Top Rated Attractions in Seattle

Located in Downtown Seattle, Benaroya Hall is a large 189,750 square foot (17,628 square meters) performing arts complex that takes up an entire city block. Located inside are the two performance halls, the Taper Auditorium and the Nordstrom Recital Hall, which each feature state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology. This giant complex provides ample public space and entertainment throughout the year through its various events such as lectures, musicals, festivals and more. A true highlight is the concerts put on by the Seattle Symphony, which call Benaroya Hall, home. For more information regarding venue rentals or upcoming events, visit the website.

The Museum of Pop Culture is one of the most interesting stops in Seattle. Located at the Seattle Center, this museum takes you through music history by immersing you in nearly 80,000 artifacts including photos, sound archives, costumes and musical instruments from notable artists. Most exhibits are interactive, allowing visitors to literally play with them. Also here is the Science Fiction Museum & Hall, which honors the greatest minds in the genre.

Fremont, which up until 1891 used to be a city in itself, is now a neighborhood of Seattle bordered by others like Queen Anne and Ballard. The statue of Lenin and the Fremont Troll are two of the main attractions of this area, and there is lots more to see and do as well. If you're in the mood to shop, you would definitely like to check out the many, varied stores in the area. The Sunday street market is another highlight of the area.

This 1920s movie palace-turned-concert hall was renovated in 1995 and is now one of Seattle's premier theaters. The ornate interior with its crystal chandeliers is reminiscent of classic European theaters. Thanks to technology (and a former Microsoft employee), the seats retract and a dance floor rolls out, making this a multifunction space. Paramount theater seats more than 3,000 people and the stage is large enough for touring Broadway block-busters like Fame, Riverdance and Miss Saigon, and musical guests the likes of David Bowie, James Brown and the Beastie Boys.

Located between downtown and Belltown, this proud venue to loud concerts is beautifully embellished inside and out with carvings. It is the kind of place played by artists on their way up or on their way down. Moore Theatre is both big enough to feel important and small enough to get crowded fast. Considering its size, the feel is remarkably intimate, and although the seating is bolted down, there's always ample dance space by the stage. Typical bookings include rock, pop, crooners, electronica, dance, comedy and the occasional film festival.

Just look for the crocodile skin-patterned sign in the window and you'll have found this popular hangout. Part eclectic diner, part rock club, it draws people from all over to its location in chic Belltown. Famous rock stars that have Seattle roots have been known to play inexpensive, unannounced shows at this location. There is a full bar and a full menu of burgers like the Cajun Burger is especially popular.