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From the centrally-located Washington State Convention Center to the famous Pike Place Market, from the intriguing International District to historic Pioneer Square, Seattle's downtown is compact and easy to get around. You can walk from your downtown hotel to meeting facilities, shopping, dining and many attractions. In fact, Seattle was voted one of the top three most walker-friendly cities in the United States in 2005 by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Situated on the shore of Puget Sound between two incredible mountain ranges — the snow-capped Olympics and the craggy Cascades — Seattle is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The tallest and most beautiful volcanic peak in the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier, soars above the city, and Elliott Bay adds a flattering looking glass for the city's mix of modern and historic architecture. It's easy to see that Seattle is a remarkably picturesque place. In fact, Forbes.com recently named Seattle one of the "World's 13 Most Stunning City Skylines" (March 2009)

A wealth of visual creativity, theatre, dance, literary arts and music make it clear why Seattle is renowned as an arts and culture destination. World premier plays debut here. A lively music scene draws appreciative crowds to intimate venues and packed auditoriums. Hundred of galleries and venues showcase the art produced by thousands of resident artists. Museums of all descriptions, a generous dose of public art, eye-popping architecture, authors, poets, symphony orchestras, rock legends and jazz greats all give Seattle a lively cultural ambiance.

A visit to Seattle is not complete without a taste of our excellent seafood. The city's world-class chefs continually delight visitors with recipes featuring locally grown ingredients. The hundreds of dining choices, specializing in cuisine from around the world prepared in a uniquely Northwest style, are truly impressive, leading GQ magazine to name Seattle its "Food City of the Year" in January, 2009.

Seattle is one of the most welcoming and hospitable places in the country, with a diverse population and a neighborly outlook. At the same time, you'll find all the best advantages of a big city — fabulous restaurants, active nightlife, world-class shopping, professional sports, a robust economy, and plenty of activities for any preference.

And despite the reputation, it doesn't always rain in Seattle, which has less annual rainfall than Boston or Miami or even Houston. The light showers that keep the area green and lush are rarely enough to warrant an umbrella. The temperature is mild all-year-round, with almost no humidity. It's pleasantly cool (mid-70s) in summer and warm (upper 40s) in winter.