How to Spend a Fun Day in Seattle at the Seattle Center

Think it's a hassle doing a lot of driving and parking, but still want to take in a great Seattle experience? There are plenty of fun venues and attractions to visit at The Seattle Center, including the Space Needle! Just park your car for the day and have a blast!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Taken from the observation deck

   When most people think of Seattle landmarks, they think of the Space Needle. If you are planning a trip to the Seattle Center, the Space Needle is a must see. An elevator surrounded by glass takes you up 520 feet to the observation deck. Here you will see 360 degree views of Mt. Rainier, Elliott Bay, the beautiful city of Seattle and more. You can take some spectacular pictures from up there so be sure to bring your camera! If you are hungry there are quick eats or you can dine at Sky City restaurant, which was voted 2009 Wine Restaurant of the Year. There is also a large gift shop at the base of the Needle where you find an abundance of souvenirs and gifts. The Space Needle will not disappoint!

2. 
    
   Part of the architectural work at the EMP

   A short walk from the Space Needle is the Experience Music Project and the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame. You will first notice the amazing architectural work of the EMP. Step inside and you will learn about musical geniuses of our time such as Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Michael Jackson and much, much more. You can rock out on stage and also learn a guitar riff at their sound lab. At the Science Fiction Museum you can check out artifacts from Star Trek and you may even run into ET! There are also fun inter-active exhibits here as well. Definitely a fun experience worth checking out.

3. 
    
   The International Fountain

   Need to take a break and relax from all the excitement? Why not stop by the International Fountain, which is just a short walk around the corner at the Seattle Center. The fountain plays music while spouting out water that kids and adults alike love to run through. It's nice to sit back and watch all that is going on around you. If you are hungry, I would suggest making a stop to the Center House on your way to the fountain. At the Center House you will find inexpensive food choices such as pizza, sub sandwiches, teriyaki and more. You will also find the Seattle Fudge shop where they make their own fudge on site. They also make cotton candy and salt water taffy in the window. Starbucks is also inside if you are wanting a quick energy boost. Several free public events happen inside the Center House throughout the year so you may be lucky enough to catch a cultural performance or a dance.

4. 
    
   The Seattle Monorail

   Another favorite at the Seattle Center is a Seattle icon, The Monorail. The Seattle Monorail was built for the 1962 World's Fair, as was the Space Needle. Since then it has been a staple in the Seattle skyline. The monorail has two stations, one at the Seattle Center and one in downtown Seattle at the Westlake Center Mall. Take a quick two minute, one mile ride from the Center to downtown and do some shopping. It is a lot of fun and such a different form of transportation than you are used to. Even if you are not interested in shopping, you can get out and walk around downtown and the monorail will take you back to the Seattle Center. If you'd like you could even park at the Westlake Mall and take the monorail for all the fun attractions at the Seattle Center. The monorail is open daily, operating from 9:00am to 11:00pm.

5. 
    
   A hydroplane outside the Pacific Science Center

   The Pacific Science Center is located on the south side of the Seattle Center and is another great experience. Inside you will find six acres of do-it-yourself science fun. There is also a butterfly house, science demonstrations and more included with your general admission. Also located at the Pacific Science Center is the IMAX Theater, a Planetarium show and a laser light show. This stop is fun for the whole family and adds something different at each visit.

6. 
    
   Outside the Seattle Fudge shop at the Seattle Center House

   As you can see there are several different activities and attractions at the Seattle Center. You could also take in a show at the Children's Theatre, The Seattle Opera House, Pacific Northwest Ballet, or at several other venues at the Center grounds. Festivals such as the Bite of Seattle, which takes place during the month of July and the Labor Day Weekend festival Bumpershoot are a lot of fun as well. For the kids, stop by the amusement park and go on rides or play games. The possibilities are endless. Whichever you decide to do, I am positive you will have a fun-filled day at the Seattle Center!

Tips & Warnings

• Visit seattlecenter.com for directions or for more details

[jenjen78]

on 7/8/2009 This makes me want to head down to Seattle this weekend! Sounds like so much fun!