With water and mountains in every direction, the Seattle area sets the perfect stage for romance, with beautiful places to explore together.
Downtown Seattle
There’s a reason they call Seattle the Emerald City. Even the heart of downtown wears its share of green with plenty of parks to stroll through hand-in-hand. From Kerry Park, near the top of Queen Anne Hill, you get a sweeping view of the entire city, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainer. The Volunteer Park Conservatory on Capitol Hill is the lush, fragrant home of a variety of exotic plants with tropical houses holding orchids, palms, and hibiscus flowers. Take a stroll and then head to Pike Place Market for oysters on the half shell and a glass of Washington craft beer or wine. In the evening, there are plenty of great eateries, including Hotel Ändra’s intimate and cozy Assaggio Ristorante. To round out the evening, no matter what kind of music moves you, there are numerous options, like a show at Jazz Alley or a concert by the Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall. Or, if you just feel like dancing, head for the dance clubs in Pioneer Square.
Kirkland
Just east of Seattle, on the opposite shore of Lake Washington, is Kirkland, a very engaging waterfront city. Two of its parks, both starting with the name “Juanita,” have their own romantic vibe. Dedicated to preserving the area’s natural beauty, Juanita Bay Park is built around 110 acres of natural wetlands with bridges, outlook areas, and dozens of trails. Watch for elegant waterfowl as you stroll arm-in-arm. Then head to the waterfront, rent a kayak or paddleboard, and visit Juanita Beach Park. This pretty spot has the area’s largest beach and an enclosed swimming area. It’s a splendid location to watch the sunset before dinner. Or take a boat cruise! For dinner, we recommend Trellis Restaurant at Heathman Hotel. It boasts a fabulous wine list and tasty wine country cuisine.
The Olympic Peninsula
It’s amazing that this natural wonderland lies in such close proximity to urban Seattle! Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day in the massive Olympic National Park, with glacier-carved lakes, waterfalls, campgrounds, 600-plus miles of hiking trails, and scenic views. The Olympic Peninsula’s Hoh Rainforest is literally dripping with romance and three loop trails. The Hall of Mosses Trail is our favorite. Port Townsend is a fun spot for restaurants and shopping. But at the west end of the Hood Canal Floating Bridge lies the piece de resistance! The charming town of Port Ludlow has a history dating back to the mid-1800s. Play golf at The Port Ludlow Golf Club, hike one of the trails, and stay at The Resort at Port Ludlow, where you can cozy up at The Fireside, the inn’s beautiful, award-winning restaurant.