What are the shopping options like in Seattle, Washington?

Nestled in the beautiful and picturesque Pacific Northwest, living in Seattle means you are only 20 minutes in any direction from extravagant forests, mountains, coastlines, and other scenic outdoor activities. First inhabited over 15,000 years ago by indigenous tribes of Native Americans, Seattle is an iconic center of culture, enjoying lovely waterways, ocean views, and endless activities. However, be aware that this is one of the most expensive places to live in the entire United States. Housing, education, childcare, among others, are generally higher than the national average. Corporate behemoths like Amazon essentially control the city, to the extent that many of the hip areas formerly dominated by young people and bohemians are slowly (read quickly) being taken over and transformed. Despite the rising costs, the city is absolutely breathtaking, boasting many popular entertainment activities including theaters, festivals, world-class shopping, restaurants, as well as a bustling nightlife. The downside is the exponential growth of income inequality that has become quite visible, especially in the downtown areas. The city is very diverse and has some of the best Indian food on the West Coast of the U.S. The University of Washington is also headquartered here (considered the Ivy League of the West Coast), so there is an abundance of youth as it is a preeminent college town.

Seattle is a city with many exciting attractions. The metropolitan area, which includes a number of interesting and distinct neighborhoods, is both sprawling and approachable. The University District is full of quaint parks and restaurants. The Downtown and Capitol Hill areas are home to well-known tourist destinations like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. If a visitor desires experiences in the outdoors, Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier are both an hour away.

Seattle is a city full of amazing views and creative and quirky people. There is an abundance of activities available year-round from kayaking and hiking to skiing and sailing. Seattle is a bike friendly and walkable city so there is no need to own a car. Last but not least we have an exciting coffee and beer scene! Wherever you decide to live in the city you are always a short walk to a local coffee shop!

Someone moving to Seattle should be prepared for windy and rainy weather, plenty of weekend hikes to nearby State and National Parks and one of the country’s best public transportation systems. Seattle has an abundance of lakes, water bodies, trails and is one of the most dog-friendly US cities. There are coffee shops all over the city, and one will almost always have a Starbucks location within walking distance.

CenturyLink Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks and Sounders, gets transformed into ‘Enchant Christmas Seattle’ (ECS). ECS is a large light maze, ice skating rink, holiday shopping center, and eatery. Families go to ECS for holiday photos and family fun. Once the holidays have come to an end, there is a lull until summer starts again. Most people are nice and friendly.