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A green city designed for mindfulness and inspiration
More and more, event professionals are looking for ways in which their busy attendees can decompress and reset between sessions and networking events. A mental break affords attendees the opportunity to regain presence and prepare to dive back into the event’s content. Research shows that popping outside and soaking up a little nature increases energy, attention spans and creative problem-solving skills by as much as 50%.
Enter Seattle: an exciting urban hub that’s surrounded by unmatched natural beauty of majestic mountains, water and evergreen forests. City and nature truly coexist here with 6,000 park acres scattered throughout the urban landscape—that’s the size equivalent to seven Central Parks. It’s easy to see why Seattle was a pioneer of green environmental practices—there’s so much natural beauty to preserve.
We understand the importance of creating the right spaces to encourage mindfulness and allow innovative thinking to thrive. Here are a few simple ways attendees can unplug in Seattle:
Photo: Matt Hagan
Freeway Park
Wander to one of our 23 parks right in downtown, including a remarkable one in WSCC’s backyard: Freeway Park. A Brutalist design representing our mountains and water is juxtaposed with lush greenery throughout. It was one of two Seattle parks named in the PBS piece “10 Parks that Changed America” (Seattle’s Gas Works Park is the other notable).
Image: James Corner Field Operations
Seattle Waterfront
While Seattle’s waterfront has always been a place of connection to the waters of Puget Sound, the space is primed to be further transformed as a place for creative thinking and connection to nature. A complete rebuild is underway, giving access to more urban parks, promenades, ferries and attractions. In the meantime, attendees can venture to the north end of our waterfront and enjoy views of Puget Sound from Seattle Art Museum’s Olympic Sculpture Park.
Committed to Sustainability
Nature plays a big role in creating space for mindfulness throughout the city. That is why we strive to be one of the most environmentally progressive cities in the country. Throughout our community, businesses, organizations and residents are leading the way in sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.
Read on to learn more >>
Photo: Aaron Davis for Visit Seattle
Amazon’s Seattle Spheres
A spectacular, greenery-filled spectacle exists at the downtown Amazon campus. The three biospheres are accessible mainly for employees, but tours of these lush, green orbs can be booked in advance. And for those seeking to take in the greenery while sipping a glass of sangiovese and savoring a bite of salumi, famous Seattle Chef Renee Erickson’s latest restaurant will be located inside one of the biospheres, and is open for all to enjoy.
Photo: Alki Kayak Tours
A mindful respite on the water.
Puget Sound flows into Downtown Seattle’s port and along its waterfront. It’s the starting point for cruise ships, ferries to nearby islands and sightseeing tours. A popular and relaxing excursion is riding the ferry to Bainbridge Island, and soaking in the stunning mountain vistas along the way. Within walking distance of downtown, Lake Union is home to Seattle’s famous houseboats and gorgeous vistas of the Seattle skyline. Fitness-oriented attendees will love the plethora of water activities: stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes are available for rent at numerous locations.
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