I'd reserve at Salty's just to make certain you don't have a long wait. And, given it's a "bday" dinner reserve ASAP and ask for a window seat.

REI: I called the store and here are the directions they give for coming in northbound on I-5:
Olive Way Exit
turn left on Bellevue Ave
turn left on Denny Way
turn right on Minor Ave
turn right John St

Suze--Thanks for adding the directions for the other way! We always went from home (southbound) so that is sort of preprogrammed in my head, lol!

Hi Everyone,

Back from Washington yesterday after a great, but damp trip. Weather wasn't unexpected, so we coped.

We opted for Salty's Alki on Sunday evening. What a beautiful view of the city on a very beautiful day! It reminded me of similar views we can get from spots in New Jersey across the Hudson River to NYC.

Because it was so nice, we stayed at Mt Baker for an extra hike rather than heading back to the city too early. It was certainly worth it.

Had 6:45 reservations at Saltys, and really thought the meal was quite good, albeit a bit pricey, but that, too, was expected. I called for reservations before we left NJ and did the balloon and cake thing. It made a "BIG" birthday a bit more special.

Our only problem was wanting to see more of the area before heading back to the airport hotel. Decided to drive along Alki Beach at sunset. As those of you out there probably know, BIG MISTAKE! It took us forever to get through the area as traffic crawled at about 5 mph. Then we got ourselves hopelessly lost in West Seattle. Finally found our way back to I 5 and our hotel. Wish we'd had time to go to Bainbridge, but that's something to save for next time...

Thanks for your help.