Stay and Play in Seattle On This Easy-to-Plan Getaway in Washington

When Washingtonians ask me what I consider the state's most underrated vacation destination, my answer tends to surprise them: Seattle.

Hear me out. Despite being our biggest city, locals tend to pass it over for coastal trips, mountain escapes, or wine country tours. While we've been looking elsewhere, Seattle has developed into a world-class city, offering travelers an incredible mix of culture, history, and outdoor recreation. Even if you're from Seattle proper, chances are you've never experienced it as a tourist. Ipso facto, I lived there for almost a decade, and I've still never been up the Space Needle!

Whether you're traveling from far away or seizing the chance to see your hometown with fresh eyes, the Emerald City should be your next destination.

Where to You Should Stay

At almost 200 years old, Seattle has a long and fascinating history. For those interested in embracing this historic charm, I recommend staying at a boutique hotel like Capitol Hill's The Seattle Gaslight Inn.

This stunning Craftsman-style bungalow was built in the early 1900s by a wealthy businessman named Paul Singerman. It debuted as a bed and breakfast in 1984, delighting guests with its antique design, which includes dark oak wall trim, paneling, and stunning fireplaces. These preserved features earned it landmark status from Seattle in 2015.

Vintage elegance doesn't preclude modern amenities, however. The rooms are spacious and perfect for catching up on work or much-needed sleep. There's also a dazzling pool in the backyard— a real boon in central Cap Hill.

Things to Do and Places to Eat

Staying at The Seattle Gaslight Inn puts the entire city at your fingertips, and whether you're interested in world-class museums, dazzling natural beauty, or vibrant markets, Seattle has something for everyone.

For first-time visitors, the most important thing to know is that Seattle is a city of distinct neighborhoods. While downtown offers plenty of unmissable attractions, neighborhoods like Ballard, Fremont, and Columbia City are where you'll really see Seattle's heart.

Get around with the local light-rail system, bus lines, and rental bikes, or consider renting a car. A set of wheels makes in-town travel a breeze and opens up the possibility of day trips to iconic places like Mount Rainier or Whidbey Island.

I recommend diving headfirst into the city's lively arts scene! Creative workshops are a fantastic place to meet travelers and locals alike, allowing you to create your own souvenir and get the inside scoop on where you should visit next.

Don't forget your hiking boots! For a West Coast city, Seattle is surprisingly walkable. With some exceptions, you can easily traverse the city without encountering car-centric roads or wide, shadeless stretches. Put together, the hills, lakes, and businesses infuse each neighborhood with its own personality. Embrace the city's famous natural beauty at places like the Washington Park Arboretum's Japanese Garden, or find your next treasure at the numerous antique stores in funky and industrial Georgetown.

I'd be remiss if I didn't emphasize Seattle's incredible food scene. With the nearby Pacific and countless acres of rich farmland on all sides, it's hard for a truly bad restaurant to last here. Though there are worthwhile places dotted all over town (I've been meaning to try the Space Needle's Loupe Lounge for ages), I once again recommend striking out to the neighborhoods for Seattle's best eateries. Tucked in Queen Anne, Rainier Valley, and the International District, you'll find local gems for all tastes and price points. If you're seeking something upscale, Cascina Spinasse is a personal favorite. There's also award-winning Canlis overlooking Lake Union.

It's high time Washingtonians stopped sleeping on Seattle. Its blend of history, art, cuisine, and natural beauty make it a destination worth rediscovering— whether you're from the city itself or visiting from out of town.

To make the most of your trip, I recommend staying somewhere like The Seattle Gaslight Inn, where you'll be firmly rooted in the neighborhood culture where the city shines brightest. Still, with so much at your fingertips, you're sure to have an unforgettable visit no matter where you make your home base.