It actually does snow in Seattle, but it’s not known for being buried in it. Thus, what you mean by snow might actually depend on where you’re from or the kind of snow you’ve experienced before. Seattle’s winter weather is limited greatly by the Pacific Ocean, where temperatures stay fairly even throughout the year. But every now and then, cold air gets pushed into the region, giving rise to cold spells and even snow.
1. Does it Snow in Seattle
Therefore, it’s no surprise that Seattle is not a place where you’re knee deep in snow. Instead, the levels just go up a couple of inches or so. Sometimes it just feels like there’s more dust on the ground than snow. However, because snow isn’t that common in Seattle, the people who live there learn to appreciate even the few snowflakes that actually do come down.
In spite of this, there are a couple of interesting ways Seattle interacts with its not-so-heavy snow seasons. Here are some interesting facts about Seattle’s snow.
The most snow that Seattle has ever had was 64 inches. This record was made back in 1880. Usually, however, the average is about five inches of snow every season. In some years they don’t get any snow. Other notable snow seasons include the 21.4 inches back in 1950 and the 21.5 inches in 1916. Getting snow of this amount is really rare in Seattle.
Snow causes Seattle to shut down. It’s best not to underestimate the impact of the minimal snowfall that happens in Seattle. The truth is that the city tends to slow or even shut down with mere inches of snow. This might be surprising when compared to other cities that continue to operate in spite of deeper snow situations, but you realize that it’s different for Seattle because it’s surrounded by hills where the temperatures can easily hit just above freezing point. This means that the melted snow freezes into ice overnight, making most of the streets incredibly dangerous. Some people still get around the city by bus, but if you do go out, you must be extra careful.
And yes, the snow has given the city some serious problems before. There are roads in Seattle that are so steep they have to be closed down when it snows. Back in 1996 and 1997, landslides occurred because the snow melted too fast, causing the ground to become saturated, triggering disaster.
2. Snow in Seattle Tips
It takes skill to drive in the snow. If you’re planning on driving around Seattle during snow, you’re going to have to be extra careful. You need to watch out for other cars and keep plenty of space between you and them to avoid accidents. You’re also going to want to stay away from downhill roads as they can be dangerous. Here are a couple of tips to keep yourself safe:
This is definitely not the place to rush. For the most part, you will have to drive extra slowly – at a pace that’s significantly lower than the posted speed limit. So, factor in the extra time you have to spend on the road when you’ve got to be somewhere.
Check your tire treads. Know when you need to replace those treads. A good trick is to insert a penny with Lincoln’s head face down. If you can see all of the head, then the tires have to be replaced.
Tune up before you leave. A pre-trip tune-up will allow you to check for any possible problems with your car, meaning you can deal with them even before you hit the road. Having issues with headlights, brake fluid, or even the battery can be a nightmare if you have to deal with it in the middle of a snowy Seattle road. Make sure you’re gassed up as well.
Bring all your documents with you. This includes license, car registration, and any auto club membership ID. Make sure you know all the emergency numbers just in case.
Get some sleep. Driving on icy roads requires more concentration and focus, so make sure you sit behind the wheel only when you’re fully rested.
Prepare your travel route. If you think driving slowly on the icy roads will take a lot of time, imagine getting lost or taking a wrong turn. Make sure you’ve got your MapQuest or Waze prepared before you hit the road.
Check the weather forecast. Sometimes it’s okay to go driving in spite of the snow, but you need to make sure that it doesn’t get worse. You might need to be somewhere, but your safety comes first.
If ever your car dies, stay with your car. It provides shelter and it makes it easier for rescuers to find you. Never try to brave a storm on foot.
Public transportation is better. Need to go somewhere on a snowy day? Leave your car and take the bus into either Seattle or Tacoma. These bus drivers know what they’re doing and are more likely to get you to where you need to be in these conditions.
3. Seattle Snow - Going out of town
You’re going to have to get through the mountain passes, which can be more dangerous than the roads in the city. Always check the road conditions before you head there. Make sure you chain up as well, since you probably won’t be allowed to get through these roads without them.
Don’t let the locals surprise you. In case you come from a place that’s usually buried deep in snow, try not to stare too much when Seattle locals get thrilled by a few snowflakes falling. Snow is rare for them, so just let them have their fun!
But again, try not to underestimate the amount of snow the city gets. If you’re planning to visit Seattle, especially during October or November, make sure you prepare yourself for bad snow days as well. And if you do get caught in a snowy season while you’re there, consider just booking a hotel and waiting for conditions to get better rather than taking the risk of going out there.
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Attraction Spotlight: Chihuly Garden and Glass
Located in the Seattle Center in Seattle, Washington, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum dedicated to the work of renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Chihuly Garden and Glass would have not been created if it wasn’t for artist Dale Chihuly. Chihuly was born in 1941, and grew up in Tacoma, Washington. He attended the University of Washington and majored in interior design.
