2025 King County Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

I had heard that cruises get a bad reputation, that cruisers get easily bored on the ship and tend to over-sleep and over-eat, but my first experience was on the Discovery Princess to Alaska, and I would highly recommend this cruise to everyone! Princess has a packed itinerary of daily activities for everyone, so nobody has an excuse to get bored. The ship is massive and new - there’s pools and a fitness center on the top decks, a huge theater, tons of restaurants and a buffet. The spa area is also popular. We didn’t do land excursions, but managed to explore the port cities on foot and had a great time! #cruise #cruiseship #alaska

Seattle - USA: The Museum of Flight is the largest independent, non-profit air and space museum in the world. There are some air and space collections and they aim to become the foremost educational air and space museum. This is also a good place for family with children. 🛩✈️🚀

Seattle Woodland Park Zoo Woodland Park Zoo Zoo is a relatively famous zoo in the northwestern United States, not far from the Seattle downtown, driving distance of 15 minutes is enough. There are also many kinds of animals inside, and many local parents come to play with their babies, which is very popular among locals. Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N

Two must-see attractions in Seattle, Kerry Park and Pike Market. I went to a city, I like to go to the heights, and I like to go to the market. On the high side, you can overlook the panoramic view of the city, while in the market, you can feel the fireworks on earth. Many people choose the highest building space needle in the city at the Ascend in Seattle, but I recommend Kerry Park, which is a little further from the city, because the space needle itself can be seen here. When the weather is fine, the snow-capped mountains behind the city are also clearly visible. The Pike Market is not just a market, but a popular tourist destination in Seattle. Hyun Bin and Tang Weis "Late Autumn" once took a picture here. The market is full of colorful, large and small stalls displaying flowers, cheese, seafood, fruits and vegetables, second-hand accessories and tourist souvenirs, from time to time to see street performers. Most notably, the world's first Starbucks is also here. I went very early on the day, the flower sellers just transported the flowers and placed them on the side of the road. The water drops on the petals shimmered like pearls under the bright sun, walking here. In a good mood, the exhaustion and time difference of long-distance flight disappeared without a trace. Walking along, inadvertently went to the door of the world's first Starbucks, with a mottled plate "1912" at the door. Go in and order a cup of caramel latte and buy a bag of coffee beans that are said to be available only in this world. There are no seats in the store, some people havetily took away the coffee, and some people stand by the window and chat while chatting. There is a disabled person at the door who sings and sings my favorite old man.

Location: Seattle 📍 Cougar Mountain Zoo 19525 SE 54th St, Issaquah, WA 98027 Who knew you could celebrate birthdays at the zoo? Check this out 👉😋 This is one of my child's favorite zoos – compact yet diverse in animal species, perfect for stress-free outings with interactive animal encounters. My kid had an incredibly meaningful birthday celebration here this year 🎂 The birthday package includes: - A guided tour led by the zoo's Education Specialist, teaching kids about animals while feeding alpacas - A special VIP seat for the birthday child - Photo ops with two celebrity parrots 🦜 - Birthday song and well-wishes from the group (maximum emotional fulfillment 🥳) After the 1-hour tour, we moved to the Celebration House for party time. For kids, celebrating with friends at the zoo on their special day creates unforgettable joy. 🌟 Package details: - **Base package (10 people):** $260 (guided tour + outdoor party space) - **Add-ons:** - Extra guests (11-20 people): $20/person → $460 total for 20 people - Upgrade to indoor Celebration House: +$50 (decorations included, as shown in photos) - **Beyond 20 guests:** Regular $18/person zoo admission applies. We invited 42 people with the Celebration House upgrade, totaling $906. 🌟 Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🐒 **Tour excellence:** The guide kept kids engaged with Q&A—even adults learned new things! 🦓 **Wild-themed decor:** Saved us setup effort with ready-made jungle vibes. 🦜 **Convenient Celebration House:** Right at the entrance for easy food/gift transport (carts provided!). 🦉 **Thoughtful touches:** Umbrellas handed out during light rain. 🦚 **Flexible timing:** No rush—kids enjoyed food at leisure. 🐆 **Cleanup service:** Staff handled post-party mess. 🐇 **Docking one star for catering:** Zoo doesn't provide food, so bring cold dishes (pro: homemade meals = extra love from friends!).

