Are you planning a trip to Seattle? You might be wondering if tourism is open in the Emerald City amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s take a closer look.
Current Situation in Seattle
As of now, Seattle is open for tourism. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines that visitors must follow to ensure everyone’s safety. The state of Washington has been following a phased reopening plan, and currently, the city is in Phase 3.
What Does Phase 3 Mean?
In Phase 3, many businesses and attractions are allowed to operate with certain limitations. Restaurants can offer indoor dining at 50% capacity, while bars can open at 25% capacity. Retail stores, including malls, can operate at 50% capacity as well.
Tourist Attractions
Most of Seattle’s popular tourist attractions have reopened with reduced capacity and safety measures in place. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Space Needle: Visitors must wear masks and maintain social distancing while enjoying panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
- Pike Place Market: The iconic market is open for business with mandatory mask-wearing and crowd control measures.
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop): Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to music, movies, and pop culture with timed-entry tickets and reduced capacity.
- Seattle Aquarium: The aquarium has reopened with limited capacity and requires advanced reservations for entry.
Safety Guidelines for Visitors
It’s important to follow the safety guidelines set by the authorities to keep yourself and others safe during your visit to Seattle. Here are some key precautions you should take:
- Wear a Mask: Masks are mandatory in all indoor public places and outdoor areas where social distancing is not possible.
- Maintain Social Distancing: Keep at least 6 feet distance from others, especially in crowded areas.
- Wash Your Hands: Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizers is recommended.
- Stay Home if Sick: If you feel sick or have any COVID-19 symptoms, it’s best to stay home and reschedule your trip.
The Bottom Line
Seattle is open for tourism, but visitors must follow the safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Plan ahead, book your tickets in advance, and be prepared to follow the rules. With precautions in place, you can still have a great time exploring Seattle’s attractions and soaking up its unique culture.