Don’t miss these three hidden gems in Seattle
Planning a trip to Seattle and want to get off the beaten path? A Seattle local reveals the city’s best-kept secrets.
Liz Johnson works at Visit Seattle and knows the Emerald City inside out. We asked Liz what her favourite less known spots are in Seattle. These are her suggestions.
Washington State Ferry
The largest commuter ferry network in the United State, the green-and-white ferries connect Seattle to a variety of island communities around Puget Sound. Hop on board to explore beaches, local food and drink, stunning vistas and the slower pace of Bainbridge, Vashon Island and the Kitsap Peninsula. An added bonus are the picturesque views of the Seattle skyline. If you have a car, head north to Anacortes and catch the boat to the San Juan Islands, known for their abundant wildlife and outdoor recreation.
Frelard
A portmanteau of the neighborhoods Fremont and Ballard, this semi-industrial area along the Lake Washington Ship Canal, is home to some of Seattle’s best beer. Eleven breweries exist within the roughly six block radius, making the local beer scene easy to explore on foot. On a sunny day, pull up a seat at an outdoor picnic table and order a sampler—the best way to find your new favorite beer. Some of the more popular breweries are Reuben’s Brews, Stoup Brewing and Bad Jimmy’s, each offering classic beers along with their own craft stylings. If you get hungry along the way, many of the breweries bring a rotating array of local food trucks to their taprooms.
Volunteer Park
Avoid the crowds at Kerry Park and get your picture of the Space Needle and the Seattle skyline from Volunteer Park. Tucked into the hip Capitol Hill neighborhood, this 48-acre park offers plenty of green spaces and paths to stroll. Visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum, part of the Seattle Art Museum complex, the check out Black Sun, a sculpture by Isamu Noguchi rumored to be the inspiration for Seattle-born Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”. Nearby, you’ll also find the Volunteer Park Conservatory greenhouse and the grave of martial artist Bruce Lee, who spent many years in Seattle.
Finnair flies direct from Helsinki to Seattle 1.6.–28.10.2022.