Insider’s Guide to Seattle with Vince Camuto

Style

When you think of Seattle you probably think of The Space Needle or Pike Place Market. Most tourists rarely venture outside of cushy downtown Seattle, but in reality, Seattle is so much more, with its eclectic neighborhoods made up of equally eclectic residents. I am excited to partner with Vince Camuto to share with you my favorite neighborhoods to visit in this vibrant Emerald City!

Insider’s Tip: When you do explore Pike Place Market, make sure you grab some BBQ pork hom bow (steam bun) from Mee Sum Pastry and sample a huge variety of flavored ginger beers spiked with the alcohol of your choice from Rachel’s Ginger Beer.

FREMONT

Head to this artsy neighborhood, resting on beautiful Lake Union and the infamous Burke-Gilman Trail (a bike/walking trail that weaves through most of the city and beyond). Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the iconic and wonderfully ugly Fremont Troll! I also love getting away from the high-end shops downtown and go vintage shopping (list below) at Fremont.

It has a farmer’s market on Sundays, which has great local vendors (I have gotten a adorable vintage furniture and home decor) and then head on over to Theo Chocolate Factory around the corner for a chocolate tour.

Theo Chocolate Factory has daily tours from 10am-6pm, which lasts about 1 hour and costs $10 per person (which is so worth it for all the chocolate you get to sample). Note that you MUST book a tour in advance. The tour provides you with information about where chocolate comes from, how it’s made, types of chocolate, as well as what fair trade in the chocolate industry means and why they’re committed to it.

And if the tour isn’t enough, they have a retail shop which is super cozy with a fireplace, seating and plethora amounts of chocolate samples to try. The customer service is phenomenal, they can help guide you bring back one-of-a-kind chocolate to bring back home!

Vintage Shopping
Fremont Antique Mall
Jive Time Records
Ophelia’s Book Store

Favorite Eats
Revel (Korean Fusion)
Paseo Caribbean (famous sandwiches)
RockCreek (Seafood)

BALLARD

Ballard is a great nook of Seattle, only about 15 minutes outside of the downtown Seattle area. You can expect a really authentic Seattle experience if you visit this neighborhood. It’s low-key and eclectic, dotted with independent local boutiques ranging from cooking supplies, home decor, and fashion boutiques. Plus it is home my favorite farmer’s markets in the city. If you happened to be in Seattle on a Sunday, definitely go and check it out! I like to grab a quick coffee and just walk around. Get flowers and wild salmon sliders (they’re right next to each other), people watch as you roam aimlessly and sip your coffee. Pet other people’s dogs, get home-made soaps, and even have your palm read. The energy is hard to top.

Favorite spots to eat/drink in Ballard
Wild Mountain Café (Breakfast & Brunch)
Brimmer & Heeltap (Brunch)
Stone Burner (Pizza)
Percy & Co (Bar, Happy Hour)
The Walrus and the Carpenter (Seafood)
Cafe Besalu (Coffee, Pastries)
Slate Coffee Roasters (Coffee)

CAPITOL HILL

Capitol Hill (or The Hill) is known for its trendy bars and restaurants, but there’s also plenty of beautiful green space. The 48-acre Volunteer Park is perfect for picnics, a jog, or just enjoying the sun on a beautiful Seattle summer. The park is also home to the Seattle Asian Art Museum and my personal favorite, Volunteer Park Conservatory.

Volunteer Park Conservatory
If you’re in Seattle on a rainy or cold day (which is more likely than not), this is a great place to visit. Only $4 entry. There are 5 different areas in the greenhouse. The Bromeliad House, the Fern House, the Seasonal House, the Palm House, and the Cactus House. The latter is my favorite: the sunlight gives the glass room a beautiful, natural light (so Instagram-worthy).

Favorite Cheap Eats:
Kedai Makan (Malaysian, My personal favorite)
Honey Hole (Sandwiches)
Tacos Chukis (to die for Al Pastor!)
Hot Mamas (Pizza)

It’s impossible to name all the amazing things to eat/do that Seattle has to offer, but I hope that you at least venture out of downtown Seattle and go visit these ‘hoods’ I mentioned. Hopefully this has helped you get better acquitted with the diverse area of Seattle and I would love to know of more spots and places to eat if you have suggestions! Comment below!

Shop The Outfit

Blush Trench Coat – A belted trench is a practical piece with timeless appeal and it’s a must-have for Seattle weather! I love this light blush pink color for Spring. Normal size.

Bell-Sleeve Shirt – A unique spin to a classic crisp white shirt. I love that I can style it under a coat with the sleeve out or it’s unique enough to look good alone. Normal or size down for more fitted look.
Perforated Sandal – These are so light weight and cute! I walked around for hours with them and my feet never hurt. I got so many compliments while at the Ballard market. Order your normal size.

Ring & Cutout Flap Bag – Crossbody bags are a must have when out and about, especially shopping. The details on this bag is so unique, I am in love!

Studded Bangle Set – – These bangles are light weight and are perfect little pieces to spice up any outfit.

Flat Square Sunglasses – Oversize square shape with mirrored lenses. Great for oval and round faces.

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In partnership with Vince Camuto, a brand I love! All opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for shopping with the affiliated links that make this blog possible.