Les attractions à ne pas manquer à Seattle

Depuis sa construction pour l'Exposition universelle de 1962, la Space Needle est devenue à la fois une icône mondialement reconnue et l'attraction la plus populaire de Seattle. Que vous y veniez pour la vue ou pour un repas au SkyCity, la Space Needle doit figurer sur votre itinéraire.

Que faire
Tous les visiteurs devraient pendre le temps de profiter d'un repas au restaurant SkyCity : en seulement 47 minutes, le café-restaurant tournant fait une rotation complète de 360 degrés. La plate-forme d'observation offre non seulement une vue magnifique, mais aussi des écrans interactifs et informatifs à l'intérieur pour vous donner plus d'informations sur ce que vous pouvez observer autour de vous.

Que voir
De son perchoir sur la colline, la Space Needle apparaît bien plus haute que ses 605 pieds (184 mètres) et – grâce à des télescopes gratuits – offre aux visiteurs la possibilité de zoomer sur le centre-ville ou de se catapulter vers les monts Cascade et Olympic. Par temps clair, vous pourrez profiter d'une vue magnifique sur le mont Rainier, la plus haute montagne de l'état de Washington.

>> En savoir plus sur la Space Needle.

Le Pacific Science Center, qui a célébré son 50e anniversaire en 2012 (la Space Needle a également eu 50 ans en 2012), continue d'attirer les visiteurs – surtout les jeunes – grâce à une multitude d'expériences personnelles.

À faire
Les enfants seront attirés par le Insect Village et le Body Works (où des Calorie Bikes calculeront l'énergie que vous produisez). Avec l'expérience Dinosaurs: A Journey Through Time, vous pourrez prendre le contrôle d'un Pneumoferrosaurus animatronique pour découvrir comment fonctionne l'animatronique, tout en explorant le monde mésozoïque autour de vous.

À voir
L'attraction à ne pas manquer est certainement le Tropical Butterfly Village, où les visiteurs vêtus de jaune et de rouge s'attireront facilement des amis papillonnant. Le village abrite environ 500 espèces différentes de papillons importés chaque semaine d'Amérique centrale et du Sud, d'Afrique et d'Asie. Pourrez-vous tous les repérer ?

>> En savoir plus sur le Pacific Science Center.

Anciennement appelé Experience Music Project | Science Fiction Museum, les lignes dramatiques, fluides du bâtiment conçu par Frank O. Gehry qui abrite les deux musées est un incontournable en soi. À l'intérieur, vous trouverez des expositions avant-garde et primées qui célèbrent le processus de création et la culture populaire.

À Faire
Montez à bord d'une simulation de station spatiale, et amusez-vous avec des objets cultes de science-fiction, costumes de films, photos et expositions interactives. Rendez-vous à la Guitar Gallery et apprenez-en davantage sur l'évolution des instruments phares du rock'n'roll. L'EMP a 236 guitares dans sa collection permanente, dont plus de 50 qui sont exposées dans la Guitar Gallery.

À Voir
Admirez les performances et les vidéos diffusées sur le plus grand écran vidéo intérieur du monde et laissez parler votre Jimi Hendrix intérieur (un natif de Seattle) tandis que vous rockez au son de votre propre composition dans le Sound Lab. Érigée au coeur de l'EMP, vous pourrez admirer la sculpture sonore « IF VI WAS IX », faite de plus de 500 instruments de musique et de 30 ordinateurs.

> > En savoir plus sur Museum of Pop Culture.

Idéalement situé sur Pier 59, l'Aquarium de Seattle est le 7è aquarium le plus visité aux États-Unis et dispose de plus de 380 espèces d'oiseaux, de poissons, d'invertébrés et de mammifères marins.

À faire
Les visiteurs peuvent toucher doucement certains animaux marins dans le bassin d'eau salée Life on the Edge ou parler avec des plongeurs d'aquarium. Faites un pas à l'extérieur et entrez dans l'exposition Birds and Shores où vous pouvez voir différents oiseaux marins natifs de la région de Puget Sound.