Always my favorite sunset destination no matter which season 🤍 #travel #sunset #seattle #pikesplace #seascapes

Prayer

#2024mapped

🌟❄️Seattle, a charming city, has a unique flavor in winter.🌄📍 🌄📍From Seattle/Bellevue, you can reach Snow Lake Trail in just one hour, a place as beautiful as a fairyland.🏞️🌟 🏞️🌟Snow Lake Trail, located near Seattle, is a beautiful hiking trail. Here, you can enjoy spectacular snow-capped mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, as if you were in a fairyland.🌄❄️ 🌄❄️At Snow Lake Trail, you can choose different difficulty levels, and whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, you can find a route that suits you.🏞️🌟 🏞️🌟In addition, you can play in the snow, build snowmen, ski, and have snowball fights, enjoying the fun of winter to the fullest.🎿❄️ 🌞👮Tips: Before heading to Snow Lake Trail, check the weather forecast and choose a sunny day to go. Also, as the temperature on the mountain is low, remember to bring warm clothes and non-slip shoes.🌞👮

A winter hiking trip to Seattle's Snow Lake is a must for anyone wanting to experience the true spirit of Seattle. Snow Lake, nestled in the mountains, is considered one of the most beautiful alpine lakes, and when covered in snow, it becomes a winter wonderland. The snow decorates the entire mountain range, like a silver dress wrapping the mountains. The once hard rocks are now gently covered in snow, turning into round snowballs, looking adorable and charming. As we approached the summit, the sun broke through the thick clouds, revealing distant mountains shrouded in mist, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. The lake was frozen, and the sunlight reflecting off the distant lake surface revealed a hint of blue, reminiscent of the lake's original color. The icy world was breathtakingly beautiful. The once rugged mountain path to Snow Lake is now covered in snow, turning into a smooth road. Even the summit, which once required climbing with both hands and feet, now has a snow-covered path, making it easy to reach. However, crampons are essential to ensure a steady grip on the snow and avoid slipping. I've visited Snow Lake many times, and parking has always been free. Today, the parking lot was empty, with only a few cars, and we happened to encounter a patrol car asking us to scan a code to pay a $60 parking fee. Later, I checked the notice board, and indeed, parking fees had started. Perhaps the ski resort is about to open, and buying a ski pass might waive the parking fee. Despite this, the trip was still perfect and worth it. Around Snow Lake, there are many beautiful spots waiting for visitors to explore. For example, the observation deck at the summit offers a panoramic view of the mountains, showcasing the grandeur of nature. Additionally, there is a forest around Snow Lake, with snow-covered leaves, creating a fairy tale-like atmosphere. Walking through the forest, listening to the sound of falling snow, brings a sense of peace and tranquility. The dining options near Snow Lake are also plentiful, offering local delicacies such as hot soup, delicious grilled meat, and fresh salads. Moreover, there is an outdoor gear store near Snow Lake, where visitors can purchase various winter sports equipment, such as skis, sleds, and crampons. In conclusion, Snow Lake is an excellent winter travel destination, leaving a lasting impression with its natural and cultural attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is a paradise not to be missed.

🌟❄️Winter in Seattle has many hidden gems worth visiting.🎄🎉 🎄🎉Leavenworth Christmas Town transforms into a magical Christmas village every winter, with traditional Bavarian-style buildings on both sides of the street adorned with twinkling lights.🏰🎄 🏞️🖼️Franklin Falls Ice Waterfall is a hiking route not to be missed in winter, with the waterfall's water forming crystal-clear icicles and breathtaking scenery along the way.🏞️🖼️ ♨️🛷Suncadia Resort offers a luxurious hot spring experience, as well as activities such as sledding and disco skating, making it perfect for a family vacation.♨️🛷 🏠💕Getaway Snow Cabin is a camper cabin with large floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can walk through the forest and enjoy the snow with your loved ones in winter, chatting and stargazing at night.🏠💕 🌌🏔️Rattlesnake Ledge Snow Hike offers a view of snow-covered mountains in winter, overlooking lakes and forests.🌌🏔️ ⛷️🚡Crystal Mountain Resort is a must-visit for skiing enthusiasts, where you can ski or take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy the pure white snow.⛷️🚡

