Rediscover and rebound: Introduce visitors to a broad array of Seattle’s gems

As Seattle and King Counties welcome summer tourists after a long pandemic-induced drought, community leaders should develop a new appreciation for the economic benefits of tourism while encouraging visitors to get off the beaten path.

Small tourism and hospitality businesses suffered devastating closings during the 16 month public health emergency. Not only do these local operators make a vital contribution to Seattle’s unique culture, they are the backbone of the sector. About 80 cents of every tourist dollar goes to local vendors, according to Tom Norwalk, President of Visit Seattle. Without the deep pockets of a large chain, many struggle to survive.

Seattle and the rest of King County had 41 million visitors in 2019, creating a total economic impact of an estimated $ 8 billion, Norwalk said. Last year, visitor numbers and economic impact were halved, with spending heavily concentrated in the first few months of the year.

As tourism recovers, the region has the chance to thoughtfully shape the growth of the sector in a way that benefits visitors, business owners and residents.

A visit to Seattle’s “I Know a Place” campaign, which highlights neighborhoods, small businesses and unique cultural attractions that traditionally have not been seen by tourists, is an excellent step in that direction.

Of course, tourists should still visit the Space Needle and stroll Pike Place Market, but the Emerald City has so much more to offer. Rent a bike from a store like Pedal Anywhere Seattle and watch the sun go down on South Lake Union or spend an afternoon in Lincoln Park in West Seattle.

Itineraries developed by locals like chef Monica Dimas and Intentionalist founder Laura Clise put a well-deserved spotlight on Seattle’s culturally and ethnically diverse local businesses.

Rebuilding Seattle’s resilient and diverse pre-pandemic tourism ecosystem, with its mix of leisure, business, convention and international visitors, will take time. International and business travel could take a year or more to recover. In the meantime, Seattle will be competing for recreational visitors eager to attract other cities on the west coast as well.

Focusing on some of Seattle’s hidden gems sets our city apart and gives neighbors and small businesses a much-needed boost.

The Seattle Times editorial staff
Members are the editor of the editorial page Kate Riley, Frank A. Blethen, Luis Carrasco, Jennifer Hemmingsen, Mark Higgins, Derrick Nunnally and William K. Blethen (emeritus).