The state of Washington is located in the Pacific Northwest and is encompassed by the Cascade Mountains. Seattle, a fast-growing city on the west side of the state, is home to many iconic wonders. While the west side is more industrial and rushed by the tourism and population, the east side is equally as beautiful - full of forest areas and complete nature.

The hustle of the city is not unlike other big cities, as I saw many similarities to places like Detroit, New York, and Chicago. People often referred to Seattle as the New York of the west coast, and even the Space Needle as the Eiffel Tower of the states.

1. Space Needle

Money Amount: $22

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Built in 1961, this epic structure erupted during the space race and became an icon for the west coast. It is definitely a must see if in Seattle. You can take an elevator all the way to the top for a 360 view or you can stand at the bottom!

2. Olympic Sculpture Park

Money Amount: Free

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This area is art work, mainly metal, that is along the shore line and is free to walk through. There are chairs to sit back in and enjoy the views. The sculptures are massive and breath taking, to be honest.

3. Harbor Tour of the Bay / Seattle Skyline

Money Amount: $27

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It is magnificent to see a city rise along the northwestern coast and strive to be the "New York of the West". The buildings tower over the rest of city and the Space Needle stands isolated with pure glory. The tour is done on a ferry and is one of the last tours that have live narration.

Towards the southern part of the Bay, it is no secret that Seattle's industrial district is one of the largest along the west coast. It is the main gateway from our neighbors on the Asian continent and to Alaska.

4. Seattle Aquarium

Money Amount: $30

Fire Rating: 🔥

As a young adult who loves aquatics and nature, I thought this would have been the best place to visit. Despite it not being as great, this place is still worth seeing. Coming from a freshwater state, Michigan, the animals and vibe of ocean information is quite different. The layout of the aquarium itself is worth going for as well, plus there are some great views of the Bay too! This particular aquarium is more kid friendly than you would probably expect.

5. The Gum Wall

Money Amount: Free

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This is a must see when going to downtown Seattle. This wall, disgustingly covered in used gum, has been around for years and is yet another icon of the city! This is probably one of the most Instagrammed places of Seattle! #GumWall

6. Pike Place Market

Money Amount: Free to walk

Fire Rating: 🔥 🔥

Despite the hundreds and hundreds of people, this place was definitely worth visiting. This is the market with many many restaurants and vendors selling any fresh thing you could imagine. The fish market is the most popular, while there were many tables full of art work and flowers and other goods.

Take a break at the Bar and Grill for lovely views and a great atmosphere. The market can be seen from any of the windows, and it's a great spot to people watch.

7. University Village

Money Amount: Free to walk

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This is north of the University of Washington's campus. It is an outdoor mall with awesome restaurants. It had super nice boutiques and stores, while also having laid back shops. In the center of the village is a lovely alley full of places to sit and enjoy the nature surrounding everything.

8. Ravenna Park

Money Amount: Free

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This is for those who would like to see a little more nature while still being in the city. This is not far from the University of Washington and is worth viewing. There are quite a few one-track trails with a small creek running through the center. It is a short hike, and may be nothing like a mountainous hike at Mt. Rainier, but it is beautiful nonetheless.

9. Chihuly Garden and Glass

Money Amount: $24

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Imagine a normal garden full of life, but there are glass sculptures within it. Almost inconspicuously, but the glass and nature blend so well it is hard not to imagine a garden with glass in it.

Imagine a 40-foot ceiling filled with incredible glass sculptures, so meticulously made that it seems unreal. Their magnificence was so overwhelming at some moments that I lingered longer than normal just to try and comprehend the art in front of me.

10. Fremont Troll

Money Amount: Free

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Another icon of Seattle, in the Fremont area. This is an art piece that scales the underside of the bridge that goes into downtown Seattle. (See humans for scale!) This massive piece from 1982 was built to represent the mysterious troll that seems to lurk under the bridges in Fremont.

11. The Plane Ride There

Money Amount: $$$$

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These views are noteworthy. Experience them for yourself.