During his time at the University of Washington, Chihuly discovered how glass could be used as a decorative art form. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1965, and furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin, which is home to the first glass program in the United States. After spending time at the University of Wisconsin, Chihuly relocated to the Rhode Island School of Design. Chihuly even created and taught an innovative glass program at the Rhode Island School of Design.
In the late 1960s, Chihuly was awarded with a Fulbright Fellowship. Then, he moved to Venice and landed a job at the Venini glass factory. During his time at the Venini glass factory, Chihuly was exposed to the art form of blowing glass. Chihuly returned to the United States in 1971 and founded the Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State.
Since then, Chihuly’s work has been featured in over 200 collections spread across the world. Also, he has been awarded various honorary doctorates, fellowships, and awards. In the early 2000s, the Wright family contacted Chihuly to help them create a new era of artwork for the Seattle Center. Chihuly was honored to work alongside a family that was instrumental in creating and maintaining many of the architectural and artistic elements of Seattle, so he orchestrated the creation of the Chihuly Garden and Glass, which opened in 2012.
There are three parts to the Chihuly Garden and Glass: galleries, glasshouse, and garden.
Galleries are spread across eight different sections and three drawing walls. Each gallery has a specific theme, and explores how Chihuly consistently pushed the boundaries of art.
Glasshouse is a 40 foot tall building that sits in the center of Chihuly Garden and Glass. This 4,500 square foot structure is made completely out of glass and features various colors, such as red, orange, and amber. The perception of the elements within the Glasshouse change depending on the time of day, and the amount of light shining through the structure.
Garden incorporates elements of horticulture with glass art. This exhibition proves that there is a strong connection between horticulture and art, and crafting a beautiful garden is even an art form itself. Bright and lush glass sculptures perfectly exist among blossoming flora and fauna. Thus, showcasing the true talent and innovation of Dale Chihuly.
Part of the reason why Dale Chihuly was ecstatic to create Chihuly Garden and Glass was to educate the general public about glass as an art form. While the museum offers special lectures and classes occasionally, Chihuly Garden and Glass offers daily talks and tours of the museum. Starting at 11:30 am, visitors can enjoy a free gallery tour with a specially trained museum employee to gain in depth knowledge and discussion around specific or significant pieces in the collection. From 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm, visitors can visit various galleries and parts of the museum to listen to an interactive and thought provoking discussion about the specific exhibit.
Chihuly Garden and Glass regularly offers special events that cater to the specific season. One of the most popular special events is the New Year’s Eve event. Every year, Chihuly Garden and Glass hosts a dinner party where guests have the opportunity to dine, dance, and tour the museum. The night ends with a special champagne toast and watching the classic Seattle fireworks explode at midnight. For more information about the New Year’s Eve party, and other special events, head over to the museum’s website.
The dining option at Chihuly Garden and Glass is the renowned Collections Café. Collections Café features Chihuly’s collection of beach glass that dates back to his childhood. While gazing at the extensive collection, guests can enjoy a combination of Northwest and Mediterranean food, as well as a wide selection of craft beer and decadent wine.
305 Harrison St. Seattle, WA 98109, Phone: 206-753-4940
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Attraction Spotlight: Museum of Pop Culture
Located in Seattle, Washington, the Museum of Pop Culture is an innovative museum that promotes the education and engagement of past and current pop culture art trends that will inspire future generations. Since the Museum of Pop Culture is focused on providing the general public with a fun and educational pop culture experience, a bulk of the displays at the museum are permanent.
The co-founder of Microsoft, Paul Allen, founded the Museum of Pop Culture (then dubbed the Experience Music Project) with the intent to educate and inspire people to engage with pop culture in their daily lives. When the official building for the Museum of Pop Culture was being planned, architect Frank O. Gehry gained inspiration through classical rock ‘n’ roll music. Specifically, Gehry examined various classical guitars. He even used small guitar pieces to create the first model of the museum’s building. Today, visitors can see the classical rock ‘n’ roll elements of the Museum of Pop Culture’s building, such as the classic red and blue colors, and innovative design.
Each of the exhibits is related to music, sports, literature, cinemas, and some specific pop icons such as Nirvana and Jimmy Hendrix specifically.
Sound Lab is an interactive permanent attraction that enables visitors to get a hands-on experience of what recording an album would sound and feel like. The process is simple: all visitors have to do is enter one of the soundproof rooms, pick up an instrument, and start playing. They have the option of performing an original piece or playing a classic song. Each room has a different set of instruments. Some have trios, which include a combination of three of the any following instruments; guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums. Other rooms have a variety of drums, audio technology, or professional DJ turntables.
