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Here’s my take on the iconic Holiday scene from Seattle's Pike Place Market. So pretty all decorated for Christmas in the early morning light.
It was fun to catch the sunrise and watch the famous Pike Place Fish get their stall ready for the day.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Seattle, Washington, USA skyline is world-renowned, known for its iconic blend of modern skyscrapers, the emblematic Space Needle, and a stunning backdrop of mountains and water, especially Mount Rainier on a clear day.
Here is a summary of the best places to enjoy the views:
Classic and Iconic Views
Kerry Park: This is the quintessential postcard view. This small park on Queen Anne Hill offers the most famous perspective of the Seattle skyline, with the Space Needle in the foreground, the downtown skyscrapers, and the majestic Mount Rainier behind it (weather permitting). It is free, but parking is very limited.
Space Needle: This observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, Puget Sound, the islands, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier. It also features a revolving glass floor called The Loupe. Tickets must be purchased.
Other Great Viewpoints
Sky View Observatory (Columbia Center): Located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center building, it is the tallest public viewing area in the city (higher than the Space Needle), offering a different and expansive perspective.
Gas Works Park: A unique and popular view from across Lake Union. This converted former industrial park is great for picnics and provides a fantastic view of the downtown core and the boat traffic. It is free.
Alki Beach Park: Located in West Seattle, it offers a great view of Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle from the beach.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, this observatory is the tallest public viewing area in the entire Pacific Northwest.
The Building: Columbia Center is the tallest skyscraper in Seattle and the state of Washington. Its distinct black, three-columned silhouette is a defining feature of the city's skyline.
360-Degree Views: From the top, you get a full panoramic view of the region, including the Space Needle (which looks surprisingly small from this height), Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, Lake Washington, and Puget Sound.
The Experience: Compared to other tourist spots, Sky View often provides a more serene atmosphere and a true "bird’s-eye view" of the city's financial district. It also features a cafe and bar to enjoy the sunset with a drink.
Height Fact: At 902 feet (275 meters), it stands nearly 300 feet higher than the observation deck of the iconic Space Needle.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Pike Place Market is the soul of Seattle. Opened in 1907, it is one of the oldest and most famous continuously operated public farmers' markets in the United States.
Visual Icons: The iconic "Public Market Center" neon sign and clock are the most photographed landmarks in the city. You will also find Rachel the Piggy Bank, a massive bronze pig that serves as the market's unofficial mascot.
Fish Tossing: One of the most famous sights is the Pike Place Fish Market, where fishmongers famously throw large fish to each other over the counters, putting on a show for the crowds.
Food and Crafts: The market spans several levels and is filled with fresh flowers (known for their affordable, massive bouquets), local crafts, and specialty food vendors.
Starbucks History: Located right across from the market on Pike Place is the original Starbucks store, which opened in 1971 and still features the company's original brown mermaid logo.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Seattle Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel and a prominent landmark located on Seattle's revitalized waterfront.
Location: It is situated on Pier 57 along Elliott Bay, close to Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium. It is notable for being the only observation wheel of its kind in the US built partially over water.
Height and Capacity: It stands 175 feet (53 meters) tall, and at the time of its opening in 2012, it was the tallest observation wheel on the West Coast of the United States.
Experience: The ride lasts approximately 12−20 minutes and consists of three full rotations. It features 42 fully enclosed and climate-controlled gondolas, each seating up to eight passengers. A VIP gondola with leather seats and a glass floor is also available.
Views: From the top, passengers are treated to spectacular panoramic views of:
The Seattle Skyline (including the Space Needle and Columbia Center).
Puget Sound and Elliott Bay.
The Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier (on clear days).
