Once a rather dull port and industrial center, Seattle has undergone an astonishing transformation into the largest city in
Washington State. Driven in part by its flourishing economy, it is today an energetic, forward-looking city at the forefront of innovation. The city is rich in culture and easy-going lifestyles, and it's no accident that Seattle is the "Coffee Capital" of the United States with an espresso bar on almost every corner.
In addition, the city boasts a magnificent mountain setting: to the east is the ice pyramid of Mount Rainier National Park, rising out of the
Cascade Mountains, to the west, the partly snow-capped peaks of
Olympic National Park.
Though it's worth spending a couple of days exploring Seattle, day trips beckon in the parks, beaches, and attractions outside of the city. Tempting nature lovers with moss-laden trees and winding trails, the
Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park is not to be missed. A rather different day trip is to the
Future of Flight in Everett, where visitors tour Boeing's immense factory - the world's largest building.