by Jonathan_CAfter seeing the fish mongers in Pike Market you owe it to yourself (and the fish) to hike down the hill and visit the aquarium. Here you'll be able to see the very same creatures alive and well in a naturalistic exhibit. You'll also be able to get aquainted with the various animals -- invertebrate, avian and mammalian -- you'll see when you go out to the coast. As always, you'll enjoy the aquarium most if you've done some homework. Before coming to Seattle you should definitely read a book on the natural history of Puget Sound. The deep, cold waters of the sound, combined with our temperate rainforest climate create a unique environment worthy of study and protection. Seattle's long history of fishing and environmentalism make us the perfect place for an aquarium along the lines of the great Monterey Bay Aquarium with an entirely local focus. Unfortunately, we don't yet have an angel like the Packard family to make this dream a reality. So come to the aquarium with only moderate expectations: the interpretation of exhibits is not the best. But the animals are still there for you to get aquainted with. Admission is $11.
more