Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - Trip Report Back from first trip to Seattle

Sunday - left the cold and rainy east coast for sunny Seattle! After arriving at Sea-Tac, made our way over to Shuttle Express. Although our flight had been delayed and we missed our reservation time, the staff handled everything smoothly and we were soon on our way to the Residence Inn Downtown/Lake Union. We loved the location of the hotel. . .slightly removed from downtown but very convenient with public transportation right out the front door. Hotel was quiet and we enjoyed being around the lake. Big thank -you to Andrew for his encouraging recommendation! So many choices in Seattle but this place was just perfect for us. Had dinner at Duke's Chowderhouse on the lake. Sat outside and enjoyed watching the seaplanes land and take off while having fish and chips.
Monday - Walked to Seattle center from hotel - not far. Went to EMP/SciFi museum. Sorry to say but we weren't thrilled with EMP and none of us are sci-fi fans, so it was a bit disappointing. I preferred R&R Hall of Fame. However, this was just our opinion and other people there were enjoying it. We had lunch at the Space Needle restaurant. Our reservation was for 2:15 and we went up about 15 minutes early, even after being told we might have to wait 45 minutes for a window table. This seemed to be a good time to go because they never rushed us since the lunch serving time ended at 2:45. We were able to eat through almost three rotations. We all had one of the salmon specials - smoked salmon with tomatoes, spinach, goat cheese over fettucine with a sauce. Yum!
The guide books that I had read said the food was just so-so, but we really enjoyed our meal.
Tuesday - rented a car and drove to the Boeing Future of Flight center. The driving directions that they give on their website are excellent. No problem finding it. The tour was wonderful - we had a great guide, Chris. Our fifteen year old "student pilot" was in his glory. It really put the size of those planes in perspective. Saw the Dreamliner - and then heard the next day about the flaw in its wing. Needless to say, we helped the economy in the gift shop!
Wednesday - took a taxi to pier 69 for a trip to Victoria, BC. Staff handled boarding smoothly and off we went. We visited Butchart Gardens - I only need 49 more gardeners and one green thumb to make my yard look like that! Spent two hours walking around and then bus brought us back to the Empress. We got a quick bite to eat (Sam's Deli - great chowder and sandwiches!) and walked a bit before returning to boat. Next time we would do an overnight trip.
Thursday - Took bus 174 to the Museum of Flight near Sea-Tac. What a fabulous museum! We were there over five hours and still didn't see everything. Once again, our son was in his glory. I especially enjoyed learning about William Boeing and the section about air traffic control.
Friday - Did a tour of Safeco field (our fifth ballpark tour). Took the new light rail from Westlake - very nice! Afterwards went back and had a delicious chowder/sandwich combo at Duke's Chowderhouse, soaking up the sun and watching the seaplanes. Then we had to pack before heading out to the evening Mariners' game. Our seats were in section 318, row 4. Great view of the field and of the downtown area. Sun in the face at the very beginning but not a problem after awhile.
Saturday - early pick-up by Shuttle Express and safely home.
All in all, we found everyone to be very helpful and friendly. We absolutely loved our hotel and would stay there again. We had a great time - and there's more to see for another visit!