Things To Do
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is Seattle's first farmer's market, bustling with dozens and dozens of local vendors, restaurants, and gift shops. In May, the market typically includes rows of seasonal flower stalls. Our favorite place to grab a bite at Pike Place is Piroshki Piroshki, which offers authentic Russian pastries you can eat as you walk through the market. Right next to Piroshki Piroshki, you can re-caffeinate and snag some merch at the very first Starbucks ever! And don't miss a traditional fish toss at the famous Pike Place Fish Market!
Seattle Aquarium
As part of your trip to Pike Place Market, head down to the Seattle Aquarium to learn about our local marine ecosystem and wildlife. Our favorite exhibit has to be the giant Pacific octopus, but a close second is of course the adorable sea otters. And check out the brand new Ocean Pavilion, completed in 2024!
Fremont Troll
The Fremont Troll is a hidden treasure for fans of the 1999 classic 10 Things I Hate About You (one of Whitney's favorite movies). Shot in Seattle, the movie briefly features a scene including this iconic troll, which you can witness in person if you know where to look.
Point Defiance Park
If the weather cooperates, head to Point Defiance Park in Tacoma to get a great waterfront view of Mount Rainier, take an urban hike through the park, or stroll through Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium to see lions and polar bears. For fellow Dune fans, visit Dune Peninsula to see sandworm sculptures in honor of Tacoma native Frank Herbert. Dune was one of the first books we read together in our two-person sci fi book club! While you're in the area, take a stroll along the scenic Ruston Way Waterfront Park and stop by the Waterfront Market for some shopping and support local businesses.
Mount Rainier National Park
Hiking Mount Rainier was our favorite "date" activity in 2020 when there wasn't much else to do for dates. The hikes are unparalleled in their beauty, and the mountain herself (an active volcano) is an astonishing 14,410 feet tall! Mount Rainier is the most topographically prominent peak in the contiguous U.S. The entrance near Ashford is the closest entrance to the wedding venue. In May, there will still be quite a bit of snow on the mountain, so be sure to check the website for updates on road conditions and area closures. We recommend a hike closer to the base of the mountain to avoid snowy conditions. Carter Falls is a great option near Longmire that delivers a gorgeous waterfall at the end of a moderate climb. On a clear Washington day, the favorite greeting amongst locals is "The Mountain is out!"
Olympic Peninsula
The Olympic Peninsula itself could be a month-long trip, and even then, there would still be more to explore. But a few popular spots include Hurricane Ridge for mountain hiking, Hoh Rainforest for fairytale hiking, and Neah Bay or Ruby Beach for a classic Twilight-esque Washington coastline. Our first camping trip together was at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park [seen in the picture above]. When passing through Hoodsport on your way to the National Park, stop by Hama Hama for farm-to-table oysters by the water. Visit Port Townsend for some old-town shopping, wine tasting, or to catch a whale watching tour through the San Juan Islands. If you're lucky, you might see some orcas! Nearby Sequim is the lavender capital of North America, but sadly the lavender fields won't be blooming yet in May.
Friday Harbor
Friday Harbor is an essential stop if you're hoping to take a tour through the San Juan Islands. Packed with restaurants, shops, and a gorgeous waterfront, it's the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon or as a lunch stop on your whale watching tour.