Que voir
Entrez à l'intérieur du dôme sous-marin et admirez une chambre sous-marine sphérique entourée de 400.000 gallons (1,514 mètres cubes) d'eau. Entrez dans l'Aquarium, prenez place et profitez de la vue sur Window on Washington Waters, une exposition de 120 000 gallons d'où des plongeurs nagent en direct quotidiennement. Voir les loutres de mer et phoques est une autre activité favorite des visiteurs. Vous pouvez les regarder jouer à partir d'un coin salon confortable en plein air ou avoir une vue sous-marine depuis les nombreuses fenêtres d'observation.

> > En savoir plus sur le Seattle Aquarium.

La visite guidée d'une heure Spirit of Seattlepromet un point de vue unique pour observer à votre aise les nombreux sites de la ville. Rien d'étonnant à ce qu'Argosy Cruises soit l'attraction touristique préférée de Seattle.

Que faire
Détendez-vous et admirez l'horizon de la ville pendant que quelqu'un d'autre s'occupe de la navigation. Asseyez-vous à l'intérieur ou sur le pont, ou promenez-vous et changez de point de vue pendant que le navire fait le tour d'Elliot Bay. Des rafraîchissements sont proposés à bord pour rendre votre visite encore plus agréable.

Que voir
Pike Place Market, Olympic Sculpture Park, Space Needle, Safeco Field et Qwest Field, pour n'en nommer que quelques-uns. Une visite avec Argosy Cruises vous promet les meilleures vues de la ville. Apportez votre appareil photo pour capturer parmi les plus beaux clichés de l'horizon de Seattle, des chaînes de montagnes Olympic et Cascade, et prendre des selfies sur le bateau.

>> En savoir plus sur Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour.

Entrez dans un monde d'émerveillement et de couleur à Chihuly Garden and Glass, situé à seulement quelques pas de la Space Needle. Avec huit galeries qui offrent une collection complète de l'œuvre de Dale Chihuly, Chihuly Garden and Glass vous plongera dans l'œuvre de cet artiste incroyablement talentueux.

Que faire
Promenez-vous dans le jardin et admirez comment l'art du verre se mélange parfaitement avec les arbres et les fleurs environnants. Certaines des installations du jardin incluent le Sun, les Crystal and Icicle Towers et les Reeds on Logs. Entrez dans la maison de verre - qui abrite une sculpture suspendue longue de 100 pieds, l'une des plus grandes de Dale Chihuly. Puis faire une pause à l'excentrique café Collections de la galerie.

Que voir
Regardez les courtes vidéos dans le Theater et apprenez-en davantage sur le processus de Chihuly et sur ses nombreuses installations à travers le monde. Le Theater est aussi un lieu de rassemblement pour des conférences occasionnelles et des événements éducationnels et communautaires.

> > En savoir plus sur le Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Accueillant près de 1 100 animaux, le zoo de Woodland Park est reconnu à l'échelle nationale pour son engagement à créer des environnements authentiques proches des habitats naturels des animaux. Au total, près de 300 espèces provenant du monde entier sont présentes au zoo.

À faire
Conduire les enfants jusqu'à l'espace qui leur est dédié : le Zoomazium, un espace de jeu en intérieur autour du thème de la nature. Le Zoomazium propose des activités multimédias et des aires de jeux sur le thème de la nature, un espace ludique pour les enfants jusqu'à 8 ans.

À voir
Des hippopotames et des girafes parcourent la savane africaine, et des oiseaux évoluent en toute liberté sous le dôme de la forêt équatoriale. Le Banyan Wilds, nouveau complexe accueillant des tigres et des ours lippus, est incontournable. Les habitats étant conçus pour être au plus proche des habitats naturels des animaux, vous aurez l'impression de voyager de l'Alaska à l'Australie, et de l'Amérique du Sud à l'Afrique.

>> En savoir plus sur le Woodland Park Zoo.

