Today was Saturday in Seattle and it was time for me to be a tourist after a busy week at the MVP Summit. The snow from yesterday was still around in places, but it had mostly melted and left the roads quite wet.

One of the buildings I had seen on the way out to Redmond each day of the summit was this massive black REI building. Since Dave had mentioned it to me previously, I decided to catch a bus into town to check it out and do some sight-seeing. This particular Recreational Equipment (REI) store is two massive levels of outdoor gear and clothing, with a big climbing wall attached. It reminded me a lot of the MEC store I visited when I was in Canada a few years ago.

After spending a bit over an hour browsing the store, I set off on foot down Denny Way towards the infamous Seattle Space Needle. Fortunately the weather had cleared up by this time and I got some great panoramic views across the city.

Inside the observation deck, they had this great panorama display set up. It consisted of large 4 LCD screens side-by-side and a small i-Pod-like control panel. You choose what minute of the day you want to view, and it displays photos from that time on the screens. I assume this is useful for visitors who come when everything is foggy or raining.

Followed by Subway for lunch (to compare to back home - it’s not as nice) and a walk along the Alaskan Way, I headed up the Pike Street Hillclimb and into Pike Place Markets. The markets were packed full of stores and people escaping from the drizzle, but entertaining nevertheless.

Plenty of fresh fruit & veg & fresh salmon being thrown around.

A quick stop at the original Starbucks store and an Apple Cinnamon scroll from the Russian bakery: Piroshky, Prioshky… mmmm…. Cinnamon.

Then it was off to Macy’s (think Myer) in the rain to get some really cheap (1/3 of the price back home) Clinique for my wife.

Eventually caught the bus back to Redmond town centre, which was lush, wet and green.

Then it was time to pick up some beers before going out to dinner. I was most surprised to find the Australian Cooper’s Pale Ale on the shelf ($10/6pack). And I was un-surprised to find Fosters nearby.

The night was ended with a variety pack of Dick’s Beer and some Burnout Paradise on the XBox 360. Overall a great day, where I got a chance to see and experience a bit more of Seattle.