I only had 24 hours in this American city. I can’t wait to go back
Before I travelled to Seattle for the very first time, the city wasn’t one that I knew too much about.
With that considered, it was one I should have had high expectations for and a city that I can’t wait to visit again.
The pier in Seattle. Lachlan Harper
My recent visit to the capital of Washington state was fleeting, with only a night and morning to explore.
I was there during the FIFA World Cup, along with thousands of other football fans to watch the USA vs Australia game the next day.
My spot to stay was Belltown Inn, a hotel situated perfectly in the middle of the city with a convenience store nearby.
In fact, the hotel’s motto printed on entry signs even said: “walk to everything!” The walkability of Seattle was something I really enjoyed.
How to access Seattle’s landmarks
My venture out of the hotel started after 4pm, with a much-needed CityPass in hand.
The CityPass offers entry to various attractions that include the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Argosy Cruise, Museum of Pop Culture, Woodland Park Zoo and Pacific Science Centre.
My plan was to see at least two before grabbing an early dinner.
The early dinner didn’t quite go to plan.
Belltown Inn Seattle is in a perfect location. Belltown Inn
Space Needle, Chihuly and Museum of Pop Culture were all in walking distance from the Belltown Inn. I decided to do the first two.
Space Needle offered a 360 view of the whole city and a rotating floor, it can be completed rather quickly depending on your time constraints.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass meant any plans of an early dinner went out the window. It was mesmerising.
Chihuly is named after Dale Chihuly, an American glass artist, whose work is brilliant.
There are many sculptures and compositions that are just stunning to witness, such as ‘Winter Brilliance’ and ‘Persian Ceiling’. The stories behind some of his work goes back decades.
One of the ceiling compositions at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Lachlan Harper
Then as you step through the garden, you can also enjoy a public demonstration into how glass objects are made. It’s fascinating.
Shannon is the voice behind it all, and Paul is the glassblower. They provide a look into how to make a vase and keep you curious throughout the half an hour show.
Unfortunately, because I had sat mesmerised by the glass show I missed out on time to see the Museum of Pop Culture. It’ll be on my list for next time.
But there was still daylight and enough time to walk through the Public Market Centre where there are plenty of food options and, of course, the famous Gum Wall.
It was a little tricky to find with Google Maps as you need to go downstairs, but just ask someone if you get lost.
What exists at The Gum Wall is exactly what you expect, a wall full of gum and is a representation into the art vibes of Seattle.
The Seattle Gum Wall in Post Alley. iStock
Heading to the stadium?
Now I had only left myself a short window for eating, and I ended up near Seattle Stadium.
There are plenty of bars near the stadium, perfect if you’re travelling to see the famous ground that hosts the Seattle Seahawks.
Elysian Fields brewery and public house hit the spot with plenty of local beers and a nice selection of food.
The burger of the month then was the Grunge Burger which included “not dog” seasoned quarter pound Angus beef, cream cheese, grilled onion, jalapeño, sauerkraut, mustard aioli on a brioche bun. Throw in some fries too.
A friend ordered the fields nachos which was green chilli cheese sauce, pickled red onion, tomato, jalapeño, scallions, radish, sour cream, guacamole, salsa roja, lime. A proper American experience.
The nachos in Seattle. Lachlan Harper
A quick run and coffee in the morning
For the next morning, I’d heard about Seattle’s coffee scene.
From the Belltown Inn, the four-kilometre run down to the pier and back offers some up-hill and down-hill experiences but nothing to tough.
As I ran I was looking for good cafés. There were plenty. Unfortunately, most had lines out the door. A sure sign of the quality on offer.
The menu at Biscuit Bitch in Seattle. Lachlan Harper
The curiously named ‘Biscuit Bitch’ sits near Belltown Inn and had everything I needed anyway. Be sure to try the Bitchwich biscuit sandwich on your travels.
By the time coffee was done, the check-out followed and a full Seattle Stadium experience was next. This may have been the saddest part of my time in Seattle because the Socceroos lost 2-0.
But the walk to the stadium was a unique American experience among the ‘USA’ chants.
While those chants hurt the ears of some, for me, it only confirmed my intention that one day I’ll be back in Seattle.
The writer travelled with support from BrandUSA, and Destination Vancouver.
