Alexis & Brendan
Things to do + Food to Eat
Pike Place Market
Pike Place is a MUST for first time Seattle visitors. Check out the flying fish stand and adorable little market shops. We would end up bringing home a bouquet of flowers every time we visited. There are various levels so make sure you give yourself enough time to explore thoroughly. :)
The Gum Wall
Might as well check out the gum wall just for kicks while you're at Pike Place
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Beautiful glass art exhibits highlighting Dale Chihuly's work.
Space Needle
We went to the Space Needle for our first Valentine's Day together when they were hosting a special event with charcuterie + wine flights. The views are amazing and definitely a fun experience! The Loupe Lounge has special reservations where you can have curated food + beverage pairings for a unique Space Needle experience, but definitely recommend booking in advance if you're interested.
The Seattle Great Wheel
The first time we went to Seattle together we ended up on the Great Wheel. We loved taking our friends here to have a silly signature beverage and experience the views when they were visiting us.
Seattle Aquarium
Who doesn't love checking out a local aquarium! The first time we visited the Seattle Aquarium we had only been dating for two months. We ended up sitting through a squid dissection & holding hands #romance. If you're interested in visiting, make sure you check out their daily presentations and activities listed on the main website- they have sea otter feedings!
Museum of Pop Culture
MOPOP has a variety of rotating exhibits as well as a couple permanent collections including a huge display dedicated to Jimi Hendrix (Seattle native). We loved seeing movie props from the fantasy and sci-fi exhibits the best!
Seattle Donut Boats
There are lots of water activities offered on Lake Union. People love to kayak, paddle board, & even take some donut boats out to see the views!
Bainbridge Island
We highly recommend you experience a Washington ferry at least once while visiting Seattle to enjoy the upper deck views of the mountains. It is a 30 minute ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. There are a variety of little wineries, breweries, and shops to explore. Link to Pier 52 ferry schedule: https://wsdot.com/ferries/vesselwatch/terminaldetail.aspx?terminalid=7
Starbucks Reserve
Starbucks Reserve has speciality drinks + small bites that you can enjoy while viewing the packaging of coffee beans (if you're lucky). They have a full bar and bakery where we 100% recommend the espresso martini flights. We usually end up getting a little croissant sandwich too. It can be a bit busy and chaotic at times so prepare to wait in line a bit during busy hours.
The Original Starbucks
The very first Starbucks location is located near Pike Place. It is typically very crowded and difficult to get a beverage, but still cool to see. Especially the original logo!
Purple Cafe and Wine Bar
A more upscale option for lunch or dinner. Super pretty with great cocktails, wine, & food options. They have a small outside patio as well!
Rachel's Ginger Beer
Our favorite spot to grab a beverage before browsing Pike Place. They have a variety of ginger beer flavors made with love that you can use to craft your own cocktail (or have just a ginger beer which is nonalcoholic), although we recommend choosing from their seasonal menu. They also have dole whip if you're looking for a little cold treat!
Biscuit Bitch
Located near Pike Place; grab breakfast sandwiches to go when you want a more casual but well known breakfast choice (you can order ahead online as well). We could never make it off the ferry in time to try a biscuit before they closed for the day lol but it has been on our bucket list!!
Belmont
Moody cocktail lounge in Capitol Hill. Great cocktails + light bites. Our bff Mike loves the brie from here!
Tavolàta
Tavolàta is right across the street from the Belmont. We would frequently put our name in at Tavolàta and get drinks across the street while we were waiting. 10/10 recommend the gnocchi alla romana.
Terra Plata
Terra Plata is right next to the Starbucks Reserve. They have a gorgeous covered rooftop patio. Definitely check out the menu before going to see if they have something that piques your interest.
La Fontana Siciliana
Romantic outdoor garden Italian dining