Seattle Travel Guide
Travel guide to Seattle, USA with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Seattle sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Seattle Overview
Seattle in the state of Washington is located on the Pacific Coast of the USA, only 100 miles or so south of the Canadian border. The city, with a population of approximately 570,000 is the largest in the Pacific Northwest region.
Situated where it is Seattle has one of the most diverse variations of landscapes around it. With the Pacific Ocean at its side and the imposing Olympic Mountains facing it, the geographical backdrop to the city is a glorious one. Seattle residents therefore have so much choice when it comes to activities in the area, and they really like to make the most of the opportunity. From sailing to skiing, walking and climbing, the variety is remarkable.
When it comes to music, Seattle has often been cited as the home of grunge, led by Nirvana, who's lead singer Kurt Cobain commited suicide in 1994, Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains. As the grunge scene subsided Seattle remained at the forefront of the alternative music scene, with probably their most recognised exponent to date being the Foo Fighters.
One of the must do things in Seattle is the Underground Tour. In 1889 there was a great fire that destroyed parts of the city. At the time the people of Seattle felt that rebuilding the city should be done over what remained, so they built a walkway higher than the original ground level. Over time this was developed until it was all completed, leaving a subterranean area that still operated, although it was in the more illicit areas of life. Now of course it is uninhabited, but tours are available to see just what it is and was like down there.
Top Seattle Attractions
Probably the most well known Seattle landmark is the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World Fair it is not the tallest structure in Seattle, but it has such a strong image that it seems to dominate the landscape. It is certainly an eye catching monument, and believed to be the most photographed in the city.
Shopping in Seattle
Naturally, as a large US city Seattle has no shortage of Malls and major retailers of all descriptions. However, it is the more specialised areas where the city really stands out. Take for example the Pike Place Market, a dedicated farmers market where over 600 businesses ply their wares daily.
Seattle Sporting Events
As a large US city all the major sports are very well represented. The Seattle Seahawks in the NFL, the Mariners in baseball and the Supersonics (known usually as the Sonics) in basketball. Each are well supported and a visit to any of the teams when playing at home is highly recommended.
