It’s the views that first draw travellers into this northwest city: panoramas of Elliot Bay, Lake Union and Lake Washington are clear from every direction, and it’s possible to glimpse snow-capped peaks to the east and west, even in summer. Beyond the obvious attraction, however, are unexpected wonders: the art galleries surrounding historic Pioneer Square, the recently remodelled Seattle Art Museum with a picturesque new sculpture garden, and a top-quality culture scene with dozens of small theatres, a philharmonic and an opera house. Each neighbourhood has a distinct character: funky Ballard and Belltown have a thriving homegrown boutique scene, Capitol Hill is full of independent coffee shops that give the city a reputation for having the best java in the country, and refined Bellevue is lined with high-end stores. Seattle is also a gastronomic powerhouse, with chefs using the finest locally sourced and organic ingredients and infusing cuisine with Asian touches. Minutes away are Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains, some of North America’s most remarkable peaks.