Cruise season is in full swing, and downtown Seattle is finally buzzing with tourists and locals once again. For many restaurants and shops, this influx of people is a much-needed lifeline after months of dwindling foot traffic. Yet, beneath this temporary revival lies a troubling trend: downtown is becoming less attractive to residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

Seattle is considering a new tax proposal that would raise the Business & Occupation (B&O) tax rate while also increasing the exemption threshold for small businesses. On paper, it looks like a win for smaller companies — the exemption would jump from $100K to $2M in gross receipts, removing B&O liability for about 16,000 businesses. A new $2M deduction starting in 2027 would further lighten the load for many.

However, beneath the surface, the plan raises serious concerns…

Seattle’s known for its coffee and rain, but when summer arrives it is hot, sunny and great to be outside.  The heat can get to you, but the city has some of the best frozen treats in the country. Whether you’re looking for small-batch, nostalgia, or just a killer milkshake, the city delivers. Here are Seattl's top 10 ice cream spots to get your frozen fix, from a local who’s tried them all—probably too many times.

Seattle’s Pride season is back and louder than ever — but this year, it’s less about rainbow capitalism and more about grassroots energy, authentic queer joy, and standing up for LGBTQIA2S+ rights in a rapidly shifting political climate.

The crop of three challengers to incumbent Ann Davison are pushing the same old failed policies in their quests for Seattle's City Attorney's Office (CAO).

Seattle is making it easier for musicians and venues to access parking and loading with the implementation of Music Venue Zone Permits.

Seattle City Council adopted the creation of Stay Out of Drug Areas (SODA) and Stay Out of Area Prostitution (SOAP) zones are important tools to protect livability in the city.

Oh my gosh, DeLaurenti Food at Pike Place Market is a total gem! As a 50-year-old gal from Wisconsin, I felt like I’d stumbled into foodie heaven. The cheeses? Divine. The prosciutto? Melt-in-your-mouth. I could’ve spent hours just gawking at the olive oils and imported pastas! The staff was super friendly and knew their stuff. Honestly, I left with a bag full of goodies and zero regrets. If you’re in Seattle—go!

The DSA Mid Team in Pioneer Square is amazing and makes a huge difference.  Their team is quick to respond and even works to get read of personal human waste on the sidewalk.  I was disgusted to discover it near where I am was staying and the team was called and someone in a cleaning suit had it removed in 30 minutes!  This is a great program for the city.

Man, Chili’s South Indian in the U‑District is 🔥. As someone who code-switched between JavaScript and chai, this place hits all the right notes. Their Mysore masala dosa is crisp and crackly—literal taste-of-home vibes—while the Kerala chicken curry brings that coconutty, authentic Kerala punch . Staff are friendly, it’s casual AF, and servers get the techie hustle flow. Pro tip: come for dinner — lunch buffet’s OK, but dinner’s where they flex. Solid 10/10, would debug there again.

Twice Told Books is straight vibes. Cozy, quirky, and mad aesthetic—like a literary treasure chest fr fr. Found vintage gems for the low 💅📚. Staff? Chill and actually helpful. It’s giving main character energy. Support local, touch grass, read a book. 10/10 would browse again. #BookTok dreams unlocked.

Nestled in the heart of Capitol Hill’s “gayborhood”, Union Seattle is the perfect place for a Friday happy hour with friends or a relaxed Sunday brunch to recover from a crazy weekend. With its cozy fireside lounge, year-round patio seating, and classic taproom, Union Seattle is the place to be.