Nighttime Attraction: The wheel is adorned with over 500,000 LED lights, which create colorful light shows, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Space Needle is an iconic observation tower and a symbol of Seattle, built for the 1962 World's Fair. Standing at 605 feet tall, it offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city's skyline, Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, and the Cascade and Olympic mountains. It features two observation decks: an upper one with a new glass floor called "The Loupe" and an indoor lower one. The Needle is located at the Seattle Center, a campus that also includes the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Its unique "flying saucer" design and futuristic look have made it a global landmark and a must-visit destination for tourists.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Western Avenue & Elliott Avenue in Seattle
The area around the confluence of Western Avenue and Elliott Avenue in Seattle is a dynamic and historic district, defined by its immediate proximity to Elliott Bay and the Belltown neighborhood and Central Waterfront.
1. Geographic and Historical Significance
Western Avenue: Originally named West Street, it was the first street running west of Front Street (today's 1st Avenue). It runs parallel to the waterfront, and its alignment reflects the natural curve of the Elliott Bay shoreline.
Elliott Avenue: Named after Elliott Bay. This avenue serves as a key arterial heading northwest from downtown, eventually turning into 15th Avenue W.
Area: Belltown / Central Waterfront: The avenues' confluence sits in the transition area between Downtown Seattle and the Belltown neighborhood, an area featuring dense residential buildings (like Bellora Condominiums) and office spaces (Elliott Park Properties). This location often provides stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle Art Museum's Sculpture Park.
2. Importance in Urban Renewal
Transportation Arterial: These avenues have historically been critical for city traffic. With the removal of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and the ongoing Waterfront Seattle redevelopment project, their function has been significantly redefined.
Improvement Projects: The area is currently a focus of major paving and mobility improvements (Elliott Ave and Western Ave Paving and Mobility Project).
Elliott Way: A new two-way road that connects into Bell Street at the Elliott and Western Avenues intersection, designed to improve access between Belltown and the new waterfront.
Traffic Flow: Street reconfigurations have been implemented to accommodate the new design, including new protected bike lanes to improve connectivity to the waterfront.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The King Street Station Clock Tower is the most distinctive element of Seattle's main passenger train station, serving as a key transportation hub and an architectural treasure.
Inspiration and Design: Opened in 1906, the 12-story tower was designed by the firm Reed and Stem (who also helped design New York's Grand Central Terminal). Its appearance is modeled after the famous Campanile di San Marco in Venice, Italy.
Historical Significance: When built, the tower was the tallest structure in Seattle, and its light served as a beacon for sailors and travellers. It was the transportation nerve centre for the Great Northern and Northern Pacific railway companies.
Restoration: In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the station and tower underwent a significant restoration (a $50 million investment) which repaired seismic damage, uncovered the ornate plaster ceilings, and revitalized the building's historic appearance.
Current Status: Today, it remains an active train station for Amtrak and the Sounder commuter rail, and anchors the historic Pioneer Square neighbourhood. The top of the tower occasionally serves as a cultural space or gallery.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Pier 55 is a historic pier and a major tourist attraction on Seattle's Central Waterfront, located near other popular attractions like the Great Wheel on Pier 57.
History: Originally built in the early 1900s by the Northern Pacific Railroad, the pier (formerly known as Pier 4) was a central hub for shipping and supply traffic, particularly during the Klondike Gold Rush era, before being renamed Pier 55 during World War II.
Today's Role: Today, the pier is primarily an entertainment spot. Its most significant feature is that it serves as the main departure point for Argosy Cruises, which offer narrated harbour tours, Ballard Locks cruises, and spectacular views of the Seattle skyline.
Amenities: It also hosts several quick dining and beverage options, including a popular hot dog stand called The Frankfurter and a Starbucks location.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Rainier Club is one of Seattle, Washington’s oldest and most prestigious private social clubs. It has played a significant role in the city's social and civic life since the late 19th century.
1. History and Landmark Building
Founding: The Club was founded in 1888 by Seattle civic and business leaders when Washington was still a territory. It is named after British Admiral Peter Rainier.
Current Clubhouse: Its main clubhouse, located at 4th Avenue and Columbia Street downtown, opened in 1904. It was designed by architect Kirtland Cutter in a distinctive, rare Jacobethan Revival style.
