Although known for its scenic skyline, grunge music heritage and famous food offerings, Seattle has numerous hidden gems and quirky truths that make it a one-of-a-kind destination. Below are eight Seattle secrets which every traveller should learn before making a trip across the pond.
- The Space Needle was originally sketched on a napkin
Standing at 605 feet tall, the Space Needle is arguably one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Opening in 1962, the tower’s futuristic design was chosen to symbolise humanity’s Space Age aspirations. Just three years earlier, Edward E. Carlson who would soon become the chief organiser of the 1962 World’s Fair, which the Space Needle was built for, travelled to Stuttgart, Germany where he was inspired by Stuttgart Tower, a well known TV tower which included a restaurant on top. The inspiration sparked him to sketch a similar structure on a hotel napkin with the thought that it would make a great centrepiece for Seattle’s developing skyline.
- Seattle is home to the world’s largest floating home
Located on the picturesque Lake Union, Seattle is home to the largest floating home in the world. More than 2,000 sq ft, some might remember it from the romantic classic Sleepless in Seattle starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Built in 1978, the quirky home has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. For travellers who want to admire the building from the outside, there are numerous operators which offer Lake Union sightseeing cruises.
- There are many bad art attractions that are now hot tourist spots
Fans of unique art should head to the world famous Giant Shoe Museum in the lower level of Pike Place Market which gives an insight into what an old circus show would look like. Just a few metres away, the famous gum wall is a tourist attraction which was created after a comedian performing at the Market Theatre was told he wasn’t allowed gum inside so he placed it on the wall. This then stuck (literally) with locals and tourists alike, and now makes up a colourful gum collection from people travelling far and wide, each with a story to tell.
- The destination is home to a giant troll
Better known as the Fremont Troll, the scary sculpture resembling Billy Goats Gruff has an interesting story, dating back to 1932 when the Aurora Bridge was built. Many passersby reported troll sightings beneath it and the sightings were so frequent that in 1989, the Fremont Arts Council held a creative competition in hopes of replenishing the area under the bridge and getting rid of its troll reputation. This was until sculptor Steve Badanes won the competition with a giant troll statue inspired by the children’s tale Billy Goats Gruff. Created out of two tons of ferroconcrete, wire, and redbar steel, the statue stands at 18 feet tall and is crushing a Volkswagen Beetle with its hand.
- Seattle has more UFO sightings than anywhere else in the country
Surpassing the most famous extraterrestrial destinations such as New Mexico, Area 51 and the ‘UFO Highway’ in Nevada, Seattle is said to have more sightings of alien transport than any other place in the country. In total, the city has had 78.2 sightings per 100,000 people. For those searching for ET, head to the city’s southside to explore the weird and unknown.
- Seattle has an underground city
The Seattle Underground is a series of subterranean passageways and basements situated in the Pioneer Square neighbourhood of Seattle, Washington. Originally at ground level when the city was established in the mid-19th century, these underground spaces fell into disuse following the elevation of the streets. In recent years, they have been revived as a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours for visitors to explore the historic area.
- The rain reputation isn’t as bad as you might think
Although Seattle is known for its rainy climate, it actually receives less annual rainfall than destinations like New York and Houston. The city’s reputation comes from the frequency of its light drizzle rather than heavy downpours.
- Seattle is a haven to the book worm
A UNESCO Literary destination, Seattle is one of the most literate cities in the US. Boasting numerous bookstores such as Elliott Bay Book Company and an impressive public library system, including the architecturally renowned Seattle Central Library, Seattle is perfect for the avid book lover.
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