Beautifully nestled between Lake Washington and Puget Sound, Seattle is a vibrant city even during its wet winter months. Dubbed the Pacific Northwest’s ’emerald city’, it is a warm winter haven for many visitors.

Seattle waterfront

Seattle’s scenic waterfront, crowded during summer, is a delightful place for a winter stroll and is within walking distance to several hotels, including Pan Pacific Seattle. Be sure to visit the famed Pike Place Market and Seattle Aquarium.

Museums

Seattle’s famous museums are best explored during the crowd-free winter months. If you are staying at one of the best hotels in Seattle, be sure to visit this iconic landmark. Other renowned sights include the Seattle Centre, Museum of Pop Culture, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Leavenworth

Light show during Christmas in Leavenworth | Image via Unsplash

Ideal as a weekend getaway, Leavenworth is an idyllic Bavarian-themed town about 2 hours from Seattle. Covered in snow and surrounded by powdery-white peaks, Leavenworth transforms into a Christmas village at night with glistening lights, caroling groups, and tree lighting festivals.

Snow adventures

Seattle does not see continuous, heavy snowfall. Yet, the mountains nearby are ideal for snow adventures. Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, Crystal Mountain, and Mount Rainier National Park are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and hiking.

Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is a hive of activity during the day and night with its heated indoor exhibits. Yet, the highlight is the WildLanterns night festival which illuminates the zoo with lit-up life-size animals and nature lanterns.