Recognition: The building is a designated Seattle Landmark and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
2. Functionality and Features
Social and Business Hub: Originally established as a gathering place for the city's elite, the club was meant to be a hub where civic progress and city opportunities could be constructively discussed and strategized.
Member Amenities: Today, it offers a broad range of exclusive amenities and services, including:
Fine dining and culinary excellence.
Coworking spaces and private meeting rooms for business.
Sophisticated overnight suite accommodations.
A health club and wellness facilities.
Social events (wine tastings, committee gatherings, and cultural activities).
Reciprocal privileges with a network of elite clubs worldwide.
3. Social Evolution
The Club was originally an exclusive all-male, all-white institution. Over time, it has evolved to become more inclusive. It admitted its first Japanese American member in 1966, and its first African American member (Luther Carr) and first woman member (Judge Betty Binns Fletcher) in 1978.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Space Needle is the most iconic landmark of Seattle and a masterpiece of futuristic design. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, it has since become the defining feature of the city's skyline.
Architecture: Standing at 605 feet (184 meters) tall, it was designed to withstand earthquakes and hurricane-force winds. Its slender silhouette is a prime example of the Googie architectural style.
The Experience: It recently underwent a major renovation featuring The Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor, allowing visitors to see the city and the tower's structure directly beneath their feet as it slowly revolves.
Views: The upper observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Downtown Seattle, Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Elliott Bay.
Location: It is the centerpiece of the Seattle Center, a cultural hub that also includes the MoPOP museum and the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Pike Place Market is Seattle’s most famous public market and one of its most iconic landmarks. Often called "the soul of Seattle," it combines a rich historical heritage with a vibrant and diverse commercial community.
1. History and Preservation
Founding: It opened on August 17, 1907. Its creation was a direct response by local farmers to price-gouging middlemen, allowing citizens to purchase fresh produce directly from local growers.
Preservation Fight: In the 1960s, a proposal was floated to demolish the Market and replace it with a modern complex called "Pike Plaza." Due to strong citizen opposition, led by architect Victor Steinbrueck and the Friends of the Market group, Seattle citizens voted in 1971 to establish a Historic District, preserving its physical and social character.
Historical Impact: World War II had a profound impact, as the internment of Japanese American farmers (who made up a large portion of the vendors) led to a serious decline.
2. Features and Community
Location: It spans nine historic acres in the center of Downtown Seattle, near the waterfront, along 1st Avenue and Pike Street.
Vibe and Products: It attracts over 10 million visitors annually. It is famous for:
The renowned fish market where fishmongers famously throw salmon.
Farmers and flower vendors selling very reasonably priced bouquets.
More than 200 independently owned shops, restaurants, and bars.
Over 180 artisan craftspeople.
Permitted street performers (buskers).
Social Community: Beyond commerce, the Market is a historic neighborhood that includes social service programs, a food bank, a medical clinic, and affordable housing for over 450 residents.
Landmarks: It is home to the original Starbucks store (though the exact location has slightly shifted) and is famous for its neon clock and sign, and the celebrated bronze piggy bank statue named Rachel the Piggy Bank.
The "pink elephant", as it is known in Seattle, has been around since 1951. It is a huge 20' tall neon sign (no photoshopping on that!) Now, if I was a tad bit better at framing this ... you would notice a small mouse in the bottom left corner (you can only see the top of his head).
Texture by Mat Texturonline..
www.flickr.com/photos/texturonline/5624734972/in/set-7215...
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Sky View Observatory is located on the 73rd floor of Seattle’s Columbia Center building, making it the tallest public observatory in the entire Pacific Northwest.
The Building: The Columbia Center is the tallest building in Seattle and the state of Washington, standing over 900 feet (about 274 meters) tall.
The Views: From the 73rd floor, the observatory provides an unparalleled 360-degree panoramic view encompassing the entire Emerald City, Puget Sound, the iconic Space Needle, and the surrounding majestic mountain ranges, including Mount Rainier and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains.
