Nicknamed “The Emerald City,” Seattle is located in the scenic northwestern corner of the United States, surrounded by towering mountains, bright green foliage and crystal waters. There is never a shortage of things to do or see in this city, known for its commitment to fitness and conservation of the environment. For those looking for something active to do outside of the standard gym, Seattle has plenty of opportunities for fun, both indoors and outdoors.
Rock Climbing
In a city filled with people constantly on the move, opt for something a little different by trying rock climbing. Whether you are a seasoned pro at rock climbing or brand new to the sport, there are plenty of challenges and classes for you in the Seattle metropolitan area. Test your skills on the wall at the REI Flagship Store, visible from the I-5 interstate in downtown Seattle. Named “The Pinnacle,” this four-story wall looks like a real rock formation. Just north of downtown is the Stone Gardens, Inc., with 14,000 square feet of climbing walls, featuring over 100 routes to challenge you. Of course, if you prefer the real thing, there are plenty of mountains within an hour’s drive of Seattle to tempt you as well.
Walking and Exploring
Downtown Seattle is a city that is best explored on foot. Lace up your best walking shoes and be prepared for a workout; this is one of the hilliest major cities in the country. Walk along the piers jutting out into Elliott Bay, part of the Puget Sound. You’ll find tasty food, quaint little shops, the Seattle Aquarium, the main terminal for the Washington State Ferries as well as the Olympic Sculpture Park at the northern end. Head up the hill from the water to the world-famous Pike Place Market and take in the sights, people and bustling atmosphere best seen in person.
Kayaking and Canoeing
With all of the pristine water at your fingertips, consider spending the day in Seattle in a kayak or canoe. Head over to West Seattle’s Alki Beach area and take part in an Alki Kayak Tour. The view from this area, across the water from the main downtown, is breathtaking. One of the most awe-inspiring tours they offer is the Seattle Sunset Sea Kayak Tour which explores the west side of Elliott Bay and the mouth of the Duwamish River and then goes to Duwamish Head for views of the colorful sunsets behind the towering Olympic Mountains. Other tours explore the Alki Lighthouse and the Duwamish River, beautiful and scenic as well as a great workout.
Bicycling
In this Mecca of fitness, bicycling is one of the primary means of transportation, with hundreds of miles of bike lanes throughout the city and surrounding areas. You cannot drive a few miles without seeing bicyclists. Pedal over either of the Lake Washington bridges to Redmond, home to the largest park in the county. Marymoor Park has a velodrome for organized bike racing and events. King County residents have access to 20 free bicycles as part of the Community Blue Bikes Program at the park, where you can rent a bike for the day.
Fresh Local Food
Seattle is synonymous with seafood; with all of surrounding bodies of water as well as the proximity to the Pacific Ocean, it’s a safe bet that Seattleites enjoy some of the finest seafood in America. While at Pike Place Market, be sure to catch a famous flying fish and either take it with you or have it shipped home. Fresh organic produce is popular in Seattle as well. Apples, cherries, blackberries and blueberries are abundant in season. One of the finest restaurants in America which specializes in locally-grown food is in the nearby winery town of Woodinville. The Herbfarm, serving nine-course meals from strictly locally-grown meats and produce, is consistently rated one of the best restaurants in Seattle and America, earning the prestigious AAA 5-Diamond Award, as well as “Travel and Leisure’s” Top 50 Restaurants in the World.
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