Vacation to Seattle (Bremerton, Pacific, Woodland: renting, gated, taxi)

[princesspolamalu]

I was thinking of where I might go for my summer vacation next year and I came across Seattle. It seems like a very cool place to visit with lots of things to do for kids. I am a single mom of a soon to be 5 year old. What things would you recommend as must see attractions? (Other than the Space Needle of course!!!) Also is it really worth it to have lunch in that Space Needle restaurant? I heard the prices were outrageous.

Can the city be navigated without a car? I dont like driving in unfamiliar areas. How is the public transportation and or taxi service? Thanks in advance for any ideas.

[chris]

definitely plan on renting a car - public transportion is mostly buses and you'll spend way too much time getting from place to place on them.

A good option for site seeing is the Seattle city pass. I always get those for friends/family who come to visit.

[scirocco22]

I don't think it would be worth dining at the Space Needle with a 5 year old if it's just the two of you. I'd go up and spend some time on the observation deck taking in the views though. I've had some romantic dinners at the Needle. You're right that it is overpriced as far as the food goes but the view is obviously unbeatable.

I'd also plan on spending lots of time on the Center grounds taking in all the activities.

Another must see for a 5 year old is the Chittenden Locks (aka: Government Locks or the Ballard Locks).

A walk-on round trip ferry ride to Bremerton (or even Winslow/Bainbridge) is also might be something you might consider.

You can get around Seattle proper on public transportation just fine if you really find driving in a strange city too difficult. Just do some homework in advance on how the transit system works and familiarize yourself a bit on the routes, fares procedures, etc. before starting out. Let me know if you need help with that.

[pwright1]

Yes the Space Needle grounds have a variety of great things for a 5 year old.
The Pacific Science Center, the Childrens Museum and also a ride on the monorail. Also as tacky as it is there is a carnival like area at the center with old rides like a ferris wheel and some other smaller rides for kids. After that hop on the monorail and ride downtown to Westlake Plaza for lunch or dinner. I recommend skipping the food court at Westlake and heading over to Nordstrom's flagship store to either the Cafe Bistro or the Grill. The food is great and both have an excellent kids menu plus they'll give your kid crayons and a coloring sheet. I go there all the time and kids love it. Another great place would be our Central Library located at 4th and Spring. I see kids in there all the time.
Other great places for kids:
Green Lake and the Woodland Park Zoo
Pike Place Market
The top of the 76 story Columbia Center - Breathtaking views (4th and Columbia downtown)
Any one of the many beaches around the city including Alki, Golden Gardens, Madison Park.
Snoqualmie Falls which is about 20 miles east of Seattle.
Kerry Park on Queen Ann Hill - The most spectacular view of the city

Just a few things. Its late and I'll think of other things tomorrow.