Experience: The observatory features floor-to-ceiling windows, interactive screens to identify landmarks, and is typically less crowded than other observation decks in the city. There is also an on-site café/bar to enjoy the views with a drink.
Significance: It is an essential stop for any visitor seeking to gain a visual understanding of Seattle's geography and its relationship with the stunning natural environment.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Yesler Terrace is a historic and transforming neighborhood in Seattle, known as the site of the nation's first racially integrated public housing project, built in the early 1940s. Located on a hill just east of downtown, the area was originally conceived to replace substandard housing and provide a community with great views and proximity to jobs and transit. Today, the Seattle Housing Authority is in the process of a major revitalization, replacing the original low-rise rowhouses with a mixed-income, mixed-use community. The redevelopment aims to create a dynamic neighborhood with more affordable housing units, new parks, and improved connections to the city, all while honoring its rich history and cultural diversity.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
7th Avenue in Seattle is a major north-south arterial road that runs through the downtown core. It's a bustling street known for its blend of commercial, residential, and cultural landmarks. You'll find a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic buildings, and luxury hotels along its path. The avenue is also home to several key institutions and attractions, including the Washington State Convention Center and parts of the vibrant Belltown neighborhood. It's a central hub for business, tourism, and nightlife, with numerous restaurants and shops catering to a diverse crowd. The street's character changes as it moves through different neighborhoods, offering a cross-section of Seattle's urban life.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Plymouth Pillars Park is a small but historically significant park in Seattle, located on the southwestern edge of the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Its most distinctive features are the four large limestone pillars that give the park its name. These pillars are not original to the park; they were salvaged from the Plymouth Congregational Church, which was damaged by an earthquake in 1965 and rebuilt without them. A local art collector purchased the columns and later gifted them to the city, which installed them in the park in 1967. The park also serves as a popular off-leash dog area, providing a unique urban green space for both people and their pets.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Caffé D'arte in the Pioneer Square neighbourhood is the flagship café of the Seattle-based roaster, established in the 1980s, which distinguishes itself with a strong foundation in Italian tradition.
Location and Atmosphere: It is situated in the heart of the historic Pioneer Square district, providing a cozy and charming spot for local workers and tourists.
Coffee Philosophy: Unlike many other roasters in the area, Caffé D'arte follows the Southern Italian espresso approach, using high-quality beans and darker roasts to create full-bodied, flavourful drinks.
Offerings: Beyond their complex espresso blends (like Taormina or Fabriano), the café serves local pastries (from renowned bakeries like Macrina Bakery) and Italian-inspired light food.
Significance: In a city known for being the coffee capital (sometimes dominated by Northwest innovation), Caffé D'arte offers an authentic, traditionally European coffee experience.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Sky View Observatory - Columbia Center
The Sky View Observatory is the highest public viewpoint in Seattle and the entire Pacific Northwest, offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the city and its surrounding natural landscape. It is located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the tallest building in Seattle and Washington State.
1. Height and Views
The Tallest: It is the tallest public observation deck in the Pacific Northwest.
Location: It is situated on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, in the heart of Downtown Seattle.
Height: It sits at 902 feet (approximately 275 meters) above street level, making it higher than the Space Needle observation deck.
Panoramic Views: It provides an unobstructed 360-degree view through floor-to-ceiling windows. On a clear day, visitors can see:
The Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle.
Puget Sound and Elliott Bay.
The majestic Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.
2. Visitor Experience
Access: Visitors reach the observatory via an express elevator ride that takes about 70 seconds.
Amenities: The observatory features a spacious and modern viewing area, complete with interactive exhibits and touch-screens to explore destinations. It also houses the Sky View Café & Bar where visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenery.
Columbia Center: The building itself, completed in 1985 and standing 76 stories tall, is an architectural landmark known for its distinctive design of three connected concave facades.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Pike Place Market is considered the soul of Seattle and is one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the United States. It is an iconic tourist destination and a vibrant community hub.
1. History and Significance
Founding: It officially opened on August 17, 1907. It was established by the city to allow farmers to sell directly to the public, cutting out middlemen and lowering food prices for consumers.
