It’s that time of year again – when chocolate boxes are carved into hearts, roses brim from corner grocers, and cupid comes out of hiding. So, how are you going to celebrate the big day of romance? What love-struck surprise can you conjure up for your Valentine? What about heading to the Emerald City of Seattle? Here are just a few sweetheart sites that this Pacific Northwest jewel has to offer.
A TREASURE TROVE FOR TWO
Although Seattle’s downtown core is a mish mash of past and present, it all works together harmoniously. New-age high rises hover above Gold Rush landmarks, trendy boutiques snuggle between flagship department stores and government headquarters brush up to corporate conglomerates. There are countless cozy espresso bars where you can escape the drizzly weather, ethnic-varied restaurants to appease the most discerning palate and so much cultural diversity, it’ll make your head spin. This destination that’s embraced by the glistening Puget Sound and backed by snow tipped peaks is so picturesque, it’ll tug on any heart strings.
MAKE SOME MUSIC TOGETHER AT MUSEUM OF POP CULTURE (MoPOP)
This massive Frank O. Gehry architectural wonder, dedicated to contemporary popular culture, was founded by Microsoft co-founder, Paul Allen in 2000. It features dozens of exhibits and is jam-packed with opportunities to get both of your hearts thumping. You’ll be mesmerized by the amazing acoustics of Sky Church, where musical greats become giant-sized on the monster video screen, take a step back in time with Jimi Hendrix and his ‘Evolution of Sound,’ and unleash innate musical talents when performing that special song for the one you love. Plunk away on the keyboard, strum on a guitar or serenade each other with a golden oldie.
CHARGE UP YOUR IMAGINATIONS
Instead of sounds, sci-fi may be more your thing. If so, you won’t have to stray too far. Right next door is the Science Fiction Museum, a mind-boggling exhibit that’s devoted to thought-provoking ideas. There’s everything from literature and media to future visions for humanity. Their Hall of Fame pays homage to the creative practitioners – writers, artists, publishers and filmmakers and others who have given life to this imaginative world. On your journey you’ll come face to face with monsters, robots and aliens – just to throw a little Halloween into this Valentine’s Day.
TAKE YOUR LOVE TO A HIGHER LEVEL
The futuristic-looking Space Needle has been Seattle’s well-known icon since the World’s Fair in 1962. From its lofty 204-metres-high observatory, your hearts will palpitate when checking out the stunning panorama that includes everything from the city’s bustling downtown hub to the pinnacle of Mt Rainer. Even when the clouds roll in, the ethereal effect will initiate some loving Valentine vibes. You can also share the vista while wining and dining by candlelight. This landmark’s SkyCity rotating restaurant dishes up culinary classics that match the 360-degree rotating view.
OR GO UNDERGROUND!
For a step back in time, stroll the cobblestone streets of Pioneer Square, where an iron pergola, Tlingit totem pole, and Romanesque brick buildings are remnants of Seattle’s past. Check out art galleries, cafés and antique shops – the eclectic area definitely encourages lots of handholding. And don’t forget to check out what also lies beneath the streets. Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour is a cheesy but entertaining guided tour of the hidden subterranean passages that were once the main roadways of downtown Seattle.
PLOD THROUGH PIKE PLACE MARKET
Chocolates, flowers, jewellery, oh my! You’ll find every Valentine favourite at this queen bee of farmer’s markets. But watch out for those flying fish! This venue has been a Seattle institution since 1907 and beneath open-air tents, merchants, craftsman and farmers line up year-round. Aside from the original Starbucks, you won’t find any chain stores here – and all is sold on a first-come basis, so for the freshest and finest, get there early. You won’t be disappointed!
GO FOR SOME PAIRED PAMPERING
Seattle is home to several sensational spas, many of which offer Valentine specials. From hot stones and body wraps to massages and facials, they are designed to relax, restore and regenerate. And under proficient and gentle hands, you’ll drift in and out of trance-land and succumb to Utopian joys while lying side by side.
A SECLUDED SANCTUARY: THE PAN PACIFIC HOTEL SEATTLE
This elite award-winner occupies a prime location near the city’s core. Instead of being squeezed next to downtown high rises that brim from Seattle’s bustling vortex, you’ll be idyllically distanced from the percolating crowds. It’s just four blocks from the Pike Place Market and Pine Street shopping, six blocks from the Convention Center and the Space Needle, and minutes via streetcar from Lake Union’s enticing restaurants, all of which you’ll want to take in during your Valentine’s Day vaycay to Seattle.
IF YOU GO
Where To Stay
Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle
http://www.panpacific.com/Seattle/Overview.html
Seattle visitor guide http://www.visitseattle.org
Museum of Pop Culture https://www.mopop.org/
Seattle Space Needle – http://www.spaceneedle.com/
Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour http://www.undergroundtour.com/
Pike Place Market: http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/frameset.asp?flash=true
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