Ce marché historique, qui compte aujourd'hui plus de 100 ans, a été créé pour rassembler les agriculteurs et les consommateurs régionaux. Aujourd'hui, Pike Place Market est l'un des plus anciens marchés publics continus d'agriculteurs aux États-Unis, et il est devenu l'un des lieux touristiques les plus populaires de Seattle.

À faire :
Prenez une photo avec Rachel, le cochon de bronze et la mascotte du marché, ou au pied du célèbre « Gum Wall » dans Post Alley. Pike Place abrite également un grand nombre de restaurants ; n'hésitez donc pas à vous asseoir et manger un bout tout en profitant de l'atmosphère du marché.

À voir :
Le marché est un régal pour les sens, avec ses saumons frais, ses fleurs offrant une débauche de couleurs, et l'arôme enivrant de produits fraîchement sortis du four. Aux niveaux inférieurs du marché, vous pouvez flâner dans une grande variété de magasins, parmi lesquels des antiquaires, des boutiques de bande dessinée et d'objets de collection, et bien plus encore. Il y en a pour tous les goûts à Pike Place Market.

>> En savoir plus sur Pike Place Market.

Thanks to Army Corps of Engineers district chief Hiram Chittenden, boats have had an easy route from Lake Union and Lake Washington to the Puget Sound for nearly 100 years. The Ballard Locks carry more boat traffic than any other lock in the United States.

What to Do
Stand atop swinging walkways to watch the vessels’ progress. All sorts of boats make their way through the Locks including yachts, tugs, barges, motorboats, sailboats, and more. Stop by the visitor's center to learn more about the Locks and how they work.

What to See
Visitors have a special viewing window for the fish ladder – a 21-step structure that helps fish safely move to and from saltwater to freshwater. If you're lucky you might see a variety of different kinds of salmon. King, Silver, and Red salmon all use the ladder.

>> Learn more about the Ballard Locks.

Covering 23 acres (93 hectares), the arboretum showcases more than 5,500 different plants from around the world. The park is a joint project between the University of Washington and the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation.

What to Do
Visit the Japanese garden that features a copper-shingled tea house and 11-tier pagoda. During Spring take a stroll through Azalea Way, a stretch of the park that is home to a unique tapestry of azaleas in a variety of colors, making it a popular photo spot.

What to See
Walk along the Shoreline Trail and see Lake Washington from Marsh and Foster Islands. In addition to plants you're likely to see some blue herons, Canadian geese, and pied-bill grebes along the shore.

>> Learn more about the Washington Park Arboretum.

Bursting at the seams with crowds at full capacity, Safeco Field opened its doors on July 15th, 1999. Years later, Safeco Field is still home to the Mariners, Seattle’s beloved Major League Baseball team. With great views and exciting games, it’s easy to see why Safeco Field is highly praised as one of the most terrific fields in modern MLB.

What to Do
Make your way to the Bullpen Market behind left field for heaps of family-friendly fun. Exciting, interactive games and the Fan Walk will make pre-game time fly by faster than you think. Try the famed garlic fries, a popular snack for game-goers sure to satisfy your taste buds.

What to See
The Outside Corner Picnic Patio provides stunning views of Puget Sound. Lookout Landing puts fans above the baseball field and showcases the city’s grand skyline. It’s also the perfect place to catch birds-eye action of the Mariners at play.

>> Learn more about Safeco Field.

CenturyLink Field is the humble abode for both the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders. The stadium is conveniently located within the SoDo (South of Downtown) district and has earned a reputation as one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL thanks to rowdy and dedicated Seahawks fans.

What to Do
Kettle corn is the perfect treat to pop in your mouth when you’re not busy cheering on the Sounders or the Seahawks. The wide range of concessions available, from classic dogs to salmon flatbread, will give you the energy you need to keep up with the devoted fans.

What to See
The wide, open concourse of the CenturyLink Stadium provides fans with great views of the game and shots of Seattle’s beauty from almost every seat. The breathtaking Olympic mountain range, waterfront and modern cityscape provide the perfect backdrop to Seattle’s roaring football and soccer games.

>> Learn more about CenturyLink Field.

Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre outdoor sculpture museum free to the public and full of awe-inspiring sights. Olympic Sculpture Park fuses urban culture with an outdoor setting and nature with art, making it the perfect pit stop on your Seattle itinerary.

What to Do
Take a break from the daily grind by strolling along the Z-shaped path that winds around the modern sculptures throughout the park. Or, sit on one of the many park benches, also designed with art in mind, and enjoy a casual read or the views of the water beneath a breathtaking sunset.

What to See
The Neukom Vivarium is a unique installation of a fallen, decayed hemlock and the new life that arises from it. Visitors are provided with magnifying glasses to get a closer look at the log and it’s varying forms of life and death.

>> Learn more about Olympic Sculpture Park.

Myrtle Edwards Park is a scenic outdoor escape located along the Seattle waterfront. Right next to the Olympic Sculpture Park, Myrtle Edwards is a colorful place to take in the natural beauty of Seattle.

What to Do
The gorgeous view of Puget Sound is the perfect excuse to plan a delicious picnic in this park. Or, if you’re feeling active, go for an easy jog or bike ride along the scenic trails that stretch a little over a mile long.

What to See
On a clear day, you can see the Olympic Mountain range, which can serve as the perfect backdrop for family photo ops or selfies. Watch the Ferries coast the waters or look out for the marine life that hangs out on the beach. From seals to seagulls, Myrtle Edwards Park is full of life.

>> Learn more about Myrtle Edwards Park.

While many of the parks in Seattle provide impressive views of the city, Kerry Park gives you one of the best vantage points to take it all in. After all, Kerry Park was specifically given to the City in 1927 so that every guest could enjoy the view.

What to Do
Kerry Park has become a popular photo op for the unbeatable views. With direct views of the city skyline, including the well-known Space Needle, a photo from Kerry Park will be the perfect addition to your scrapbook. Make a day of it in the late afternoon so you can take a picture of the fantastic sunset.

What to See
In the middle of the park sits a beautiful steel sculpture, called Changing Form, and was designed by artist Doris Totten Chase in 1971. The sculpture has been a centerpiece in the park since its installation and serves as a creative way for photographers to frame their photos of the Seattle skyline.

>> Learn more about Kerry Park.

Sandwiched between two big bodies of water, Seattle is a hub of maritime culture. At Lake Union, located close to downtown Seattle, you can see the city as you sail the fresh water. In a city where water is the backbone, there’s plenty to do and see in this watery wonderland.

What to Do
At Lake Union, you can take a jog, kayak, or go for a swim. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, visit the Center for Wooden Boats to see the history of Seattle’s maritime society. There are also plenty of places to sit and watch the boats float by if you’re looking for some much-needed quiet time.

What to See
Houseboats, similar to the ones that Tom Hanks’ character occupied in Sleepless in Seattle, line the eastern and western sides of the lake. Keep an eye out for seaplanes as they splash-land on the Union water. Bring your own toy boat and launch it into the park pond, a small-scale version of the real Lake Union.

>> Learn more about Lake Union.

The rich art of Seattle thrives on the energetic pulse that flows through Seattle’s Pioneer Square. Delicious food, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and an exciting nightlife make Pioneer Square a happening spot for locals and visitors alike.

What to Do
Sip on a warm latte at one of Pioneer Square’s aromatic cafes and, after, head to one of the many art galleries in the area. Next, visit all the little shops full of handcrafted goods to take home a uniquely Seattle souvenir (one that doesn’t have an image of the Space Needle on it).

What to See
See the streets of the past frozen in time with an Underground Tour. This humorous walking tour delves into the city that once was—before the Great Fire of 1889. Venture into Waterfall Garden Park, a secluded area that houses a 22-foot waterfall in the middle of Pioneer Square, to forget the fact that you are actually in the middle of a busy city.

>> Learn more about Pioneer Square.

This historic theatre has been entertaining the people of Seattle since it was established in the late 1920’s. From silent films to the rocking performances by acclaimed bands such as Pink Floyd and the Grateful Dead, Paramount Theatre is, well, paramount to any other.

