In need of a vacation that boasts fresh seafood, lush greenery, excellent coffee, live music and panoramic views?
According to the New York Times, Seattle is one of the best places to visit in 2018. Home to tech giants, research institutions and major professional sports teams, Seattle manages to maintain a local feel while offering residents and tourists plenty of street festivals, performing arts, scenic parks and unique neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor.
It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Sacramento to Seattle in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.
(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)
Cheapest Seattle flights
The cheapest flights between Sacramento and Seattle are if you leave on January 26 and return from Washington on January 29. Delta currently has roundtrip tickets for $117.
Alaska Airlines also has tickets at that price point in February. If you fly out of Sacramento on February 2 and return from Seattle on February 5, Alaska Airlines can get you there and back for $117 roundtrip.
Top Seattle hotels
Regarding where to stay, here are some of Seattle’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.
The Green Tortoise Hostel (105 1/2 Pike St.)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Green Tortoise Hostel. The hostel has a five-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $132.
The Inn at El Gaucho (2505 First Ave.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, there's The Inn at El Gaucho. Rooms are currently set at $93/night.
The Seattle Airport Marriott (3201 S. 176th St.)
A third option is The Seattle Airport Marriott. The 4.8-star hotel has rooms for $109/night.
Local restaurant picks
Don't miss Seattle's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.
Beecher's Handmade Cheese (1600 Pike Place)
If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Beecher's Handmade Cheese, which has an average of 4.5 stars out of 92 reviews on Skyscanner.
In Seattle's historic Pike Place Market, visitors press their noses against the windows to witness a vat of creamy white milk transformed by the expert hands of the cheesemaker. They watch as curds materialize from the milk, and then knit together to create a fine artisanal cheese.
"Literally I’m making a trip to Seattle solely to get Beecher's mac and cheese," wrote visitor Sophia. "The sandwiches are yummy too."
Pike Place Chowder (1530 Post Alley)
Another popular dining destination is Pike Place Chowder, with 4.6 stars from 71 reviews.
The World's Best Chowder from Seattle's world-famous Public Market. Nothing says Seattle like the Space Needle and the Public Market. And nothing speaks chowder like Pike Place Chowder. Treat yourself to the best America has to offer.
Pike Place Fish Market Inc (86 Pike St.)
Also worth considering is Pike Place Fish Market Inc.
"Salmon on top of the spinach salad was amazingly moist and the root beer float was decadent," wrote Christine. "Other restaurants were packed out and a long wait ... we went right in and were seated with great service!"
What to see and do in Seattle
Not sure what to do in Seattle, besides eat and drink? Here are a couple of recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.
Pike Place Market (85 Pike St., #500)
First up is Pike Place Market.
Pike Place Market is arguably one of the most popular destinations in the city of Seattle. Home to the second location of the original Starbucks store, the market first opened in 1907. With area farmers, craftsmen and independent merchants selling their wares throughout the market, tourists and residents alike flock to this unique part of Seattle.
The Space Needle (400 Broad St.)
The Space Needle is another popular destination.
The iconic landmark left by the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle comprises the most recognizable feature of one of the most famous skylines in the world. Climb to the top for 360 views of Seattle and get your souvenirs at the gift shop on the bottom floor. The rotating restaurant, Skyline, serves up dizzying dishes and a rare experience.
"You can't miss the Space Needle when in Seattle," wrote visitor Juno. "I actually love looking at it when I fly in to Seattle. Such an iconic landmark of the city. The area around it is also very charming to walk around."
