At one end of the Hyatt Regency Seattle’s new kitchen-based chef’s table, I was among three people who had never tried oysters. Never. I remember my father picking a random clam (sorry, I have no relevant oyster anecdote) from the shallow beach water at Florida’s Sebastian Inlet, perhaps 30 years ago, prying it open with a pocketknife and then slurping down the slimy-looking raw meat. That did not make me curious about eating shellfish (years later, Dad would reveal that he’s never actually liked raw clams, he’d only done that as a stunt to freak me out). But I do enjoy hospitality—and if a host is graciously offering up a local delicacy, I’m personally compelled to try it.

Four raw oysters, each from a different, unique Pacific Northwest location; each delivered a distinct flavor before taking into account a distinct sauce paired with each. Well, I did it and I doubt I’ll ever eat another oyster. Neither the flavor nor texture was offensive—they just look gross. I similarly avoided guacamole for decades for the same reason, only recently falling in love with the mucous-green fruit mixture. Time will tell if I return to the salty weirdness of oysters, yet this was a genuine Pacific Northwest dining experience and, by nature of our shared hesitancy, it helped bond the three oyster newbs—and provide some entertainment for those with more refined adult palates.

Exploring the City

While in Seattle, I took full advantage of CityPass to see the MoPOP (an incredible collection of pop culture goodies—set aside at least three hours to explore this massive facility, and wear comfy shoes), the Space Needle (CityPass gives you daytime and evening access to this landmark), Chihuly Garden and Glass (the largest assemblage of the artist’s works—plus the beautiful Glasshouse event space, gathering under a 100-foot-long Chihuly sculpture) and experienced a relaxing Argosy Cruises harbor tour (outstanding buyout opportunity for small groups).

CityPass, available in more than a dozen cities, gives visitors access to a destination’s most popular sites at a reduced rate. In the Emerald City, all of these one-of-a-kind attractions can and should be incorporated into events, but another worthy consideration is for groups to provide CityPass to attendees so they can more easily enjoy the destination during free time (note: because CityPass is already discounted, there are no additional group discounts).

Many attractions and venues across Seattle, including most covered with a CityPass, are within an easy walk from downtown conference facilities. Fittingly, Seattle was recently named one of the top 10 most walkable cities in the U.S. by SmarterTravel.com. Given the weather (perfect from the perception of someone who has spent decades in Florida and Texas), accessibility and infrastructure, arts around every corner and the general attitude of locals (relaxed yet focused; almost Canada-level nice), Seattle is a world-class destination worth regular, repeat visits…and don’t be shy, try the oysters.

While you’re here…

The largest hotel in the Pacific Northwest, the Hyatt Regency Seattle, opened in December. The LEED Gold-certified property offers 1,260 guest rooms and 103,000 square feet of meeting space, including the largest ballrooms in the region. It’s actually part of a triad of Hyatt properties within a block or so, the others being Hyatt at Olive 8 and the Grand Hyatt Seattle (all are in the same price range but offer different atmospheres).


Source: https://wscc.com

Across the street from the Hyatt Regency Seattle—and using the same architectural firm—there’s an active work site that, upon completion in 2022, will greatly expand the number and types of groups that can enjoy the Washington State Convention Center. This addition will offer 255,000 square feet of exhibition space for events, 125,000 square feet of meeting rooms and a 60,000-square-foot ballroom.

In Conclusion

Perhaps the most unique view of Seattle is found by gazing down at Chihuly Garden and Glass, between your feet, through the world’s first rotating glass floor. That’s the highlight of the massive, well-deserved renovation at the iconic Space Needle, completed in 2018. Gone is the protective-yet-view-disturbing fencing, replaced by stunning glass—yes, more glass.