What makes a dive bar? A ‘dive' is usually is a term that is applied pejoratively, or ironically, meaning some kitsch value is attached the bar. In reality they are a place to act out a bit - let out a bit of tension lubricated by a bit of cheap beer and heavy cocktails. No one's going to look down their nose at you for yelling or laughing too loud, or using an obscenity, or for the most part anything that isn't illegal as long as you would allow the same freedom to your neighbor.
Most experienced travelers will tell you that the best way to see a big city is on a guided tour. It's especially helpful to get your bearings, see the entire city area and know what parts you want to revisit. In Seattle, that story is no different.
Midway between Seattle and Tacoma in Puget Sound is Vashon Island. This small island measuring 13 miles long by 8 miles wide is home to 11,000 residents and all are dependent on ferry service to get to and from their homes. Most wouldn't trade the commute for the rural beauty of the island and the laid back lifestyle that Vashon is known for.
Directly across Elliot Bay from downtown Seattle is a finger of land called West Seattle that is the largest and oldest of Seattle's neighborhoods and a vibrant community that is worth a days visit.
Head toward the West Seattle Bridge and if you happen to be a passenger, enjoy the great views of the Port Of Seattle to the north and on a clear day, Mt. Rainier to the south while you cross the bridge and head toward the Admiral District.
Put on you comfortable walking shoes because downtown Seattle has 1800 retailers and once you start you will not want to stop. So what, you say, what makes Seattle special? First it's the density of the shopping. All these stores are located between 4th and 6th Avenues and Olive and Union, which is only four blocks. You can't take a step without finding some store you must stop in.
Seattle's most recognizable landmark, the Space Needle, is just one of many sights to visit at Seattle Center. This 28-acre site was the location of the 1962 Seattle's World's Fair and is still in use today as a cultural and tourist center for Seattle.
It is estimated 1 in every 100 Americans has celiac disease and as a growing number of people are diagnosed or choose to live gluten-free, more restaurants have begun to create menus or even specialize in gluten-free cuisine.
Seattle has many different neighborhoods with separate identities and cultures-none more unique than the International District. Home to a large Asian population and with them comes some unique shopping options and distinctive restaurants. No visit to Seattle is complete without a stop there.
If you want to learn about Seattle's history, find some of the best shopping, art galleries, bars and restaurants in town head to Pioneer Square. Located between the Alaskan Way Viaduct and 2nd Avenue, in the heart of downtown, Pioneer Square is where Seattle was founded and is a historical district featuring the country's largest concentration of Victorian Romanesque buildings.