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Bow Down to Washington!

Husky Football

Football. I’ve found that it’s one of those things that you either love or hate. And if you love it, generally you fall into one of two camps: college or pro. Now, if you’re on team college and will be visiting the Emerald City during football season (or you’re lucky enough to live here) there is no better viewing experience than Husky Stadium in Seattle. Ok, technically it’s called Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium but most of us don’t really care who the sponsor is. It’s Husky Stadium, home of the Dawgs! A major remodel a few years ago made the stadium bigger, better, and now is a stop on the Link Light Rail – so unless you’re tailgating (and if you have that opportunity, I suggest you take it) getting to and from the game is a breeze. Oh, and if you get a chance to sailgate DO IT! Our amazing stadium allows fans to arrive by boat, and that is a pre-game party not to be missed.  

A History of Athletic Excellence

The University of Washington is proud to call Husky football their own and games are highly-popular and well-attended throughout the season. When they play at home, visitors can book tickets for a seat at Husky Stadium in Seattle which has long been the home stomping grounds of this top-tier team. Under the leadership of Head Coach Chris Petersen, the Husky football team competes in the NCAA Division and plays for the North in the Pac-12 Conference each year.

With team roots dating back to the late 1800s, Husky football has built a reputation over time as a team that grooms and delivers up incredible Quarterbacks. Many of these individuals go on to play in the NFL, making a Husky football game the prime location for scouting out the next professional wonder.

Enjoy Husky Stadium

The stadium is located on campus and has a long-running tradition of hosting the Husky football team since the 1920s. Game-goers today enjoy a stadium newly redone in 2013 under a renovation plan that included more than $280 million in upgrades. The stadium seats over 72,000 guests at a time, making it a spacious, comfortable and highly energetic destination to enjoy competition on the field. Really love football? Take a tour of the Husky Stadium in Seattle. It includes a trip onto the field – and if you’ve never been on the field of a major stadium you are in for a treat.

Stay in Comfort and Style

The team at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals provides visitors to the Emerald City with incredible downtown properties that come complete with upscale amenities and comfortable furnishings. Take time to enjoy the heart of Seattle while indulging in the comfort and style vacation promises. Contact us today for more information on our portfolio of properties and to begin planning your trip!


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Seattle’s Hidden City

Imagine this: you’re working in a basement cabinet shop. It’s hot and far enough after lunch that you’re contemplating a nap. Or thinking about that after-work beer. Or whatever.  Then your boss and a few other people come in and distract you. And you forget that you have a highly flammable substance heating on the stove on the other side of the room – which consequently bursts into flames. What do you do? You grab the bucket of water in the corner and throw it on there intending to save the day……then you wake up? Nope. This is the actual history of how the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 started and how it, and 76 years later a man named Bill Speidel, changed our city forever.

The day after the Great Seattle Fire

A Wooden City Burnt to the Ground

The fire that stared that afternoon in a basement cabinet shop on the corner of 1st and Madison ended up burning down 29 square blocks of mostly wooden buildings which made up the business district, 10 brick buildings, most of the wharves, and the railroad station. How no one was killed (well, besides an estimated million rats) is a mystery to this day. Ok, you just burnt down (literally) your city. What do you do? That guy left town. What the city decided to do was to rebuild, which wasn’t unusual for the time especially since city-destroying fires weren’t terribly unusual for the time. But Seattleites have always been the type to look to the future and decided that wooden streets and building build on mostly fill right next to the water were for cities of the past – and we were looking to become the biggest and best city around. Besides, what good is it to have a city where you have to walk around in the muck and mud all the time?

A drawing of how the ‘new’ city looked after the rebuild.

The Underground City is Born

The city made a new law – all new buildings must be made of brick or concrete. Up above the mud that reportedly could swallow up dogs and small children. So, the city engineers decided that building tall retaining walls (8 feet or higher) on either side of the street, filling them in, and covering them with new streets and sidewalks was the way to go. What they didn’t count on was that local businessmen wouldn’t want to wait for the new city to be built to capitalize on the recent economic boom. They quickly rebuilt on the old, muddy streets not really caring that their storefronts and windows would eventually be basements. It was back to business as usual, with the exception of the walls going up all around. As the city was built, people used ladders to get from the old streets below to the stores and buildings a story above. When the sidewalks went in above, the businesses were simply abandoned, and left unforgotten until the late 1960’s when a man named Bill Speidel decided to try and save the deteriorated Pioneer Square from years of crime, poverty, and neglect. (Interesting side note: in 1907 the city condemned the underground – which was used as storage for the businesses above, and several illegal flop-houses offering prostitution, gambling, and opium dens. The official reason was that they were worried about the bubonic plague effecting the upcoming World’s Fair.)

One of the many passageways on the Underground Tour

Underground City? That’s Just a Rumor…..

Most people living in and around Seattle in the 1950’s didn’t even know about the city under their feet. Enter Bill and his wife Shirley. Bill was an ex-newspaper journalist turned publicist and both he and his wife wanted to help clean up the birthplace of their city, so he started doing some research. Those early interviews and trips to the newspaper archives lead to an unusual discovery; the rumors about a city beneath the city were actually true! A few carefully worded letters from Bill to The Seattle Times lead to a column mentioning the underground city which led to over 300 letters and tons of phone calls to the Times wanting to know when tours of this ‘new’ city were happening. That led to Speidel leading the march to designate Pioneer Square as a Historic Landmark and saving it from destruction by rich men uninterested in history yielding wrecking balls.

Today’s Underground Tours

In 1965 Speidel founded The Underground Tour, which lives on today. It’s an amazing trip back in time for both locals and tourists alike. There is lots of history, and every single tour guide, at least the dozen or so times I’ve personally taken the different tours they offer they have been, and there is a fun shopping area at the end where you can buy the usual touristy stuff but also books and movies about the history of our great city. There are three tours: the original Seattle Underground Tour, the newer Underground Paranormal Experience, which is a ghost tour with a few fun twists, and the latest offering The Underworld Tour, which is aptly titled “Sin & Flimflam in Seattle’s Old Red-light District”. I think that speaks for itself….

Now, I’m not an expert on underground cities or how the ‘facts’ are verified. Nor have I done more than casual research on the stories presented on the tour. But I can tell you this: if you enjoy history presented in a fun way, especially a way that involves adult beverages in spooky, dark areas then this is the tour for you. If you want to do your own research, there are some great places that have extensive archives that you can peruse at your leisure. The Museum of History and Industry and the Seattle Public Library Archives are great places that are open to the public. If you know a guy, the University of Washington has some pretty cool stuff too. Me? I’ll stick with the born story-teller handing me a beer. (During the day Seattle Underground Tour doesn’t involve adult beverages, the kiddos are more than welcome to walk the dusty areas with their adults.)

Book a Seattle Getaway Today

After a day of exploring the Seattle Underground Tour, come home to an amazing property with a view – and no dirt or mud!  Let the professionals at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals help you settle into a gorgeous downtown property that keeps you close to the heart of the city while providing the privacy and luxury you deserve. Contact us today for details on how to book your next Seattle home away from home.


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October Events in Seattle!

Ah, October. The month that usually tells us that fall is here and it’s time to get the fireplaces ready to go and those cozy sweaters out of their summer hiding places. Personally, this is my favorite time of year – the leaves are beautiful and there’s nothing better than putting on your favorite sweater or jacket and walking through the crunchy leaves in one of the amazing parks we have. Well, with a hot coffee in hand! Even though the weather is cooler (if not wetter) there are still plenty of things to do, both indoors and out.

Let’s start with Oktoberfest. There are still plenty of parties happening the first weekend of the month. The largest party, and the one definitely worth the price of the ride there and back, is Oktoberfest Northwest. Held at the fairgrounds in Puyallup it is the largest one in our area. They have all sorts of food, beer (duh), events, music…..pretty much anything you could want when you think of Oktoberfest.

