Seattle Side Quest: Discovering the City's Hidden Gems During APA 2024

APA 2024 isn’t just about learning, connection, and inspiration—it's also about fun. With so many unique things to see and do in Seattle, there’s no shortage of ways to go all in. Here are five ways to go beyond the convention center at APA 2024.

1. Explore Seattle’s Coffee Culture 

Known as the coffee capital of the United States, Seattle’s cafe culture runs deep. Whether you’re making a pilgrimage to the first Starbucks location, or exploring the countless independent coffee shops that call the city home, you’ll find plenty of places to get a good cup of joe. For a deeper dive into the craft of coffee, check out other favorites like Espresso Vivace and Seattle Coffee Works.

2. Take a Selfie with the Fremont Troll 

This quirky, giant troll sculpture lives under the north end of the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood. Created by four local artists, this iconic statue is clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle. Snap a few photos with the troll and then explore the eclectic shops, cafes, and art installations that make Fremont one of Seattle’s most creative and vibrant districts. 

3. Find Serenity at Kubota Garden 

A stunning blend of Japanese garden techniques and native Northwest plants, Kubota Garden offers a serene escape in the Rainier Beach neighborhood. Created by Japanese immigrant Fujitaro Kubota, this 20-acre landscape fuses natural beauty with artfully designed garden spaces, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of the natural world. 

4.  Visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM) 

Nestled in Volunteer Park, SAAM is renowned for its extensive collection of Asian art, ranging from ancient Chinese ceramics to contemporary Asian works. The museum's exhibitions and programs are thoughtfully curated to reflect the dynamic connections between past and present Asian artistic practices. 

5. Explore National Parks 

Looking to explore further afield? Take a trip to some of the national parks in the area. Just a two-hour drive away, Mount Rainier National Park offers breathtaking views of its iconic volcano, surrounded by wildflower meadows, ancient forests, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. Olympic National Park, a three-hour drive from Seattle, encompasses nearly a million acres, including dramatic Pacific shoreline, lush rainforests, and mountain vistas. Further north, the North Cascades National Park provides a serene retreat with its pristine wilderness, alpine scenery, and trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. 

To learn more about things to do in Seattle and how to get around, visit our Travel and Hotels page.

Don’t miss your chance to take in everything Seattle has to offer—all while forging connections, growing professionally, and making memories with thousands of colleagues from around the world.