Forget stories about perpetual rain and dismal foggy days. Expect a little drizzle, but according to the Seattle Visitors Bureau, average rainfall is 38” per year. When drizzle turns to dazzle, the air is fresh and Pacific Northwest scenery is breathtaking. And, rain or shine, there are plenty of in-door and outdoor diversions on tap for travelers to Seattle.

Arriving at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, called SeaTac by locals, head for an on-site rental car agency. Seattle transportation runs along the waterfront and around the inner city. However, getting around Seattle and to the mountains, wine country and seashore (just one to two hours away) is easier when you have your own wheels.

Things to Do in Seattle
Seattle Center is a good starting point for exploring the city. The Space Needle, Seattle’s signature landmark, offers 360-degree views of the city and majestic mountains up to 50 miles away on a clear day. Back on the ground, check out Seattle Center attractions like the Experience Music Project, Children’s Museum, Pacific Science Center and two IMAX theaters. Next, head downtown for a ride along the waterfront on a vintage trolley with stops at the Marine Discovery Center and Seattle Aquarium.

Shop 'til you drop at Pike Place Market, the oldest public market in the U.S. And by the way, watch out for the “flying fish” at Pike Place Fish Market. Step back in the past at Pioneer Square. Stay on the go with diverse Seattle dining and don’t miss the Puget Sound boat tour to Tillicum Village for an old-fashioned salmon bake.

For aviation buffs, the Seattle Museum of Flight is a city must-see and a day trip to the Boeing Future of Flight in nearby Everett, Washington is a must-do. Plan ahead to book the popular tour of the Boeing assembly line. The Wow factor is high standing on a third floor platform in the world’s largest building viewing jumbo airliners in various stages of production and watching a steady parade of maiden flight take-offs and landings.

For outdoor enthusiasts, day trips hiking or skiing at nearby Seattle mountain ranges are exhilarating. There are also 743 nearby islands with 10 marine parks to explore via the efficient Washington State Ferry System. And for the sport’s spectator, there are Mariners, Seahawks and Sonic games.

Places to Stay in Seattle
Seattle accommodations are as diverse as Seattle attractions. Seattle business hotels are primarily located downtown and in nearby Redmond. Major hotel brands such as Hilton Hotels, Hyatt and Marriott are also conveniently located in the downtown area. For family-friendly Seattle hotels look along Pike Street and in the area around the Seattle Center. For a quiet getaway with easy access into the city, explore hotels and spa resorts along Lake Washington. And, when it is time to splurge, check out award-winning Seattle hotels like the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Inn at Market, Alexis and Seattle Marriott Waterfront.