Posted: Monday, February 16, 2015
By Cayla Vichot
Photo by Colton Brown
If you’ve lived in Washington all your life or just moved here for college, you’ve probably visited a few typical tourist attractions. You know what I’m talking about: The Troll, The Gum Wall, Pikes Place Market, and who could forget Gasworks Park?
Let’s get real, though—we all want to be unique individuals. Set yourself apart with the inside scoop on the places only the locals know about in the Seattle area.
No car? Never fear—this is why public transportation was created! Let’s dive into the culture and charm of the greater Seattle area and find the places that no one knows about, but everybody should.
First things first, you’re going to want to know the history of the place you are visiting. Check out Seattle’s longest running Ghost Tour. There’s no better way to find out the history that may still be lingering around.
After being spooked, what better way to calm down than next to some gorgeous flowers? Take this tour in the spring or early summer. The guided tours are informational and interactive, and the plant life is absolutely beautiful. The trees imported from Japan are definitely worth seeing!
If flowers aren’t your things, maybe the beach is a better way to cool off. Yes, I know—we are in Washington where it rains for most of the year, but even in the spring, fall, and winter, Golden Gardens is a great place for a bonfire, volleyball and friends.
Looking for a little more history? Hop on a boat from Downtown Seattle and discover the city’s real history on Blake Island. Enjoy freshly prepared salmon over open fires in the cedar longhouse while watching the dances and listening to the songs and stories passed down from Native American families.
After exploring you’ll probably be hungry. Try eating somewhere new and exciting! If you love sandwiches, you will adore The Honey Hole on Capitol Hill. Their sandwiches are quality, with serving sizes for two at the price of one.
Love Spanish food? Head over to Barrio on 12th Avenue. Pozole to tacos, the quality of their food is unmatched. This is definitely a must-visit spot during your time in Seattle—a must.
Ever heard of a pupusa? Now you have. Guanaco’s Tacos is bringing Salvadorian flavor to the city of Seattle one bite at a time. Located in the U-District, the affordable food will introduce your taste buds to the favorite food you never knew you had.
Hands down, best Caribbean sandwiches in the Pacific Northwest. They’re open, they’re friendly and they now take credit cards! There’s not much I can say about this other than to tell you to just go. You need to experience this yourself.
Tired after all of this exploring and eating? Time to caffeinate! Contrary to the name, this shop does not only give you delicious chocolates but amazing coffee as well! Locations in Greenwood, Greenlake, and Downtown Seattle.
For an experience you’ll never forget, head over to Slate for a deconstructed coffee. You won’t look at coffee the same way ever again. Paired with their chocolate dipped orange slices? Heavenly.
There are pages upon pages of places I could tell you about, but that just goes to show you the amazing quality and culture that Seattle has to offer. So hop on a bus or get in your car and take the fifteen to twenty minute drive over 520 bridge and into one of the greatest cities in America.
