The Best Landmarks in Seattle

Without knowing it we chose to go to the Space Needle at the best time possible. It was back to school for families and 5pm when locals are heading to happy hour or heading home. We walked right up, bought tickets to the observatory, and headed to the top. I wrote about my experience on the page specifically for the observatory. After our visit to the top we walked around the store on the ground level. Like any shop that sells souvenirs, they had a lot to choose from. They had some really good specials running and it was tempting to buy several things. They also had some amazing glass pieces. We also talked with one of the workers and he was very nice and gave us recommendations for places.

I absolutely LOVE the Smith Tower. I literally tell people all the time to come visit here if they have the time and the chance while they're downtown. It's just as great of a view from the Space Needle, if not better, in my opinion. There's a cute little gift shop in the lobby of the tower, and you get a great ride up in the elevator with the conductor. I've gone a couple times and each time have had the same elevator conductor and he's always hilarious and very personable. Fun fact: Did you know Seattle's Pixar location is located in the Smith Tower? You heard it here first, folks. The bar that they have at the top is a must-visit too. There's even light bites that you can order.

My wife and I were at the University of Washington for 13 years combined, and neither of us knew the spot really existed until we started looking for dinosaur exhibits for our kids. This museum is a delight! Upon walking in you're greeted by some friendly folks at the counter who gave great directions and some nice suggestions for things to do for the little dudes. The dinosaur exhibit was quite impressive. It was a nice synopsis about dinosaurs who had lived in the area as well as the volcanoes that were in the area. There was enough interactive stuff to keep the little guys entertained, and enough scholarly type to get the rest of us interested in learning.