#holidayseason Washington State offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, festive charm, and unique holiday experiences, making it an ideal destination for your next Christmas vacation. Whether you’re seeking adventure, serenity, or seasonal cheer, Washington has it all. 1. Breathtaking Winter Landscapes The Cascade Mountains transform into a spectacular winter wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at Stevens Pass or Crystal Mountain, with awe-inspiring views of Mount Rainier as their backdrop. For a more tranquil experience, snowshoeing through the serene trails of Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature’s winter splendor. 2. The Magic of Leavenworth The Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth comes alive during Christmas, offering a holiday experience like no other. The town’s famous Christmas Lighting Festival illuminates the streets, while carolers, festive markets, and cozy eateries create an atmosphere of pure seasonal joy. The picturesque setting, nestled among snow-covered peaks, makes it feel as if you’ve stepped into a European Christmas tale. 3. Festive City Adventures in Seattle In Seattle, the holiday season is celebrated with vibrant lights, festive markets, and seasonal events. The iconic Pike Place Market offers unique gift options and delicious holiday treats, while ice-skating rinks and dazzling decorations add to the charm. With the Space Needle and Puget Sound as a backdrop, the city offers a perfect balance of urban excitement and winter magic. Washington’s diverse offerings make it an unforgettable destination for a Christmas vacation, blending natural beauty with holiday spirit in a way few places can match.

#holidayseason Looking for a holiday escape where you can frolic in snow, stuff your face, and pretend you’re in a Hallmark movie? Washington State has you covered. Here’s why it’s basically Santa’s second home: 1. Mountains That Make You Feel Like a Snow Globe Model The Cascade Mountains in winter are so dreamy, you’ll wonder if you accidentally walked into a postcard. Whether you’re shredding down Stevens Pass or face-planting on your first snowshoe adventure at Mount Rainier, the mountains are pure winter magic. Plus, you can show off your snowy Instagram pics and pretend you’re a hardcore mountaineer (no one needs to know you spent most of the time sipping hot cocoa). 2. A Town That Took “Christmas Cheer” Way Too Seriously Leavenworth is like a Bavarian village that got smacked with a Christmas wand. The whole town lights up—literally—with so many holiday lights it might be visible from space. Carolers serenade you, markets tempt you with goodies, and there’s mulled wine everywhere. It’s impossible not to feel festive unless you’re a full-time Grinch. 3. Seattle’s Got Holiday Spirit… and Coffee In Seattle, you can ice skate under the city lights, shop for quirky gifts at Pike Place Market, and caffeinate yourself into a holiday frenzy. Bonus: the Space Needle gives you a perfect excuse to tell your friends you’ve “gone somewhere iconic.” Pro tip: avoid trying to hang your stocking on it. Washington in December is all about snow, twinkle lights, and holiday vibes. Pack your ugly Christmas sweater and prepare for the festive overload—you won’t regret it!

#holidayseason If you’re looking for a magical mix of snowy mountains, festive charm, and winter adventures, Washington State is the ultimate Christmas destination. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your holiday itinerary: 1. A Winter Wonderland in the Cascades The Cascade Mountains turn into a snow lover’s paradise during the holiday season. Picture yourself skiing or snowboarding at Stevens Pass or Crystal Mountain, with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier in the distance. Prefer a slower pace? Try snowshoeing through Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest or cozy up in a cabin surrounded by frosted trees and crackling fireplaces. 2. Festive Small-Town Charm Washington’s small towns go all out for Christmas. The Bavarian-inspired village of Leavenworth transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Lighting Festival, carolers, and festive markets. Stroll through the streets with a warm cup of cider as snow falls softly around you—it’s straight out of a holiday movie. 3. Cozy City Vibes and Holiday Spirit In Seattle, the holiday spirit is everywhere, from the dazzling lights of the downtown Christmas Tree at Westlake Center to the festive ice-skating rinks. Don’t miss a trip to the iconic Pike Place Market, where you can shop for unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats. Add in views of the Space Needle framed by snowy peaks, and you’ve got a city that knows how to do Christmas right. Washington State offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and festive cheer, making it an unforgettable destination for your next Christmas vacation.