Oldest Market: It is one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public farmers markets in the country.
Preservation: In the 1960s, there was a proposal to demolish the Market and replace it with offices, but a grassroots campaign led by architect and activist Victor Steinbrueck (co-designer of the Space Needle) successfully mobilized citizens to vote in 1971 to establish the Pike Place Market Historic District, thereby saving it.
2. The Market Experience
Atmosphere: Known as "the soul of Seattle," the Market is a bustling place filled with noise, smells, and street performers (buskers). It welcomes over 10 million visitors annually.
Highlights:
Pike Place Fish Market: Famous for its fishmongers who toss fish (primarily salmon) across the counter instead of passing them by hand.
"Rachel the Piggy Bank": A Market icon, a large bronze piggy bank that collects donations for the Market's social services.
Vendors: It is home to hundreds of farmers, over 200 craftspeople selling handmade goods (from ceramics to soap), and dozens of flower stands with large, affordable bouquets.
Lower Levels: Built on the edge of a steep hill, the Market includes several lower levels featuring quirky shops such as antique dealers, comic book stores, and collectible shops.
Other Attractions: Notable sights include the infamous Gum Wall and the location of the original Starbucks store.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Built in 1915, the Bush Hotel is a historic landmark that serves as a symbolic gateway to Seattle’s International District (Chinatown).
Architecture & History: A classic early 20th-century red-brick structure, it was once the social and political hub for Asian immigrant communities settling in the Pacific Northwest.
Transformation: While it began as a traditional hotel, it was revitalized in 1980 by a non-profit organization to provide affordable housing and community spaces, successfully preserving its historic exterior.
Corner Landmark: Known for its prominent position in the neighborhood, the building still carries its vintage signage. The ground floor houses local shops and restaurants that are vital to the area's daily life.
Heritage: It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains a key site for understanding the multicultural roots and resilience of Seattle’s diverse population.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Space Needle is Seattle's most recognizable structure, an architectural landmark built for the 1962 World's Fair, designed to embody the optimism and aspirations of the Space Age of the 1960s.
1. History and Design
Origin: It was conceived by hotel executive Edward E. Carlson, who sketched his initial idea on a napkin in 1959, inspired by a broadcast tower with a restaurant in Stuttgart, Germany.
World's Fair: It served as the center piece for the 1962 World's Fair (Century 21 Exposition), themed "The Age of Space."
Architecture: Its futuristic design, featuring three slender steel legs and a "flying saucer" shaped top, was completed in a record 400 days. The structure was engineered to withstand winds up to 200 mph and earthquakes up to 9.0 magnitude.
Height: The tower stands 605 feet (approximately 184 meters) tall, with its saucer-shaped "top house" at about 520 feet.
2. Visitor Experience
Panoramic Views: The top of the tower offers visitors 360-degree panoramic indoor and outdoor views of Downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.
The Loupe (Rotating Glass Floor): Following major renovations, the top now features The Loupe, the world's first and only revolving glass floor on an observation tower, which reveals previously hidden views of the structure and the city below. This level also includes The Loupe Lounge, a cocktail and culinary experience.
Outdoor Observation Deck: The upper level also features an outdoor observation deck surrounded by all-glass barriers (installed during the renovation) for unobstructed views.
Kubota Garden is a 20 acre Japanese garden in the Rainier Beach neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. A public park since 1987, it was started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, a Japanese emigrant. Today, it is maintained as a public park by the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation and the Kubota Garden Foundation.
Fujitaro Kubota emigrated from Shikoku, Japan in 1907 and established the Kubota Gardening Company in 1923. Projects of his included the garden at Seattle University and the Japanese garden at Bloedel Reserve in Bainbridge Island. In 1927, he bought 5 acres of swampland in Rainier Beach to start the garden and in 1930 increased the size of the garden to 30 acres. Kubota Garden served as cultural center for the Japanese community in Seattle, as well as a home, office and nursery for his business. During World War II, Kubota Garden was abandoned for four years as Kubota and his family were interned at Camp Minidoka in Idaho. During his internment, Kubota supervised the building of a community park, which included a Japanese rock garden. After the war, he and his sons Tak and Tom Kubota rebuilt the business.
