Seattle for the Dreamers | A Modern Guide
Seattle for the Dreamers | A Modern Guide
Liv and Jack
Available for hire
If you're looking for a modern guide to Seattle filled with hidden gems and local-only finds— this is it!
Seattle, the crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest, is a dynamic city known for its natural beauty, thriving tech industry, vibrant arts scene, and coffee culture.
Jack and I have been visiting Seattle since 2018 and decided to move to the city in August of 2022. We are passionate about breaking down Seattle stereotypes and showing you "our version of Seattle" because we think it's the greatest city in the USA.
In this guide, you'll find:
🤯 80+ locals-only recommendations, including food and drink, markets, parks and viewpoints, shopping, museums, music venues, and MORE
🏨 5 vetted hotel recommendations
🗺️ An interactive map so you can see which places are nearby
SAVE this guide so you can access future updates + consider supporting my work by leaving a tip! 🫶
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Seattle, Washington
Located in the shadow of Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the highest mountain in Washington, Seattle is unlike any other city in the world.
Here's the vibe you can expect:
😎 a strong alternative and indie scene
☕ a thriving coffee culture
♻️ a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation
🥾 an active and outdoor lifestyle
🥟 an international and diverse food scene
✊🏽 a strong sense of community and social activism
💡 an atmosphere that supports entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking
🗺️ Click on the "map" feature to see where each place is located! You can also open an individual place and click "directions" to map to it using Apple or Google Maps.
Hotels
All of these hotels have been vetted by us, ensuring you have the best visit possible during your trip to Seattle. We'll also earn a small commission when you book through Thatch, which helps support our work.
Graduate Seattle
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Graduate Seattle Hotel is a stylish and vibrant hotel located in the heart of Seattle's University District. It offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms with a mix of modern and retro elements.
The hotel's lively atmosphere encourages social interaction, with trendy common areas and a rooftop bar for guests to connect with fellow travelers.
Conveniently located near popular attractions, including the University of Washington and Pike Place Market, guests can easily explore the city and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Don't miss their rooftop bar for drinks at sunset or their coffee shop attached to the lobby!
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Palihotel Seattle
@wanderingduo
Palihotel Seattle is a boutique hotel with a chic and intimate atmosphere.
The hotel features well-designed and comfortable rooms that blend modern aesthetics with cozy elements. Each room is thoughtfully furnished with attention to detail, providing a relaxing and inviting space for guests to unwind.
Palihotel Seattle also boasts a stylish on-site restaurant, serving delicious cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
The hotel is within easy reach of popular attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.
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Thompson Seattle
@wanderingduo
Thompson Seattle is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Seattle, Washington. With its contemporary design and sophisticated ambiance, this hotel offers a refined and upscale experience for guests.
The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites that showcase modern aesthetics and thoughtful details. Each room is meticulously designed to provide comfort and relaxation, with plush bedding, sleek furnishings, and stunning city or water views.
Thompson Seattle is known for its exceptional dining options. The on-site restaurant offers a culinary journey inspired by local Pacific Northwest flavors, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes. Guests can also unwind and enjoy handcrafted cocktails at the stylish rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline.
Conveniently located near popular attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Seattle waterfront, Thompson Seattle provides easy access to the vibrant city.
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Kimpton Palladian Hotel
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The boutique hotel features beautifully designed rooms and suites, each showcasing a combination of contemporary elements and vintage-inspired details.
The Kimpton Palladian Hotel also offers an array of amenities and services, including a fitness center, complimentary wine hour, and a lively on-site restaurant and bar. The restaurant serves delectable cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, while the bar offers a vibrant setting to enjoy craft cocktails and socialize.
Situated in the heart of the city, the Kimpton Palladian Hotel provides easy access to popular attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Seattle waterfront.
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Inn at the Market, Only Hotel Located Inside Pike Place Market
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The Inn at the Market is a boutique hotel located at 86 Pine Street. Situated within the iconic Pike Place Market, it offers a convenient and unique experience for guests.
With 76 beautifully appointed guest rooms, the hotel provides modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, luxurious bedding, private bathrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Many of the rooms and suites offer stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline.
