13 things to do in Seattle while visiting for the SCAA 2014
1. Visit the Melrose Market
1501-1535 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
The Melrose Marked is about a 10 minute walk from the Washington state Convention Center. An old building converted into a upscale marketplace, the Melrose Market can meet all your meat, cheese, flower, eating, gift and greeting card needs under one gorgeous roof. While you are there be sure to...
2. Have Brunch at Sitka and Spruce in the Melrose Market
1501-1535 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Grab a seat at the end of the chef's table and be prepared to go on a wild ride with your taste buds. This place is not only beautiful, but the food—seasonal and local—is perfectly constructed right before your eyes in the open concept kitchen. Their orange juice is fresh squeezed, to order.
3. Check out the Tulips at Pike Place Market
If you are into flowers, and colors, and tulip varietals—and even if you are not—the rows and rows of freshly cut tulips on display at the Pike Place Market this time of year are mind blowing. There really are no words to truly capture their magnificence.
4. Take Bill Speidel's Underground Tour in Pioneer Square
608 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
On this tour you will learn a thing or three about Seattle's stinky, corrupt and prostitute laden history (it's okay for kids though). Not only will you get to go underground and see what lies beneath the city, the 75 minute tour will also completely change your perspective on Seattle. It costs $17 dollars and starts every hour on the hour during the day. Do show up at least 15 mins early to get a spot. They also offer evening tours catered more toward an adult audience. Check it out on their website HERE.
5. Get an Acai Bowl from Healeo in Capitol Hill
1520 15th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
I over heard someone walk out of this juice place and smoothie bar saying, "that was the best acai bowl i've ever had in my life," so, needless to say, I had to try it. The Healeo Acai bowl is customizable, pretty freaking delicious and by far the best I have had, too. If you are not into acai bowls, Healeo is a great place to drop in and get a healthy, vegan and gluten free snack to help you power your through your day. They even have hemp milk soft serve. Yum!
6. Visit the Ballard Farmers Market on Sunday
Ballard Ave at 22nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98107
You standard farmers market fare with a definite Seattle flair. Enjoy perusing fresh produce, sampling from different food vendors and people watching. Not only is this market lively and fun but the Ballard neighborhood has some really cool restaurants and shops to check out, too. Since you are already all the way in Ballard, you might want to....
7. Make a trip to the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder
3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107
Visiting the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder is totally free and really cool. Basically the Locks are the connection between the salt water of Puget Sound and the fresh water of the Ship Canal. Be prepared to witness a mechanical performance that adjusts the water level in between these two water bodies allowing ships to pass. In a similar fashion, The Fish Ladder is a passage way created to allow fish to get back and forth, too. On your way back to the city....
8. Drop into Slate Coffee for a Tasting flight
5413 6th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
Hands down one of the best coffee experiences I have had to date. Set aside 45 minutes of your day to go on a tasting journey at the hands of some incredibly hospitable and knowledgeable baristas. It seems the flight menu is constantly in flux so expect to be surprised... and delighted!
9. Book a seating for a vegetarian dinner at Sutra in Wallingford
1605 N 45th St, Seattle, WA 98103
Okay, it's probably too late to make a reservation at this point because this spot is in such high demand, but remember to book ahead for next year. Sutra is an all vegan, gluten free, prix fix, culinary extravaganza that offers only one seating per evening. Each course of the five courses you get to experience in sync with the rest of the diners is seasonal, delicate, and delicious. I've eaten a lot of vegetarian food in my life, and none as stellar as Sutra. This food here is something carnivores will appreciate. Only $40 for 5 courses—the wine pairing is extra.
10. Drop into the Elliot Bay Book Company, Capitol Hill
1521 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
When was the last time you got to hang out in a book store? When was the last time you got to hang out in a large indie bookstore that has been around for 40 years?! This place is a unicorn! Carrying a great selection of of books and an incredible, expansive vibe, its a must visit.
11. Have dinner at Lark, Capitol Hill
926 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
So if you are not a full on veggie and you are looking for a classy, upscale dinner spot that has a little something for everyone and shareable plates, the Lark is a solid bet. Great wine list, nice atmosphere, and really, really delicious food.
12. Drink a shot of espresso in two sips at Espresso Vivace, Capitol Hill
532 Broadway Ave East, Seattle WA 98102
Espresso Vivace's shot is a work of art which David Schomer has spent his career perfecting. Order one and don't wander too from the bar as your barista will get upset if you don't drink it right away. Espresso Vivace's shot is unlike any other i've had. You must try it for yourself.
13. Enjoy Spring time & the Cherry Blossoms
Spring is here and there are gorgeous blooms all over the city. Enjoy the show!