Walk to These 9 Top Seattle Attractions
No car? No problem. Much of Seattle’s beauty lies in its walkability, especially during the summer. It’s true that the city’s hills aren’t for the faint of heart. But those willing to conquer the occasional inclines will discover a unique side to Seattle.
Like many cities, in Seattle there’s so much to be seen while you’re on the way. Walk to the Seattle Aquarium and you pass through Pike Place Market, a place where the perfume of spring flowers linger alongside freshly caught fish. Walk to the Smith Tower and you’ll encounter Pioneer Square, the heart of Seattle’s original neighborhood.
There’s no limit what you’ll discover on your adventure to these 9 popular downtown Seattle attractions, each within walking distance of Motif Seattle.
Westlake Center
This four-story shopping center is a downtown Seattle staple. Find big name brands like Nordstrom Rack and Zara or indulge in self-care essentials at Lush, then head up to the food court. But beyond the stores, Westlake Center is also a microcosm of Seattle culture. Catch the signature Seattle monorail at Westlake Center’s top floor, or listen to buskers at Westlake Park across the street.
Benaroya Hall
Benaroya Hall is the home of the Seattle Symphony, so it should be your first stop if you’re in search of music culture. But Benaroya hosts more symphony spectaculars. Attend a tour of the famous concert hall as well as performances from acts like the Seattle Men’s Chorus or the Seattle Chamber Music Society’s Summer Festival.
Seattle Public Library - Central Library
If you read the word library and thought you may as well keep scrolling, don’t. Sure, the Seattle Public Library’s Central Branch has books aplenty, but the building itself is also a work of art. Constructed entirely of glass in intriguing geometric shapes, the Central Branch may be one of the more unique buildings in downtown. Within, discover oddities like the red floor.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of the most iconic downtown Seattle attractions. It also happens to sit just 0.3 miles from Motif Seattle. Sweeten your morning at the Daily Dozen Doughnut Company. Return in the afternoon to witness the signature fish toss. Stop by in the evening to snag a picture with the ever Instagrammable neon sign.
The Showbox
Seattle is a music city. Stay true to the city’s heritage by seeing a show at an intimate downtown venue. Located only a few blocks from Pike Place, The Showbox hosts both seasoned acts and up and comers. The flashy neon signs outside and the chandeliers and soft red lighting within only add to the venue’s grungy spirit.
5th Avenue Theater
Step into show business at the 5th Avenue Theater. One of downtown Seattle’s finest venues, the 5th Avenue Theater hosts touring Broadway and off-Broadway performances. On deck for the 2019-20 season? Mrs. Doubtfire, Sister Act, Jersey Boys, and more.
Seattle Aquarium
A city on a bay is only as good as its aquarium. Fortunately, the Seattle Aquarium is something to behold. Located on Alaskan Way below Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium emphasizes the preservation of the marine environment. Peek at birds like the Tufted Puffin, mammals like sea otters and fur seals, and, of course, fish, including species from puffers to salmon.
Seattle Great Wheel
After your visit to the Seattle Aquarium, stop by for a ride on the Great Wheel to discover some of Seattle’s best views. The Great Wheel sits on a pier overlooking Elliott Bay, so you’ll get a good look at the waterways leading up to Seattle. Look back at the city while at the top of the wheel to also catch a glimpse of the remarkable skyline.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Next to being a music city, Seattle is known as a coffee capital. Starbucks probably has something to do with that. Though the original Starbucks is also within walking distance of Motif Seattle, we recommend instead heading to the first Starbucks Reserve Roastery. Immerse yourself in passion for coffee at this one-of-a-kind space featuring a one-of-a-kind coffee menu.
This summer, see Seattle on foot. You’ll beat traffic, up your step count, and see parts of Seattle you wouldn’t have noticed had you traveled only by car. Lace up your shoes, step out Motif’s front door, and acquaint yourself with your new favorite city.
Ready for you next Seattle adventure?