I am wondering if the Seattle waterfront is like our Fisherman's wharf here in San Francisco. Are there shops and places to eat that are not tourist traps? Is it safe to walk around after 7pm? Are there benches or parks where we could enjoy the water and have a picnic lunch? we will be staying at the Marriott's and wondering if we should spend a couple of nites at the Elliott Grand Hyatt?
Thanks,

I'm not sure what you consider a "tourist trap." The Seattle waterfront draws a lot of tourists and, as such, shops and restaurants tend to cater to them.

I believe that Anthony?s Pier 66 and Bell Street Diner (two different restaurants owned by the same company) is considered to be one of the better places on the waterfront.

Yes, it's safe to walk around after 7 pm.

There are two parks on the waterfront. One is called Waterfront Park and it's concrete with wooden benches (see http://www.historylink.org/cybertour...ont/pier57.cfm) The other one, at the northern end of the waterfront, is called Myrtle Edwards Park and has grass and a nice path that meanders along the water.

Actually the Seattle waterfront offers more access to the... water than Fishermen's Wharf. Yes, there are schlunk retail shops and take-away fish places, but also some very good restaurants (Capo's mentioned a couple - I'd add Elliott's on the central waterfront, and, actually, the Crab Pot for a shellfish extravaganza that borders on the ridiculous.) The aquarium borders on the Waterfront Park; a little north at Pier 62-63 you can attend concerts on the Pier on many summer nights, ferries, mountains and boats silhouetted; there's also a big waterfront promenade at the Pier 66 cruise center, including places to gawk at the megaships when they're parked there.

There are plenty of places to sit and eat a picnic; also a number of quite good places to eat take-away food from the retailers, much of which is better than the shrimp cocktails sold for too many dollars in SF.

Once again you have helped me immensely!! My senior parents will love everything you mentioned. Thanks again. Our Fishermans wharf restaurants charge high prices for so so food. Thanks again!!

Personally, I preferred the Pike Place Market area much better. There were more neat shops, small eateries and all the fresh foods and flowers to see. I liked it better than cheesy t-shirts and souveniers that were sold down along the waterfront. At the north end of the market is a small square that overlooks the water and several restaurants have good views (Cutters Bay House, for one)

Yamamar, Frenchmoon brings up a good suggestion. Pike Market is quite close to the waterfront and you could pick up items for your picnic lunch there.

Thank you for all the replies, now I'm wondering, Marriott Waterfront or Inn at the Market... decisions decisions..Thanks again. We look forward to visiting Seattle.

We just stayed at the Marriott Waterfront and you don't want to go anywhere else. These people cater to your every need. The rooms are comfy and the service is outstanding.

Dear SMM:
Thanks for the update, what floor did you stay on? We were trying to decide on a regular room or concierge level. Did you try the restaurant? We will be there late August.

To add to your confusion, I'll add the Edgewater Hotel, right on the water, into the mix.......