By Jennifer Morilla
Once upon a time, it was one of America’s major port cities. Back in the day, it was America’s gold rush that kept Seattle alive. Today – things are different and Seattle is known for doing things its own way. With property prices rising, and the food scene becoming one of the country’s most inviting food destinations in America, it’s no wonder Seattle is one of today’s most popular destinations. There is plenty to experience, but here are a few of the finest things I found the city has to offer.
Culture
Taking underground tours like, Beneath The Streets to check out Seattle’s old history and traditions during the Gold Rush years is a must do. Visiting Seattle’s famous tourist attraction, the Space Needle is also something worth checking out but only on a sunny day. Checking out Museums like Klondike Gold Rush Museum and the Bill & Melinda Gates Discovery Center (it’s free) was an inspirational and informative tour that stayed true to its advertising: “Arrive Curious, Leave Inspired”. Check out the top secret life of the Boeing Factory along with one of the coolest museums in Seattle, the Mohai Museum of History and Industry. You’ll be surprised to learn about the history of Seattle along with what the future of America could look like from Seattle’s perspective.
Boutique Luxury Hotel
Doors opened in 1909 and its’ first guests consisted of anxious prospectors, entrepreneurs, and curious tourists who attended the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific-Exposition, which was pretty much the first time anyone outside the Northwest had ever heard of Seattle. Hotel Sorrento became Seattle’s original hub of hospitality, creativity, and urban life. Over the years Hotel Sorrento has been remodeled and grown to adjust to the new city of Seattle. Less than ten mins from downtown its surrounded by world-class art, museums, and concert halls, a dozen restaurants, cafes, boutique, cocktail bars and nightclubs.
Hotel Sorrento has truly honored its landmark legacy while aligning with the fast-growing city of Seattle. It’s beautiful newly renovated Dunbar Room is a great place for a nice cocktail and delicious food with a cozy, relaxed, yet refined environment that makes you feel like you’re in an old Grand Central Station cafe. The menu is Italian-inspired with the freshest Northwest seafood pulled from the Pacific, local beef and sustainably raised pork and poultry. (Recommended favorite drinks: Sorrento 408 or Gatsby).
Need to unwind? One of the best parts of Hotel Sorrento isn’t just their amazing hospitality, great service, delicious foods, or amazing guest room beds, but their 5 o’clock free wine hour. Join everyone in the Fire Room at 5 o’clock every day for a free wine tasting.
The Garden is open during Seattle’s summer months. Surrounded by trees for some privacy and live music (Thursday- Saturday), it’s a place to gather for business, with friends or its all-night happy hour. Morning brunch makes you feel like you’re sitting at a cafe near a park in Paris in the middle of spring. While visiting make sure to ask the front desk of any events happening as they usually have activities like Yoga, Painting or even Pinot!
Dining
If you like Latin flavor, don’t miss the tapas bar, Tango Restaurant. The menu is inspired by countries like Spain, Latin America, and Cuba. End your meal with the El Diablo Dessert, as featured on the Food Network. Their happy hour is also known to be one of the best in the city.
Oysters are on most menus in Seattle as Seattle is one best places to eat fresh oysters! Elliot’s Oyster House has stunning waterfront views and oysters of any kind picked daily and paired with only the best wines. Show up with a big group but expect a wait, so make sure to call ahead for reservations.
Dessert – Ice Cream with a twist
Don’t forget about the best the part of eating- Dessert! Salt & Straw, an ice cream shop that has taken ice cream to a whole new level! A Portland, Oregon founded company that now resides its franchise only on the West Coast. By only doing business with local products and businesses it helps support local communities. You’ll only find Salt & Straw in Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. With flavors like Crackling Duck with Cherry Preserves, Toyko PB & J, and Roasted Beets & Humboldt Fog, you’ll be inspired to live on the edge and try them all.
