalls that sell everything from handmade toys to sheepskin slippers, and a top-rated dining destination. It has been a living landmark filled with historic stories for more than a century (the very first Starbucks is still located here). The most famous attraction is the fish market, where fresh catches fly through the air as workers toss them to one another to the delight of crowds. Go behind the scenes on a walking tour to experience some of the best market spots and taste locally made foods and beverages.  View website.

2  Museum of Flight: The Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world with facilities that include the Red Barn - Boeing's original manufacturing facility. The museum's six-story glass-and-steel exhibit hall houses 39 full-sized aircraft, while an outdoor park is home to the first jet Air Force One and first 747. And for those who want to be put into the pilot's seat, there are two flight simulators that offer unforgettable rides. On the first Thursday of each month, the Museum stays open late, for free! Enjoy the Museum's Great Gallery, Personal Courage Wing, Space - Exploring the New Frontier exhibit, flight simulators and more courtesy of Wells Fargo.  View website.

3  Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island: The city's impressive ferry transportation system provides access to several nearby island escapes. Visitors should head to Seattle Pier 52 for a great day trip to Bainbridge Island. The scenic 30-minute ride across Puget Sound leads to a community known for its quaint shops, outdoor cafes and local arts. The island also offers miles of preserved open space with numerous hiking trails. Important Information: Time schedules are subject to change. Please visit http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries for up-to-date ferry schedules.

4  Seattle Aquarium:  In a city known for its aquatic attractions, the Seattle Aquarium sits at the top of the list. Kids will be enthralled by Window on Washington Waters, a viewing area filled with salmon, sea anemones and other native Washington marine life. Another popular exhibit is the Underwater Dome, where tunnels lead into a spherical undersea room featuring 360-degree views of a 400,000-gallon tank teeming with fish, sharks and other creatures.  View website.

5  Space Needle: The Space Needle is a tower and a major landmark of the region and a symbol of Seattle. Located at the Seattle Center, it was built for the 1962 World's Fair.  The Space Needle features an observation deck at 520 feet (160 m), and a gift shop with the rotating restaurant at 500 feet (150 m). From the top of the Needle, one can see not only the Downtown Seattle skyline, but also the mountains and surrounding islands.  View website.

6  Discovery Park: Discovery Park is a 534 acre natural area park operated by the Seattle Parks and Recreation. It is the largest city park in Seattle, and occupies most of the former Fort Lawton site. The park is one of the best places in the city to view wildlife, especially birds and marine mammals, and is a popular place to hike - the Loop Trail provides great views of Puget Sound. For more information.

7  The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks: It often called the Ballard Locks, link salty Puget Sound with the fresh waters of Salmon Bay, Lake Union, Portage Bay and Lake Washington. Both tourists and locals enjoy watching the parade of sailboats, motorboats, tugs, barges and yachts passing through. Stop by the fish ladder, built to allow salmon to pass between fresh and salt water, and enjoy a stroll around the notable botanical gardens.  View website.

Source: Alaskan Airlines and websites identified above.

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