Downtown Seattle

Explore

See what’s new at the always compelling Seattle Art Museumwhich excels with both classic and contemporary worksthen step inside the Seattle Central Librarya gleaming 11-story glass-and-steel landmark with a light-filled interior. The Museum of Illusions astounds with mind-bendingInstagram-ready installations that play tricks on your perception. Ride the elevator to the 73rd-floor Sky View Observatory—its massive windows frame jaw-dropping views of the cityPuget Soundand even Mount Rainier on clear days. SPIN Seattle brings on the fun with ping-pongcocktailsand burgers to fuel the energy well into the night.

Eat and Drink

At the regal Fairmont Olympic Hoteldine on refined Pacific Northwest fare amid soaring Palladian windows in The Georgeand sip expertly crafted cocktails at the sophisticated Founders Club. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco’s Marin offers freshcoastal-inspired fare in a brightcontemporary setting. Reuben’s Brews has a sleek new taproom pouring award-winning beers alongside hearty bar snacks. Among the dozens of eateries at Pike Place MarketTom Douglas’ Mr. Fish serves outstanding chowders and fish and chips in a festive spot across from Victor Steinbrueck Parkand Maximilien offers sublime French classics and breathtaking Elliott Bay views—on cool eveningsbook a magical “Le Igloo” dome. More French-inspired market-to-table delights await at romantic Place Pigalle. Other downtown standouts include the Elliott Bar at the Grand Hyatt; Frolik Kitchen with its rooftop patio atop the Hilton Motif; and Rider (hoteltheodore.com) at Hotel Theodorewhere wood-fired seafood and meats shine.

Shop

Vibrant Pike Place Market overflows with one-of-a-kind boutiques and vendorsincluding Leolohandcrafting stylish leather shoesbeltswalletsand handbagsand Metsker Mapswhich carries eye-catching and practical solutions for all your navigational needs. Although now beloved nationallySur La Table was founded in Pike Place Market in 1972 and continues to stock an incredible selection of cookware and kitchen gear. Snap up keepsakesgourmet foodsand fun gifts created across the state at Made in Washingtonand essential oilstincturesexotic herbsincenseand wellness tools from around the world at Tenzing Momo herbal apothecary. Along downtown’s Pine/Pike corridoryou’ll find dozens of both local and national brandsfrom Ben Bridge Jeweler and the flagship Nordstrom department store.