While You're Here
Ballard Farmer's Market
Our neighborhood Ballard is one of the most delightful, walkable corners of Seattle. With plenty of shopping, restaurants, and bars, you will not run out of things to do. Ballard's crown jewel is it's weekly Farmer's Market, occurring every Sunday, every week, rain or shine! While you may not need fresh produce or fish during your stay, this market is a great place to get a beautiful bouquet, a fresh breakfast, and much more. It is truly the quickest and easiest way to fall in love with Ballard. Grab a coffee and take it all in!
Ballard Seafood Fest
Another Ballard gem you’ve got to check out while you're here is the Ballard Seafood Fest! Lucky for us, it’s happening over our wedding weekend right in the heart of Ballard. This festival is amazing – they’ve got the freshest seafood around, live music, and tons of fun activities for everyone. Plus, there are loads of local vendors with unique crafts and tasty treats. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fun day activity, the Ballard Seafood Fest is the place to be.
Golden Gardens Park
If you’re looking for a great place to unwind, you’ve got to visit Golden Gardens Park. It’s the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunset over the Puget Sound. You can relax on the beach, take in the stunning views, or grab a soft serve cone from the local food stand. Feeling adventurous? They offer kayak trips right from the park. It’s an ideal place to spend an evening or enjoy some outdoor fun during the day. This park is a little slice of paradise!
Ferry to Bainbridge
If you're looking for a full day adventure on Saturday, head to Bainbridge Island on the Ferry from Downtown and enjoy a day of wine tasting, shopping, and great food. The Ferry is 35 minutes one-way and offers some of the best views of Seattle and the Puget Sound. You may even spot a whale! Tickets are $9 round-trip which makes this the perfect option for an unforgettable day trip. Make sure you grab a coffee to bring for the ride!
Discovery Park
For a true taste of Washington’s natural beauty, you have to visit Discovery Park. It's the best place in-town to go for a hike, offering trails that wind through lush forests, open meadows, and stunning coastal cliffs. You’ll get to experience breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just enjoy peaceful walks in nature, Discovery Park is the perfect escape right in the city. There are plenty of options for skill levels and experiences within Discovery Park. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with the great outdoors!
Din Tai Fung
Seattle is known for its vibrant culinary scene, ranging from seafood to international cuisine. Din Tai Fung, founded in Taiwan, is known for their soup dumplings and noodles. They make their dumplings, noodles and buns by hand in the restaurant. They have multiple locations throughout Seattle. You may want to make a reservation or call ahead - they are a popular spot for dim sum! This is definitely one of our favorites for a night out with friends.
The Pink Door
The Pink Door is a beloved and iconic restaurant nestled in Seattle's historic Pike Place Market. Known for its charming, eclectic atmosphere and delicious Italian-American cuisine, The Pink Door offers a memorable dining experience. The outside of the restaurant is nothing but a pink door nestled in an alley, which is where the name derives from. The cuisine is crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a menu featuring pasta dishes and seafood. They can book out in advance due to their popularity, so make a reservation if you are able, but they can accommodate walk ins. This is one of our favorite date nights or special occasion dinners.
Portage Bay Cafe in Ballard
Portage Bay Cafe is a popular restaurant in Seattle known for its commitment to sustainable, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. It has a warm, inviting atmosphere that serves up delicious breakfast and brunch! They have multiple locations in the Seattle area, so check out the website to see which is most convenient for you. Their saying "Eat like you give a damn" checks out once you see their extensive menu. It is definitely worth a stop for brunch while you are in town. The Ballard location is our weekend ritual for brunch and people watching.