October = Halloween and Haunted Houses. Like any big city, Seattle offers more than our fair share of haunted houses. The one I send my visiting friends to? The Georgetown Morgue. Built in 1928 the Georgetown Morgue has an interesting, and somewhat gruesome past; but it makes for a great haunted house! October 12th is Kids Day, the tour is free for kids who bring three cans of food for the food bank and the lights are kept on. Want to skip the line on Saturday nights? Adults who donate a pint of blood, administered through Bloodworks NW, get to head to the front of the line with three of their friends. If you have a vehicle, you have great choices to the north and south: the Nile Nightmare in Mountlake Terrace and the Wild Waves Fright Fest in Federal Way. The Nile Shriners have hosted a haunted house at their golf course for a long time, but in 2013 they stepped up their game and added interactive acts, a beer garden, and a food court. I am not going to lie, a creepy guy with a real chainsaw is terrifying – even when you know he’s coming….the attractions include The Curse of the Nile, Slaughterhouse, Infernum, the Doll House, 3D Circus and the Ballinger Asylum. Oh, did I mention the 5-minute escape rooms? Wild Waves Fright Fest has been around for the last 8 years or so, and offers interactive rooms and acts for the whole family. From noon to 6pm on the weekends it’s Booville – scary (but not like nightmare-inducing scary) for the little ones. From 6pm – 7pm it transitions to Frights By Night, much more interactive and scary and not for kids under 13. Attractions include the Chamber of Souls, the Play Ground in 3D, and Camp Whispering Pines. Closer to home, Unexpected Productions offers a cool event at the Market for Halloween – Market Ghost Stories. This 75-minute tour through the market gives you the ghost stories, legends, and urban myths that make up part of the fascinating history of Pike Place Market.

There are lots of Halloween festivals and neighborhood parties the closer you get to the 31st – everything from Harvest Festivals for the whole family, to parades and trick-or-treating for kids, to costume contests at pretty much EVERY bar for us adults. We do love to dress up here in the Emerald City! And if costumes aren’t your thing, plan on bar hopping through Belltown or on Capital Hill for some epic people watching.

Let us not forget about sports! True sports fans know that even if it isn’t YOUR team playing, it’s still awesome to sit in a stadium with a beer and a hotdog (well, at our stadiums it’s more like burgers, doughnuts, sushi, and craft beer) and scream with tens of thousands of other fans. Our beloved Seahawks, Sounders, and Mariners are all doing their best to keep our post-season hopes up and blood pressure down. CenturyLink Field boasts amazing views of the field from almost any seat, even the ones in the rain, and the retractable roof at T Mobile Park keeps you (mostly) dry for your baseball game enjoyment.

After a day of sight-seeing, haunted houses, or just hanging out on the waterfront, why not come home to a luxury unit that has a full kitchen, super comfy furniture, and a view to die for? The team at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals is here to make sure each of our guests enjoys a customized and luxurious stay right in the heart of it all. Contact us today for more information on our property options.


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Happy Hour Anyone?

Ah, Happy Hour. That magical time that makes your afternoon at work fly by and keeps you from sending that true but inappropriate email to the annoying Brenda in the cubicle next to you. For those of us lucky enough to live in the Emerald City, we know every spot from ‘My boss is coming but so is his corporate card’ to ‘locals only, tourists not allowed with out a note from a verified local’. For those of you visiting us with a passion for great drinks and food at a discount, you will love the fact that Seattle is a city filled with hot spots for happy hour. While there are many to choose from, here are a few of the best happy hours to add to the itinerary for your amazing trip!

Vinnie’s Raw Bar

Vinnie’s Raw Bar is a notorious Seattle destination for those that love to try bold and innovative wine labels. When you’re looking for a budget-friendly approach to trying what’s new, make sure to swing by during Happy Hour between the hours of 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. During this timeframe, guests can indulge in wine at $2 less than traditional prices and can make the most of cheese plates that are $5 discounted. Bring your friends and appetite when you come to enjoy a popular Happy Hour spent at Vinnie’s Raw Bar.

Virginia Inn

If you find yourself roaming Pike Place Market any given day of the week, Virginia Inn is a must when it comes to memorable and delicious Happy Hours. Small plates of calamari, smoked salmon and crab cakes are available in a price range falling between $3 and $11 while beer can be enjoyed for the low price of $5 and wine rings in at just $6.50. Stop in between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm to make the most of this savory time in a restaurant that’s called Pike Place Market home since 1903. 

Radiator Whiskey

While you’re at the Market, why not try something a little different? Radiator Whiskey opened in 2013 and is known not only for its whiskey, but for its inventive way to pair common food with uncommon. Their happy hour is from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Monday – Saturday and offers drink deals like $10 beer and a shot, $7 apple infused Effen mules, and $8 wine. Pair it with a snack like tots with gravy and a fried egg or their house made cracker jacks (cayenne-bourbon-caramel coated mixed nuts) and you’ve got yourself something to Facebook about.

Book a Seattle Stay

There’s no need to worry about finding incredible accommodations in the Emerald City during your travels. The team at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals is here to make sure each of our guests enjoys a customized and luxurious stay right in the heart of it all. Contact us today for more information on our property options.


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The 2019 NW Chocolate Fest!

The Northwest Chocolate Festival

As a child, Boehms Chocolates was a much-anticipated yearly field trip. The drive to Gilman Village, the tour of the factory, the tiny tastes of delicious perfection….I still remember the first time I had gourmet chocolate as a 7 or 8-year-old. Everything since then has been judged by that memory. As an adult, I’ve traveled all over the world and has some amazing chocolate – but nothing quite like that first time. 

People don’t always think of chocolate when they think of Seattle, but we have quite a few amazing local producers: Theo, Dilettante, Seattle Chocolate, and Fran’s just to name a few. There are many places to have a taste and wash it down with your favorite coffee, wine, or whiskey. And for a few days in October, chocolate companies from over 20 countries will be in town and sampling their various creations. White, dark, milk, various mixtures of the three. Infused with sea salt, caramel, fruit, hot and spicy things. ALL THE CHOCOLATE GOODNESS!!! 

A Legendary Chocolate Celebration

This year, The Northwest Chocolate Festivalwill once again be hosted at the Smith Cove Cruise Ship Terminal November 9thand 10thmuch to the delight of locals and visitors alike. The delicious doors open to guests beginning at 10 am each day of the festival which continues until 5 pm each evening. Those who purchase VIP tickets will enjoy early entrance starting at 9 am for a more intimate look at the exhibits, demonstrations and of course, amazing samples. The Northwest Chocolate Festival debuted in 2008 led by Brian Cisneros who is still committed to putting together a festival that ignites the senses, educates the public on chocolate making and creates a time set aside for sweet things to be enjoyed. In 2019, The Northwest Chocolate Festival is considered the ultimate chocolate showcase in North America and is often the highlight of the year for artisan chocolatiers. 

Indulge in the Chocolate Experience

Whether you stop by the festival for a day or make the most of both decadent time slots, The Northwest Chocolate Festival has a variety of options for guests to enjoy. Chocolate artisans from all over the world are represented at this festival meaning visitors can taste their way across the globe, enjoy chocolate-making demonstrations, speak with Cacao farmers and learn what it takes to truly succeed in this delicious industry. Seminars, classes, and workshops that are hosted during the festival come included with the cost of a day pass or weekend pass. Whether you consider yourself a chocolate expert or just can’t wait to enjoy the many flavors and learn something new, this sensational Seattle festival has something for you!