The hotel features a range of services and amenities, including a 24-hour front desk, concierge services, valet parking, laundry facilities, and a rooftop deck with panoramic views. Guests can dine at The Nest, the rooftop restaurant known for its stylish atmosphere, cocktails, light bites, and breathtaking views. Café Campagne, located on the ground floor, offers French-inspired cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
The hotel's prime location allows guests to easily explore Pike Place Market, its vibrant stalls, artisanal shops, and famous fish market. Nearby attractions such as the Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Art Museum, and waterfront are within walking distance.
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🍴FOOD + DRINK
Seattle's food scene is diverse and innovative, featuring fresh seafood, Pacific Northwest cuisine, international flavors, coffee culture, food trucks, and a thriving craft beer scene.
The city emphasizes locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, with a strong farm-to-table movement. Culinary innovation and experimentation are also prominent, making Seattle a hub for unique dining experiences.
COFFEE SHOPS
In the 1970s and 1980s,
Seattle played a pivotal role in the rise of specialty coffee. Entrepreneurs like Alfred Peet (founder of Peet's Coffee) and Starbucks founders Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker helped establish a new approach to coffee, focusing on high-quality beans and expert roasting.
In the 1980s and 1990s,
Seattle's coffeehouse culture thrived with independent cafes followed by the emergence of the "third wave" coffee movement in the 2000s. Today, Seattle remains a global epicenter for coffee culture, with a thriving scene of specialty coffee shops, renowned roasters, and a passionate community of coffee enthusiasts.
Cardoon
@wanderingduo
A cozy cafe and bar serving house-made Chinese and German-influenced bites, great espresso, and specialty drinks. Right now, they share a space with the National Nordic Museum. It's a great place to go for coffee and a snack— try the rose cookie, you won't regret it!
P.S. Jack used to work here :)
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Venture Coffee Co
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We frequent this place at least twice a week. Not only is it the perfect place to spend a rainy day, but the coffee and pastries are divine.
The coffee is roasted by their sister company Hagen Coffee Roasters, and the pastries are all homemade by the owners, who are Danish.
Our faves:
- Vienna latte
- Any pastry (you can't go wrong)
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Bake Shop
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A great place to start the morning with a coffee (the cardamom syrup is divine) and a pastry or light breakfast.
The bakery specializes in freshly baked goods, including a variety of artisan bread, pastries, cakes, and cookies. From flaky croissants to rich chocolate cakes, Bakeshop Seattle is known for its high-quality and delicious treats made with premium ingredients.
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ROOT
@wanderingduo
Some of the best specialty coffee you’ll find in the city - and it doubles as a plant shop! Limited seating available.
Root Coffee takes pride in sourcing high-quality beans and carefully crafting each cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a classic espresso, a creamy latte, or a pour-over brew, the skilled baristas at Root Coffee have mastered their craft, ensuring every sip is rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
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Volunteer Park Cafe & Pantry
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Located in North Capitol Hill, this is a great spot to grab a light brunch and coffee.
It sits right on the edge of Volunteer Park, which features a gorgeous conservatory as well as the Seattle Asian Art Museum. You can also climb an old water tower for an incredible view of the city and puget sound.
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Aroom Coffee
@wanderingduo
Family-owned and operated Vietnamese coffee shop in a cute space!
AROOM is run by a 26-year-old dreamer, her chef mom and dad, a professional coffee roaster aka her husband, a talented recipe creator sister and her detail-oriented partner. Last but not least, her two “go-getter” best friends.
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Saint Bread
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Globally inspired bites and gourmet pastries offered in a former boat-building facility with a patio. Get the cardamom bun!! Also a great place for brunch and lunch.
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BRUNCH
Harry's Fine Foods
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Harry’s Fine Foods is a neighborhood restaurant located in Seattle, Washington specializing in connecting guests with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest’s many incredible growers, purveyors, and makers—all with warm, engaging, and exceptional hospitality.
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Mainstay Provisions
@wanderingduo
This is a cute, modern cafe that serves light brunch and coffee with high-top seating and also includes a small specialty grocery store. One of our favorites!
