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.
Angela Shen, an avid foodie, founded Savor Seattle to spread her love for food amongst visitors to the city. Angela, who has always worked in the food industry, has formed a team of like minded gourmands, who will guide you through Seattle's culinary sphere. They offer different tour packages that focus on varied areas and themes. The tour around the Pike Place Market is a must-try; visitors get the opportunity to explore this historical place while experiencing the food and culture. You could also sign up for the Chocolate Indulgence, Booze-n-Bites and Gourmet Seattle.
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.
The Olympic Sculpture Park began as a commitment between the Seattle Art Museum and the Trust for Public Land, and quickly grew into a green mecca of architectural art and beautifully crafted landscapes. The park contains mathematical sculptures, new-wave basket weaving and the artistic greenhouse designed by the likes of artists Tony Smith, Pedro Reyes and Mark Dion. The Olympic Sculpture Park is nestled besides the Puget Sound and is managed by the Seattle Art Museum. The views include both the Seattle port and the Olympic mountain range. Admission is free all year long.
If one were to speculate the least likely thing to appear at the corner of South 55th and Renton avenues, Japanese gardens may be one thing that comes to mind. Nevertheless, these splendid acres of lush greenery, feeding ponds and footbridges painted bright red with gold accents provide a beautiful escape. Fujito Kubota, a master gardener and landscaper, gave the park to the city of Seattle in 1987. Admission is free.
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.
Started in 2009, Fremont Brewing has gained status as one of Seattle's best breweries with its excellent small-batch brews made with local ingredients. This family-run 30-barrel brewery doubles up as a modern-day beer bar and garden, with a long list of craft beer selections which are supplied from the brewery, while pretzels and other light snacks are also available on the menu. Visitors can also bring along their own food or order in from one of the nearby eateries. IPAs, Abominable Winter Ale and Interurban IPAs are some of their more popular brews.
If you want to get a tour of this beautiful and sunny city, then the Shutter Tours are the perfect tour guides for you. Well informed, educated, and well spoken, these guides will walk you through the finest of Seattle as per your time, convenience and availability. The company also organizes special and private tours. The award winning agency is also known for its unique photo tours to places like Leavenworth Oktoberfest, Tulip Festival, etc.
Wildwood Spirits Co. is a good place to sample some freshly prepared spirits in Bothell. This distillery churns out specialties like the Kur Gin with citrus and junipers and the Stark Vatten vodka. The distillery offers patrons a chance to tour the premises and understand the processes that are carried out while distilling the drinks. Food is also served here.
First constructed in 1887, the Browns Point Light is a square shaped tower made of concrete. Rebuilt twice over the years with the current structure built in 1933, the Browns Point Light spreads over an area of 2.5 acres (1.0 hectares) and boasts of a Modernistic architectural style. Visitors to the lighthouse can not only enjoy stunning views of the sea and the mountains in the distance, but can also catch of glimpse of various exhibits housed in the Browns Point Light that include artifacts pertaining to the history of the tower, the area, maritime history of the region and replicas of vehicles used in water transport such as surfboats. If you are a history or a maritime enthusiast, then certainly head to the Browns Point Light.
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.