I've lived in Seattle for 8 years — here's my ultimate guide to the Emerald City

• I grew up outside of Seattle and have lived in the city for the past eight years.
• Here's my comprehensive travel guide for everything you should do and see while visiting Seattle.

Seattle has been my chosen home for the past eight years since moving here for college. I was raised in nearby Federal Way and went to high school in Tacoma, so basically my whole life can be mapped along I-5.

Seattle is known for being home to major companies including Amazon, Starbucks, and Tableau, to name a few, but there's so much more to the Emerald City — from its classic attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market to its grunge music scene and newly opened BIPOC businesses and restaurants.

I've learned about countless off-the-beaten-path spots and experiences across the city over the years and always share these favorites with visiting family and friends. From quirky local experiences to luxury stays and restaurants with seafood, sushi, tacos, and more, here's my complete guide to exploring Seattle.

→ The 4 best ways to get to and around Seattle, according to a local — flights, streetcars, bikes, and more

→ I live in Seattle and often host visiting friends and family. Here are the top 9 hotels I recommend, from no-fuss hostels to luxury waterfront suites.

→ I'm a Seattle local who loves trying new restaurants, but these 12 places are my tried-and-true favorites for the best seafood, baked goods, tacos, and more

→ 12 less-touristy things to see and do in Seattle, including chocolate tours, hidden speakeasies, and sculpture parks

→ Everything you should know before visiting Seattle — weather, what to pack, and the latest COVID-19 guidelines