If you are staying in South Lake Union there is a great pedestrian / bike path that you can take north to Fremont (about 2.1 miles). Fremont Brewing Company is one of our favorite local breweries. From there it's a 10-minute walk to Gas Works Park where you can get a great view of the Seattle skyline.
It's really all in the name. Find funky treasures and delicious food trucks down this row. Theo Chocolate is located at the end of the market in case your blood sugar gets low.
Watch the boats make the transition between the fresh water of Lake Washington and the Puget Sound! Elizabeth grew up helping her dad navigate their 36' Grand Banks, Magnolia, through these locks every summer in preparation for family adventures in the San Juan Islands. Or head to the fish ladder and check out the salmon. Sockeye season begins mid-June so the ladder should be pretty active. Afterwards, grab a bite at the Sloop Tavern. And if you're really thirsty we recommend ordering a sloopersize beer :)
Head up to the top of this historic building and grab a cocktail while looking over Elliott Bay.
Grab the West Seattle Water Taxi from the South end of the Seattle Ferry Terminal and enjoy the 10-minute ride to West Seattle. Marination Ma Kai is located at the top of the dock. Be prepared for a little bit of a line, this place has a following, but it's worth it. Our favorites are the fish tacos and the sliders.
Formerly known as Paseo, these Cuban sandwiches are a Schalka staple. Michael used to come home from the East Coast and head straight to this place from the airport. Order the #1, the Caribbean Roast. Eat it at the shop or go find a bench along the marina (be warned, every dog will want to be your friend).
If you're looking for a more lengthy excursion, take the ferry to Bainbridge Island (approx. 35 minutes, just enough time to enjoy a beer). It's a quick walk into the heart of town where you will find fun local shops and great food. We recommend eating at Bruciato Pizza or Hitchcock Cafe.
This place is like having a bartender in your own backyard. Relax in an adirondack chair or try your hand at a variety of yard games.