I just returned from my annual travel advisor conference. This year, it was hosted in the ‘Emerald City’, Seattle. It was my first time visiting and while I was there primarily for business, I carved out sometime to explore and soak in the sights, flavors, and culture of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're dreaming of a Seattle escape or actively planning one, here are some highlights and tips straight from my itinerary.
🌊 Pike Place Market
This bustling market is Seattle's beating heart. Fresh seafood, hand-tied flower bouquets, and quirky local vendors fill every inch of this historic space. I even wandered past the iconic Gum Wall—equal parts weird and wonderful!
☕ The Original Starbucks
Right near the market is the very first Starbucks, opened in 1971. The line can be long, but if you’re a coffee aficionado, it’s worth the wait. The vintage vibe and classic logo take you back to where it all began. I was lucky to be there on a Wednesday so the lines weren’t too long and I could grab myself a special drink and souvenirs for my Starbucks loving teenagers!
🗼 The Space Needle &Seattle Center
A ride to the top of the Space Needle gave me incredible panoramic views—city skyline, Puget Sound, and since it was a clear day, majestic Mount Rainier. Nearby, was the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, a stunning explosion of color and creativity. I didn’t have time to visit but my colleagues that did said it was amazing!
🎸 Museum of Pop Culture(MoPOP)
If you love music, movies, or video games, this museum is a blast. With exhibits featuring Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, horror films, and fantasy worlds, there’s something for every kind of pop culture fan.
🍽️ A Dining Gem: Diane’s Market Kitchen
One of my favorite experiences was a private dining event at Diane's Market Kitchen, just steps from Pike Place. Diane sources every ingredient locally and crafts meals that celebrate the Pacific Northwest’s bounty. It felt like dining in a friend’s kitchen—with elevated flavors, thoughtful wine pairings, and stories behind every dish. Highly recommended for foodies looking for a unique, intimate experience.
🏨 Where to Stay
For convenience and charm, I recommend staying in the Belltown or Downtown area—close to major sights, great dining, and waterfront views. We were at the Hilton Motif for the conference. It was a nice, moderately priced property, just a couple blocks from Pike Place Market and the monorail station.
🚶 How to Get Around
Seattle is walkable in many parts, especially downtown. But for longer distances:
The Monorail and Link Light Rail are great, especially for airport access.
Uber/Lyft are readily available.
Don’t miss a ride on a ferry—it’s transportation and a scenic tour rolled into one!
🍴 More Must-Try Restaurants
Besides Diane’s, here are a few standout spots I’d recommend:
Alder & Ash – A stylish, modern restaurant with a seasonal menu that highlights the Pacific Northwest’s best produce and seafood. Their craft cocktails and artful presentations make it perfect for a memorable night out.
Barolo Ristorante – This warm, upscale Italian spot serves rich, flavorful dishes like house-made pastas and slow-braised meats, paired with an excellent wine list. It’s cozy, romantic, and right in the heart of downtown.
The Capital Grille – A classic steakhouse experience with impeccable service, expertly aged cuts of beef, and elegant sides. Great for a special occasion or a sophisticated business dinner.
Seattle blends urban sophistication with natural beauty in away that’s hard to beat. If you're curious about visiting—or ready to start planning—I’d love to help you experience it just as I did, with expert insight and personal touches.