#northamericatrip Washington State is a hiker’s dream, with diverse landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush forests and alpine lakes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Washington has trails that will leave you in awe. Start your adventure in the North Cascades National Park, where you can hike the Cascade Pass trail. The stunning views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and waterfalls make this trail one of the most scenic in the state. If you’re looking for something more challenging, tackle the Mount Baker summit for panoramic views that will take your breath away. For a more serene experience, head to Rattlesnake Ledge near Seattle. This relatively easy 4-mile hike offers beautiful views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding Snoqualmie River Valley. It’s a perfect option for a quick escape from the city. If you’re a fan of pristine alpine lakes, the Enchantment Lakes in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest should be on your list. A challenging, multi-day hike, it rewards trekkers with crystal-clear lakes nestled between towering peaks—truly one of Washington’s gems. Finally, no hiking trip in Washington would be complete without exploring the Olympic National Park. The Hoh Rainforest offers a unique experience, where you can hike through moss-covered trees and lush vegetation. For a coastal experience, hike the Shi Shi Beach trail, which leads to one of the most scenic beaches in the state, complete with dramatic sea stacks and sweeping ocean views. With its vast variety of trails, Washington offers hikes that cater to every level, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The University of Washington is a public university open to the public. Cars are allowed on campus. The university has a strong academic atmosphere and diverse cultural activities. The library is said to be a filming location for Harry Potter, and is well worth a visit. However, some people come to take photos with loud flash sounds, which can be a bit distracting for those reading. 📍Address 1410 NE Campus Pkwy, Seattle, WA 98195 🏫Must-see spots - Red Square: The center of the campus, paved with red bricks. Facing the square is Suzzallo Library, a typical Gothic building with arches, sculptures, patterns, and stained glass windows. It's stunning. - Drumheller Fountain: Go down the steps on the left side of Red Square to see it. It's surrounded by cherry blossom trees, and on sunny days, you can see Mount Rainier. - The Quad: The home of the College of Arts and Sciences, surrounded by cherry blossom trees. It's a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring, and there are six Gothic teaching buildings nearby. - Odegaard Undergraduate Library: Located near Red Square, it's the undergraduate library and teaching center. 🌸Best time to visit - Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, turning the campus into a sea of pink flowers. - Summer (June–August): The weather is sunny and warm, perfect for outdoor activities. The campus is full of green trees. - Fall (September–November): The leaves change color, and the campus is full of vibrant colors. 🚌Transportation - Bus: Buses such as 32 and 44 can reach the campus. - Light rail: Take the light rail to the University of Washington Station, and walk to the campus after exiting the station. 🍔Food recommendations - U-Village Food Court: There are various food stalls offering burgers, pizza, sushi, and more. - School cafeteria: Don't miss the special delicacies such as "Tiger Bites Pig" scallion pancakes. 🛍Shopping nearby University Village is close to the campus and has brand stores such as Apple, Nordstrom, and Lululemon, as well as restaurants and cafes.

#cityscape Seattle’s skyline is well-known for its Space Needle, which rises dramatically above the cityscape. This structure, along with surrounding modern and historical buildings, provides a balanced mix of architecture against the backdrop of the stunning Cascade and Olympic Mountains. On clear days, photographers can capture Mount Rainier in the background, which juxtaposes beautifully with the Space Needle. The area around Queen Anne and the waterfront near Alki Beach are also popular for cityscape shots, providing various vantage points for photographers who want both close-up and panoramic shots of Seattle's dynamic skyline.

Leavenworth Christmas Town I would call it a town with a strong Christmas atmosphere! Exotic houses on both sides of the street are decorated with lights, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. During the Christmas month, the town will also hold concerts, parties, and game markets from time to time, with a strong festive atmosphere. 🦌Leavenworth Reindeer Farm: Get up close and feed the reindeer ️Leavenworth Snowmobile Tours: Snowmobile .Franklin Fall Ice Waterfall A hiking route not to be missed in winter! Seeing the pure white world with your own eyes is so shocking. It is recommended to wear a bright coat for photos. Oh, "popsicles" can be found on the ground, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. 🥾 and warm measures 🧤! .Suncadia Resort Hot Spring Resort ️Winter is incomplete without hot springs! This family, like Bieber, can bring dogs. The resort has sledding, disco skating, etc.️, and there are also many children's activities, which are suitable for children. .Getaway Snow Cabin A motorhome cabin with large floor-to-ceiling windows, lying in a warm quilt with your loved one in winter, walking in the forest to enjoy the snow️ during the day, chatting and stargazing at night, as if only each other is left in the world. .Woodland Park Zoo Animal Lantern Show The limited Lantern Festival on winter nights has started again. This time it will end on January 14 next year. There are not only lifelike animal lanterns, but also Chinese cultural performances. If you want to experience an unusual festive night, you must come! .Outdoor sports enthusiasts can climb mountains, hike, and ski️, while lazy sheep can participate in indoor baking🥧, hot springs, exhibitions, and other activities. You will definitely find something suitable for you!

