Getting to Know Seattle Part 2
Entertainment and Local Attractions
 Pre-Arrival E-mail #6 of 6
 
 
logo3
 
FIUTS connects university students with local and global communities through programs that build international awareness, cross-cultural communication, and informed leadership.  
Fireworks
"I told him... that Seattle was - and I continue to believe is - the center of the universe. I told him he would have a wonderful life here, that it was a place attracting fabulous, talented people."
- Nicholas J. Hanauer in amazon.com: Getting Big Fast

Whether you enjoy shopping, going to museums, listening to live music, or hiking in the mountains, you'll find a variety of fun things to do in Seattle. The biggest challenge will be deciding between the many options!
Neighborhoods and Famous Attractions
Seattle offers a variety of different neighborhoods for shopping, eating out, and entertainment. Each neighborhood has its own unique character. You can find a list of popular Seattle neighborhoods and their attractions on our website. 

The most famous central attractions in Seattle are the Space Needle, Pike Place Market (where you can buy locally made food and crafts throughout the year), and Pioneer Square. You can take a virtual tour of Seattle's famous attractions and neighborhoods online.

At International Student Orientation you'll have a chance to see some of Seattle's most interesting neighborhoods and attractions during the Seattle Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, January 7th and the Ice Skating trip to Bellevue on Sunday, January 8th.
Arts and Entertainment
c
Music, Theater and Dance
Seattle is known for its varied and innovative music scene. Many famous bands, from Pearl Jam to Death Cab for Cutie, originated in Seattle. You'll find concerts, both large and small, going on in different neighborhoods nearly every night of the week. Seattle also offers regular theater, plays, dance, performance, and much more!

Visual Arts
The Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Flight, and Experience Music Project are a few of Seattle's most notable museums. There are also many small art galleries. One of the best ways to discover local art in Seattle is to participate in one of the many Art Walks.

Sports
Seattle has a variety of sports teams including football, baseball, and our new professional soccer team. Most sports events offer discount tickets for students. Check here for a list of local sports teams.

Outdoor Recreation
Many residents come to Seattle for its close proximity to mountains and water. Located between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, you can find just about any outdoor activity. Favorite activities include hiking, sailing, biking, skiing and camping.

Neighborhood Markets
In addition to the famous Pike Place Market, many Seattle neighborhoods host seasonal and year-round outdoor markets. These can be great places to meet with up with friends and celebrate local flavors and community. The University District Farmers Market is Seattle's oldest and largest "farmers-only" neighborhood market, open every Saturday. Another nearby favorite, the Fremont Market, is open year round on Sundays.

Events and Festivals
There are large events and festivals happening nearly every week in Seattle. Two of the most famous annual Seattle festivals are the Northwest Folklife Festival in late May, and Bumbershoot Music Festival in early September, but there are many more! Check out a list of Seattle Festivals here.
Discover Seattle with FIUTS
Mt. RainierFIUTS events, activities, outreach and leadership programs are designed to help you make the most of your time here in Seattle. Through FIUTS programs you can discover Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, share your culture with local residents, and make new friends.  

Once classes begin, check your weekly FIUTS email newsletter for further information on FIUTS programs. Consider becoming a FIUTS member to receive discounts on FIUTS events, discounts at select local businesses that support FIUTS, and to sign up early for FIUTS events! Members also support FIUTS programs to inspire cross cultural friendship in our community. Visit our Membership Page for more information!

Also, become a fan of our Facebook page to receive regular updates and invitations to FIUTS events.
I look forward to meeting you at International Student Orientation starting Tuesday, January 3rd! As always, please contact us if you have any questions before you arrive.

Please Note: As with many UW departments and offices, FIUTS will close for winter break on Friday, December 23rd and will reopen on Tuesday, January 3rd to welcome you to campus. The ISS office will be closed December 26 in observance of Christmas and January 2 in observance of New Year's Day.

See you in a few weeks!

Brianna Mercker
Manager of Student Programs
Foundation for International Understanding Through Students  (FIUTS)
website: www.fiuts.org