The Japanese government awarded Kubota the Fifth Class Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1972 "for his achievements in his adopted country, for introducing and building respect for Japanese Gardening in this area." Kubota maintained the garden until his death in 1973.
In 1981, the Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board declared the core 4.5 acres of the park to be a historical landmark of the City of Seattle. In 1987, the City of Seattle bought the garden from the Kubota family, and it is now maintained by the Department of Parks and Recreation as well as volunteers from the Kubota Garden Foundation.
In addition, 17 acres surrounding the park has been purchased by the Open Space Program in the City of Seattle in order to protect Mapes Creek, which runs through the park. The Tom Kubota Stroll Garden broke ground in 1999 and was opened in 2000. The garden received a new entrance gate designed by Gerard Tsutakawa in 2004.
The garden has encountered the problems associated with vandalism when the staff has left for the day—as evidenced by beer bottles strewn about on the property. Shell casings are a sign that firearms have been fired; and graffiti has appeared.
The Kubota Garden Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1989 to "support, enhance, and perpetuate the Kubota Garden within the spirit and vision of Fujitaro Kubota." Kubota's vision included opening the garden to the public and increasing American understanding and appreciation of Japanese Gardens. The foundation provides additional fundraising, volunteer work, and publications to support the garden.
(source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubota_Garden)
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The International Fountain is one of the main attractions at the Seattle Center, the complex built for the 1962 World’s Fair (Century 21 Exposition).
Origins: It was originally constructed in 1962 for the World's Fair. Its initial design, by Tokyo architects, was intended to reflect space exploration, featuring a look reminiscent of a "lunar landscape."
Current Design: The fountain was completely rebuilt in 1995 and renovated in 2021. Its current design, featuring a large stainless steel metal dome, is more interactive and approachable.
Experience: It is famous for its water and music shows, where the numerous jets (including the powerful "Super Shooters") are choreographed to music ranging from classical (Beethoven) to Northwest Rock 'n Roll. It is a very popular spot for play and cooling off, especially for families.
Location: It sits at the heart of the Seattle Center, with the iconic Space Needle nearby.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Located at the base of the Queen Anne hill, this café is part of a renowned local chain born in Seattle in 1994, famous for its high quality and commitment to sustainability.
Specialty Coffee: They are pioneers in ethically sourced and sustainably roasted coffee. The name "Ladro" (Italian for thief) reflects their mission to "steal" the best coffee beans from around the world to provide a superior experience.
Atmosphere and Design: This specific location has a classic Seattle vibe, featuring a cozy interior, local art on the walls, and large windows that are perfect for people-watching in the neighborhood.
Food and Pastries: Beyond their excellent coffee, they are well-known for their handmade pastries, baked fresh daily. Their muffins and scones are local favorites for a morning or afternoon treat.
Strategic Location: Situated just a few blocks from the Space Needle and Seattle Center, it serves as the perfect pit stop for locals and tourists alike exploring the city's main attractions.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Sky View Observatory is Seattle's tallest public viewing area, located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the city's tallest building. It offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Seattle area, including iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the Puget Sound. Unlike the more famous Space Needle, the Sky View Observatory is indoors and provides a different, often less crowded, perspective on the city. It's a prime destination for tourists and locals alike to get an unparalleled sense of Seattle's geography and urban landscape, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to see the city from above.
Seattle is a West Coast seaport city and the seat of King County. With an estimated 668,342 residents as of 2014, Seattle is the largest city in both the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America, and, as of July 2013, is the fastest-growing major city in the United States. The Seattle metropolitan area of around 3.6 million inhabitants is the 15th largest metropolitan area in the United States. The city is situated on a narrow isthmus between Puget Sound (an inlet of the Pacific Ocean) and Lake Washington, about 100 miles south of the Canada–United States border. A major gateway for trade with Asia, Seattle is the 8th largest port in the United States and 9th largest in North America in terms of container handling.
