West Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat and more in West, Seattle, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to West

West is a neighborhood situated in Seattle, King County, Washington. It is located in the Puget Sound region of the Pacific Northwest of the United States of America. West is a picturesque place popular for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and a thriving food scene. It has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies and adventure enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in West

If you’re planning to visit West, here’s a list of places that should be on your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Seattle Chinese Garden: A beautiful garden setting inspired by the classic 5th-century garden of Suzhou, China.
  • Log House Museum: A museum that showcases the fascinating history and culture of Seattle’s Southwest communities.
  • Alki Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse that offers breathtaking views of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay.
  • Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center: A community center that showcases the art, culture, and history of the Duwamish Tribe.
  • Birthplace of Seattle: A historic site where the Denny Party, the first group of white settlers, landed in 1851.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lincoln Park: A large park that offers a spectacular view of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and Vashon Island.
  • Fauntleroy Park: A hidden gem of West with a diverse range of flora and fauna.
  • Alki Beach: A sandy beach popular for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying stunning views of downtown Seattle.
  • Puget Sound: A perfect place to enjoy water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale watching.
  • West Seattle Golf Course: A picturesque 18-hole golf course that offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and downtown skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

West has plenty of options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails:

  • West Seattle Bridge Trail: A 2.5-mile bike and pedestrian trail that connects West Seattle to downtown Seattle.
  • Alki Trail: A scenic 5.2-mile trail that runs along the scenic Alki Beach and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound.
  • Lincoln Park Loop Trail: A 2.4-mile loop trail that winds through the forest of Lincoln Park.
  • Schmitz Preserve Park Trail: A 1.7-mile trail that takes you through the old-growth forest of Schmitz Preserve Park.
  • Longfellow Creek Legacy Trail: A 2.5-mile trail that runs alongside the Longfellow Creek and offers a glimpse of the native wildlife.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

West has plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Puget Sound.
  • Whale watching: Join a guided tour and witness the majestic Orcas in their natural habitat.
  • Seattle Wine Tours: Enjoy a day exploring Seattle’s wine country.
  • Food tours: Take a guided food tour of West Seattle and taste some of the best local cuisines.
  • Sailing: Charter a private sailboat and enjoy the scenic views of Seattle from the Puget Sound.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

If you’re planning to spend a week in West, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Seattle Chinese Garden and have lunch at the nearby Luna Park Café.
2 Rent a kayak and explore the Puget Sound. In the evening, watch the sunset at Alki Beach.
3 Take a food tour and try some of the best local cuisines.
4 Visit the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center and explore the outdoors at Lincoln Park.
5 Go on a whale watching tour and witness the majestic Orcas in their natural habitat.
6 Enjoy a day exploring Seattle’s wine country.
7 Visit the Log House Museum and end the day with a sunset sail on the Puget Sound.

Food and Drink Scene of West

West has a thriving food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seattle-style hot dogs: Hot dogs served with cream cheese and grilled onions.
  • Salmon: Fresh salmon, grilled or baked to perfection.
  • Dungeness Crab: Sweet and tender crab meat served in various forms.
  • Teriyaki: Seattle’s famous teriyaki, with a unique taste and style.
  • Fish and chips: Flaky and crispy fish and chips, served with tartar sauce and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Local microbrews: Seattle’s craft beer scene is booming, with many award-winning breweries.
  • Coffee: Seattle is known for its coffee, with many famous coffee shops like Starbucks and Tully’s.
  • Apple cider: Freshly pressed apple cider is a local favorite.
  • Wine: Washington State produces some of the best wines in the country.

Where to Stay in West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West has a variety of accommodation options for all types of travelers. Here are some popular hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Inn at the Market: A luxurious hotel located in Pike Place Market with spectacular views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
  • The Westin Seattle: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of downtown Seattle.
  • Ace Hotel Seattle: A trendy and affordable hotel in Belltown.
  • Green Tortoise Hostel: A popular hostel with a friendly atmosphere and central location.
  • Lincoln Park Bed & Breakfast: A cozy bed & breakfast located in a quiet neighborhood near Lincoln Park.

What to Buy in West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave West empty-handed, here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back home as a memento of your trip:

  • Seattle Mariners gear: Show your love for the Seattle Mariners with baseball caps, t-shirts, and other merchandise.
  • Local wines: Bring back some local wines as a gift for family and friends.
  • Pike Place Market goodies: Grab some fresh produce, artisanal cheese, and other food products from Pike Place Market.
  • Glass art: Seattle is famous for its glass art, and you can buy unique glass creations from various galleries and shops.
  • Pottery: West Seattle has a long tradition of pottery, and you can find beautiful pottery from local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of West

Seattle is known for its laid-back and friendly culture. Here are some cultural tips to keep in mind during your trip:

  • Seattleites are polite and reserved but friendly.
  • Tipping is customary, with 15-20% being the norm.
  • Smoking is banned in public places, including bars and restaurants.
  • Seattle is environmentally conscious, so make sure to properly dispose of your trash.
  • There is a high regard for the outdoors in Seattle, so be sure to leave a minimal footprint when hiking or exploring nature.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is from May to September. This is when the weather is mild and pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. The peak tourist season is from June to August, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of West

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to West:

Do:

  • Explore the great outdoors.
  • Respect the local culture.
  • Try some local cuisine.
  • Be mindful of the environment.
  • Be polite and greet people with a smile.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and obnoxious.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture.
  • Ignore traffic laws.
  • Underestimate the weather.

Safety and Health

West is a safe and healthy place to visit. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in West

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
  • Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep valuables like phones and wallets hidden.
  • Lock your car and keep windows closed.
  • Use sunscreen to avoid sunburn.

Health in West

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
  • Carry a first aid kit.
  • Beware of ticks and other insects when exploring nature.
  • Check for weather updates before planning outdoor activities.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

West is easily accessible via various transportation options. Here are some ways to get there:

  • Airports Near West: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
  • Bus Stations Near West: Greyhound Bus Station, Seattle.
  • Other Options: Amtrak, Light Rail, Taxi, Uber/Lyft, etc.

How to Get Around in West

West has a great public transportation system with buses and light rail. You can also rent a car or take a bike to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West is a great place to start exploring Seattle and other nearby destinations. Here are some ideas for your next trip:

  • Downtown Seattle: Explore Seattle’s bustling downtown area.
  • Bainbridge Island: Take a ferry to the scenic Bainbridge Island and explore the quaint town.
  • Mount Rainier: Visit the stunning Mount Rainier National Park.
  • Olympic National Park: Explore the diverse wilderness of the Olympic National Park.
  • San Juan Islands: Take a ferry and explore the scenic San Juan Islands.

Conclusion

West is a hidden gem of Seattle, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and great food. With this comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to West, Seattle.

Alki lighthouse at sunset with state ferry passing on Puget Sound. Alki lighthouse at sunset with state ferry passing on Puget Sound. King County Water Taxi King County Water Taxi the view of downtown from West Seattle the view of downtown from West Seattle admiring the sunset from Alki Beach Park admiring the sunset from Alki Beach Park Eagle spotted in Lincoln Park Eagle spotted in Lincoln Park