The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, locally known as the Ballard Locks, is a unique and historic location in Seattle. Completed in 1917, this landmark connects the waters of Lake Washington, Lake Union and the Puget Sound. Watching the boats navigate the locks is interesting enough, but the location also hosts an unusual fish ladder that connects salt and freshwater for the local migrating Pacific Salmon. The grounds feature a visitors centre as well as the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens.
Seattle's most famous landmark, the Space Needle's futuristic design rises over 600 feet (182.88 meters) tall. The tower was originally built for the 1962 World Expo in Seattle, and was designed with cutting-edge know how by award-winning engineer John K. Minasian, known for his work at Cape Canaveral, home of the U.S. Space Program. From the top, the Space Needle provides 360-degree views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, and the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Besides the Skydeck restaurant, the Space Needle also features a gift shop and observation deck.
Woodland Park Zoo is an award-winning zoo and a must to visit while you are in the city. Only minutes from busy downtown, the zoo lets you step into an African savannah, an Asian elephant habitat and a tropical rain forest. The zoo also brings special exhibits, which have included monitor dragons, butterflies and other bugs and beasts. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the green lawns of Woodland Park, which surrounds the zoo. You also won't want to miss the nearby Rose Garden.
This 200-acre (80.93 hectare) park is a must-see for every Seattle visitor with even an hour of free time. With its lush green spaces, its breathtaking Japanese Garden (open 10a daily), and its abundance of rare trees, plants and flowers (more than 40,000 species), it is one of the brightest jewels in the Emerald City. Scenic and aptly named Azalea Way cuts a path through the park. The Graham Visitor's Center can be rented for social events, meetings and seminars for 45-75 guests. Rates include kitchen and audio-visual equipment. Call or visit the web site for detailed information and hours.
If, after visiting the Pacific Planetarium, people are more knowledgeable about astronomy and science in general, then the management will heave a sigh of relief. To inspire people of the Puget Sound region, regardless of age, to take an interest in science and the world around them, is the ultimate goal. The planetarium, with its 28 seats, is a family-friendly venue where being inquisitive is encouraged. There are different categories of shows held here-public, school programs & even private events. Private shows need to be reserved at least two weeks in advance, and can only be held after 5p. This is a great place to discover a whole new world in the sky.
Located on the waterfront, next to the Omnidome, this aquarium features exotic fishes, sea mammals and other ocean life. See the sea lions, harbor seals, incredibly cute sea otters and even come face to face with a shark. New exhibits are added often along with, special events and outings.
The corporate headquarters of Weyerhaeuser, the largest timber company in America, devotes a chunk of its property to two public gardens—a rhododendron display and this bonsai collection. The tiny, gnarled trees are fantastic both in shape and age. Some are as much as 1,000 years old. Most are little pines, but there are some deciduous trees as well, and several are arranged in charming miniature landscapes. Bonsai masters give occasional weekend lectures and classes. Tours are also offered every Sunday at noon.
One of the largest academic law libraries in the West, this library has court briefs, United States government publications, an East Asian collection and a general collection. It also provides access to legal databases, including LegalTrac, LEXIS-NEXIS and WESTLAW, the World News Collection and Congressional Universe. Those not affiliated with the University of Washington should sign in at the second floor entrance. To check out materials, visitors must register at the Circulation Desk (photo identification and proof of Washington residency required).
Located on the Bellevue College Campus, Willard Geer Planetarium is one of the most progressive planetariums in the state in regards to its technological set up. Used by students of the college and the nearby schools, it is one of Bellevue's prime spots.
Join Diane LaVonne for an engaging and unique food experience, one which connects the farmer, the ingredients, and cooking, with the finished product. You will start with lessons on choosing fresh ingredients for the days menu at the "Heart of Seattle", the Pike Place Market, where you will meet many of the farmer vendors and shop owners she has known for more than 20 years. After the tour you will go to her kitchen for a fun, interactive experience, learning about, preparing, and enjoying the best of what the Northwest has to offer from its waters, farms, orchards, and vineyards.
Inaugurated in 1982 in the historic City Hall building, located on East Main Street in Monroe, the Monroe Historical Society & Museum is a popular tourist attraction and local history museum. Featuring a wide range of local historical artifacts that highlight and pay tribute to the rich heritage of the region, this museum witnesses thousands of tourists every year. This history museum also preserves a huge repertoire of important documents, books and other literary works within its premises that are restricted from public viewing. The Monroe Historical Museum's much acclaimed self-guided walking tour is also a favorite among tourists.
A modern farm in Seattle, the Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands spread across 2.9 hectares. The urban facility focuses of organic farming and restoration of natural wetlands along with offering a number of educational programs and activities for the locals. Get your hands dirty at this community project and learn about methods and benefits of organic farming and fresh produce. Visit their website to know more about the project and upcoming events.