10 Can't Miss Non-Tourist Places to Visit in Seattle, Washington

Lake Union is a gorgeous body of water situated between Downtown Seattle and Wallingford. There are sidewalks and trails local runners love that lead around the nearly 6-mile loop. Off the beaten path, Lake Union is very accessible and the perfect outing regardless of your sport of choice. Check out more ideas here: http://www.seattle.gov/parks/parkspaces/lakeunionpark.htm.

Luna Park Café

This retro café is a local favorite in West Seattle. Located near Alki Beach, Luna Park Café serves up their eggs in style with three undeniably delicious options to choose from: hobo, pile or omelet. Listen to the tunes you grew up with as they play on the working juke box. Want to get tan and soak up the rays? Sit on the outdoor patio with or without a large umbrella to keep the sunburn at bay (wearing sun block, of course). Visit Luna Park here: www.lunaparkcafe.com.

Seattle Waterfront

While all of the first-timers are visiting Pike Place Market, why not walk along the Seattle Waterfront? It's here that you will see the real sea lions in their natural habitat and out of the tanks in the aquarium. The Seattle Waterfront is also home to great shopping and seafood stands. Take a tour here and plan your trip: www.seattlewaterfront.org.

Alki Beach Park

Cross the water and join West Seattleites for a fabulous day on the sand at Alki Beach Park. Numerous coffee shops align the street as it bends and winds for about three miles of scenery you will not soon forget (you can see the skyline of Seattle from all different angles! ). Enjoy your coffee, tea and pastry while overlooking the surf and sand. Take the ferry from Alki Beach Park to the Seattle Waterfront for a full day of adventure. Click for more information on bus routes, driving directions and more: http://www.seattle.gov/parks/park_detail.asp?ID=445.

Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens Park is a wonderful way to relax as the sun sets over Puget Sound and the Shilshole Bay. Light a fire in the designated fire pits (Alki has them, too) and roast marshmallows after a day of playing volleyball with friends. Have a picnic on the beach or some one-on-one time with your sweetie after a long day of sightseeing. More information can be found here: www.seattlepi.com/getaways/128170_goldengardens26.html.

Dinner and Dessert at B&O Espresso

Unwind with a delicious dinner and dessert on Capitol Hill in Seattle. B&O Espresso is well-known for its outstanding menu and flair. The restaurant is quaint and delicate without being pretentious. Reserve your table here: www.b-oespresso.com.

Walk Along Broadway

Get your incense, coffee and grub all while shopping for great clothes and soaps on Broadway. Broadway is the main street between Downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill. Right up the block from B&O Espresso, Broadway is a great choice for a nice walk after dessert. More information here: http://www.seattle.gov/tour/capitol.htm.

Cal Anderson Park

Cal Anderson Park is situated right off Broadway and is the perfect hip spot to chill out and take in the sights. This park has a section just for kids where they can enjoy themselves swinging, sliding and climbing. Adults will enjoy a picnic on the grass or near the large water fountain. http://www.cityofseattle.net/PARKS/park_detail.asp?id=3102.

The Wildrose

If you are in the LGBTQ community, you should definitely stop by the Wildrose before leaving Seattle. Especially if you're of the lesbian descent. The Wildrose is Seattle's only lesbian bar. Taco Tuesdays are a huge success for the cozy bar. Flat screen televisions are on the wall and special events are planned all the time so check the website often: www.thewildrosebar.com.

Discovery ParkMiles of hiking trails, bird watching perches and sandy beaches set to suit every need await you at Discovery Park in Magnolia. Pick blueberries, walk past ancient large tree trunks with your four-legged best friend and take in all of what nature has to offer. Plan your visit to Discovery Park here: http://www.cityofseattle.net/Parks/environment/discovparkindex.htm.