Queen Anne has enough attractions and sights to keep you entertained for days. The district is home to some of the city’s best museums and art galleries, as well as a selection of hip restaurants and cafés. Venture beyond the big attractions to find an expansive residential area of leafy suburbs, historic houses and pleasant parks.
When Seattle was first developed, nobody wanted to build on Eden Hill, the steep summit that would become Queen Anne. At the start of the 20th century, when electric streetcars first made it to the top of the peak, building in the region became a more feasible option for Seattle residents and the neighbourhood blossomed.
One of Queen Anne’s main highlights is the Seattle Centre, a collection of museums and attractions in the south of the neighbourhood. Ascend the iconic Space Needle for panoramic views of the city before heading to Chihuly Garden and Glass, an open-air art gallery displaying kaleidoscopic, eye-catching glassworks.
The Seattle Centre also features the Pacific Science Centre and the Seattle Children’s Museum, as well as huge event venues. Join crowds of locals to watch basketball or to listen to poetry. Book tickets for the biggest names in pop and rock, such as Justin Bieber and Bruce Springsteen.
Queen Anne is one of the greenest districts in Seattle. Go to Kerry Park for stunning views of the city’s skyline. The Southwest Queen Anne Greenbelt stretches along the neighbourhood’s western edge and has ample open space as well as hiking trails.
The region is named after the Queen Anne-style of houses that were prominent when the area was being developed. Wander the streets in north Queen Anne to see multicolored façades and houses characterized by conical towers, spindles and elaborate designs.
Queen Anne is navigable via Seattle’s public transportation system, which operates regular buses and streetcars throughout the area. Alternatively, consider renting a bike and pedaling around the area’s bike-friendly streets at your leisure, stopping to further examine any sight that piques your interest.
