We had the opportunity to live in Seattle for the month of April this year, and wow, what a place! We loved every minute of it and wish we could stay!
Seattle is a foodie’s haven. Seriously, be prepared to EAT. It’s such a beautiful and expansive city, with many incredible day or weekend trips for the adventurer at heart. There’s endless possibilities in and around the city, that you’ll definitely keep yourself busy (there’s something for everyone!).
Where to Stay
North Seattle is where it’s at! You basically can’t go wrong, but the trendiest locations are the U District, Fremont, and Ballard. We stayed in an airbnb out in Sand Point and it was amazing. Sand Point is home to Magnuson Park, a large park in North Seattle. They have an 8 acre off-leash dog area that our pups loved (we went every single day). Ballard is another dog-friendly location and home to a great farmer’s market every weekend.
Bellevue is a bit more suburban, but you’ll find a ton of great restaurants and shops out there. We were surprised to find that there is a $5 toll going to and from Bellevue, so it can be pricey to stay there if you plan on spending a lot of time in Seattle.
Downtown Seattle is pretty meh in my opinion. There are definitely great restaurants there, as well as the touristy spots (Pike Place, Starbucks Reserve, Space Needle etc). If you plan on staying in Downtown Seattle, choose Capital Hill. Cap Hill is a pretty trendy spot with great restaurants and bars.
Where to Eat
There are an infinite amount of amazing places, but here are my faves (in no particular order):
- Pomodoro– this was on Yelp’s 100 Places to Eat At in 2021 list and it’s SO GOOD. You won’t regret it.
- Mioposto– thin crust ‘za, soooo good
- Burbs burgers– cheap prices, amazing burgers. Get everything.
- Sunshine cafe– my go-to working cafe. Great coffees and pastries. Skip the breakfast burritos (they only have egg inside, they lie!)
- Paseo– the best sandwiches. ever.
- U:Don– homemade Udon noods? Sign me up
- Sugar + Spoon– edible cookie dough (addicting AF)
- Dough Zone– basically Din Tai Fung but wayyy cheaper
- Poirpose Donuts– filled fluffy donuts. Need I say more?!
- Dumpling the Noodle– Hand-pulled noods and delish dumplings
- Morsel– Biscuit Sandwiches *drool*
- Island Soul– The best Caribbean comfort food. EVER. Get the rum slushees!!
- Pam’s Kitchen– Absolutely incredible Trinidadian Food, featured on Driver’s Dine In and Dash *Must try if you like spicy food*
- Ravenna Brewery
- Burke Gilman Brewery
Can’t Miss Outings
There are so many magical places to visit during your time in Seattle! If you have an extra weekend, I highly recommend visiting Olympic National Park. It’s incredible year-round! Check out my park guide for Olympic here.
If you’re aiming to stay closer to Seattle, try one of these Seattle Outings:
- Green Lake Park (rent a paddleboat during the summer months and have a picnic on the lake)
- Magnuson Park (especially if you have a dog)
- Discovery Park Hiking
- Kerry Park for iconic views of the city
- Walk around University of Washington (especially during April when the cherry blossoms are bussin’)
- Day trip to Bainbridge Island via the ferry (the ferry alone is worth it)
- Red Barn Farm- about 20 min from North Seattle. This farm boasts incredible tulips in April, and then sunflowers in the fall. Honestly, go here just to snuggle their farm animals!
- Olympia- We didn’t go, but apparently the state capital is very cute and is a great way to spend a day!
- Grab some friends and rent a hot tub boat!
Enjoy this incredible city!!!
