4 Things Locals Do in Seattle
Trying to explore the city like a local? Use our insider’s guide and you’ll be a bona fide flannel-wearing Seattleite in no time.
1. Visit a brewery or tasting room
Coffee isn’t the only thing Seattle is known for brewing — the city is also a hub for craft beer brewing and has a number of top notch breweries. Locals like to hang out at popular spots like Cloudburst Brewing (2116 Western Avenue) and Optimism Brewery (1158 Broadway). These breweries have an industrial vibe that is spacey yet intimate, making it perfect for larger get-togethers. If beer isn’t your drink of choice, check out popular spirits tasting rooms like Canon Whiskey (928 12th Avenue) and Heritage Distilling Company (1201 10th Avenue) in the vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood.
2. Take the ferry to Bainbridge Island
If you’re looking to extend your Waterfront experience, take a day trip over to Bainbridge Island. The 35 minute ferry ride across the waters of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound is a chance to experience the biggest ferry system in the country and get a great view the Seattle skyline from the ferry deck. The ride is a great chance to get some photos of the city. It can get a little windy on the deck, so be sure to bring a jacket!
3. Look for deals at a thrift store or neighborhood market
The city might be home to Macklemore, but unfortunately the Value Village made famous in his 2012 song Thrift Shop is closed. But other great options include Out of the Closet (1016 E Pike Street) and Lifelong (312 Broadway East), both nonprofits that fund AIDS research and healthcare with their stores. Score some great vintage band tees by plundering through the selections at Rove Vintage (1507 11th Avenue) If you’re in town over the weekend, check out the Fremont Sunday Market which features retro and vintage fashion, antiques, and original pieces from local artists. Even if you don’t pop some tags and buy anything, it’s always fun to look for a good deal.
4. Explore a park
You actually don’t have to leave the city to get some good hiking in – the city’s parks have some beginner level trails that are great ways to feel like you are escaping the city and explore the wildlife of the PNW. The largest park in Seattle, Discovery Park (3801 Discovery Park Blvd), has a trail that offers great views of Puget Sound from the bluffs. Further North there is Carkeek Park (950 NW Carkeek Park Rd) where walkers can get a bit of the shoreline and see some of the creeks that salmon swim up in the fall. To the South is Seward Park (5900 Lake Washington Blvd S) which has great views of Lake Washington and Mt. Rainier when it is clear out.