Book a Beautiful Stay

When you’re in the Emerald City to enjoy the chocolate or have plans to make the most of the entire city let the team at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals handle your every accommodation detail. Our downtown properties are as luxurious as they are comfortable and keep you in the heart of the fun. Contact ustoday for more information!


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Visiting Seattle in the Fall

A Journey to Seattle in the Fall

The fall is my most favorite time in the Emerald City. The leaves are changing colors, the weather is sunny buy cool, and it’s time for football! Our city has an amazing mix of urban excitement and natural beauty that makes it a great place to spend a long weekend. There are SO MANY things to do in Seattle, but here are a few highlights that will make you start planning your next trip before you even get on the plane home….

Seattle Space Needle

If you haven’t ever experienced the thrill of making your way to the top of this Seattle icon, fall is the perfect time to make it happen. Not only will you avoid long-lines of tourists with an off-season stop, but you’ll have easy access to the floor to ceiling windows at the top offering stunning panoramic views of the Puget Sound. Two levels of observation decks as well as a restaurant and café make the Space Needle a must-stop destination when you visit Seattle in the fall

Kubota Garden

If you’re a summer lover who is dreading the impending cold of winter, make your way towards Kubota Garden to be reminded of all that is lush and lovely. This 20-acre establishment flourishes with foliage that pays tribute to the stunning Japanese landscape. Guests to this site will enjoy wandering through a variety of rock outcroppings, ponds, waterfalls, streams and breathtaking plant life. An oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city, Kubota Garden has been pleasing the mind and imagination of visitors since it’s opening in 1988.

Haunted History Ghost Tour of Seattle

There’s nothing like a good ghost story to get you in the mood for Seattle in the fall festivities and a tour with Haunted History of Seattle knows how to set the paranormal scene. These tours led by professional paranormal investigators are excited to share both their experience and insight with visitors looking for an other-worldly adventure in the Emerald City. Travel together through many of Seattle’s historic neighborhoods and hear stories of the unexplained mysteries that keep paranormal experts researching today. From Pike Place Market to Pioneer Square, Seattle has a history seeped in mystery that’s just waiting to be solved.

Seahawks Football!

If you’re a football lover, there is no better place to take in a game than CenturyLink Field. Our stadium was built with lovers of the game in mind. There are no bad seats – from the first row to the very top regardless of where your tickets are you will have an amazing view of the action. Even if you’re not a Hawks fan, and we’re not playing against your team, you can’t beat live football. Built in 2002, the stadium offers food and drinks from Elysian Brewing, Din Tai Fung, Beecher’s, Ivars, and so much more. And enjoying that craft beer with your local burger has never made you feel better. CenturyLink field is partners with Cedar Grove Composting and Sound Sustainable Farms, promoting local foods from small farmers and offering composting stations throughout the stadium.

Fall in Love with Seattle

There’s something magical about a trip to Seattle in the fall. Make your experience that much better when you book a property for your stay with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals. Our team is dedicated to providing top-class customer service by booking our guests into luxurious properties that are fit to personal taste and style. Enjoy stylish furnishings, comfortable amenities, and spectacular downtown views when you book with Seattle Oasis. Contact us today when you’re looking for a trip to Seattle that keeps luxury and convenience top of mind. 


Oktoberfest Seattle

When it comes to celebrating, our great city knows how to make the most of culture, tradition and global perspectives. Within its versatile landscape and cityscape, we are home to a variety of cultures that draw in and intrigue visitors from near and far. One of the things that I love about Seattle is that it has long made a point to set aside time to highlight the global flavors, traditions, and values that make this city so unique. Of all the celebrations the city hosts, Oktoberfest in Seattle Northwest may be one of the most well-known and well-attended on an annual basis. Where language, culture, and fun for all collide, Oktoberfest in Seattle Northwest has made a name for itself as one of the Emerald City’s most renowned celebrations. If you happen to be in town during the month of October, this is an event you definitely won’t want to miss. 

Honoring German Traditions

When you’re looking to experience the finest in German cuisine, beer, music and fun, Oktoberfest Northwest checks every box. This annual festival has been delighting locals and visitors for over 15 years and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Washington’s largest Oktoberfest in Seattle celebration will once again pay its respects to Munich’s most beloved annual tradition in 2019. Guests will want to make their way to the Washington State Fair Events Center in Puyallup October 4ththrough the 6thin order to participate in the festive fun. 

So Much to See and Do

Oktoberfest Northwest is a non-stop experience in fun and excitement from the moment you arrive. Guests have access to a seemingly endless collection of activities, games, performances, and food over the course of three fun-filled days. Wiener dog competitions and races as well as live musical performances are just the beginning when it comes to Oktoberfest Northwest festivities. Those who enjoy running can make the most of participating in the event’s Stein Dash 5K while the Hammerschlagen Tournament of Champions promises to be a crowd-pleaser once again. No matter what’s happening on stage, you’ll want to be sure you have an appetite for this event. German beer and food are bound to be the highlight and access to all the fun is available with the cost of a general admission ticket for only $12. Admission drops to $6 for a Sunday-only ticket while guests under the age of 12 enter for free. 

Local Events

If you’re looking for an Oktoberfest celebration closer to the home, pretty much every neighborhood, bar, and restaurant have something fun going on. For over 20 years, Fremont has gone above and beyond with their local festival: Fremont Oktoberfest! From axe throwing to the doggie costume contest to chainsaw pumpkin carving, there is something for everyone.  Oh, did I mention all of the food and beer? You can go for the weekend or just one day, but you don’t want to miss it! Tickets and info are available here. 

A Seattle Stay for the Record Books

An October getaway to Seattle complete with an Oktoberfest experience is bound to be amazing. Take your trip to the next level of exceptional by booking accommodations with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals. Contact us today for more information and to begin planning your trip!


Eat At Endolyn Joes in Seattle

Family traditions. We all have them, and hopefully yours are happy memories of things that brought everyone together for holidays, parties, and of course, meals eaten together. Like many of you, in my house our meal was Sunday dinner. We had all the holiday things of course, but dinner on Sundays was an event that we all looked forward to. A lot of the time mom would cook, but sometimes we got to eat out – and our favorite place to go was Endolyne Joes in Seattle. Sunday fried chicken dinner is still an event at Joe’s, even after all these years. I won’t lie, as an adult I really enjoy their Happy Hour! But there was something about walking into a place where you more than likely know people sitting at one or two of the tables and the smells made your mouth water before you could even put your name on the list to be seated. 

Endolyne Joes in Seattle

Joe’s is an institution in West Seattle, having been in the same location for over 20 years. Many of the children that grew up eating there now bring their own families to keep the good-food, great-atmosphere tradition alive. The place was named after a conductor named Joe that worked on the trolley ‘lyne’ that used to run through West Seattle from the early 1900’s to the 1940’s. The building where Joe’s is now is where it ended – or the end of the lyne. Joe was reported to be quite the guy with an eye for the ladies – so the owners brought in the hand carved bar from an old brothel in Idaho. Exposed brick walls, chunky wooden tables, and hand-drawn art on the walls makes the place almost as much fun for the eyes as the stomach.  

A Global Culinary Perspective 

This local and well-loved hang out located at 9261 45thAvenue SW is a lively restaurant where the entire family can find something to fall in love with on the menu. A colorful and casual ambiance is made that much better with a friendly staff on-hand to welcome you to a cozy table and help with any questions you might have along the selection way. Serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week, Endolyne Joes in Seattle enjoys a crowd of locals, as well as plenty of visitors passing through that have heard of this establishment’s flair for flavor. 

