“An awesome collection of food stands, crafters, and shops on the lower levels. Try going on a weekday to avoid the crowds”

“Since its construction for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle has become both an internationally recognized icon and Seattle’s most popular attraction. Distance - 3.8 miles”

“Art museum with notable collections of modern and ethnic art, plus a second 9-acre outdoor location with huge sculptures ”

“This park is home to the crumbling ruins of an old Gasification plant, but is also an amazing lookout point on Lake Union.”

“A small park with a great view of downtown. Excellent photo opportunity to get your picture with the skyline, Space Needle, and on clear days Mt. Rainier”

“This park hosts a botanical garden, a small museum, a “fish ladder”, and the Locks themselves- a manmade engineering marvel that works sort of like a boat elevator.”

“Mind-blowing blown glass sculptures interspersed with beautiful flowers and plants.”

“A former naval base, the park is a network of trails, beach, open fields, and a bluff looking over the Sound and Olympic mountain range ”

“The Museum of Pop Culture (formerly EMP) was founded by Microsoft Paul Allen. Exhibit topics include fantasy and horror films, rock music, video games, and more”

“This is a lovely, local zoo within walking distance of the house. Enjoy the lovely animals in a park-like setting and take a ride on an antique carousel. Our two kids would go here every day if they could.”

“Our closest beach. A great spot, especially in the fall when the trees backstopping the beach prove the park’s namesake. ”

“Take the time to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park, an outdoor extension of the Seattle Art Museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront.”

“Good for running or walking and water activities such as canoeing. Can be crowded on nice days.”

“That’s right- a beach in Seattle! Great views of the Sound and downtown, wildlife, volleyball games, and a great trail”

“Volunteer Park is a large rolling wooded park nestled next to some of the most gorgeous historic homes in Capitol Hill! Bring a blanket and take a nap in the fields with a variety of Seattleites, read a book under a tree, check out the Volunteer Park Conservatory with an impressive variety of plants and flowers (weird hours check website), run or pace yourself to the top of the water tower for 360 views of the city and if you get lucky you can run across weekend events of all kinds on the outdoor stage (or check the website ahead of time if your're not feeling super lucky :). We've come across Shakespeare plays, latin dance performances and multicultural fairs just by chance! ”

“If you like quirky art, make a quick stop at the troll in Fremont. (15 min away)”