Home to Microsoft and Starbucks, grunge rock and a constant rainy drizzle, Seattle is defined by the collision of urban soul and natural beauty. It's also a great destination for the budget-conscious traveler. An abundance of outdoor activities and a pulsing arts community make it the perfect place to visit while holding onto spare change.
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For best bets on live shows and music, snag a copy of The Stranger, Seattle's free alternative weekly, to find out who's playing where. If you're looking for a quieter evening, pack dessert and head to Gas Works Park, in Wallingford, or Kerry Park, on Queen Anne Hill, for stunning views of the city skyline.
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When you've had your fill, wander up Elliott Avenue to the Olympic Sculpture Park, a nine-acre (3.6-hectare) waterfront site nestled on the shoreline with towering, permanent sculptures by some of contemporary art's hottest artists.
Then, visit Ballard and the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, where boats rise and fall as they move between the sound and the inland waterways and salmon run through a fish ladder.
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In Green Lake, you'll find windsurfing, swimming, and a heavily-used running trail with loads of people out to picnic and play.
GETTING AROUND: Buses in Seattle are cheap, just $1.50, or $1.75 during peak hours. If you're looking to see the sights, hop on a ferry down at the docks, where $7.50 will get you a half-hour cruise to Bainbridge Island, where a more laid-back vibe awaits.