Make the Most of the Menu

Endolyne Joes in Seattle is the place to be when you’re in the mood for American classics and comfort food too. Stop by on Sunday nights to enjoy family-style fried chicken but feel free to select pork chops, burgers, fish and chips, and mac n’ cheese any night of the week! A full kid’s menu keeps the little ones happy no matter how picky taste buds may be. Happy Hour features food and drink specials (I recommend the onion rings and be sure to ask for the remolaude!) and if you’re looking for something more exotic, Endolyne Joe’s features an ever-revolving international menu weekly for those interested in fare that comes from distant lands. Every quarter the menu changes along with the posters and décor on the wall and ceiling, so while you can always find your favorites, I would encourage you to try one of the specials. Be sure to save room for dessert and ask your server about the extensive wine list when it comes to picking the perfect pairing. Endolyne Joe’s also hosts regular live musical performances making it a dinner and a show experience you won’t soon forget. 

If you’re planning a party, they offer a private dining room that will seat up to 28 people. 

Stay Close to it All

After your amazing meal at Joe’s, you don’t want to return to just any old place for the night. Let our staff at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals find the perfect luxury vacation rental in West Seattle that’s close to all the great restaurants and a short Uber or Lyft ride away! Or stay downtown and take the Water Taxi over to West Seattle for a fun adventure night. Contact us today for more information on our many beautiful downtown and West Seattle properties and begin planning your trip. Check out the Un Bien restaurant if you’re in the area!


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Bumbershoot in Seattle 2019

Written By Daniel Pacheco

Bumbershoot in Seattle is a traditional “summer’s over” party, with most area schools starting the Tuesday or Wednesday after Labor Day.  It is a music festival, but it has always been much more than that, and it is definitely a people-watching spectacle.  I love the ability to get in and make your way through different acts.  It gives you an opportunity to be exposed to different music genres.

Seattle Local Tips: This festival is BIG.  There is a lot to see and do, and it helps to go in with a plan.  Review the line-up before going in, and get a loose idea of where you want to be and when.

The number one complaint year in, year out, is parking.  Either finding it, or if you found it, the price (ouch) you have to pay for the privilege.  Luckily, if you are a Seattle Oasis guest, 75% of our properties are within walking distance, and all are a quick Lyft away. With the housekeeping out of the way, let’s get to the fun.

First Off, Don’t Miss the Chance to be Spontaneous.

Yes, I realize I just told you to go in with a plan.  And do. But allow for time to linger over acts that tickle your ear.  Headliners this year are, among others, Tyler the Creator, Lizzo, HER, The Lumineers, Rezz, and Taking Back Sunday. These spaces will fill up quickly.  But as you are making your way around, keep an open mind for local rapper Sol, amazing vocalist Gallant, or comedian Neal Brennan.  There are over ninety music musical acts and 19 comedic acts so don’t get tunnel vision.

Don’t Be Afraid to Bring the Kiddos to Bumbershoot in Seattle:

Youngershoot is the younger side of Bumbershoot in Seattle, sponsored by the Children’s Museum. There are special exhibits and interactive opportunities for the under 10 set.  It consists of an smaller area segregated from the rest of the Seattle Center campus, with music, art and acts tailored to little ones. In addition, Bumbershoot in Seattle is tagging which acts, in the general line-up, which are kid friendly.

Seattle Local Tip:  If going with little ones, the crowds are smaller earlier in the day.  Strollers are permitted, but discouraged, just FYI. 

Spend the Day:

Bumbershoot in Seattle is more than just music.  There is comedy, spoken word, dance, theatre and visual arts.  You can also practice yoga, see a Laser Dome show, and check out the Sub Pop pop up.  Food is good enough to write home about.  Offerings from Matt’s In The Market (a personal fave), BokBok Fried Chicken, Gracia, Little Uncle, Wood Shop BBQ and more will keep blood sugar levels steady. In addition, the Armory locations are also open during the festival, so beer, wine and vegan options are available.

One Last Pro Tip:

The weather is generally quite nice. Like, sunny and hot nice. So don’t forget to pack your bag with sunscreen, water, and a hat. And if you’re planning on staying for the evening bands (which I highly recommend), you’ll want a sweater or hoodie. Most importantly, HAVE FUN! Check out the best Seattle attractions! Contact us today!


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Hempfest 2019

Written by Daniel Pacheco

August 16th, 17th, and 18th you can expect some hazier than normal weather in Seattle. The 28th annual Seattle Hempfest will be kicking off in Sculpture Park along the water and as usual it’s sure to be an experience. Hempfest is lovingly and proudly known as a “protestival” and is the largest cannabis policy reform festival in the world.   In the words of the organizers, Hempfest is first and foremost a political protest rally seeking to change America’s pot laws and to educate the public on the many uses of the cannabis plant.

The original Hempfest started back in 1991 at Volunteer Park and only had about 20 volunteer staff members and 500. This year you can expect about 150,000 attendees over the weekend as well as a staff of almost 1000 volunteers. Will you see people happily enjoying marijuana? Yes. Will there be music? Yes. Lots of delicious food trucks catering to people with the munchies? Tons of them. Despite all that Hempfest isn’t your typical festival – education is really what it’s about as the organizers are looking to make positive changes in marijuana laws, and people’s ideas about cannabis in general, in our country. Throughout the years musicians, actors, political activists, congressman, and even police chiefs have taken the stage.

So, can you go to Hempfest without getting in any trouble? Totally. Is it just full of a bunch of Seattle hippie stoners? Some, but not the majority. Hempfest is free to attend and you’ll see plenty of law enforcement in attendance as well. Roughly 20% of attendees are from out of town, so if you end up visiting you might even run into some people from your home state. As far as staying out of trouble there are still laws you need to follow for a stress-free experience. Hempfest is totally legal and protected by the United States Constitution under your right to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech. However, Hempfest is not a “free zone”. All local, state and federal laws are in full effect at Hempfest, and Seattle parks are designated “Drug Free Zones” which increases the penalties for selling and buying controlled substances. Hempfest is the worst place to attempt to buy or sell illegal substances of any kind. Please don’t do it.

Hempfest is one of the reasons why Washington was one of the earliest states to legalize marijuana and is a GREAT place to get more info on modern marijuana policy. You’ll find experts from all walks of life who can answer all sorts of questions. The legalization of marijuana has gone from a pipe dream, pun intended, to a policy question asked of almost every presidential candidate. No matter what side of the spectrum you fall on you’ll get a wealth of information if you stop by. Parking is very very limited so public transit or walking from most of our properties is the easiest way of getting there. As always if you have any questions feel free to shoot us an email or give us a call! Be sure to also check out the Pike Place Market during your trip!


Alki Point Lighthouse

Seattle is well-loved for its many fascinating features. From underground city tours to elegant restaurants and the museums, galleries andparks in between, there’s truly something for every traveler that heads to the Pacific Northwest in the name of exploration and adventure. But perhaps the most defining feature Seattle boasts is its pristine shoreline. Seattle has long been an epicenter of maritime culture and to this day acts a major port city with all the extras that define a city built around the land and sea. When you’re here and looking for a close up look at Seattle’s coastal role, be sure to schedule a visit to the Alki Point Lighthouse.

Navigational Icons

While many trips to lighthouses across the U.S. are a mere look into a past that serves to remind, the Alki Point Lighthouse is a fully-functioning navigational beacon that’s open to the public for tours. Even more impressive is the fact that this lighthouse is one of eight that dot the Puget Sound and work to assist vessels in their safe arrival and departure. The lighthouse is situated on a U.S. Coast Guard Site but doesn’t require an employee to function properly as the structure is fully automated. The Alki Point Lighthouse sits near Alki Beach and is easily identifiable by its stark white façade and vibrant red roof.  The lighthouse has been open since 1913, though several times improvements have been made to keep it up to date. In 1962 the old Fresnel lens was replaced by a modern optic device, and in 1984 it was fully automated.