What to Do
With a full schedule, there is never a dull day at the Paramount Theatre. Famous comedians, musicians, and many other notable figures have graced the stage of the Paramount Theatre every year. There’s always a show, and it’s always a good one. The Paramount wouldn’t have it any other way.

What to See
The opulent interior design of the Paramount Theatre is jaw-dropping. A beautiful staircase in the main lobby, decadent furnishings, and an exquisite stage tell a story of the theatre’s history that no book could put into words. The venue is a prime spot for talent, and continues to thrive as one of Seattle’s premiere attractions.

>> Learn more about Paramount Theatre.

In 1869, Seattle's first library association was founded. But the high hopes of expanding opportunity for learning were shattered in a flurry of natural disaster, budget restrictions, and relocations. Now, Seattle boasts 22 branches, "Libraries for All," and a dazzling 11-story Central Library: an award-winning architectural masterpiece that has garnered international attention for its unique contemporary design.

What to Do
With multiple events crowding the Seattle Central Library calendar, you're bound to find an event that tempts your curiosity: live scary story readings, free workshops that teach you how to write a memoir or use Photoshop, and kid-friendly puppet shows. Combine the powers of imagination and information, and enjoy most of the events free of charge! —Just be sure to register early.

What to See
The bold design is all the reason you need to make a visit to the Seattle Central Library. From Fifth Avenue, the glass exteriors of the library's multi-angled walls shine like a billion diamonds. Inside, check out the Seattle Collection, one of the library's many special collections that showcase Seattle's colorful history with documents, old yearbooks, paintings, sculptures, and nostalgic photographs.

>> Learn more about the Seattle Public Library

Great books and good vibes are aplenty in Seattle's very own Elliot Bay Book Company. Located in the Capital Hill neighborhood, The Elliot Bay Book Company is boasts over 150,000 titles in a space that will make you want to curl up and read for hours on end.

What to Do
Whatever book you seek, you'll find it at the Elliot Bay Book Company. Multiple levels of the store supply readers of all varieties with the material they desire—fiction, non-fiction, magazines, poetry, and more. You name it, they've got it. High ceilings, beautiful staircases, and the tantalizing Little Oddfellows café will make your reading experience all the more enjoyable. After an exhausting Seattle adventure, you can spend hours browsing for books, but you will feel as if only minutes have passed. Enjoy a house scratch soda or a warm cappuccino while you peruse the pages of a classic tale or an unexplored novel.

What to See
Literature lovers can see various author readings on average of ten times per week at the Elliot Bay Book Company. Lined with books from corner to corner, the cozy reading room is home to many literary events, most of which are free of charge and well worth your time. Stay after the reading for an exciting Q&A, and get to know the author behind the book.

>>Learn more about the Elliot Bay Book Company

Not just any Ferris wheel can add "great" to its name—unless said Ferris wheel climbs 175 feet high in the sky. Not only is the Seattle Great Wheel a colossal attraction, the magnificent views of the Puget Sound and the cityscape make it a perfect, one-of-a-kind ride.

What to Do
As astonishing as it is to see, the Seattle Great Wheel is best enjoyed while circling up, around, and off the ground in one of the roomy, climate-controlled gondolas. The ride time varies depending on the crowd, but summer hours offer around 12-20 minutes of breathtaking views (each ride is 3 full wheel rotations). Take the whole family with you: each gondola fits up to eight guests. For the star treatment, take the VIP gondola and enjoy leather seats, a stereo system for a stellar soundtrack, and a champagne toast at Fisherman's Restaurant.

What to See
The largest observation wheel on the west coast is bound to offer a sight worth seeing. Depending on where you sit, you can see the stunning Seattle cityscape or Mount Olympia. The Elliot Bay view during sunset makes for a romantic date, and during special events and holidays, the wheel offers stunning LED light shows to enhance the night ride experience. You'll want to have a camera handy—the photos you take will be show-off material for a long, long time.

>> Learn more about the Seattle Great Wheel