A Treasure Trove for Two
Although Seattle’s downtown core is a mish mash of past and present, it
all works together harmoniously. New-age high rises hover above Gold Rush landmarks,
trendy boutiques snuggle between flagship department stores and government headquarters
brush up to corporate conglomerates. There are countless cozy espresso bars where
you can escape the drizzly weather, ethnic-varied restaurants to appease the most
discerning palate and so much cultural diversity it’ll make your head spin.
This destination that’s embraced by the glistening Puget Sound and backed
by snow tipped peaks is so picturesque it’ll tug on any heart strings.
Make Some Music Together at Experience Music Project (EMP)
This massive Frank
O. Gehry architectural wonder, vaguely shaped in the form of a monumental guitar,
is jammed packed with opportunities to get both of your hearts thumping. You’ll
be mesmerized by the psychedelic-like acoustics of Sky Church, where musical greats
become giant size on the monster video screen, take a step back in time with Jimi
Hendrix and his ‘Evolution of Sound,’ and unleash innate musical talents
when performing that special song for the one you love. Plunk away on the keyboard,
strum on a guitar or serenade each other with a golden oldie.
Charge up Your Imaginations
Instead of sounds, sci-fi may be more your thing. If so, you won’t have
to stray too far. Right next door is the Science Fiction Museum, a mind boggling
exhibit that’s devoted to thought-provoking ideas. There’s everything
from literature and media to future visions for humanity. Their Hall of Fame pays
homage to the creative practitioners –writers, artists, publishers and filmmakers
and others who have given life to this imaginative world. On your journey you’ll
come face to face with monsters, robots, and aliens –just to throw a little
Halloween into this Valentine’s Day.
Take Your Love to a Higher Level
This futuristic-looking
Space Needle has been Seattle’s well known icon since the World’s
Fair in 1962. From its lofty six hundred foot (204 meters) high observatory your
hearts will palpitate when checking out the stunning panorama that includes everything
from the city’s bustling downtown hub to the pinnacle of Mt Rainer. Even
when the clouds roll in, the ethereal effect will initiate some loving Valentine
vibes. You can also share the vista while wining and dining by candlelight. This
landmark’s SkyCity rotating restaurant dishes up culinary classics that
match the 360 degree rotating view.
Or Go underground!
For a step back in time, stroll the cobblestone streets of Pioneer Square, where
an iron pergola, Tlingit totem pole, and Romanesque brick buildings are remnants
of Seattle’s past. Check out art galleries, cafés, antique shops
–the eclectic area definitely encourages lots of hand-holding. And don’t
forget to check out what also lies beneath the streets. Bill Speidel's Underground
Tour is a cheesy but entertaining guided tour of the hidden subterranean passages
that were once the main roadways of downtown Seattle.
Plod Through Pike Market
Chocolates, flowers,
jewelry, oh my! You’ll find every valentine favorite at this queen bee of
farmer’s markets. But watch out for those flying fish! This venue has been
a Seattle institution since 1907 and beneath open air tents, merchants, craftsman
and farmers line up year round. Aside from the original Starbucks, you won’t
find any chain stores here –and all is sold on a first come basis, so for
the freshest and finest, get their early. You won’t be disappointed!
Go For Some Paired Pampering
Vida is one Seattle’s newer spas where you can bliss out together. All seventeen
treatment rooms offer unrivalled delights that will satisfy any spa aficionado.
From hot stones and body wraps to massages and facials their therapies are designed
to relax, restore and regenerate. While lying side by side in one of these zen-like
havens, you’ll most definitely zone out.
A Secluded Sanctuary – The Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle
This elite award
winner occupies a prime location near the city’s core. Instead of being
squeezed next to downtown high rises that brim from Seattle’s bustling vortex,
you’ll be idyllically distanced from the percolating crowds. It’s
just four blocks from the Pike and Pine Street shopping, six blocks from the Convention
Center and the Space Needle, and minutes via streetcar from Lake Union’s
enticing restaurants.
You may want to surprise your sweetie by booking the ‘Romance Package.’
A fresh bouquet, decadent chocolates and a bottle of bubbly will accompany your
contemporary suite. Or better yet, go for the Sleepless in Seattle. With brunch
in bed, a pair of PJs to share and free romantic in-room movies, you probably
won’t get much shut eye!