The Seattle area was previously inhabited by Native Americans for at least 4,000 years before the first permanent European settlers. Arthur A. Denny and his group of travelers, subsequently known as the Denny Party, arrived from Illinois via Portland, Oregon on the schooner Exact at Alki Point on November 13, 1851. The settlement was moved to the eastern shore of Elliott Bay and named "Seattle" in 1852, after Chief Si'ahl of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes.
Logging was Seattle's first major industry, but by the late 19th century the city had become a commercial and shipbuilding center as a gateway to Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush. By 1910, Seattle was one of the 25 largest cities in the country. However, the Great Depression severely damaged the city's economy. Growth returned during and after World War II, due partially to the local Boeing company, which established Seattle as a center for aircraft manufacturing. The Seattle area developed as a technology center beginning in the 1980s, with companies like Microsoft becoming established in the region. In 1994 the Internet retail giant Amazon was founded in Seattle. The stream of new software, biotechnology, and Internet companies led to an economic revival, which increased the city's population by almost 50,000 between 1990 and 2000.
Seattle has a noteworthy musical history. From 1918 to 1951, there were nearly two dozen jazz nightclubs along Jackson Street, from the current Chinatown/International District, to the Central District. The jazz scene developed the early careers of Ray Charles, Quincy Jones, Ernestine Anderson and others. Seattle is also the birthplace of rock musician Jimi Hendrix and the alternative rock style grunge.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The North Arcade is a historic and integral part of Seattle's iconic Pike Place Market. Built in 1910, it was an early investment by the city to provide covered stalls for vendors. Located along the west side of the market, it originally housed "dry" stalls for goods like eggs and poultry. Today, the North Arcade is a bustling hub for various market activities. It is home to the famous Flower Row, where local vendors sell fresh bouquets, and it also serves as an entry point to the "Down Under," the market's lower levels. The arcade's historical significance and its role in connecting different parts of the market make it a key part of the Pike Place experience.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Opened in 1930 and named after President Theodore Roosevelt, this hotel is a landmark of urban elegance and Seattle’s rich history.
Architecture: The building is a prime example of Art Deco design. It is most famous for its iconic vertical red neon sign that reads "ROOSEVELT," which remains a staple of the city's nighttime skyline.
Interior Vibe: Recently rebranded as the Hotel Theodore, the interior pays tribute to Seattle’s pioneering spirit, featuring curated local art and artifacts that celebrate the region's industrial and artisanal heritage.
Location: Situated at 7th and Pine, it sits in the heart of the retail district, just steps away from the Washington State Convention Center and the flagship Nordstrom store.
Fun Fact: The hotel is celebrated for its unique character, blending 1930s classic luxury with a modern, sophisticated aesthetic that captures the contemporary essence of Seattle.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
The Pike Pub & Brewery is an iconic institution in downtown Seattle, known for its location next to the historic Pike Place Market. Founded in 1989, it's a pioneer in the city's craft beer scene. The pub is celebrated for its on-site brewed beers and its extensive collection of beer memorabilia, which essentially makes it a working museum. It offers a menu of American gastropub classics, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. A popular spot for both tourists visiting the market and locals, The Pike Pub provides a lively and friendly atmosphere. While the original brewery has since moved, the pub remains a beloved gathering place, offering a true taste of Seattle's beer culture.
A place where boating, jogging and bicycle riding is as busy as the freeway sometimes. But on an off day when the waterways are clear of boats, you can capture a beautiful image.
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All rights reserved © LouisRuthPhotography.com
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
This government hub is famous for its distinct geometric architecture and the striking public art that greets visitors at the main entrance.
The Building: Completed in 1971, the building is renowned for its unique "honeycomb" facade, featuring hundreds of hexagonal windows. It is a prime example of mid-century modernist institutional design.
