DK Travel : Seattle

Over the last decade, Seattle has blossomed into a bustling powerhouse of influence, steering the future of high technology as well as popular culture. The population of this vibrant metropolis is fueled by the latest in software, espresso drinks, music, and visual art that’s often as far on the leading edge as the city itself. Seattle has emerged as one of the most attractive cities in the United States, with an ever-changing skyline that reflects the pioneering spirit that brought settlers here in the mid-19th century.

Old Trolley Barn

This large brick warehouse used to house Seattle’s early mass transit vehicles, the trolleys. Since then, the building has been a microbrewery, an event rental facility, and a gourmet chocolate factory.
Olsen’s Scandinavian Foods

One of several Scandinavian import shops – this one specializing in their own smoked fish and homemade lutefisk – the traditional delicacy of cod soaked in lye.
Olympia

Washington’s state capital has a rich past, historic buildings, and a thriving youth culture. Highlights include the State Capitol Campus, with grounds designed by the Olmsted Brothers in 1928, Evergreen State University, a farmers’ market, and the surrounding mostly rural Thurston County.
Other Coast

Bridge the distance to New York City-style delicatessens by grabbing a sandwich here. Stick to basics such as the reuben with stone-ground mustard or the 12-inch meat or vegetarian subs.
Ototo

Caters to the sushi crowd with a stellar sake selection and slick service in an artistically designed shop.
Outdoor Cinema

The trompe d’oeuil screen and curtains on a factory wall attract hundreds of attendees for campy feature films. It grew from a sparsely attended free affair to a popular summer weekend event that charges admission. Part old-fashioned American drive-in, part Fremont irreverence, people bring their own chairs or sofas and occasionally compete in film-related games between reels. The shows begin after sundown, but audiences begin arriving for the best seats by mid-afternoon.
Pacific Place

Part of a $500 million development plan, this is the crown jewel of Seattle’s retail shopping centers. Stores include Tiffany & Co., Coach, Ann Taylor, Helly Hansen, Cartier, Pottery Barn, L’Occitane, Aveda, and Williams-Sonoma. The top level has an 11-screen AMC Theatre complex and several fine gourmet restaurants. There is also a skybridge connection to Nordstrom’s flagship store.
Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival

Philippine independence is celebrated in mid-June with colorful costumes, dance, film, drama, and culinary arts.
Panama Hotel

Sabro Ozasa, a Japanese architect and graduate of the UW, built this hotel in 1910. Since then, it has housed Japanese immigrants, Alaskan fisherman, and international travelers. It is also home to the country’s only remaining Japanese bathhouse (sento ); it’s no longer in use, however. A multi-lingual staff is on hand to assist guests. The hotel also offers free wireless Internet access.
Paperhaus

Shop for contemporary presentation supplies and storage materials from award-winning manufacturers such as NAVA, Prat, and Rexite. Unique binders or photo albums are also available.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with two glasses of wine (or equivalent) and tax.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
- $55–$80
- over $80
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$250
- $250–$300
- over $300