When will Seattle's tourist attractions reopen, what will they look like?
2019 saw a record-breaking tourist season in the Emerald City, with 41.9 million visitors spending an estimated $8.1 billion in King County alone.
But with travel being restricted and many still on edge about a potential second wave of the virus in the fall, those numbers are expected to shrink this year.
"We know how fragile tourism is as global events directly impact lives and business in Seattle and our region," said Visit Seattle President and CEO Tom Norwalk. "We hope that with Seattle’s compelling infrastructure projects, unique cultural experiences and our incredible natural beauty … will continue to create travel inspiration for visitors."
With COVID-19 shutdowns gradually lifting during Washington's Safe Start plan, here's how some Seattle landmarks may look different next time you visit.
Pike Place Market
One of Seattle's most popular destinations for tourists and locals alike, Pike Place Market is open during modified Phase 1, but it has made many changes to operations and market layout in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Visitors will notice social distancing bubbles marking six feet, signs reminding customers of mask requirements and three newly installed hand washing stations to promote sanitation.
Given that the market contains a variety of businesses, including restaurants, local grocers and farmers, craft stalls and other retailers, guidelines are considerably different for each.
Many will be delighted to hear that following King County guidelines, restaurants in the market are permitted to open outdoor seating at 50% capacity and indoor seating at 25% capacity.
However, many eateries have more limited hours or require reservations in advance, so be sure to check with the restaurant beforehand. Designated curbside pickup zones are also still available.
Brick-and-mortar retail stores like popular Metsker Maps and Made in Washington are also beginning to reopen. You can check which retail locations are open here. Daystall craft tables will not be open until Phase 2, but many farm tables have begun reopening with fresh produce to sell on Thursdays and Saturdays.
While still open for pictures, touching Post Alley's infamous "Gum Wall" might not be the best idea right now.
Pier 57 Miners Landing/Seattle Great Wheel
Seattleites can ring in the gorgeous summer weather at Pier 57, which has now reopened two restaurants and the Seattle Great Wheel.
Both The Crab Pot and Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar have reopened with indoor and waterfront patio seating, serving up beloved dishes like house made chowders and fresh Alaskan halibut.
"Strolling the Seattle waterfront is a classic Seattle staple for any local’s summer bucket list, and fresh seafood with a view of Puget Sound is no doubt something that many have missed while staying home," said Michael Griffith, director of operations for Great Western Pacific Inc., who owns and operates Pier 57. "Our family feels incredibly fortunate and grateful to be able to once again open our doors to share the freshest seafood and classic waterfront views with the city."