Guitar Gallery: The Quest for Volume contains the 55 most popular guitars out of the Museum of Pop Culture’s permanent collection of 236 guitars. This exhibit explores the same guitars that were used by music legends, such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Bob Dylan.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame is one of the most popular attractions at the Museum of Pop Culture. Each year, a board of renowned science fiction and fantasy artists, authors, and other professionals come together to choose new inductees. This hall of fame is designated to honoring the revolutionary science fiction and fantasy work done throughout the ages. Some of the members of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame include David Bowie, H.R. Giger, and Hayao Miyazaki.
Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad, 1966-1970 explores the life of Jimi Hendrix during the height of his career. From 1966 to 1970 Hendrix had over 500 concerts that were spread out across 15 countries. Also, he spent his time recording approximately 130 songs within 16 studios. This exhibit showcases special documents, photographs, and other objects that resemble this time within Hendrix’s life.
Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses showcases how Nirvana rose to fame, maintained success, and the legacy of the band today. While part of this exhibit details the history of Nirvana, it also explores the special and unique underground music scene in Seattle that was influential to Nirvana, and bands alike. This exhibit is the largest Nirvana exhibit in the world.
Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Magic is a hands-on exhibit that enables visitors to interact with and explore each object in-depth. Objects in this exhibit range from original manuscripts to costumes from some of the most loved and popular TV shows and movies, such as Game of Thrones, The Wizard of Oz, and Harry Potter.
Although the bulk of exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture are permanent, the museum houses traveling exhibits throughout the year. Currently, the Museum of Pop Culture does not have any special attractions. In order to obtain an updated list of special attractions at the Museum of Pop Culture, check out the museum’s website.
The Museum of Pop Culture has an array of educational opportunities that engage everyone. Some of the educational programs include; writing workshops, classes, specialized tours, hands-on activities, and lesson plans that can be used by educators.
325 5th Avenue N. Seattle, WA 98109, Phone: 206-770-2700
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Attraction Spotlight: Museum of History and Industry
The Museum of History and Industry is located in Seattle, Washington, and is dedicated to providing people with an innovative, educational, and interesting experience that explores the dense history of Seattle.
The Museum of History and Industry was founded in 1911 with the intent to provide the public with a facility that would showcase the rich history of Seattle in a fun and interesting way. Since it was founded, the Museum of History and Industry has grown to be the largest organization in Washington that is private. Currently, the Museum of History and Industry is home to over 4 million permanent objects.
The Museum of History and Industry’s impact on the community is demonstrated throughout the numerous awards it has received throughout the years, including; Award of Merit from the American Association of State and Local History, Award of Excellence from the Washington Museum Association, Beth Chave Preservation Award from Historic Seattle, and Community Service Award from the American Institute of Architects Seattle Chapter.
Although the Museum of History and Industry has a permanent collection that totals over 4 million objects, the museum only showcases 2% of the collection at a time. In other words, only around 100,000 will be displayed from their permanent collection at a given time. The other 98% of the Museum of History and Industry’s permanent collection remains preserved in storage. This part of the collection is accessible by researchers and historians and will be rotated through specials displays in the museum.
The Museum of History and Industry’s permanent collection has a variety of objects. Think about any type of object that would be historically significant, and the Museum of History and Industry most likely has in. Some of the objects the Museum of History and Industry has includes; a 1880s Fresnel lens that was used for the Smith Island Light House, an original Yesler cable car, various neon signs, baskets from area tribes, recreational equipment, clothing, and art from local artists.
Aside from the display of their extensive permanent collection, the Museum of History and Industry showcases a variety of special traveling art exhibits. Currently, the Museum of History and Industry is only hosting one special attraction. In order to obtain an updated list of the current special attractions, head over to the Museum of History and Industry’s website.
The Museum of History and Industry has a variety of educational opportunities that are perfect for the whole family. The museum’s educational opportunities include; museum kits, classes, tours, maker days, and summer camps.
One of the most efficient and accessible educational opportunities at the Museum of History and Industry is their Free Thursdays program. On the first Thursday of every month, admission into the Museum of History and Industry is free all day for everyone. This ensures that everyone has access to the Museum of History and Industry at least one day of the month.
Aside from the typical tours and classes, the Museum of History and Industry offers Maker Days, which occur on the last Saturday of each month. On these days, participants have the opportunity to create an innovative object with the guidance from one of Seattle’s most renowned and innovative artist, builder, or other professional.
Another fantastic educational opportunity at the Museum of History and Industry is the variety of summer camps. The Museum of History and Industry offers five different summer camps, which ensures there is something for everyone. The Back to the Future camp embraces the partnership between the Museum of History and Industry and the Pacific Science Center. The day begins with campers exploring the Pacific Science Center, then heading over to the Museum of History and Industry to participate in hands-on activities. Another popular camp at the Museum of History and Industry is Trailblazers, which ultimately teaches participants how people traveled throughout the ages.
Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, Phone: 206-324-1126