Our faves:
- Homemade English muffin with goat cheese and honey
- Any of their pastries or loaves
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Sabine Café & Market
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Located in the heart of Ballard, this trendy space serves Middle Eastern–style brunch, sharing plates, salads & sandwiches.
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Oddfellows Café + Bar
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Situated in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Oddfellows is known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu, and community-centric approach.
The café offers a range of dining options throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners. From hearty breakfast plates and sandwiches to flavorful salads and comforting dinner options, Oddfellows offers a delicious and satisfying dining experience.
The café also features a well-stocked bar with a selection of craft cocktails, local beers, and wines. Beyond its culinary offerings, Oddfellows serves as a gathering place for the community, hosting events, art shows, and live music performances.
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Cafe Flora
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Cafe Flora is a renowned vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in Seattle, Washington. Since 1991, it has been serving delicious plant-based cuisine in the Madison Valley neighborhood. The restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes, using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients.
Their menu includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with creative salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and hearty entrees like their famous vegan macaroni and cheese. Cafe Flora also offers a popular weekend brunch with vegan French toast, savory crepes, and brunch cocktails.
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Livbud Cafe
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Love this place! Coffee, smoothies, cocktails, taps, natural wine, and a plant forward / pescatarian menu that focuses on nutrient dense ingredients.
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RESTAURANTS
Italian
Cornelly
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This place recently went viral, so we decided to check it out. Be prepared to wait 2+ hours for a table, but while you do, have fun visiting the bars on the same street!
It was HIGHLY worth the wait!!! So good.
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Fiasco
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Eat here for Italian dishes plus wine and cocktails served in an upbeat, window-filled dining room. Every pizza can be made with a glute-free crust! They also do a great happy hour and offer weekly deals like BOGO pizzas on Wednesdays.
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The Pink Door
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Unique semi-hidden Italian restaurant with burlesque shows & trapeze entertainment that boasts terrace seating with views of Elliott Bay.
I would recommend booking in advance.
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San Fermo
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One of our favorite Italian restaurnats in the city. Snuggle up in a historical building in Ballard with a cozy bar and homemade pasta dishes.
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Mioposto Pizzeria
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A neighborhood pizzeria that has multiple locations around Seattle. We've been to the one in Mt. Baker and really enjoyed it!
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Delancey
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A tucked-away neighborhood spot with delicious pizza, salads, and wine! Be prepared to wait for a table.
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Asian
Japanese
Moshi Moshi Sushi & Izakaya
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Our favorite sushi spot!
The sushi menu at Moshi Moshi features a variety of traditional and creative rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, prepared with fresh, high-quality seafood and other ingredients.
In addition to sushi, the izakaya section of the menu offers a diverse selection of small plates, tapas-style dishes, and grilled items, ideal for sharing with friends and family.
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Vietnamese
Ba Bar South Lake Union
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CrackleMi - Vietnamese Grill & Cafe
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Korean
Made in House
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Korean-leaning comfort dishes— all delish!! Highly recommend the daily bento.
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Mexican
Agua Verde Cafe
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A lovely summer spot for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon margarita. You can also rent kayaks from their little dock and take them out on the lake.
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El Moose
@wanderingduo
Hungry for Mexican? This is your place!
El Moose showcases a variety of Mexican favorites, including tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and more. Using high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes, the chefs at El Moose strive to bring the true taste of Mexico to the table.
In addition to its delicious food, El Moose offers a selection of refreshing beverages, including handcrafted margaritas and Mexican sodas, perfect for pairing with your meal.
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Gracia
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Cool Mexican room serving elevated tacos, tamales & drinks with thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
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Mediterranean
Homer
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Homer is a neighborhood Meditteranian small plate restaurant located in Beacon Hill, Seattle. They don't take reservations, so we recommend putting your name in and then heading to Fable for a glass of wine while you wait!
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Cafe Munir
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Guys... THIS PLACE! It's a super unassuming spot with the BEST mezze I've ever had. Get the hummus with chickpeas.
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UK
Macleod’s Scottish Pub
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Macleod's Scottish Pub is renowned for its extensive selection of Scotch whiskies, featuring various single malts and blends from different regions of Scotland.
The pub also serves classic Scottish dishes, including haggis, Scotch eggs, bangers and mash, and other comforting pub fare.
