Seattle, The Emerald City

Currency: US Dollar

Language: English

Tax Refund: The United States of America does not have a national or federal sales tax system, which means that the government does not levy a sales tax. But instead each states have their own sales tax that is being levy to the resident and tourists. The sales tax varies. For example, Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon do not levy a sales tax, while California has the highest state sales tax rate at 7.5%.

One of the most popular place to shop, New York charge a 4.375% sales tax on all sales. However the city of New York waives the sales tax of 4% on all purchases of clothing and footwear if the item is under $110.

From Airport to the City

The Light Link Rail connects the airport directly to Downtown Seattle in about 40 mins. The station at Downtown would be located at Westlake Station, Pine St at 3rd and 5th Avenue. Tickets cost $3. Taking 12 Stations in total. Alight at University St Station.

A taxi would cost around $40 – 50 plus tax while private car hire such as uber or lyft will be around $30. The pick up point will be at the ground transportation plaza at level 3.

The main means of transportation in Seattle would be the city buses, they are usually owned by the Metro Transit. During rush hours (M-F 6-9AM and 3-6PM), adult bus fares are $2.75 within the city limits. All other times of day and weekends adult bus fare is $2.50. For example, to get from Pike Street to the Space Needle you can take the bus (D, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 13) to 5th Ave and Denny Way. If travelling in a party, lyft or uber might be more cost effective.

Attractions

Pike Place Market

A public market overlooking the Elliott Water Bay since 1907, it can be said as the oldest market in Seattle and a food haven. Imagine walking pass the market with sea gulls flying over you, this is something. The gum wall in the region is also worthy of a look, marvellous how such a thing can be a tourist attraction too. A picture definitely have to be taken here with that sign and also check out the stalls selling speciality goods and food here. It is open as early as 6am in the morning with the food stalls closing around lunch and the crafts stalls later.

Space Needle

The most iconic and representation of Seattle. This towering tower can be seen practically from anywhere in town. It is an observation tower as well as a rotating restaurant on the top. It towers 605ft in the sky. It is open from 10am on weekdays and 9am on weekends till 9.30pm. Tickets can be bought online and is highly advisable. Tickets cost 22 bucks and can be bought 30 days in advance.

Central Library

A super unique and striking building in downtown Seattle. It is actually worthy of a look and seeing the architecture façade. The exterior of the building is completely made with steel and glass. Some of the places interior is also picture perfect.

Pier 57

Located near the Seattle Great Wheel and Miners Landing, the place is a destination for restaurants and adventure. The vibes here is definitely worthy of a stroll around. The pier also has its history here since 1907. Nearby is also the pier where you could take the ferry boats from to Brainbridge Island. On Sundays there is also an outdoor market in the area. Fares cost $8.20.

Starbucks Store #1

Pike Place Market, 1912 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Located in Pike Place Market it is known as the birthplace of Starbucks at the original location in Pike Place Market. Although they have move slightly, it is still worth to grab a historical drink here. Order the Pike Place Reserve, a special item available only here. It is open daily from 6am to 9pm.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room

Definitely not your usual Starbucks store in town, it is like a coffee museum dedicated to the greatest coffee chain in the world. Learn here how they toast their beans and the blend. It is open from 7am to 11pm daily. You can even get a tasting session here.

Boeing Factory Tours

https://www.futureofflight.org/

An aviation museum as well as the Boeing commercial aircraft assembly factory, it is open for visit to the public where you can see the production line of 747, 767, 777 and 787 Dreamliner production lines, it is also the world’s largest building by volume. A place for great views would be the Strato Deck, where many aircraft can be spotted. The Boeing tour is available on regular hours daily from 9am to 3pm. The tickets sell quickly and it is advisable to purchase online in advance, it cost $25.

University of Washington

Home of the university in Seattle, it is a pretty nice place to experience the university life here. Stroll around the campus and also the grounds. Some of the buildings are also open to the public. The graduate reading room in the library is especially impressive. You can reach here with the Light Rail.

Shopping

Seattle Premium Outlets

10600 Quil Ceda Blvd, Tulalip, WA 98271, USA

Open from 10am to 9pm daily with hours till 7pm on Sun, it is one of the largest outlet in the region. There are more than a hundred over stores here that will break your leg, furthermore it is only 30mins journey from Seattle. Coach, Nike and Dr Martens are all available.

Westlake Centre

Located on Pine St, it is one of the largest shopping centres in downtown Seattle. The food court is also a good place to grab food. It is open daily from 10am to 8pm with the exception of Sun from 11am to 6pm.

E Pike Street

One of the main streets in Seattle, this stretch is full of restaurants, café and pubs. One of the must visit, Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room is also located on this stretch. It link down to Pink Street where more shops and stuff can be found.

Restaurants

Macrina Bakery

2408 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

This local bakery has been known for their artisan bread and pastries. The handmade loafs, tortes, muffins, and scones and famous. One of the must try is the Caramel Turtle Brownies, topped with layers of pecans and rich caramel. It is open daily from 7am to 6pm with brunch on weekends from 8am to 2pm.

The 5 Point Café

415 Cedar St, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Known as the best dive bar in town, this place brings you back to the 1920s in United States. It serves all day breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. One of the best place to get comfort American food. The menu is extensive and price is affordable. It is open 24 hours daily.  The location is near the Space Needle.

Ivar’s Acres of Clams

Pier 54, 1001 Alaskan Way S, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

A local chain restaurant located on the waterfront that serves up some of the city best fried fish and chowders. It is located on Pier 54, boosting a great view, the food quality is good and the price is decent. The décor reminds you of dining in a cruise ship. It is open from 11am to 9pm daily with extended hours on Fri and Sat till 10pm. Prices are fair given the offering. The lunch set may be a worth one. Lunch is preferred as you can take in the sweeping view of the bay.

Jack’s Fish Spot

Pike Place Market

A seafood stall in the market that its known for their lunches. They serves the freshest catch straight out from the tank. Seats are limited and prepare to squeeze, grab some of the food and pig out with the fork. It is open from 7.30am to 6pm on Mon to Sat and from 8am to 5pm on Sun.

Piroshky Piroshky

Pike Place Market

This bakery sells handmade Russian pastries and bakes, they are so divine and famous. It always commands a long queue in the market. The smoked salmon piroshkies one is an absolute gem. It is open daily from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and 6.30pm on weekends

Etta’s

2020 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

This casual eatery is famous for its crab cakes, the seafood here is fresh and the amount of crab used is generous. The crab cake is good but expensive. It is open on weekdays from 11.30am to 9pm and till 10pm on Fri. On weekends they serve brunch from 9am to 3pm and then dinner from 4pm.

Dilettante Mocha Café

1601 5th Ave #100, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

A chain café in town, they are famed for their hot chocolate. It is open from Mon to Fri from 6am to 5pm. It is a great place to rest your legs and have something warm in this weather. Besides this there are also a couple location spread over town.

Crab Pot

1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Located near the Seattle Great Wheel along the pier, the place is known for serving up seafood with a hammer. It is a seafood restaurant where you are encouraged to dig in with your hands and make a mess. The environment is great and the prices are affordable. It is open daily from 11am and till 9pm, with extended timing till 9.30pm on Fri and Sat. Get the Feast and pig out.