Seattle for families A suggested one day itinerary
Morning: Accessible Seattle is as kid-friendly as it gets. Once you’ve had breakfast in your hotel — and, for the parents, plenty of the exceptional local coffee — make your way over to the centrally located Seattle Center. Originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair, this complex houses a park, museums, and other must-see landmarks. Stimulate younger visitors’ minds at the interactive Seattle Children’s Museum, take small tykes to the unique Artists at Play Playground (whose artist-designed play equipment includes music-making elements), and let older kids explore the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop), where they can see guitars once owned by local legends Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain — and even play video games in the Indie Game Revolution gallery.
Afternoon: Once the whole family has had their daily dose of culture and play, it’s time to head out into the great outdoors. Green Seattle is famous for its lush nature and many waterways, and one of the best ways to take in its wild beauty is on a ferry trip to Bainbridge Island. The 35-minute journey will introduce you to the beauty of Puget Sound (and provides kids with wildlife-spotting opportunities from the deck). Upon your arrival in Bainbridge Island, meander through the charming town of Winslow. If the fresh air has sharpened your appetites, head to Blackbird Bakery for soups, savoury tarts, and pastries. Kids will also love The Madison Diner, a retro diner whose history dates to 1948. Order chicken and waffles or mac and cheese, and wash it all down with old-fashioned milkshakes.
Evening: After you’ve had your collective fill — and have done a bit more wandering on Bainbridge Island — hop back on board the ferry to Downtown. If you time it just right, you’ll have the chance to take the kids up to the Space Needle’s observation deck just as the sun’s beginning to set, when the whole city lights up. After darkness sets in, return to street level and head off to dinner. Great State Burger’s Downtown location is only a few blocks away; in true Seattle style, the restaurant uses grass-fed meat, compostable packaging, and locally sourced ingredients.
Image credits:
Ferry © iStock: LoweStock
Seattle Center © Howard Frisk: Visit Seattle