The decor and ambiance are phenomenal, and it serves the best fish & chips my English husband has been able to find so far.
HAPPY HOUR
They serve a great happy hour which is available
every day from 5-7 pm. It includes specials on beer, wine, cocktails, fish & chips, shrimp tacos, and more.
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Native American
Off The Rez Cafe
@wanderingduo
Off the Rez is owned by longtime couple Mark McConnell and Cecilia Rikard. Mark’s mother spent her childhood growing up on the Blackfeet Rez in Browning, Montana, and imparted the culture to her children.
Mark grew up eating traditional frybread and Indian tacos at family gatherings and powwows.
In Seattle, he searched for Native cuisine and came up empty. He and Cecilia then pursued their passion project of opening Seattle's first Native food truck that employed Blackfeet frybread recipes and Indian tacos made true to form.
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BARS
Wine
Bottlehouse
@wanderingduo
A unique wine bar and café in the Madrona neighborhood. It offers a wide selection of wines, small plates, and a cozy atmosphere. The venue also serves as a community space and features a tasting room. It's a destination for wine lovers and a place to gather and enjoy good company.
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Rapport Seattle
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Seattle’s first self-pour experience, allowing customers to dispense their own wines & beers from a huge selection of local and international offerings.
Fantastic happy hour (3pm-6pm every day)— get the deviled eggs, fromage blanc, and frosé!
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Chez Phinney
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Chez Phinney is a self-serve establishment offering 24 different wines by the ounce. This allows the guest to try a one ounce pour before selecting a three or five ounce selection. Chez Phinney will focus on smaller Pacific Northwest wineries as well as Old World mainstays.
They will also offer local beers on draft, bubbles as well as various non-alcoholic beverages. To cleanse the palette, there is a small menu of tidbits.
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Doe Bay Wine Co. Phinney Ridge
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The cutest wine bar with special events and another location on Orcas Island!
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Beer/Cider
Queen Anne Beerhall
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A lively establishment offering a European beer hall experience. It has an extensive beer selection, including local and European brews, and serves classic beer hall food. The communal atmosphere encourages socializing, and they often host events and have outdoor seating.
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Old Stove Brewing
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A brewery and taproom offering a wide variety of craft beers and a food menu. We prefer the location in downtown Seattle as it offers a stunning view of Puget Sound.
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Bale Breaker & Yonder Cider Taproom
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Combines the offerings of two renowned cider brands. The taproom features a diverse selection of ciders from Bale Breaker and Yonder Cider, as well as collaborations with local breweries. Guests can enjoy a comfortable and inviting tasting room experience.
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Schilling Cider House
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Schilling Cider House in Seattle offers a diverse selection of ciders, including their own brand and guest ciders. Visitors can enjoy on-site tastings and also purchase bottled or canned ciders to take home. Trivia on Monday nights!
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Cloudburst On Shilshole
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Cloudburst Brewing is a well-known craft brewery located in Seattle, Washington. It was founded by Steve Luke, a former head brewer of Elysian Brewing Company.
The brewery is known for experimenting with various beer styles, creating unique and flavorful brews that appeal to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. They often rotate their tap list, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience for visitors with each visit.
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Fremont Brewing's Urban Beer Garden
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A great spot to enjoy a beer or cider, especially when it's sunny, and you can enjoy the patio!
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Cocktails
Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet
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A speakeasy-themed tiki garden bar serving craft cocktails and Hawaiian bites.
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mbar
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Rooftop bar with AMAZING views of the city, the mountains, the sound, Lake Union, and pretty much everything else. Cocktails are beautiful and they offer some really nice Meditteranean small plates.
Reservations are highly encouraged!
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Bar Sabine
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Bar Sabine is a trendy cocktail bar in Seattle known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere. The menu offers handcrafted cocktails (Lord of the Rings themed!), a curated wine list, and small plates. The stylish interior and occasional live music create an energetic vibe, making it a popular spot for a night out.
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Rupee Bar
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A Sri Lankan and Indian-inspired small plate and cocktail bar. It was won several awards, including the James Beard Award for Best Restaurant Design 75 seats and under, and GQ Magazine's best new restaurants in America.
