Seattle is Washington State's largest city and is surrounded by water, mountains and forests. There was so much to do and so much more one can do. We had a few days there and saw as much as we could. Here are some photos and a few tidbits for those who ever want to visit Seattle. As always, most of these photos are taken on a phone.
Crystal Mountain
The sights of Mt. Rainier are just breathtaking - see from either the Rainier point or the Crystal Mountain angle. We went up the gondola to top of the Crystal Mountain to catch a glimpse of Rainier - it seems the scenery is better on a clear day and we were not disappointed. It was a bright and sunny day and we could see Rainier clearly. At over 14,000 feet, it stands tall and majestic, covered in snow.
View directly opposite of Rainier from Crystal Mountain
The way up to Crystal Mountain peak with other paths meant for trekking. These same roads become skiing routes in winter.
Mount Rainier - its an active volcano and is one of the most glaciated peaks in the US.
Space Needle
Space needle is iconic and a visit was a must. The views from the top are great, provided it is clear. A tip - try to go after 7 pm, the tickets are cheaper and the views are better. It was built in 1962 for the World Fair and at 605 feet was one of the tallest then.
View of the Union Lake with a sail fest on from the Needle.
The expansive waters that Seattle has.
Duck Tour
Taking the Duck Tours, we went around the city. Though they couldn't show us much on land, the views from the water was just awesome. Its amazing how the same vehicle can operate on land and water - James Bond anyone?
I would say the Duck Tour of Seattle is avoidable - there isn't much they can show. Its best if you go around Seattle and its famous tourist spots.
Seattle downtown.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a must. It started in 1907 and is one of oldest, continuously operated public farmer's markets in the US. It overlooks the Elliott Bay and is always jam-packed I heard. From sea food to jewelry to flowers, you might find everything here.
The sea food stalls are the best. So much variety and some drama with the vendors throwing fish while unpacking. When we were there, these guys was throwing fish in like a relay to stock it up and one of the guys didn't catch one of them. It went flying and hit a lady - there was a gasp from the people and some laughter when she herself started laughing once the initial shock wore off. She was quite sportive????
Under Pike Place is this - a whole wall of gum. Apparently, the tradition started a couple of decades back and though the city tried to take it off, they gave up after a couple of times. It was declared one of the germiest places in 2009.
Gas Works
Gas works park is a public space which has the remnants of the Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant which provided electricity to the city for almost 40 years at which point it was decommissioned in 1956.
