Seattle is a quick hop over the border from where I live in Vancouver, B.C. The Emerald City makes a perfect weekend getaway—even in winter. If you find yourself exploring the USA this season, here are three easy ways to enjoy what Seattle’s most famous neighbourhood has to offer:

 

1. Explore Pike Place Market

How could this not be #1 on my list? Pike Place embraces Christmas with all the spirit of a Hallmark card. Santa sits with families for photo-ops, carollers’ songs mix with the calls of fishers announcing a fresh catch, and bushels of holly adorn practically every available surface. Be prepared for heightened crowds in the holiday season, but don’t let that dissuade you from visiting—instead, take your time and soak up the jovial atmosphere.

 

2. Snap a Selfie with the Gum Wall

Down a sloping cobblestone street and beneath a dark bridge, you’ll find yourself surrounded by sticky, dripping, colourful wads of gum. This famous alley draws Instagram influencers searching for the perfect post. Even if you’re not concerned with snapping a selfie, go for the oddity of it—and if you’ve got some Double Bubble, chew it up and spit it out to leave your mark on Seattle.

 

3. Watch the Sun Set over the Pacific

Descend the closest staircase to get down to sea level. Along Pier 57, you can watch families get high on the giant Ferris Wheel. In the ocean, sea lions splash and dive freely. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar is a great place to sit and watch the blazing orange sun sink behind the horizon (especially since the patio has heaters). Gaze across the rippling water towards the smattering of low-lying islands. After the sun has dropped, the Ferris Wheel bleeds blue and purple into the water.

 

Other activities in Seattle you might want to try this winter:

• Go for brunch at Portage Bay Café
• Have a drink at a Speakeasy, such as Bathtub Gin & Co.
• Indulge in the Seared Scallop Chowder at Pike Place Chowder
• Stock up on everything at Trader Joe’s

Stay warm out there, travellers!