A familiar feature of Seattle’s skyline is the 607-foot Space Needle, built for the 1962 World’s Fair. The exposition also spurred the city to rescue the area from decline; today it is among the nation’s most dynamic downtowns. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
The focal point of the Alexis Hotel lobby is a sculpture by local glass artist Dale Chihuly. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
The Seattle Aquarium specializes in displaying and preserving the sea life of the Northwest. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
Inside the R.E.I. outdoor gear store, a 65-foot pinnacle gives rock climbers a workout sheltered from the elements. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
The Experience Music Project is an example of architect Frank Gehry’s signature designs in metal. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
The nation’s first full-scale commercial monorail links the Space Needle with the downtown Pine Street shopping district, providing wide-angle views along with transportation. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
One of many busy seafood counters in Pike Place Market, which is also packed with produce and crafts. (LAWRENCE K. HO / Los Angeles Times)
