11 Reasons to Pack Your Bags and Head to Seattle Now

Because Seattle is situated between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, it's no surprise why the majority of locals spend so much time on the water. Not only is this a great gateway for serenity — especially with the gorgeous Mount Rainier in the background — but it's also the perfect excuse to escape the buzzing city center.

Looking to get on the water yourself? Well, you're in luck! From ferries to sailboats, there are plenty of options for rides taking place all throughout the day. You can check out the daily schedule here. And although the snow-capped mountain can be quite captivating once you start gliding, don't forget to look back toward the city, as a breathtaking view of the skyline will be waiting to grab your attention.

Don't think you'll need to wait until midafternoon to stumble upon fantastic food and drink deals when in Seattle. When it comes to this corner of the Northwest, this city is known for its budget-friendly finds all day long. Yes, even in the morning!

For instance, if you're craving hearty breakfast classics, make your way over to the quirky American diner known as 5 Spot. Here, you can score amazing deals starting at 8 a.m. (even on drinks!) every weekday morning. Another happy hour worth noting is the one taking place at Skillet Diner (pictured above). From shrimp and watermelon skewers to hush puppies and garlic hand-cut fries, you'll find discounts every day of the week.

But if you're really hungry, be sure to check out Beth's Cafe. Known for its infamous 12-egg omelet, this eatery is an iconic staple around Seattle and is open around the clock, 24/7!

Forget about climbing to the top of the Space Needle for spectacular views. Why not get to know the city from even higher by hopping aboard a seaplane instead? During this 20-minute ride, you'll cover over 31 miles of Seattle, taking in both the area's natural and man-made beauty. And if you don't want to stop the good times just yet, you can even extend your scenic flight to discover more of the Northwest by checking out the neighboring islands. Talk about an unforgettable experience!

While it might not seem as dominating today, Seattle's renowned Smith Tower used to be among the tallest skyscrapers outside of New York City at the time of its completion in 1914. In fact, it remained the tallest building on the West Coast until the Space Needle took the crown in 1962.

Nonetheless, this 484-foot tower will always be recognized as the oldest skyscraper in this city. Visitors are encouraged to climb the 38 floors to the world-famous observatory and take in the phenomenal 360-degree views of Seattle and beyond!

Looking to contribute to the greatness of Seattle? Well, the Market Theater Gum Wall is the perfect place to do so. Tucked away downtown in Post Alley (right under Pike Place Market), you will find a brick wall covered in used chewing gum. As strange as it might sound, the infamous Gum Wall has become a local landmark over the years.

Although the wall was cleaned back in 2015 — workers removed over 2,350 pounds of gum — it is slowly being rebuilt, one chew at a time. So hey, if you are tired of blowing bubbles and want to contribute your own sticky gum to the wall, you're encouraged to do so. Just remember to bring hand sanitizer!

Prepare to be amazed once you stumble upon the city's Central Library. Serving as the flagship for the Seattle Public Library, this 11-story building is way more than a place for book storage. Just one look will be all it takes to realize this glass-and-steel institution is an architectural masterpiece!

As a matter of fact, this building was once voted No. 108 on the American Institute of Architects' list of Americans' 150 favorite structures in the United States. With its unique, striking appearance and over 362,000 square feet to explore, this library is certainly worth checking out. You can even join an architecture tour to learn more!

If you ask me, Seattle and coffee go hand in hand. I mean, hello, it was the first home for Starbucks.

Although the Emerald City is known for having some of the best coffee in the world, these days it's not the megachains that are brewing the tastiest beans. No, if you want an extraspecial jolt of caffeine, you'll have to hit up the more local roasters. Just don't be surprised if it's love at first sip, as Seattle has built the reputation of being the specialty coffee capital of the entire planet throughout the last few years! So you can rest assured knowing your cup of joe will certainly be one to remember.

Slate, Milstead & Co., and Preserve and Gather are just a few of the many, many beloved cafes scattered around the city.

Witnessing the salmon migration is one experience that should be on everyone's Seattle bucket list. In fact, these salmon swimming upstream is so mesmerizing, it's become an annual event in the city called Salmon Seeson. (Get it?)

During this time, you can watch thousands of salmon migrate up the fish ladder in Ballard Locks. Professional naturalists also provide daily talks throughout this celebration and offer free one-hour tours.

With jaw-dropping views of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, Elliot Bay, and — if you're lucky — Mount Rainier, there is no doubt Kerry Park is one of the most beloved spots in the entire city, both by residents and tourists alike. But what makes this 1.26-acre park even more unique is the serenity that comes along with it, especially as the evening pulls the sun under for the day.

And if you happen to be in the mood for more green space and captivating views, don't think you'll have to venture very far, as Parsons Garden — another tranquil hidden gem — is just a short walk away. Furthermore, the lush Green Lake Park and breathtaking Seattle Arboretum are two additional peaceful spots to reconnect with nature.

Of course, what would be a trip to the Emerald City without stopping by Pike Place Market? While this is the place of the original Starbucks, did you also know it is the home to one of the country's oldest farmers markets? But wait, it gets better.

Since its opening in 1907, Pike Place Market has transformed into more than just a staple for fruits and veggies. Today, this market is a vibrant, lively community comprising hundreds of farmers, craftspeople, small businesses, and residents. In other words, you've got to check it out. And with nine acres to explore, get ready for the ultimate multisensory experience!

Located at Pier 57 on the Puget Sound is where you'll find the thrilling Seattle Great Wheel. Standing strong at a height of 175 feet, this gigantic, 170,000-pound ride was once the tallest Ferris wheel on the West Coast when it opened in 2012. Nowadays, it's the ultimate viewing experience. As passengers are lifted high above, they can feast their eyes on magnificent views of the city, sound, and mountains, all while taking in the calming waterfront glistening below their feet.

If you ask me, this is the perfect time to commemorate and reminisce on your Northwest adventure . . . as well as plot your return.