Visiting Seattle for the first time. What to see?

[Mz Pip]

I won't have a lot of time - am just coming in for the weekend for my soon to be daughter-in-law's Bridal Shower. I'm staying downtown and would like some recommendations on what are must sees.

Mz Pip :hi:

[The empressof all]

1. First of All...Bring a Sweater

We're having a really strange spring and it's Fricken Cold here.

If you like touristy stuff ride the Ducks which will give you a fun over view of the city. Of course go to the Market. My favorite thing to do in Seattle is eat. We have some glorious restaurants. There are some walking tours that include eating. I know there is one about chocolate and one that visits some of the joints downtown for small tastes at each.

The weather this weekend looks wet and cool so honestly, I wouldn't bother going to Mt Rainier or planning on doing anything that would involve looking at our incredible views. (Don't bother going up the Space Needle for example)

[Mz Pip]

2. We've had weird weather too

and I am planning on bringing warm clothes regardess of the forecast. I think I am staying near that market so will definitely do that. Will be near the wharf since that's where the shower is. Maybe the art museum?

[eridani]

3. The art museum definitely

Major independent cinema aficionado? Check out our many non-multiplex old-fashioned theaters.

[The empressof all]

4. The Art Museum is OK

I grew up back east and have traveled a bit so I'm a little spoiled. Unless there's a particular show that you want to see going on there I don't think their permanent collection is that spectacular. They have a strong Asian and Native Collection and the Asian Art Museum on Capital Hill is lovely. There is a Calder Sculpture at the Sculpture Park but with the weather....

SAM is a pretty new building and honestly I've only been a few times. YMMV. If you like Architecture the New Library is Outstanding. And If you like Music we have the Experience Music Project at Seattle Center which can be fun. I think people who play music particularly enjoy it because it's really interactive. It's an amazing building too if you like new architecture.

[WestSeattle2]

5. I hope you enjoy your visit! Below are some links to activities...

http://www.undergroundtour.com/ - Pioneer Square is the southern end of downtown

http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedule/ - Take a ferry ride to Winslow - have lunch in Winslow (Ferry terminal is an easy walk from Pike Place Market or Pioneer Square)

http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/ - Pike Place Market

I wish your son and his soon-to-be-bride all the best!

[Mz Pip]

6. These sound like great recommendatons

the ferry ride sound good and maybe I will do that tomorrow.

And thanks for the good wishes on the upcoming marriage. It should be quite a bash, even by Berkeley standards. :-)

[yewberry]

7. I second the sweater.

And the Duck tour (but $25...ouch) and ferry.

Sounds like you have some terrific recommendations. There's a deal that offers some kind of multi-pass deal for the Space Needle, EMP, a couple of museums, tours if you're going to be hitting a lot of tourist attractions in one day.

Found it: http://www.smartdestinations.com/seattle-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sea-p1.html

[hamerfan]

8. Do you like music/science fiction?

From Pike Place Market, walk up to 5th (steep hill) and catch the monorail to the Space Needle. Right near there is the Experience Music Project/Science Fiction Museum. Cool stuff on a wet day.

http://www.empsfm.org/

[quiller4]

9. Visit the Seattle Asian Museum at Volunteer Park if you can

The conservatory at the park (completed)is a designated landmark and well worth seeing. If you have time, visit the Burke Museum of Natural History at the corner of 17th Ave NE and NE 45th St. It is open from 10-5. The museum has a wonderful permanent collection of Native American art.