Seattle may be best known for rampant rain and a Starbucks on every street corner, but there’s a lot more to the Emerald City than gray skies and caffeine. With landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike’s Market to draw in tourists, not to mention a music and club scene that just won’t quit, there’s no shortage of entertainment, activities, and attractions to draw travelers looking for some fun in the Pacific Northwest. But if you’re planning a girls’ weekend away with a few of your closest friends, you might be looking for something a bit more specific to fill your time. And whether you like to get outdoors and get active or your idea of a body in motion involves careening around a dance floor after downing a couple of expertly-mixed drinks, there is something to delight you when you visit this west coast city by the sea. Here are just a few of Seattle’s finest attractions that you might want to sample when you plan your girls’ weekend.

  1. Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley. If you’re looking for a venue where you can sample some locally-sourced, organic fare from around this northwestern region, including seafood, steak, and produce, all while listening to premium jazz, then Jazz Alley is the place for you. While goth clubs and alternative music can still be found aplenty, the discerning group of girls might prefer something a little more upscale, and the intimate setting and stellar artists that punctuate Jazz Alley can provide you with an evening of sustenance for both your stomach and your soul.
  2. Warren G. Magnuson Park. Formerly Naval Station Puget Sound located on Lake Washington, this 350-acre park (the second largest in the city) is known for the many amenities it provides visitors. With rock-climbing walls and a variety of sports fields (from rugby to ultimate frisbee), you can get outdoors and soak up any sunshine to be had. But you might also want to take the time to look at some of the many remnants of the site’s military past still located on the premises. And don’t forget to seek out the art installations that dot the park, including the famous Sound Garden sculpture that served as the namesake for the popular alternative Seattle band.
  3. The Tasting Room. Napa used to be the only game in town when it came to west coast wines, but over the last several decades, vineyards up and down the coastline have gained notoriety for their varietals, and Washington is no different. But rather than driving hither and yon to sample the finest vino the state has to offer, park yourself at The Tasting Room, where Sunday through Thursday they’re open noon to eight, but Friday and Saturday their sign reads noon to late. With a convenient location in Pike Place Market, you can get your drink on and then walk it off browsing the many kitschy boutiques that dot this downtown area.
  4. Re-Bar. Whether you’re looking for a night of slam poetry, a bawdy burlesque show, an introduction to seapunk, or some house music to get you grooving, Re-Bar can provide you with a variety of options, depending on the entertainment they’ve scheduled for the night. Check their online calendar before you visit to see what’s on the agenda during the dates of your weekend trip to Seattle.
  5. The Space Needle. When it comes toplaces to see in Seattle, you really have to take a trip up to the observation deck of The Space Needle to view the city from a height of 520 feet. Or if you’d rather avoid the wind and rain, make a reservation at Skycity Restaurant, which offers 360-degree views and a menu that includes local seafood delights and a wine list that features a virtual who’s who of Washington wineries. Whether you choose to start or end your trip with this must-see landmark, it’s bound to be the highlight of your girls’ weekend.