Seattle, Washington

 

1. The Space Needle – Our Icon, Built for a World's Fair

Sure, you've probably seen it in pictures, but did you know the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair? At 605 feet tall, it was the tallest structure west of the Mississippi at the time. It’s still the ultimate spot for sweeping views of the city (and a great photo op!).

2. Coffee is Basically Our Love Language

You can’t throw a stone in Seattle without hitting a coffee shop. Seriously, we’re home to the first-ever Starbucks at Pike Place Market (since 1971), but don’t just stop there. We’ve got countless local roasters serving up some of the best coffee you’ll ever sip.

3. Washington = Apples, Apples, and More Apples

Did you know Washington state produces almost 70% of the country’s apples? When we say we’re the "Apple State," we mean it. From sweet Fuji to tart Granny Smith, you’ll find fresh apples (and cider!) just about everywhere here.

4. Welcome to the Wet Side (Sort Of)

Yeah, it rains. A lot. But did you know we actually get less rain than cities like New York? It's true! Seattle’s famous drizzle is more about cloud cover than downpours. And those lush green forests? That’s just a side effect of all that misty magic.

5. Grunge Was Born Here – RIP Kurt Cobain

Seattle’s grunge scene changed the world in the 1990s. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden made their mark right here. So if you're into music history, you're walking through legends every time you're in town!

6. Mount Rainier is Our Sleeping Giant

Looking up at Mount Rainier from Seattle is one of those views that never gets old. At 14,411 feet, it's Washington’s tallest mountain and an active volcano. Don’t worry though, it’s been sleeping for over 100 years – but it’s still awe-inspiring.

7. Islands Galore – Yep, We’re an Archipelago

With over 170 islands in Washington state, we’re like the island capital of the U.S. From Vashon to Bainbridge and the San Juans, each one has its own vibe, perfect for a weekend getaway or just a peaceful ferry ride.

8. The Evergreen State: More Than Just a Nickname

Washington state is known as the "Evergreen State" because of its, well, evergreen trees. But beyond the trees, we’re home to vast rainforests, snow-capped peaks, and some of the most beautiful natural landscapes you’ll ever see. Nature is our backyard.

9. Seattle’s Pike Place Market: Where the Magic Happens

Pike Place Market isn’t just a place to grab fresh seafood (though we’ve got amazing fish). It’s also where you can find quirky local vendors, buskers, fresh flowers, and, of course, the first-ever Starbucks. A must-see for any visitor!

10. Washington's Parks Are Next-Level

From the rugged peaks of Mount Rainier to the coastal beauty of Olympic National Park, Washington’s national parks are a dream come true. They’re perfect for a hike, a road trip, or just soaking in the views (and don’t forget to pack snacks!).

11. The First Computer Mouse Was Born Here

Yep, Seattle’s own Xerox PARC is where the first computer mouse was invented in 1964. While the mouse has evolved, you can still thank Seattle for revolutionizing how we interact with technology!

12. Washington’s Wine Scene is Top-Notch

If you’re a fan of wine, Washington’s your place. Our Columbia Valley is home to over 1,000 wineries, and we’re the second-largest wine-producing state in the U.S. So whether you're into reds, whites, or rosés, you're in for a treat.

13. The Longest Floating Bridge – Yep, We’ve Got That

Seattle is home to the longest floating bridge in the world – the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, or SR 520. It’s literally floating on water across Lake Washington, connecting Seattle with its Eastside neighbors. We take our bridges seriously here!

14. Chihuly Garden and Glass – Pure Magic

You haven’t truly experienced Seattle until you’ve wandered through the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures are mesmerizing, and the outdoor garden is something out of a dream. Definitely a local treasure.

15. We’re Kind of a Big Deal in Tech

While Seattle is known for its coffee and rain, it’s also a major tech hub. With Amazon and Microsoft (just up the road in Redmond), we’re home to some of the world’s biggest names in tech. If you're into gadgets or innovation, this is the place to be.