Franklin Falls, located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State, is a popular hiking destination. The trail to the falls is a moderate 2-mile round trip, making it accessible for families and hikers of all skill levels. The path winds through lush forest scenery, with glimpses of the South Fork Snoqualmie River. The falls themselves drop 70 feet in a series of cascades, creating a picturesque setting perfect for photography and relaxation. Accessible year-round, Franklin Falls is particularly stunning in the spring and early summer when water flow is highest, but winter visits offer the added spectacle of frozen waterfalls. #gohiking

#wecreate Hey fellow explorers! Just had an incredible experience at Washington Union Station, and I couldn't wait to share it with you all! 🌟✈🌍 Getting to Washington Union Station was a breeze! 🚆🗺 Located in the heart of the city, it's easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Whether you arrive by train, bus, or even the metro, the station's central location makes it a convenient hub for travel. Let's dive into the history and architecture, shall we? 📜🏛 Stepping into this iconic landmark felt like stepping back in time. The station's rich history and stunning Beaux-Arts architecture instantly captivated me. From the grand concourse with its majestic vaulted ceilings to the intricate detailing of the façade, every corner exudes elegance and charm. 🏰✨ Washington Union Station truly embodies the spirit of the city, serving as a bustling transportation hub and a testament to America's architectural legacy. #tripblazers #WashingtonUnionStation #HistoricCharm #ArchitecturalWonders #TravelInspiration 🚂🌟

Rattlesnake Lake in Washington is a must-visit destination for someone who loves spending time with nature. The picturesque view will take your breath away, and the lake is so calm it will be hard to believe it is real. A challenging hike that's perfect to celebrate your new start and embrace the scenic beauty of Washington.

🌲 Days 1-2: Seattle (Pike place market, Japanese garden, a ferry to Bainbridge island, wine tasting, Space needle) 🌲 Day 3: Rattlesnake ledge hike. A very rewarding hike only about an hour drive from Seattle. 🌲 Day 4: Leavenworth (cute little German town with lots of hikes around) 🌲 Days 5-6: A cabin stay in Packwood, which is next to Mt Rainier NP 🌲 Days 7-8: Portland and Columbia River Gorge 🌲 Days 9-10: Oregon coast

A trial located in WA Seattle. A beautiful 1hr hike up! Hike is well path and do not require any guidance. A great hike for someone who wants to have a taste of how hiking would be like. Good to go during winter as well, although the top can be abit icy. Do be careful since there are no railings at the top to prevent anyone from falling. It is just a short drive(35mins) from town to rattlesnake ledge. This is located in the snoqualmie region. Be extra cautious during winter as the carpark can be icy and you might face a problem especially with 2 wheel drive. Bring food and water so that you can chill at the top and enjoy the view!

#overseastravel How Rainy is Settle? Many people might fear the rainy weather in Seattle. In fact, the “rain days” only occurs during the winter time! In summer, it’s always sunny and warm (I know it’s getting warmer and warmer, but it’s still better than the weather in LA lol). However, the summers in Seattle are short. Please do come visit during the summer time. Oh fun fact! I've noticed that a lot of Seattle natives against bringing an umbrella. Coz the rain is not that heavy. I also like the coffee culture in Seattle, not just because they have the first Starbucks store. Almost everyone here enjoy drinking coffee here and there are so many local café here that you will never get bored.

Seattle Pike Market | The world's first Starbucks, the most detailed Raiders Seattle Parker's Starbucks, I believe that all coffee lovers' punch card resort, the world's first! With these four words alone, you can see the weight. !! The strategy of smashing cards is very simple, people who like to install x will. But to give a suggestion, you must get up early! ! ! The sooner the better, I went at 6 o'clock. I just went to the door and I was already buying coffee. Its already 7 oclock after the photo is taken, and people are getting more. After 8:00, the door is a long queue. I came there the day before, at noon, I was scared by the team of more than ten meters at the door. This Starbucks feature is still the original Starbucks logo-two-tailed mermaid, and is currently the only Starbucks store in the world to sell the earliest logo. So come here, in addition to tasting coffee, you must also buy a cup to commemorate. I bought one, 40 knives. About 300 RMB. Still quite cheap, I think it is much cheaper than domestic. Location Pike Market No. 1912 The place is very easy to find. Just in the Parker market, the long line at the door is that you can see it at a glance.

Intensive phobias are cautious! Seattle Gum Wall! On both sides of the street, the chewing gum was chewed by many people. Location is near the Pike Market and has become one of the tourist checkpoints

!! How do you play around Seattle? A day trip to Mount Rainier National Park There are Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park around Seattle. This time we chose Mount Rainier National Park, the park is about two from the city. One and a half hours drive, in Mount Rainier National Park, take a leisurely walking tour, feel the beautiful scenery of Mount Rainier, enjoy lunch in nature. Address: Mount Rainier National Park

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