Gateway to the Pacific Northwest

In the far northwest corner of the continental United States, in the state of Washington, like Seattle. Laying on the eastern shore of the Puget Sound, the city embraces its weather, location and accessibility.
The Puget Sound is a wonderful natural harbor connected to the Pacific Ocean by the Straights of Juan de Fuca. Seattle started as a Shipping point for lumber headed to San Francisco. The gold rush in the mid-valley of California fueled San Francisco's building boom. Once the lumber demand slowed from the south, gold was discovered in the Yukon, so Seattle became the last place for supplies to be loaded.
In the late 19th Century the railroad reached Tacoma then Seattle itself. With the advent of flight, and the World Wars, Seattle moved to the forefront of aviation with Boeing taking up business in the area. With the rise and fall of the aircraft industry, Seattle's employment fluctuated. In 1979 a small company named Microsoft moved to its founders hometown. The rest is history. The large corporation has fueled many others to help supply its needs. The revitalization of Pioneer Square had a similar though on a much smaller scale to the historic downtown area.
With its large and diverse population, Seattle has always accept people from different walks of life. The Capital Hill area is largely the haunts of the gay ghetto. The shops, trendy cafes and restaurants, and bars are popular with the alternative lifestyle. There are numerous former mansions turned B&B, that make it an easy walk to the main drag.
Besides the Capital Hill area, do not miss Pioneer Park with its turn of the 19th Century architecture. The streets are lined with quaint cafes and many glass blowing shops. Glass blowing needs specific atmospheric conditions, and the Seattle region has the right combination of temperature and humidity. The famed artist Chiluly is based in the area.
Then there is the Pike's Street Market. Stalls selling items from all over the northwest line the many passageways. One shop is known for its 'flying' fish. As people select their purchase, it is actually thrown over the crowd and counter to be wrapped for sale. The variety of food available is astounding. With its large population of people of Asian descent, native Indian tribes and vast array of other nationals, finding a place to eat is hard because of the decisions to be made. But being so close to the sea, I would opt for a seafood stall. The items taste so fresh you would think the waiter caught it after you order was placed.
When in Seattle do not forget the natural wonders within an easy drive. The Olympic Peninsula is across the sound. It can be reached by driving around the south end, or one of the many ferry routes directly across. Mt. Rainier is a short drive to the southeast, but that is obvious since it can be seen from most areas of the city. The city of Vancouver in British Columbia is a few hour drive to the north, just remember to bring your passport.
Since it has a great harbor, Seattle has become a major port for Alaskan cruises. Most of the major lines have at least one ship there for the season. So why not combine a pre- or post- stay in Seattle? Check out Damron Vacations for great deals on flights, cruises, and hotels in the Seattle area. And remember your Damron Guide to make finding a great happy hour easier.