Surrounded by water and mountains, with a breath-taking view of Mount Rainer off in the distance, Seattle, Washington is one of three gateway cities of the Pacific Northwest. Seattle has become one of the largest ports and thriving cities in the U.S., and families visiting there will have an abundance of things to do, from visiting observation towers, museums and zoos, to learning about the local history.
Families can roam the historical district of beautifully restored, architectural masterpieces, shop at one of the many independently-owned shops and visit the art galleries of Pioneer Square. For a trip under the sea families can look no further than the Seattle Aquarium and marvel at the sight of killer whales, jelly fish, sea anemones, otters and other underwater creatures. In the spring and summer a picnic lunch at the Waterfall Garden is a must before heading over to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
Green Lake Park is an expanse of water and green space drawing in thousands of people daily -- great for families who like to bike, run, skate, walk, boat or swim. It is a natural preserve to hundreds of species of plants, trees, birds and wildlife. Woodlark Park Zoo offers a different type of adventure, where families can view wild animals and participate in one of the many naturalist programs for kids or adults.
Families can climb, crawl and play their way through the many exhibits, daily programs and the imagination studio at the Children's Museum. Those looking for sky-high adventure can take a ride up to the observation deck of the world famous Space Needle and view the city or take a fast-paced ride on the Seattle Monorail. For the science lover the trip will not be complete without a stop by the Pacific Science Center where you can be transported back into the past with King Tutankhamen or blast to the future with the Star Wars exhibit.
The Museum of Flight offers children and adults alike the chance to become astronauts or work in mission control via the Challenger Learning Center. Families can also visit the Kubot Garden, an historical landmark that merges Japanese design techniques with North American materials. The garden is a beautiful setting of hills and valleys, streams, waterfalls and bridges, all dating back to 1927.
