Aside from the Space Needle and the abundance of coffee, Seattle is most commonly known for its rain. What you may not realize is that Chicago, Washington, D.C. and New York City all average more annual rainfall per year than the Emerald City. The rain is rarely heavy and you hardly encounter a thunderstorm, so health-conscious visitors can get out, stay active and enjoy all of the many things this Pacific Northwest metropolis offers.
Farmers' Markets
Seattle is keen on healthy living, which includes the prominence of local farmers' markets in the area. Undoubtedly the most famous market in Seattle, and possibly the entire country, is Pike Place Market. You can spend an entire day walking through the market, with its numerous stalls as well as multiple stories of shops, boutiques and restaurants. Catch a flying salmon and take it home for a healthy, omega 3-filled lunch or dinner. Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables grown locally and treat yourself to a bouquet of vibrantly colored local flowers, sure to brighten up your home or workplace.
Walking Tours
The Emerald City has a beautiful downtown worth exploring, with its historic buildings, gleaming skyscrapers and interesting public art. The best way to check out all the city has to offer is by lacing up your walking shoes and patrolling Seattle on foot. There are many companies that offer walking tours, each focusing on different themes or areas of the large city. On those really rainy days, head underground for Bill Speidel's Underground Tour or the Underworld Tour for those 21 and over. On this sheltered tour, you can see the remains of the old city that was swallowed up in the Great Seattle Fire of 1889.
Curling
If you want to stay active but aren't up for getting drenched in the rain, head indoors to the ice. For a twist on your daily exercise regimen, try curling. It has increased in popularity in America since the Torino and Vancouver Olympic Winter Games. Seattle has a world-class curling facility, the Granite Curling Club, located north of downtown. During the fall and winter, you can attend one of the open houses and try the challenging sport for yourself. You are welcome to watch beforehand, if you aren't sure whether or not you want to try it.
Olympic Rain Shadow
A common misconception is that all of western Washington is rainy 24/7, but this isn't the case. Drive two hours west to Sequim, which is considered "Ground Zero" for the Olympic Rain Shadow, according to KOMO News. The Olympic Mountains cast a rain shadow over the northeastern corner of the Olympic Peninsula, where there's considerably less rainfall. While western towns such as Forks receive more than 120 inches of rain each year, Sequim receives around 18 inches. Hike the five-mile Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the United States. Enjoy the various birds and marine life, as well as the picturesque New Dungeness Lighthouse at the end of the Spit.
Kayaking
If the weather won't cooperate, rent a kayak--you are going to end up wet anyway. With the abundance of water in the Puget Sound region, it's hard not to spend quality time around one of the many lakes. There are many nearby kayak rental shops, so you don't have to bring your own. Bring a waterproof camera so you'll be able to capture the gorgeous scenery from your vantage point. Explore Lake Union and check out all of the beautiful boats, floating homes and houseboats, along with the famous "Sleepless in Seattle" floating home.
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