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200 Second Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: 206-443-2001
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The Science Center is one of Seattle Center’s original residents, dating back to the World’s Fair in 1962 when it was part of what was known as the United States Pavilion on the south end of the fairgrounds. Though only a few exhibits from the original exhibition remain, the Pacific Science Center has only gotten bigger and better through the years, and it now fills eight separate buildings. From the creepy crawlies at the Insect Village, to the many interactive displays and demonstrations at the center, there’s plenty of opportunity to get a hands-on look at the world of science.
Seattle Aquarium
1483 Alaskan Way
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 206-386.4300
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Built right on the water’s edge, the Aquarium has been in operation since 1977, but in 2007, it completed a major renovation and it now ranks among the city’s most popular attractions. It’s hard to miss the biggest new addition to the Aquarium, the Windows on Washington Waters exhibit, right near the entrance. This 120.000-gallon tank has become a showpiece for the entire Aquarium, and come feeding time, there’s always a crowd around the huge window. Further inside the Aquarium, there are numerous smaller tanks and exhibits, showcasing creatures from Puget Sound and beyond. Perhaps the most distinctive exhibit in the entire building is the Aquarium’s underwater Dome, which gives visitors a down under view of salmon, sturgeon, sharks, and other creatures wet and wonderful.
Seattle Center
305 Harrison Street
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: 206-684-7200
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While Seattle World’s Fair of 1962 was dedicated to envisioning the future, the fairgrounds of that event are hardly a remnant of the city’s past. Reborn after the fair as Seattle Center, this 74-acre entertainment complex has been one of the city’s main attractions for nearly half a century now. Some attractions here are as old as the fair itself, but others are very much products of the 21st century. It all makes for a full day of exploring right here at the center. Highlights of a visit to the center include the carnival midway, the lovely International Fountain, the Pacific Science Center, and, of course, Paul Allen's latest brainchild, the Experience Music Project/Science Fiction Museum, two museums quirky as the city of Seattle itself.
1101 Alaskan Way
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 206-622-8687
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A visit to Seattle always seems to begin and end with water. Not surprisingly, perhaps the best way to get acquainted with Seattle is from the deck of a ship. Most of the Argosy Cruises, including trips out to Tillicum Village, leave from Pier 55, right near the Aquarium. Or you could even take the longer cruise that starts on Lake Union and moves through the Chittenden Locks.
Burke Museum of Natural History
17th Avenue NE and NE 45th Street
Seattle, WA 98195
Phone: 206-543-5590
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Located in the northwest corner of the UW campus, this impressive museum focuses on the history and pre-history of the Pacific Northwest. From gems and minerals that were unearthed in the area, to bones of dinosaurs that once roamed freely here, the Burke and its twelve million artifacts give visitors a fascinating tour of the region’s earliest days. In addition to the natural history on display here, the Burke also highlights different native cultures, from both here at home and abroad. And, it’s all done in a very kid-friendly way, so the museum can be enjoyed on several different levels.
Duck Tours
Leaving from Seattle Center
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: 206-441-DUCK
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Ride the Ducks Tours, jaunts around town in refurbished amphibious vehicles, are a very popular way to see Seattle. These tours leave on a regular basis from the Seattle Center, and spend about an hour on land and thirty minutes in the water. The tour basically circles the waterfront area, going through Pioneer Square, and then takes a dip into Lake Union.
Maritime Event Center
2205 Alaskan Way # 66
Seattle, WA 98121
Phone: 206-269-4108
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Formerly known as the Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center, his museum is a family-friendly look at the industries that have come to depend upon the waters of Pacific. Here, visitors can stroll through the various aspects of the commercial fishing industry, and learn how modern technology has allowed for better stewardship of Puget Sound’s precious resources. Numerous interactive displays let visitors get a taste of life on water, without the salty air and risk of falling off the boat and being eaten by a narwhal.