Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest and boasts a beautiful, albeit rainy, coastal setting on Puget Sound. Though cities like Paris and Venice may be higher on the list of world's most romantic cities, Seattle does offer plenty of romantic places for dating couples. Whether you're perusing Pike Place Market for fresh produce or strolling through Gasworks Park, Seattle has plenty of fantastic date spots.
Designed by Masao Kinoshita and opened in 1977, these lovely landscaped gardens off Second Avenue in Pioneer Square feature a Zenlike 22-foot waterfall perfect for drowning out any ambient urban noise. The gardens feature bright flowerpots and Japanese maples, and you'll find tables and chairs for relaxing as you enjoy the falls. You and your date will feel truly secluded here as you enjoy a picnic or late afternoon cocktail amidst the sounds of cascading water. Waterfall Garden is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Entrance is free to the public.
Waterfall Garden
Pioneer Square
219 Second Avenue South
Seattle, WA 98104
206-624-6096
This famous public market occupies nine acres overlooking Elliott Bay and is a great place to take a date, especially if you're from out of town. Established in 1907, Pike Place Market has become a Seattle icon and a popular date spot. Here you'll find a wide range of high-end farm stands to explore, including fishmongers, bakeries, meat purveyors, fruit and vegetable stands, and florists. Many artists, musicians and street performers congregate in and around Pike Place Market, so it's always a lively scene, especially on weekends when the place really fills up. The market is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Pike Place Market
1st and Pike
Seattle, WA
206-682-7453
pikeplacemarket.org
Built in 1962, the Space Needle is perhaps Seattle's most famous icon, and although it may seem like a tourist trap at first glance, the views from the top are undeniably gorgeous, especially on sunny afternoons. On clear days you'll be able to see snowcapped Mt. Rainier, the Olympic mountain range and the Cascade Mountains. Complimentary Swarovski telescopes help you zoom in for a closer look, whether you want to catch an inning at Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners, or watch the boats in Elliott Bay. Featured in the movie Sleepless In Seattle, the Space Needle's SkyCity restaurant offers an elegant, romantic setting to enjoy a wide range of gourmet dishes.
Space Needle
219 4th Ave. N
Seattle, WA 98109
206-905-2100
spaceneedle.com