Chef Kenyon was the 2020 James Beard semifinalist for rising star chef of the year and the 2022 semifinalist for best chef northwest.
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Knee High Stocking Co.
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Knee High Stocking Co. is a minority, female, family-owned and operated business born and bred in Seattle, WA. Serving Filipino-American food a craft cocktails, this 21+ only establishment is dark, intimate, and speakeasy-themed.
Head to their website to book your table!
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Dreamland Bar & Diner
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Offbeat bar serving finger foods, breakfast bites, and homestyle mains in a warm, plant-filled space. We recommend going for drinks— don't miss the disco ball hallway!
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Shibuya HiFi
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A cocktail bar with a listening room! You must book in advance, especially if you want to listen to a record.
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DESSERT
Paper Cake Shop
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PAPER CAKE, by long-time Seattle Chef Rachel Yang of Joule and Revel and talented Pastry Chef Gabby Park, invites you to experience the joy of layer cake, whether it's for life's grand celebrations or your everyday moments of indulgence.
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Salt & Straw
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Salt & Straw has crazy-good selection of flavors that will blow your mind. We're talking Honey Lavender, Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, and even funky concoctions like Pear with Blue Cheese. They're all about pushing the boundaries and creating flavors!
They also specialize in handmade waffle cones.
Don't be afraid to ask for samples so you can try before you commit to a full scoop of deliciousness.
There are locations all over Seattle!
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Cupcake Royale
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These little bundles of joy come in all sorts of flavors that will make your mouth water. From classic vanilla and chocolate to unique creations like lavender and tiramisu, Cupcake Royale has got you covered with a cupcake for every craving.
There are locations all over Seattle!
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Frankie & Jo's Capitol Hill
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Frankie and Jo's is a renowned Seattle ice cream shop celebrated for its plant-based, vegan offerings. With a focus on creativity and flavor, Frankie and Jo's has gained a loyal following. Their handmade ice cream is crafted from a variety of plant-based ingredients, resulting in creamy and delicious treats.
From classic flavors to unique combinations, such as beet strawberry rose and gingered golden milk, their innovative selection caters to diverse palates. Frankie and Jo's also prioritize inclusivity by offering gluten-free and allergen-friendly options, ensuring that everyone can indulge in their delectable creations.
Beyond their exceptional ice cream, Frankie and Jo's demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through their use of organic and locally sourced ingredients, as well as eco-conscious packaging.
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MARKETS
Seattle's markets provide a diverse range of products, from fresh produce and local crafts to artisanal goods and unique food offerings. They offer a vibrant atmosphere, a chance to support local businesses, and a taste of the city's vibrant culinary and artistic scene.
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Ballard Farmers Market
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SUNDAYS ONLY!
The Ballard Farmers Market is the place to go for fresh and local goodies. It's like a foodie paradise right in the heart of the Ballard neighborhood.
At the market, you'll find farmers showing off their best fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers.
And let's not forget about the artisanal food products—think crusty bread, gooey cheeses, sweet honey, and homemade jams. It's a feast for your taste buds!
You can also snag some unique crafts and artwork from local artisans. Plus, they've got live music pumping, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
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Fremont Sunday Street Market
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The Fremont Sunday Street Market takes place every Sunday and offers a variety of vendor stalls selling fresh produce, artisan crafts, antiques, and more.
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Pike Place Market
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Landmark daily market with famed fish-throwing seafood vendors, produce stalls and other shops. A little less crowded during the week and in the mornings. This place is definitely worth a visit as it truly is a gem of Seattle.
Make sure to watch the famous fish toss and if it doesn't gross you out, walk down the iconic Gum Wall, located down a ramp to the left of the market.
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PARKS & VIEWPOINTS
Seattle is known for its abundance of parks and green spaces that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and scenic views. Here are some of the most notable:
Kerry Park
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A super small public park and viewpoint on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill in Seattle. This is a great place to go for photos and to view the iconic skyline of Seattle!
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Discovery Park
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Discovery park is perhaps our favorite hidden treasure in Seattle. Great for hiking, biking, lounging, and escaping the city. Hike through the many trails and end up by the lighthouse, looking out to the Olympics and the sparkling Sound.
