The city of Seattle, Washington, has a diverse population, largely due to immigrants. Seattle’s foreign-born population increased by over 40 percent between the 1990 and 2000 census, and the majority of Hispanic residents lived outside the city in rural areas, where agricultural jobs were plentiful. In addition, Seattle has a large gay and lesbian community; the 12.9 percent rate of homosexual residents is the second highest among large U.S. cities.
Regardless of your personal preference, you can enjoy some locally crafted beverages at one of the many coffee shops in Seattle. Coffee lovers will appreciate the many specialty coffee shops lining the city’s streets. Specialty blends of coffee and artisan candies are available at a wide variety of shops in the area. If you have a sweet tooth, a trip to the Pike Brewing Company is a must-do. The cafe is open daily and offers tours, so you can see the brewing process up close.
If you’re looking for a souvenir, Seattle offers many. For souvenirs, the Space Needle, an iconic landmark in the city, is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Visitors can purchase hand-made totem poles from a nearby gift shop. Guests can also purchase handcrafted designer jewelry, including pieces from renowned Kwakwaka’wakw artist Erich Glendale. While in Seattle, you can also visit a local cheese factory and taste some of the city’s best cheese.
The climate in Seattle is moderate, varying from mid-upper 30s to mid-70s. The city receives 52 inches of rainfall annually on average. While snow is rare, it is light and fleeting. Seattle’s record for snowfall is January 13, 1950. The sunnier, “California” weather dominates the city from mid-July through September. If you’re in the mood for some sunshine, Seattle may be the perfect destination for you!
There are numerous other reasons to visit Seattle. Coffee is Seattle’s specialty, but the city is also famous for its grunge scene, Seattle Seahawks, and the Space Needle. Seattle is also home to many tech companies, including the headquarters of Microsoft and Amazon. The city has a rich cultural scene with plenty of outdoor activities. And what’s more, it is the only city in the country with a thriving craft beer scene?
Chocolate lovers will be thrilled to know that Seattle is home to several chocolate-loving chocolatiers. Seattle’s Theo’s Chocolates is one of the city’s chocolaty darlings. Their award-winning chocolates are made from sustainably-sourced ingredients. You can even purchase them online, too. If you’re on a budget, you’ll be able to sample delicious treats in a trendy atmosphere. There are many great ways to spend your money in Seattle.