When to Visit the Alki Point Lighthouse

Tours of the Alki Point Lighthouse are available to visitors exclusively during the summer months. Parking is readily available at the lighthouse and those that visit should be prepared to climb and encounter several uneven surfaces. The lighthouse is made up of two landings with one sitting under the ships ladder and the other near the top of the structure. Children under 6-years-old can climb to the first landing with an accompanying adult. The top of the lighthouse is accessible by a spiral metal ladder which leads to incredible, panoramic water views. A visit to the Alki Point Lighthouse is an eye-opening experience in what it takes to protect the coastline and vessels that travel nearby. It is an amazing feat of innovative technology based on a very traditional maritime past.

Seattle Lights the Way

When you’re in Seattle to experience the best the city has to offer, be sure to book a vacation rental downtown with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals. Our vast portfolio of upscale properties keeps you right in the heart of the city while providing the luxurious comforts of home. Contact us today to start planning your trip! Check out the best Seattle attractions!


Visit the Ballard Locks in Seattle

The Ballard Locks and Botanical Gardens

Ballard Locks in Seattle

I was 5 or 6 the first time I visited the Ballard Locks in Seattle, it is one of the first field trips I remember as a child. Standing there seeing all the stone, I thought it was a castle in a magical kingdom, I kept looking for the dragon….as an adult now, I still enjoy going to the Locks. Seeing the boats come and go, watching the salmon going up the fish ladder, and strolling around the beautiful gardens is a wonderful way to spend a sunny summer day with your family or friends. Anyone who grew up here, or has been here for more than a few years, has visited the Locks and the surrounding neighborhoods. There are plenty of restaurants, bars to keep you fed and lots of galleries and local artisans to help you find that perfect something!

The Wonder of Ballard Locks

The Ballard Locks are located strategically in the Lake Washington Ship Canal on the west side of Salmon Bay as a way to helping boats move seamlessly between the Puget Sound and Lake Union. This solution is both innovative and successful as the Ballard Locks in Seattle are one of the most heavily trafficked in the United States. Watching the water levels rise and fall as the locks adjust as necessary to let vessels pass is a thrilling sight and a fun family-activity that pleases viewers of all ages. Beyond the intriguing process of watching the locks hard at work, this incredible design works to keep saltwater from the Puget Sound separated from the freshwater lakes the boats are traveling through. While larger ships are exciting to view at the Ballard Locks, visitors will often see fishing boats, small vessels and even recreational water sport enthusiasts traveling this direction.

Locks construction in 1915

The History

In the mid-1850’s Seattle was looking for a way to get logs milled lumber to and from the many mills that dotted the shores of Lake Washington into the Puget Sound for distribution, and the many fishing boats as well. Many years later, the US Navy endorsed a canal project and in 1891 the US Army Corps of Engineers began designing it. Between then and 1910, some work was started, but government projects being what they are (even back then) actual construction didn’t begin for real until 1911. Fun Fact: The Navy wanted to build the naval shipyards on Lake Washington as part of the original canal project, but due to all the delays they moved it to Bremerton where it still is today. Can you imagine? Looking out on Lake Washington and seeing naval ships?

In July of 1912 the first test of the Locks gates went perfectly, for the first time turning Salmon Bay from Saltwater to Freshwater! The very first vessel went through on August 3, 1916 and have been doing so ever since. Another interesting fact: there was a temporary dam at Montlake that was breached a few weeks later in order to drain Lake Washington. For the next three months, the lake continued to lose water, lowering it by more than 8 feet, drying up over 1000 acres of wetlands, and consequently drying up the Black River and cutting off the Cedar River salmon run as well.  But there was a point to this, the Cedar River needed to be rerouted into Lake Washington to provide the necessary water flow for the operation of the Locks and Lake Washington was experiencing quite a bit of flooding – draining it, and keeping the water level consistent through the operation of the Locks, rectified this problem. Other rivers were rerouted as well, making way for lowland development. And the disrupted salmon received their very own ladder to get them back to their birth place to spawn. The Locks opened official on May 8, 1917.  The Ballard and Fremont bridges were built that same year, to allow for better water traffic to and from the locks, as well as the University Bridge in 1919 and the Montlake Bridge in 1925.

The visitor’s area of the Fish Ladder

Fish and Fun

A visit to the Ballard Locks in Seattle is also an opportunity to view the fish ladder that was constructed to allow fish to continue to move between these bodies of water as well. A visitor center is open to the public at the locks for an insightful look at the history of this unique area. The Ballard Locks also host a botanical garden that makes for a scenic way to end an afternoon with a picnic and a stroll along the colorful grounds. Whether you come to witness the locks, learn about maritime history or make the most of the gardens, a trip to Ballard Locks is well-worth a visit when you’re in Seattle.

Savor the City

Make sure to book a downtown property with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals when you’re looking to make the most of your Seattle stay. Our team is dedicated to providing guests with an exciting, comfortable and luxurious city experience unlike any other. Contact us today to start planning your next trip to the Emerald City! Learn about the Seattle CityPASS today!


Seattle August Events

It’s Summer! August is full of festivals, concerts, fairs, tastings, sports – if you can’t find something to do in our great city….you’re not trying. Honestly, the hardest part for me is choosing WHICH one of the Seattle August events is the best one to attend. But since the days are nice and long, with sunset generally not happening until after 9pm, you can fit quite a few things into a day if you plan it right.

The first weekend of August is Seafair Weekend, and if you’ve never experienced a live hydroplane race, I highly recommend it. Genesee Park on Lake Washington is where it all happens, and you can either bring your blanket and watch from the grass or go all-in and get pit passes. There are plenty of food and beverage vendors, along with a really great area for the kiddos. For information and tickets, click here.

After Seafair, the rest of the month is filled with pretty much any festival you could want. One that I find really cool is the Lantern Ceremony at Greenlake. Every year on the 6th of August hundreds of lanterns are lit and put on the lake to remember the victims of the Hiroshima attack on August 6, 1945. There is also music, poetry, and more. On the 9th is the South Lake Union Block party, which is always a lot of fun! This is a free community event that features great music, lots of food and beverage, and tons of stuff for the kids.

If you’re looking for something a little different, try the 28th Annual Hemp Fest at Myrtle Edwards Park August 16th – 18th.  This is one of the nation’s largest (and best, in our humble opinion) cannabis festivals. Don’t know much about cannabis? There are lots of speakers, booths, seminars – you can’t help but learn something. And don’t forget the music and merch! For more information, visit their website.

Looking for an old-fashioned fair? The kind with farm animals, carnival rides, and various food-on-a-stick? We are lucky enough to have two! The Evergreen State Fair in Monroe is August 22nd – September 2nd and the Washington State Fair in Puyallup is August 30th – September 22nd. If you’re visiting and don’t have a car, there are several options for ride shares and transit packages. Both of these Seattle August events are a lot of fun and worth the drive!

Labor Day Weekend does not disappoint in the Emerald City! While there are a lot of different things to do, one of the biggest and best Seattle August events is Bumbershoot – a 3-day music festival held on multiple stages throughout the Seattle Center campus. And it’s not just music – there is food, drink, local arts and crafts vendors, and a lot of fun things for kids. Their website has all the details and tickets.

August also signals the beginning of fall sports – the best season if you ask me. Baseball, MLS and pre-season football are all played here. There’s nothing better than watching your favorite team (hopefully) win while the sun sets over the stadium.

Since there is so much to do in and around the city and attend all of these fun Seattle August events, why not have your home base be a luxury unit in the heart of it all? Fully-stocked kitchens, comfy couches, soft linens, and killer views are available in for your home away from home. Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals offers units that have not only have indoor pools, but roof-top decks for watching the sunset and unwinding with a glass of wine or a local craft beer. Give us a call and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can find the perfect vacation rental for your visit!


