Seattle Discoveries - The Big Four

Seattle is one of America's most exciting destinations right now. Well, think about it, cosmopolitan city surrounded by astounding natural scenery with endless opportunities for exploration. It's the ultimate city break destination; split your time between the many urban activities on offer and country pursuits in the lakes, mountains and vineyards beyond. Seattle, changing the face of the standard city break since...well, forever. Take a look at this Black Tomato slideshow as we direct the spotlight at the things we think make this destination so incredible.

Seattle Discoveries %u2013 The Big 4

Coffee(01 of04)

Starbucks might just be Seattle’s biggest claim to fame (aside from Sleepless in Seattle, of course) and as a brand that seems to have taken over the world, we couldn’t not mention it. The original Starbucks coffee house can be found in Pike Place and, whilst it’s a bit of a tourist trap, it’s well worth taking a look around the humble set up of this global brand as you get your caffeine kick. It’s also perfectly located for you to take a stroll to the Pike Place Market when you’re feeling refuelled. Here you’ll find everything from antiques to fresh produce and that famed fish market. If you fancy a brew somewhere more off-beat, you’ll find stacks of other great little independent coffee houses around.

Music(02 of04)

With a list of alumni that includes names like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana and Ray Charles; it would be criminal of you to not delve into this city’s musical past. And the best way to do so? By heading over to the Experience Music Project – a not-for-profit museum located in the very heart of Seattle, dedicated to educating people on the rich history of north-western music. There are plenty of hands on exhibits here too. Why not jump on stage to play music to a virtual crowd? Or how about composing your own musical masterpiece in one of the museum’s sound labs? Informative and interactive, you’re bound to feel like a superstar all day.

The Great Outdoors(03 of04)

Mountainous, rugged landscapes, vast waterways and never-ending hiking and biking trails form the back garden of Seattle. A nature lovers dream, you need only walk down to the harbour to completely immerse yourself in the wonders of Seattle’s greener side. Seeing as this is a city surrounded by water, sea-kayaking is the obvious way to grab a great view from a different perspective. However, if you’re feeling a little more conservative, then hop on board one of the many boat tours that set out daily for the same views minus the effort. Back on land, a short drive will have you out in the country, so we say hire a bike and head off along one of the extensive biking trails that can be found dotted along coastlines and into the mountains. The same goes for trekking if you prefer using just those legs to get around. Go outside, take it all in. You’ll soon realise this is one place you already want to come back to.

Wine(04 of04)

A natural progression from Seattle’s great outdoors, our next highlight is all about vineyards. You see, the beautiful country surrounding the city is filled with them. One particular wine region we can’t get enough of is Woodinville, an area nestled within the Sammamish River Valley (yes, it’s as picturesque as it sounds). Here you can wander amongst the vineyards, catch up with the winemakers and, the most important bit, sample some of Washington’s critically-acclaimed wines. It’s a great daytrip away from the city, or if you fancy spending the night, there are plenty of luxury boltholes around to accommodate you on your wine fuelled escapades.

holiday ideas travel Seattle the big four American travel

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