If most of us know the city of Seattle, it must be admitted that it is often thanks to the mythical series Grey’s Anatomy or the film Fifty Shades of Grey. Fans will remember images of the Space Needle and the city skyline.
For my part, it was included in my road trip. And after crossing the USA/Canada border, this was my first American destination.
Like most major American cities, it is rather expensive and we decided to stay only two days. I know it’s not enough, but with our city pass in hand, we decided to optimize our time as much as possible.
I optimized my first day in Seattle by going to the Seattle Center, which is a cultural activity park. This cultural center includes various museums, a pedestrian zone and several attractions.
After parking our car in one of the cheapest car parks in town ( $24 for 24 hours ), we naturally headed for the Space Needle, the city’s emblematic tower. First of all, we had to exchange our City pass booklets for an entry. You must wait every fifteen minutes before you can access the elevators. You will first go through security who will search your bag. Then if you wish, you have the small traditional photo that is sold to you at the end of your visit. Personally, I always ask not to do it… 🙂And if you think the wait is over, think again. You will still have to wait to get into the elevators. Depending on which one you take, your view of the city will be different. Indeed, these are located outside and if you are not afraid of heights, you can watch the landscape.
Once at the top, it’s time to pull out your camera and enjoy the 360° view. As often with City Passes ( to book your city passes Seattle Pass online – Best of: access to the 5 best attractions in the city – Queue-skipping tickets ), you can come back in the evening to ride for free and thus enjoy the lights of the city in the middle of the night. It is open until midnight. It would be really stupid not to go back.
Museum of Pop Culture
It was first built in 2000 as the Seattle Experience Music Project. In 2004, a science fiction museum was created to overcome the lack of revenue and it became the pop culture museum in 2016.
After taking the time to contemplate the extraordinary architecture of the building, you can go to one of the entrances to the museum. Feel free to walk around and see where the queue is shorter. It is an original museum which is divided into two:
The first part dedicated to music offers you a return in time and in the Pop culture of the 80s in particular. I absolutely loved this space which is great fun even if you are not a fan of those years. You have special pieces dedicated to Jimmy Hendrix, Nirvana and a temporary exhibition on David Bowie. On the top floor you have a recreation of a music studio. As soon as one of the many pieces becomes free, you can use it in turn. Choose between drums, piano, vocals, guitar, or even the mixing room. In short, have fun learning to play an instrument according to your level. To avoid waiting too long, you will have a time limit which will be noted roughly in your cabin.
The second part is mainly for Science Fiction fans who will be more than happy with the costumes and objects from the most cult movies like Star Wars, Alien or The Fifth Element. You also have a whole room dedicated to the Star trek series, and another that has just opened on fantasy films.
I didn’t find it exceptional compared to others I had the opportunity to see in the USA ( Boston, San Francisco or even Chicago…). It’s mostly focused on interacting with young audiences ( which might be good if you’re traveling with the family ). Your entry with the city pass gives you the right to attend either an IMAX screening or a 3D film. Most of the animations run in several science museums in the USA and for a limited period.
Second day in the city of Seattle:
For this second day in the city nicknamed Rainy City ( the rainy city ), I headed for the Waterfront where there are plenty of attractions and small restaurants.
Public Market
The Public Market ( Bike Place market) is certainly the liveliest square in the city. It is near the Waterfront. It is a real public market where you will find many fish and flower stalls offered by local farmers or traders. Walking inside the building, you also have plenty of small vintage and antique shops that offer more or less original objects. I myself stopped to buy a second-hand book in English resold for $2 each.
Just before lunchtime, you will have to be patient to wander around the various counters and make your way outside. Leaving the market, you will come face to face with the first Starbucks opened in 1971. If you want to have a coffee or even visit it, good luck to you! I went two days in a row in front and it was always armored with an impressive tail. I didn’t have the strength to wait.
On the other hand, I took the opportunity to taste the specialties next door that I will present to you a little further down in my article.
