Like most cosmopolitan cities, Seattle has a great selection of fine boutiques and trendy restaurants. But it also has something a lot of other cities its size are lacking - fresh air. Surrounded by lakes, rivers, Puget Sound, and mountains, Seattle is an outdoor enthusiasts' dream. The city's unique combination of outdoor recreation and urban sophistication draws millions of visitors each year.
Whether you go for the rugged outdoor activities or a perfect double-tall latte, you won't be disappointed in Seattle. And your dog won't be either. The city is very pet-friendly and even welcomes leashed dogs on most buses, trains, and ferries in the city. Trust us, that'll really make it easier to see all of the sights in downtown Seattle.
Dogs are welcome at some of the most popular attractions in Seattle, including Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center (in the outdoor areas only). This means you can take a picture with your dog in front of the Space Needle, walk through the Sculpture Garden, and see the site of the 1962's World's Fair with your pooch.
Want to get out of the downtown area? Take a cruise aboard a ferry on the Seattle Harbor or check out one of the fabulous parks in the greater Seattle area. Discovery Park, Sand Point Magnuson Park, and Marymoor Park are three of our favorites. Each offers miles of trails through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
Every Sunday, the Seattle Ferry Service welcomes dogs aboard the Fremont Avenue for a deliciously fun ice cream cruise. The boat departs from Fremont under the Aurora Bridge (801 N. Northlake Way) on the hour at 11am, noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.
While on the 45-minute cruise, you'll get a humorous narrative of Seattle history from Captain Larry Kezner as he points out famous attractions and other places of interest ashore. You'll get a great view of the city skyline and Mt. Rainer, see the houseboat made famous on Sleepless in Seattle, pass by one of the world's largest shipping terminals, and maybe even sneak a peek at glass artist Dale Chihuly working in his studio.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for kids 5-13. Dogs and kids under five are free, but the ice-cream costs extra. Our favorite is the $3 chocolate root beer float, but there are lots of other ice-cream treats and hot drinks available for $1 to $4. To make a reservation or get more information, call 206-713-8446 or visit http://www.seattleferryservice.com.
