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.

University Village

Renovated and repositioned as a stellar shopping destination this open-air mall just east of the UW has lovely landscaped walk-ways, fountains, restaurants, and stores that no longer attract just the resident graduate student population. Key stores include Abercrombie & Fitch, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Restoration Hardware, and Banana Republic.
Up Pine Down Pike

Morning

Begin your late morning promenade at the corner of Pine and Melrose with a strong coffee at Bauhaus Books & Coffee , a long-time Capitol Hill hangout. Walk along Pine (slightly uphill towards Broadway) but don’t pass up Vintage Chick next door to Bauhaus for used duds with an edge. Area 51 (401 E Pine St) is a huge space filled with vintage furniture and kitschy one-of-a-kinds. One block farther east lies Linda’s Tavern , a legendary local watering hole frequented by musicians and record label folk that you can scope out for a later visit. Cross Harvard Avenue and you’ll notice the vintage Egyptian Theater (see Egyptian) on your right, showcasing independent and foreign films.

Afternoon

Cross Broadway, walk four blocks, and turn right on 13th Avenue to Pike Street. Turn right and have lunch at Elysian Brewery (see Elysian), home of Seattle’s most outstanding pale ale. Walk downhill on Pike to the Comet (922 E Pike St), a grungy tavern that’s popular with local musicians and wannabes. Cross Broadway and dream about a purchase at Phil Smart’s (600 E Pike) for your gold-trimmed imported sports car, or browse at Beyond the Closet (see Beyond the Closet Bookstore) for the latest in gay and lesbian literature. Check in with those far away at Uncle Elizabeth’s Internet Café (1123 Pike St), as down-town’s skyline slips into view two blocks away.
Vagabond Inn

Located on noisy Aurora Avenue, the Vagabond is convenient to Seattle Center. Start your day with a complimentary Continental breakfast and a swim in the pool.
Vain

An innovative one-stop shop for hip consumers who need to mainline trendiness. Discover a full service salon, beauty supply store, independent designer boutique, and an artist gallery.
Value Village

This large thrift store is a Seattle original and has no pretension whatsoever. Items here are not necessarily fashionable, but they are always inexpensive.
Varsity

The Varsity has thrived since it opened in 1940.
Vashon Island

Vashon’s gentle, two-lane roads make it a favorite destination for both bicyclists and motorcyclists looking for a quick and unique getaway to the countryside. Board the Fauntleroy Ferry (see Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal) in West Seattle to discover the island’s huge estates, arts and craft galleries, berry and llama farms, and a subculture of 1960s-style progressives.
Victoria, BC

Catch a ferry or seaplane to British Columbia’s provincial capital, Victoria. Established as a Hudson’s Bay Company furtrading post in 1843, it has become a favorite destination for Anglophiles who queue up at the grand Fairmont Empress Hotel for traditional tea and cakes. Other attractions include the Inner Harbour, the Royal British Columbia Museum, and Butchart Gardens – an amazing collection of flora planted in a sprawling former quarry.
Victrola

A real neighborhood café where baristas serve Capitol Hill’s Vivace espresso and drip coffee from beans roasted at Lighthouse Roasters in Fremont. The aesthetics reflect music and art of the 1920s and 30s.
Volunteer Park

Between 1904 and 1909, the Olmsted Brothers turned these 45 acres of hilltop into a bucolic grass meadow with a fantastic view. The park now houses the Seattle Asian Art Museum, the Volunteer Park Conservatory, and an observation tower (see Volunteer Park Observation Tower). It’s also a notorious gay pick-up scene at night.

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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