Seafair in Seattle 2019

In 1950, Seattle was looking to plan something amazing for our centennial in 1951. We didn’t have professional sports (or even the Seattle Center yet), and the organizers wanted an event that would attract tourists from the entire country. Back then the city was known as the “Boating Capital of the World”, so they definitely needed to have something to showcase that as well. Enter Walter Van Camp, a man who directed the St. Paul, Minnesota Winter Carnival, which was very popular and well attended. He started in March 1950 for the next year but got so excited about all the plans that he got the city leaders on board for that very summer. The first Seafair in Seattle was born in that short amount of time and set for August 11th – 20th, and this included building the Aqua Theater at Green Lake (which seats 5,500) in 75 days!  

The Seafair Pirates in 1950

That first Seafair featured parades, boat races on Green Lake, amateur athletic events, the introduction of the Seafair in Seattle royalty (still a tradition to this day), and a number of community festivals. Even the always entertaining Pirates were in attendance. The event was incredibly successful, and plans began to expand the event and add the hydroplane races on Lake Washington the next year. In 1972 the Seafair Pirates landing on Alki Beach was added as the official beginning of Seafair. In 2002 the Seafair Half Marathon was added as was the full Marathon in 2005. In 2008 the events were combined to form the Seattle Rock n’ Roll Half and full Marathon. In addition to the marathon events, there is also the Seafair Triathlon at Seward Park and the Torchlight Run, which is prior to the Torchlight Parade. In 2013 the Seafair Summer Fourth started at Lake Union and today offers fireworks shows at both ends of the lake.

These days, Seafair in Seattle is a 10-week festival, with the first of the 30 + official Seafair events beginning in June and running through the end of August, though the true ending is the Seafair Weekend Festival, which is typically the first weekend of August, and features the hydroplane races on Lake Washington. Though some of the events for this year are already over, there is still plenty of Seafair tradition to experience!

Saturday, July 27th – Seafair FanFest, Torchlight Run, & Torchlight Parade

The Seafair Pirates in the Torchlight Parade

Fanfest is held at the Seattle Center and goes from 12 – 6 PM. The event is free to the public and allows you to see the participants and floats for the parade later that night getting ready and going through their final preparations. Next is the Torchlight Run, which starts at 6pm and begins and ends at the Seattle Center. There are two routes, a 5K and an 8K. The run takes you along the parade route, and since people will already be in their seats, you have an automatic cheering squad! Prizes are awarded for best times and best costumes. The parade begins at 7:30 PM at the Seattle Center and heads down 4th Avenue to Westlake Park. There isn’t an admission fee to watch the parade, though if you want to ensure a good seat, reserved seating at the Grandstand is available. But for a true Seattle experience, plan on getting up early and staking out a seat along the parade route. There are food trucks and local eateries offering specials along the entire route. (And yes, the city provides Honey Buckets along the way too.) Bring a comfy camp chair, don’t forget your sunscreen and water, and spend the day people watching.  For all the info you’ll need or to purchase tickets for the grandstand visit their website. The parade will also be broadcast on KIRO channel 7.  Pro Tip #1: many of the entrants in the parade include live instruments or music (Ok, and maybe a pirate cannon or two)and it can get LOUD. Earplugs are a great way to enjoy yourself without getting a headache.

July 29th – August 3rd – Fleet Week & Boeing Maritime Celebration

The Parade of Ships signals the start of Fleet Week

Since the very first year of Seafair, our city has hosted Fleet Week down on the waterfront to celebrate our men and women who protect us on the water. It begins on Monday the 29th at 12:30 with the Parade of Ships, which includes the Seattle Fire Department ships welcoming our guests into Elliott Bay with the spray of the ships, and then docking at Piers 66 and 69. This year Seafair has worked with the Seattle Navy League and the Port of Seattle to bring you vessels and personnel from the US Navy, the US Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Navy. One of the best things? You can go on board the vessels for free! See what it’s like to be on these high-tech, floating cities. This is truly an event you do not want to miss. For more information click here.  

August 2nd – 4th – Seafair in Seattle Weekend

Watch hydroplane races on Lake Washington during Seafair Weekend

Seattle’s unofficial holiday weekend is not to be missed, trust me on this one! The gates open to Genesee Park on Lake Washington at 9 AM every day, and while there is an admission charge Saturday and Sunday, Friday is free and members of our Military (with ID card) get in free all weekend long! There is something for literally everyone here, from live music to food to the beer garden, and of course the hydroplane races and Blue Angels performances. The highlights this year include the Air Show featuring the Blue Angels, the Hydroplane races, the Seafair Cup with E350 boats, Wakeboarding, BMX Stunt Bikes, the KidsZone with inflatables and games, and the Seafair Classic Car Show. Know someone with a boat? The Log Boom is a great way to see the races! All the info you’ll need can be found here. Pro Tip #2: While there is a lot of food for purchase, you are allowed to bring in coolers, food and non-alcoholic beverages in plastic or aluminum containers (they have to be new and sealed). Plan on staying the day and getting a meal at one of the food vendors, but bring plenty of snacks and water. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

After all the Seafair fun in the city, why not come home to a luxury unit that offers a great living room to rest your feet in and a comfy bed to stretch those tired muscles on. Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals offers units that have not only have indoor pools but roof-top decks for watching the sunset and unwinding with a glass of wine. Give us a call and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can find the perfect vacation rental for your visit! Contact us today!


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The Bite of Seattle!

Written By Daniel Pacheco

Summer always starts a little late in Seattle, and the 4th of July is often a little misty, but to me the Bite of Seattle always feels like the true summer kickoff. Bite of Seattle originally started in the Greenlake neighborhood of Seattle but eventually moved to Seattle Center. Think of it as a giant outdoor summer food court, with beer gardens, music, and a movie in the grass under the Space Needle. If you are staying in one of our Seattle vacation rentals, you’ll be either a short walk, or a quick cab ride away from a delicious weekend. Bite of Seattle runs from July 19th – 21st , from 11am to 9pm on the 19th and 20th, and from 11am to 8pm on the 21st. Bite of Seattle is a great event for the whole family, and there are 21 and up beer gardens for the adults as well.  The Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, and Museum of Pop Culture will all be open during The Bite but you should plan on everything being busier.  There are ticket packages available for beer, drink, and food packages, but admission is free there’s plenty to do and eat. At least 20 different vendors will have items priced at 5 dollars or less so you can eat your way around the world.

Big Island Poke
I’ve called Washington my home since 2007, but before that I spent time in Oahu and this is the closest you can get to authentic Hawai’ian poke with a few add-ons which are popular in the mainland. Poke is fresh raw fish, seasoned and marinated, served over rice, a very good place to start if you’ve been intimidated by fancy sushi rolls. Big Island Poke (pronounced po-kay) will be serving their Hawai’ian Poke bowl, Spicy Ahi Tuna Poke bowl, and Kalua Pork Nachos. Highly recommend.

C Davis Texas BBQ
From one end of the spectrum to the other, raw ahi tuna to ribs and brisket cooked low and slow, C Davis Texas BBQ is also worth trying at Bite. Look for the long line, giant trailer that holds the custom grill, and delicious aroma. The pulled pork and brisket are my personal favorites, but there are no regrets to be found on this menu.

Fisher Fair Scones
Scones and raspberry jam may sound like a simple snack, but these scones have been a delicious staple in Washington for over 100 years. When the State Fair comes to Puyallup every year Fisher Fair Scones are on everyone’s list of things to eat. These scones can be purchased year-round in stores or on Amazon, but nothing beats a fresh one.

After exploring (and eating!) your way through town, be sure you’re coming back to a home away from home in downtown Seattle that you’ve booked with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals. Our properties are extraordinarily luxurious, comfortable and conveniently located near Seattle’s most popular attractions. Contact us today to start planning your next getaway!