Note: The lighthouse is about 30 mins walk from the entrance, so be prepared for a bit of hike! You can also drive down, if you prefer.
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Golden Gardens Park
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Golden Gardens Park is a slice of paradise nestled along the shores of Puget Sound in Seattle. This beachfront park offers a perfect blend of sandy beaches, stunning views, and lush green spaces.
With its wide sandy beach, Golden Gardens Park is a popular destination for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Visitors can relax on the shore, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
The park also features beautiful walking trails that wind through picturesque meadows and offer breathtaking views of the sound and the Olympic Mountains. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a scenic hike with friends and family.
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Green Lake Park
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Green Lake Park in Seattle is a picturesque destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a 2.8-mile path around the lake, water sports, sports facilities, and community events. The park's natural surroundings and wildlife make it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
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MISC. ACTIVITIES
Surf Ballard
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Surf Ballard offers kayak rentals for those seeking to explore the waters around Seattle. With their convenient location in the Ballard neighborhood, they provide an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the area's waterways.
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Volunteer Park Conservatory
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The Volunteer Park Conservatory is a botanical garden, conservatory, and Seattle landmark located at the north end of Volunteer Park on Capitol Hill. Made up of 3,426 glass panes fit into a wood and iron framework, this Victorian-style greenhouse structure is modeled on London's Crystal Palace.
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Hot Tub Boats
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A fun experience if you're new to the city or have friends/family visiting. Each boat holds up to 6 people!
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LULUMIERE
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This woman-owned candle shop hosts candle-making classes, and they are SO fun! It's an excellent activity for a rainy day or if you have friends visiting.
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MUSEUMS
Seattle is home to a diverse range of museums that offer a variety of cultural, artistic, and historical experiences. Here are our favorites:
Seattle Art Museum
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This roomy space hosts special exhibits & a permanent collection of both current & classic artworks.
🎟: $29.99 if purchased in advance, $32.99 day-of
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Frye Art Museum
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Located in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood since 1952, the Frye is the city’s only free art museum. The Founding Collection of primarily late-nineteenth and early-twentieth-century European art was gifted in perpetuity to the people of Seattle by prominent early-twentieth-century Seattle business leaders and art collectors Charles and Emma Frye.
🎟: FREE
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National Nordic Museum
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The National Nordic Museum in Seattle is a cultural institution dedicated to the history, art, and culture of Nordic countries. It features exhibitions, collections, and educational programs. The museum's architecture is inspired by Nordic landscapes, and it has an adjacent Nordic Heritage Park. It serves as a hub for cultural exchange and understanding.
🎟: $20.00 for adults; $15.00 for students; $10.00 for youth
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Museum of Pop Culture
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If you have any interest in music, movies, and various other pop culture, this museum is for you. Interactive exhibits showing off various props and facts from all kinds of entertainment cornerstones. Must for movie buffs!
Tickets: $28.50
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MUSIC
Seattle's music scene has a storied history, with notable highlights including the jazz and swing era of the 1920s and 1930s, the emergence of folk and rock in the 1960s, and the worldwide recognition of grunge in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden helped put Seattle on the map. The city continues to produce influential artists in various genres, with a vibrant DIY music community and renowned music festivals.
The Sunset Tavern
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An intimate music venue hosting a diverse range of local and national acts across various genres. The venue offers a close connection between performers and the audience, and it has become a community space for music lovers.
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Paramount Theatre
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A historic and grand venue that hosts a wide range of performances, including concerts by major touring artists, Broadway shows, and orchestral performances.
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The Showbox
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A historic venue known for its intimate setting and excellent acoustics. It hosts a wide range of genres, from indie rock to hip-hop.
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Showbox SoDo
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A popular music venue located in Seattle's Sodo neighborhood. It hosts diverse concerts, offers a spacious layout, and has a full-service bar. The venue's central location and professional production make it a go-to spot for music lovers.
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SHOPPING
University Village
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Stroll through University Village, and you'll find a carefully curated selection of shops ranging from well-known brands to unique boutiques. From fashion and accessories to home decor and specialty goods, the diverse range of retailers caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
In addition to shopping, University Village boasts a variety of dining options that satisfy every palate. Whether you're craving a casual meal, a quick bite, or a leisurely dining experience, the dining establishments at University Village offer a wide array of cuisines and culinary delights.
