Capitol Hill

Explore

The stately Seattle Asian Art Museum and the lush, glass-paneled Volunteer Park Conservatory are top reasons to explore 50-acre Volunteer Park, with its peaceful walking paths and sweeping city and mountain vistas. Cal Anderson Park features wide lawns, reflecting pools, and access to the deeply moving art installations of the AIDS Memorial Pathway. By night, Capitol Hill comes alive with famous music clubs—check out Neumos and Chop Suey—and LGBTQIA+ mainstays like Neighbours Nightclub and Pitch The Baby, an inclusive new women’s sports bar.

Eat and Drink

In this playground of people-watching and exceptional eating, Aamrai and Mint & Martini are two buzzy newcomers bringing bold, modern takes on Indian cuisine, 8 Ping Yang focuses on smoky, charcoal-grilled Thai specialties, and RAKU Shabu Shabu House offers satisfying Japanese hotpot in a mod-industrial setting. The rooftop Cantina del Sol keeps the mood sunny with margaritas and casual Mexican plates, while from a walk-up window in the same space, Double O’ Burgers serves up hefty patties with creative toppings on soft-steamed Hawaiian buns. Voodoo Doughnut has a loyal following for its trademark quirky confections, and Kemi Dessert Bar specializes in gorgeously plated treats, from Thai tea cakes to luscious Japanese cheesecake. Dino’s Tomato Pie channels classic East Coast vibes with its square pizzas, big booths, and stiff drinks, while Melrose Market’s Cafe Suliman draws fans for soulful East African–inspired fare. Over at Phê, guests rave about the Vietnamese phin-brewed coffees, best savored slowly at one of the café’s minimalist tables. Nomadic Wine Dispensary pairs more than 80 interesting pours on tap with tapas and cheese plates. In neighboring First Hill, sup on flavorful West African dishes—like goat peanut soup—at Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen and mammoth burgers and over-the-top shakes at Secret Burger Kitchen.

Shop

The Pike/Pine and Broadway corridors are lined with hip boutiques and shops carrying all manner of novel gifts, housewares, and fashion. Retail Therapy carries stylish threads from top designers, and Station 7 impresses with its selection of urbane housewares and handmade jewelry. You’ll find beautiful art, and clothing produced by both Japanese and local artisans at Kobo Shop and Gallery. The New York Xchange and Creature Consignment are excellent bets for snapping up the perfect threads for a night on the town.