Enjoy the West Seattle Water Taxi

Seattle is a unique and multi-faceted city in the sense that it’s as fun to explore by land as it is by sea. This scenic port city has a history steeped in marine culture and often there’s no better way to view the urban skyline than by boat. When you’re traveling to Seattle and looking for a fun way to not only travel place to place but make the most of the coastal views, consider the West Seattle Water Taxi.

A Waterfront Mode of Transportation

Operated by the team at King County Department of Transportation, the West Seattle Water Taxi is just one of several lines that carry passengers between major areas of Seattle by water routes. These water taxis are comfortable and spacious ferries that depart every 20 minutes from designated docking stations, making traveling from West Seattle to downtown a quick and convenient ride. While a significant percentage of passengers on the West Seattle Water Taxi are businessmen and women making their way to work in a congestion-free environment, a water taxi can just as easily be considered a fun tourist excursion when you’re looking for some great scenery and a great ride without breaking the bank. In fact, the trip from West Seattle to downtown only takes 10-minutes, meaning you can hop on and off several times throughout the day depending on your various destinations.

West Seattle Water Taxi Facts and Logistics

Children under 5 ride the West Seattle Water Taxi for free while passengers 6 and up enjoy the ferry for only $5.75. As the population of Seattle has grown exponentially over the past decade, the city has made a great deal of effort to promote and expand water taxi lines as a way of keeping cars off the road and working towards a healthier environment overall. In the spirit of this effort, those passengers that board the water taxi with bikes can do so at no additional cost. Similarly, many passengers are thrilled to find out that the vessels utilized for these crossings are constructed with fuel-efficient hull designs and clean engines that produce less soot. Many of these vessels can carry over 200 passengers at a time, making a big dent in the number of vehicles on the road and helping to clear congestion downtown.

Take Time to Appreciate the View

After a trip on the West Seattle Water Taxi, be sure you’re coming back to a home away from home in downtown Seattle that you’ve booked with Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals. Our properties are extraordinarily luxurious, comfortable and conveniently located near Seattle’s most popular attractions. Contact us today to start planning your next getaway!


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Seattle July Events

Growing up in Seattle, you kind of just know that summer starts after the 4th of July – don’t ask me why, that’s just the way it is. That’s generally when the weather is really nice and the sun shines all the time. Which is why most outdoor Seattle July events. School is out and people flock to the few beaches we have, picnics in the many parks are a daily occurrence, and evening BBQs and music events are what people live for.

First things first, 4th of July! The biggest party that happens is the Seafair Summer Fourth! The party is on both ends of Lake Union, Gas Works Park on the North and South Lake Union Park, not surprisingly, on the South. You can get tickets to both on their website. Gates open at noon for both, and they offer live music, food, and a beer garden to keep you entertained until the real show starts around 10pm. If you can’t make it to the event, or maybe if crowds aren’t your thing, you can watch it live on channel 7.

Seafair is Seattle’s 10-week festival season that has been happening since 1950. There are tons of sanctioned Seafair events, including the 4th of July at Lake Union, the Milk Carton Derby (July 13), Torchlight, Fleet Week (July 29 – Aug 2), and so much more! One of the more unique Seattle July events is the Pirate Landing at Alki Beach. Summer wouldn’t be summer without Pirates! July 6th Alki Beach is transformed – it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Check out the Seafair website for information on all the Seattle July events going on.

If you’re planning a visit to the Ballard Locks, located about 5-ish miles north from the city, you can hear some wonderful live music from local musicians and groups. The Concerts at the Locks are an annual tradition and run through September 2nd. Visit their website to get the lineup. Don’t forget, if you purchase a CityPass you can get tickets to many of our local attractions at a discount, and the Locks are one of them!

ZooTunes at the Woodland Park Zoo are another annual tradition here. If you’ve got an open day, plan a trip to the Zoo and stay for the concert at the end of the day. Tickets sell out pretty fast, so I suggest getting yours now. Not to brag, but our Zoo is one of the best in the country! And don’t take my word for it, everyone says so. Visit their website to see all the offerings, schedule a premium tour or get tickets for the evening concerts. They even have live cams so you can see tigers, bears, and bats in real time. And we have a new baby giraffe, named Hasani (which means handsome in Swahili) who will hopefully be making his debut soon. He and mama have been spending quality bonding time together in private since he was born on May 2nd. But trust me, his first few days in the public areas will be an event you won’t want to miss.

Summer is a great time for sports too, the Mariners and Sounders are still keeping Seattle Playoff hopes alive, and you won’t want to miss seeing a game at T-Mobile Park or CenturyLink Field. Our sports venues offer some really great food and drink options or stick to tradition and buy your old man a hot dog and beer! If you like soccer, the FIFA World Cup is being shown at many bars and most of them offer drink and food specials while you watch. The Stranger has a great list of local sports and recreation events, check out their website and see what there is to do.

There are so many festivals in July! Literally every weekend boasts at least three or four fairs, runs, tastings…everything from the Seattle International BeerFest at the Seattle Center Fisher park and pavilion to the Capitol Hill Block Party (over 100 bands will be playing!) to local neighborhood festivals like the West Seattle Grand Parade (featuring the 2nd year of the Pawrade, for our furry friends) and the Alki Point Art and Music Fair. Our friends at Events12.com have the best list of all the great things to do in and around the city, check it out!

The biggest of all July festivals by far is the annual Bite of Seattle July 19 – 21 at the Seattle Center. Voted “Best Food Festival” for the last several years, the Bite is the original and first Seattle July event dedicated to all thing yummy. For the last 37 years, the Bite has taken over the Seattle Center and filled it with local restaurants, pop-up vendors, beer and cider tastings, live music outdoor beer gardens, live cooking demos and cook-off battles. Friday night is the free Bite Movie Night and the best part – it’s free to attend! This year they’re once again offering The Alley Six Course ‘Multi-Bite’ event that benefits Food Lifeline and the Family Fun Zone. You can get tickets for the Alley and Beer & Cider Tastings here.

July ends with the best parade of the year – Torchlight! Since 1950 Seattlites have been gathering to watch marching bands, floats, dancers, and so much more in the heart of the city. The parade begins at 7:30 PM at the Seattle Center and heads down 4th Avenue to Westlake Park. There isn’t an admission fee for the parade, though if you want to ensure a good seat, reserved seating at the Grandstand is available. But for a true Seattle experience, plan on getting up early and staking out a seat along the parade route. There are food trucks and local eateries offering specials along the entire route. (And yes, the city provides Honey Buckets along the way too.) Bring a comfy camp chair, don’t forget your sunscreen and water, and spend the day people watching.  For all the info you’ll need or to purchase tickets for the grandstand visit their website. The parade will also be broadcast on channel 7.

Days spent adventuring in the city should end in a luxury unit that offers a great living room to rest your feet in and a comfy bed to stretch those tired muscles on. Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals offers units that have not only have indoor pools, but roof-top decks for watching the sun set and unwinding with a glass of wine. Give us a call and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can find the perfect vacation rental for your visit!


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Experiencing a Seattle 4th of July Celebration

If you’re a traveler who is taken in by astounding landscapes that range from towering mountains to lush forests and glittering waterways in between, Seattle, Washington is calling you. If you’re a traveler that has a heart for urban exploration, mesmerizing museums and art galleries that bring the best of traditional and modern combines, there’s something in the cityscape of Seattle with your name on it. When it comes to versatility, there’s a reason Seattle is so well-loved by visitors from near and far. It’s an amazing place to come and discover any time of year no matter where your interests lie.

