My Seattle Guide

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New visitors would never guess the Woodland Park Zoo is over 100 years old, and one of the oldest on the west coast. The grounds, 92 acres in all, are well-kept and clean, allowing you to view almost 300 species of animals.

The zoo provides a home for 35 endangered and five threatened animal species. Its botanical collection includes 7,000 trees and more than 50,000 shrubs and herbs representing more than 1,000 species. There's also a food court, as well as seating area for those interested in packing a picnic lunch.

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Newly remodeled as of 2007, the Seattle Aquarium is one of the best attractions on the waterfront for kids. The exhibits start off with a bang when you walk in to see divers feeding the fish in an enormous tank near the entrance, and touching the starfish, sea cucumbers and anemones in the tide pools is fun for both kids and adults.

The overwhelming favorites seem to be the sea otters, who splash and float about in synchronized pairs, but the giant octopus is worth a peek as well!

Our Local Expert Says:

A beautiful secluded park in Pioneer Square, the perfect place to enjoy take out sandwiches from Salumi. Waterfalls cascade down large granite boulders surrounded by Japanese Maples and ferns.

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It's not a grassy, flowery garden - picture a Japanese zen oasis instead, with a high, rocky waterfall blocking the sounds of the city on all sides. With a few plants, benches and tables for two strewn about, this is the ideal spot for a couple looking to escape the hustle and bustle and steal an intimate moment together.

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Nine acres of fresh produce, seafood, coffee, donuts, crafts, unique restaurants and friendly vendors, all set against a backdrop of the Puget Sound - that's Pike Place Market, widely recognized as one of the oldest and best farmer's markets in the country. If you only have one day in Seattle, head downtown to get a real taste of the city in every sense. From fresh cheese curds at Beecher's to chowder at Pike Place Chowder, from necklaces and bags to hand-stitched leather journals and hats, from accordions to pianos to hula-hooping guitarists - there's something for your eyes, ears, and nose everywhere you look at the market.

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Looking for a hotel room with a view? The Westin hotel in Seattle is the tallest in the city with 47-stories - and with two towers, that's twice the number of windows overlooking downtown. With over 800 rooms, you're sure to find one with a gorgeous view of the Sound, the Needle, or the mountains. The Westin is also in a prime downtown location, just a stroll from shopping in Westlake Center or Pike Place Market.

In addition to great views, every room at The Westin features their signature Heavenly Beds and Baths for real comfort. Amenities include a gym, a kid's club, pool, in-room spa services and a business center.