The Tubular Sculpture: The iron structure you described, resembling a snake biting its own tail, is a public art installation inspired by the Ouroboros. This ancient symbol represents the eternal cycle of life, renewal, and infinity.
Artistic Contrast: The flowing, tubular metal of the sculpture provides a soft, organic contrast to the rigid, heavy concrete and hexagonal patterns of the building’s exterior.
Civic Heart: Located on 4th Avenue, this site is the administrative engine of King County, situated right in the middle of Seattle's civic center near the City Hall and the Courthouse.
Image info: 54 exposures, 6 angles, 9 shots per angle, used Photomatix - Exposure Fusion (Natural Setting), and then stitched the 6 images together using Microsoft ICE.
research.microsoft.com/en-us/um/redmond/projects/ice/
The Central Waterfront of Seattle, in the state of Washington, US, is the most urbanized portion of the Elliott Bay shore. It runs from the Pioneer Square shore roughly northwest past Downtown Seattle and Belltown, ending at the Broad Street site of the Olympic Sculpture Park.
The Central Waterfront (waterfrontseattle.org/) was once the hub of Seattle's maritime activity. Since the construction of a container port to its south in the 1960s, the area has increasingly been converted to recreational and retail uses. As of 2008, several century-old piers are devoted to shops and restaurants. There are several parks, a Ferris wheel, an aquarium, and one over-water hotel.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Beyond the crowded main aisles, Pike Place Market is full of charming details and artistic figures that pay tribute to the market's beloved mascots.
Art and Tradition: These pig sculptures found throughout the area are symbols of community and Seattle's playful spirit. Many of these pieces were part of local art initiatives designed to support the market’s social services.
A Quiet Moment: Finding one of these statues in a more secluded spot offers a perfect opportunity to appreciate the artistry and the historic character of the market's brick-and-timber architecture away from the crowds.
Seattle, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 2024
Starbucks Reserve Roastery (Seattle)
1. Concept and History
The First One: The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle was the first of these global locations, opening in December 2014 in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
A Coffee Sanctuary: Designed to be a "theme park" or "Willy Wonka factory of coffee," it's a large (15,000 square feet) and theatrical space dedicated to an immersive coffee experience.
Purpose: These stores were created to compete with high-end coffee retailers and allow Starbucks to expand its rare, small-lot coffee program called Starbucks Reserve.
2. The Experience
On-Site Roasting: It is a fully functional roasting facility. Visitors can see and smell the entire journey of the bean, from the green coffee bags to the live roasting process and the shipment to other Reserve stores via overhead pneumatic tubes.
Exclusive Offerings: Unlike standard coffee shops, it offers:
Rare Coffees: Brews using Starbucks Reserve beans from around the world through various methods (Siphon, Chemex, Pour-over, etc.).
Premium Food: Typically includes a bar and bakery with fresh Italian fare from the Princi brand.
Coffee Cocktails: Some locations feature the Arriviamo Bar, serving unique coffee-inspired alcoholic beverages and cocktails.
Education and Design: The space includes a coffee library and showcases the roasting equipment with an industrial-meets-rustic design, serving as a major tourist attraction in its own right.
3. Current Status (Important)
It's important to note that despite being the original flagship location, the Seattle Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill permanently closed in 2025 (according to the latest news reports), which was a surprise to many. If a traveler is looking for a Starbucks Roastery today, they would need to visit one of the other global locations (like Chicago, New York, Milan, Tokyo, or Shanghai).
The Museum of Flight is a private non-profit air and space museum in the northwest United States. It is located at the southern end of King County International Airport (Boeing Field), in the city of Tukwila, just south of Seattle. It was established in 1965 and is fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. As the largest private air and space museum in the world, it also hosts the largest K-12 educational programs in the world. The museum attracts over 400,000 visitors every year.[citation needed] The museum serves more than 140,000 students yearly through both its onsite programs: a Challenger Learning Center, an Aviation Learning Center, and a summer camp (ACE), as well as outreach programs that travel throughout Washington and Oregon.