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Going from tour guide neophyte to true Seattleite
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Don't get me wrong - I enjoy watching fish being hurled through the air at Pike Place Market, I giggle like I’m in on a secret when I see the scantily clad mermaid on the original Starbucks logo, and I would love to take a picture where it looks like I'm touching the top of the Space Needle with one finger.
But as a Seattleite for 2.5 years now, I take my responsibility of showing off my new city to visitors from back home very seriously and the big-name touristy spots just don't do it justice. Here are some city activities I’ve tested that make me feel like a good tour guide and leave my East Coast guests feeling pleasantly surprised by Seattle: .jpg)
1.) Fremont Troll / Canal Street Coffee
I like to drive by this frighteningly loveable fellow, take a couple snapshots, proceed to Canal Street Coffee, and sit outside watching boaters go by on the canal.
Fremont Troll (Mike Seigel/Seattle Times, 2004)
2.) Smith Tower Observation Deck
It's cheaper than visting the Space Needle (especially for big groups) with shorter lines and a hell of a view.
3.) Picnic at Kubota Garden
A free, Japanese-style park and garden with great views and beautifully unmanicured spots for lounging and picnicking.
4.) Go fly a kite at Gas Works Park
Pick out a killer kite at the Gas Works Park Kite Shop (trust me - it will bring out the kid in you) and find a windy spot on of the hills of Gas Works Park, which is a sight in and of itself.
5.) Historic ghost tours
I stopped complaining about how I miss living in a city with a complex history once I went on the Spooked in Seattle ghost tour of the Seattle Pier. They have one in Capital Hill as well.
6.) Agua Verde Cafe & Paddle Club
Not only can you impress your guests by taking them to a restaurant featured on Rachael Ray, but you can treat them to a truly Seattle experience too by renting kayaks afterwards.
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