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The Elliott Bay Book Company
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Elliott Bay Book Company is a beloved independent bookstore nestled in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, it has become a gathering place for book enthusiasts, writers, and literary events.
It's also right next to Oddfellows, so it makes a great pairing. Brunch and books— what's better than that?
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Fremont Vintage Mall
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Fremont is a hip neighborhood that features one of the best places to thrift— the Vintage Mall. This area also has a handful of other cute shops and restaurants, as well as a used bookstore called Ophelia's Books.
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BEYOND SEATTLE
Snoqualmie Falls
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Snoqualmie Falls is a majestic waterfall located in the scenic Snoqualmie area of Washington State, just outside of Seattle. Known for its breathtaking beauty and powerful cascades, the falls attract visitors from around the world.
Plunging from a height of 268 feet (82 meters), Snoqualmie Falls is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a picturesque view that changes with the seasons.
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Mount Rainier National Park
@wanderingduo
Here are the top three things to see in Mount Rainier Park:
Paradise: Paradise is one of the park's most iconic areas, located on the southern side of Mount Rainier. This alpine meadow offers stunning vistas of the mountain, colorful wildflower displays during the summer, and excellent hiking opportunities. Don't miss the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, which provides insightful exhibits and information about the park's ecology and history.
Sunrise: Situated on the northeastern side of Mount Rainier, Sunrise is the highest point accessible by vehicle within the park. This picturesque area offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, meadows, and glaciers. Naches Peak Loop is a great hike here.
Grove of the Patriarchs: Located near the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, the Grove of the Patriarchs is a magical old-growth forest. A short hike leads to a suspension bridge, crossing the sparkling Ohanapecosh River.
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Olympic National Park
@wanderingduo
Here are the top three things to do in Olympic National Park:
Hurricane Ridge: Take a trip to Hurricane Ridge, located in the heart of the park. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, meadows dotted with wildflowers, and the vast wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula.
Hoh Rain Forest: Delve into the enchanting Hoh Rain Forest, one of the most well-known temperate rainforests in the world. The Hall of Mosses Trail and the Spruce Nature Trail are popular routes for exploring the rainforest.
Rialto Beach: Head to Rialto Beach, a picturesque coastal area within the park. This rugged shoreline offers dramatic sea stacks, tide pools teeming with marine life, and breathtaking sunsets.
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Heybrook Lookout
@wanderingduo
Heybrook Lookout is a historic fire lookout tower located in the stunning Skykomish Valley of Washington State.
The lookout can be reached via a short but scenic hike, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels. As you ascend the trail, you'll be treated to glimpses of the lush forest and the soothing sounds of nature. Once you reach the top, the reward is a spectacular vantage point that showcases the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Distance: The round trip distance is approximately 2.6 miles.
Elevation: The trail begins at an elevation of around 500 feet (152 meters) at the trailhead. The lookout itself sits at an elevation of about 1,700 feet (518 meters), giving hikers a total elevation gain of around 1,200 feet (366 meters) during the hike.
BONUS TIP: Don't forget to stop at the famous Espresso Chalet for a coffee before or after the hike!
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Deception Pass State Park
@wanderingduo
Deception Pass State Park is a scenic area in Washington State, USA. It spans 4,000 acres between Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island. The park features cliffs, forests, lakes, and trails. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, boat, and observe wildlife. The iconic Deception Pass Bridge offers stunning views. It is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical significance.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Liv and Jack
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An American (Liv) 🇺🇸 + A Brit (Jack) 🇬🇧 falling in love with the world.
Liv here!
At 23, I married my high school sweetheart, Jack. Our adventures have taken us to cities as big as London, England, and towns as remote as Modica, Sicily. We've lived, worked, and traveled all over Europe with a special focus on Italy, France, and the UK.
In August of last year, we decided to make Seattle our home base. It’s a city we grew to know and love after 5 years of annual visits.
Nowadays, we spend our days exploring Washington and traveling abroad— we’re always looking for our next adventure.
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