Waterfront Gems Worth Showing Off
Pigeons at Alki know what’s up.
The Evergreen Echo
I moved to Seattle five years ago, and have continuously been blown away by the culture and natural beauty of Puget Sound and its surrounding cities, parks, and suburbs. Seattle is a city of hidden gems, with little mysteries and curiosities littered all over. Although my tourist days are behind me, I still find myself wandering around the usual haunts—Pike Place, the Space Needle, and every stop along the Light Rail. But, today, I’ll be sharing 10 of my favorite secret(ish) spots along the waterfront, in no particular order.
Gem Heaven Spiritual Store
Starting somewhere familiar, let’s go to Pike Place! I’m often surprised to hear that quite a few people haven’t visited the gem shop downstairs in the market. Gem Heaven has all kinds of lovely gemstones, crystals, and rocks. I’m not ashamed to admit that I have quite a few pieces in my collection from Gem Heaven, including a massive chunk of Boulder Opal. If you’re interested in stones (as spiritual tools, decorations, or anything in between), I highly recommend checking this place out on your next trip to Pike Place.
Pike Place entrance at night
Ghost Alley Espresso
I promise we won’t stay in Pike Place too long, though with so many little stores and hideaways, it’s hard to go wrong. Ghost Alley Espresso is a new—and necessary—stop on anyone’s waterfront adventures. This is a true hidden gem, with just one walk-up window tucked in a corner on Lower Post Alley. Ghost Alley is queer friendly, has its own brand of delicious brew, and has cute merch to boot! I recommend grabbing a latte here (I go for vanilla syrup), as I think the Ghost Alley Blend really shines mixed with a creamy milk of your choice.
The Secret Garden
Our last stop in Pike Place! I’ll let you in on a little secret as one introvert to another: If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed in the market, there is a secret garden if you head past the Fish Market and make a right at Raven’s Nest. This little area is generally quiet and is a great place to catch your breath before going back to more shopping or sightseeing. They donate all the produce from the garden to the Pike Market Food Bank, making it great for the community as well!
Ugly Baby
I would be remiss if I didn’t share with you a couple of my favorite places to shop around the waterfront. Ugly Baby is a silly little store with a ton of great art pieces, souvenirs, crafts, stickers, and a whole lot more! The staff here are all amazing and delightful people; I have never left Ugly Baby without having a lovely conversation with one of the workers there. If you’re looking for something a little strange to show off at home or a new hobby, Ugly Baby is a great spot to check out.
Fossil & Stone
I had the distinct pleasure of reviewing Fossil & Stone last year, and it’s become a regular stop that I’m always shocked to hear no one else knows about! This art gallery/crystal shop is absolutely stunning, and don’t let the locked door fool you—this gallery is open to the public. Just ring the bell! Most of the pieces (all made of natural wood, stone, and fossils) are designed by the artist Eddie Lee, and you are encouraged to touchthe pieces to feel the differences in their materials. You won’t be disappointed by the unique art.
We boat this city.
Japanese Exclusion Memorial
Let’s move onto some historical sites for those who love learning about Seattle history. On the other side of the Puget Sound, on Bainbridge Island, you can find the Japanese Exclusion Memorial. The Japanese Exclusion Memorial is another location I had the honor of reviewing. This memorial is on the same ground that the Japanese community had to walk when being transported to the Japanese Internment Camps in California during WWII. The site is inspiring and enlightening, and I highly recommend that you secure a tour for your visit.
Historic Ships Wharf
All right, we’re stretching the ‘waterfront’ part of this list here, but I hope you’ll indulge me for this fun little historical site. The Historic Ships Wharf sits in Lake Union Park and is a fun spot for anyone who enjoys boating. There are many ships to take a look at, and a few are used for tours. The great news is that you’ll also be within walking distance of some splendid views of Lake Union and tasty seafood if the marina has you craving fish and chips.
The Hammering Man
This is a self-indulgent addition to the list, but I implore you to stop at the Seattle Art Museum and view The Hammering Man at the corner. The sculpture was created by Johnathan Borofsky, representing the working class. I can not overstate my love for Hammering Man, and to me, he is to Seattle what The Bean (Cloud Gate) is to Chicago.
Ferry Rides
With our last gems, let me offer some really easy and beautiful spots that I believe are often overlooked by tourists and city dwellers alike. As a California desert boy, I am constantly in awe of the lakes and greenery around the Puget Sound, and especially in the summer months, I think the best spot to enjoy these features of Washington is on the ferry. Though a ferry is first and foremost a means of public transit, it is also a fantastic way to experience the Sound itself. My favorite ride is from Seattle to Bainbridge, but really any ferry ride will be a beautiful experience.
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Take the Water Taxi from Pier 50 to Alki. Board the free Alki shuttle at Marination. Enjoy walking along the shoreline, then experience the sunset from the second level balcony (21+) at El Chupacabra with fabulous drinks and munchies.
Alki Beach
Alki Beach is a much beloved place here in Seattle for site seeing. You can see the entire waterfront from Alki while enjoying a peaceful neighborhood, lapping shore, and warm sunshine in the summer. While I would love to list the entirety of West Seattle as a hidden gem (how is it that no one outside of Washington seems to know about Alki or Genesee?), simply listing the gorgeous Alki Beach will have to do.
Take the time to seek out these hidden (or not-so-hidden) gems of the waterfront and to find your own little secrets around the Sound. If you find one of your own, feel free to leave a comment. Let’s hear about all the fun places you’ve discovered!