However, when the 4th of July rolls around, there’s something particularly inspiring about the Emerald City. This sprawling urban oasis surrounding by unparalleled natural beauty sets an incredible scene for Independence Day festivities. Whether you’re passionate about fireworks or looking to savor the holiday through flavor, there are a few Seattle 4th of July events you simply don’t want to miss.

Seafair Summer Fourth

The only thing better than a fireworks display is a display set to custom music. Immerse yourself in a dazzling soundtrack that comes along with brilliant sky-high glitter when you buy a ticket to Seafair Summer Fourth this 4th of July. Located at Gas Works Park at 2101 N. Northlake Way, guest can be a part of the fun for $60. Fireworks and music begin at dusk but before that time comes, be sure to make the most of the many food trucks that dot the park and offer up a savory bite. An on-site beer garden curbs the beverage craving while live musical entertainment acts as pre-fireworks fun.

The Seattle 4th of July Fireworks Cruise

Enjoy your fireworks and a Seatlle 4th of July in pirate-style by boarding a vessel built with fantasy in mind at the hands of Emerald City Pirates on Lake Union. Your watery voyage begins at 8:30 pm and departs from 860 Terry Avenue North. Enjoy onboard snacks, beverages and live music as you wait for the fireworks to start. From your wave-based vantage point, you won’t have to worry about traffic, crowds or obstructed views. Fireworks will dazzle overhead once the sun goes down as you make the most of prime seating on the water. Return to your starting point around 11:30 pm having enjoyed the many sky-high colors that mark this important U.S. holiday.

A Seattle Stay to Remember

When your travels bring you to Seattle for 4th of July, the team at Seattle Oasis Vacation Rentals is happy to help you book a downtown property that feels like a home away from home. Enjoy comfort, quality, and luxury in equal measure with a downtown view that’s one of a kind. Contact us today to begin planning your Independence Day adventures to Seattle.


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Seattle PrideFest 2019

June is Pride Month! In almost all big cities, and a lot of smaller ones as well, there are celebrations going on. The bigger events are towards the end of the month, though smaller neighborhoods have already started the festivities. Seattle, being a rather progressive city, has been throwing Pride events (officially) since 1974 when the first Pride Week was held from June 24th to the 30th. In 2007, PrideFest (a non-profit 501c3) took over and has been throwing the biggest and best events ever since!

The two ‘official’ Pride events are PrideFest Capitol Hill and PrideFest Seattle Center. Capitol Hill is where Pride began all those years ago, and it stands to reason that it is where the kick-off party is. It’s the biggest festival on the Hill all year, and gets started around noon on Saturday, June 29th. 5 blocks are closed to traffic and are filled with food, vendors, 5 stages of music and entertainment – and some of the best people watching you’ll find. The event is free and goes (officially) until 9pm. And if that’s a little before you want to call it a day, almost every bar in the area has some sort of after party happening!

PrideFest Seattle Center is Sunday, June 30th from noon to 8pm. This is the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York, the event which really started the movement for equal rights for all. The event is free and is tons of fun!

There are a lot of ‘unofficial’ Pride events around the city as well, here is one of the more notable ones you won’t want to miss – TransPride! This event takes place on Friday, June 28th from 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM at Cal Anderson Park following the UW Q’s Trans Pride Parade at Seattle Central Community College. The parade is A LOT of fun and is a great way to meet people from around the state and celebrate our Trans friends and family. This is the yearly kick-off to Pride Weekend and isn’t just for Trans People. Everyone is welcome to join! There will be live music, food and merch booths with just about anything your little heart might desire. TransPride Pro Tip: If you are not Trans, remember not to stare. If this is your first time at an event like this, it may be a new experience seeing Trans people. And as interested as you may be about, well, everything, remember that staring can make people feel weird. And this weekend is all about including everyone and NOT making anyone feel weird. That being said, another point of this celebration is to educate people about the Trans movement and Trans people. So don’t be afraid to ask questions, most everyone will be happy to have an open and honest conversation with you. If you aren’t sure how to address someone (he/him, she/her, they/them) introduce yourself first, and politely ask how they would like to be addressed. Again, as this is about education and the inclusion of everyone, most people won’t be offended by this question.

Let’s talk about Shopping! Each event has it’s own shopping area with vendors offering everything from local art to cool clothing and everything in between. Yes, it is 2019, but a lot of vendors are CASH ONLY so make sure you have some. Many will take debit/credit cards, but at outdoor festivals and parades cash is still king. Don’t forget to stop by the ATM on your way.

A note about parking: there isn’t much. Each event has some public parking lots available, more at Seattle Center an anywhere else, but public transportation or ride sharing are going to be your best bet for a stress-free Pride weekend!

Last, but not least, don’t forget your water and sunscreen! The weather is usually nice, and can even be hot so please be prepared. Since you’ll have your bag or backpack with you for all the amazing treasures you find, it’s a good idea to throw in some lip balm, pain reliever (it can get LOUD) and snacks.

Here are some great resources for Pride Events: https://www.seattlepridefest.org/, https://www.thestranger.com/events/40446605/trans-pride-seattle-2019, https://www.queerpridefestival.com/.


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Zoo Tunes 2019

Lions, tigers, bears…..concerts on the lawn? Woodland Park Zoo. You get to hang out at the Zoo with the animals, and then see some really cool bands live in the grass. It’s done festival style, so you can bring your blanket or short beach-style chair and sit in the zoo’s North Park and relax. You can bring food and drinks in plastic or aluminum containers, just no alcohol or glass. They do have a beer garden for the grown-ups and lots of food choices for the whole family. While entrance to the zoo isn’t part of your ticket cost, it’s well worth paying to see the zoo before the show.

The zoo’s big news right now is the baby giraffe who was born on May 2nd. His name is Hasani, which means handsome in Swahili, and was born with an abnormality in his rear legs, which is common in horses and shows up in giraffes from time to time). The talented zoo staff have consulted with other veterinarians all over the states and have come up with special shoes for him so he can walk normally. We’re all excited to see him, though for now he and mama are in the nursery taking time to bond.

While waiting to meet little Hasani, there are lots of other great exhibits to check out. Woodland Park Zoo’s 92 acres are divided into bioclimatic zones, featuring different natural habitats ranging from humid tropical rain forests and coastal deserts to temperate rain forests like those of the Pacific Northwest. If you went to elementary or junior high in Seattle, you went to the zoo in May or June every year. I personally love our zoo, it’s been remodeled several times to make the areas more natural and have gone to great lengths to make both the animals living there and the visitors happy.

Another neat thing about Zoo Tunes is that the proceeds from the concerts go to help fund animal care, conservation projects and educational programs here and abroad through their foundation. Their motto is See Music Save Animals – and it’s perfect.

2019 Summer Concert Line-Up:

June 8 – Indigo Girls (Sold out, but you can sign up for returned tickets)

June 23 – Lucinda Williams with Cass McCombs

June 30 – Greensky Bluegrass

July 21 – Cody Johnson and Whitey Morgan with Jacob Bryant

August 4 – John Prine with Amanda Shires (Sold out, but you can sign up for returned tickets)

August 7 – B-52s with OMD and Berlin (Sold out, but you can sign up for returned tickets)

August 11 – Feist with Rhye

August 15 – Taj Mahal + Marc Cohn with the Blind Boys of Alabama

August 25 – The Wood Brothers with Colter Wall

August 28 – Lost 80’s Live! A Flock of Seagulls, Wang Chung, The Vapors, The Motels, Boys Don’t Cry, The Escape Club, Real Life, Farrington and Mann (ALS Interpreted for the Deaf)

Pro Tip: buy a CityPass! With a Seattle CityPASS you can save up to 47% and skip lines at Seattle’s 5 top attractions, including the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, Pacific Science Center or Chihuly Garden & Glass, and EMP Museum or Woodland Park Zoo. You can buy it online or at the zoo gates.

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