Not too far from Longview, about two hours by car, you can find Seattle, which, unlike Longview, is a big town, loads of things to do, eat, and see pretty much 24/7, plenty of people constantly, and big tall buildings.
I personally only have been there once or twice but the experience was all good things. Several of my international student peers have been there several times for music concerts, professional sport games, and visiting universities.
The drive is not too bad, at least not with good company, and you know you are close once you start seeing all the tall buildings and the space needle, the view is very beautiful, day or night the city landscape looks alive and elegant. Upon arrival, you might get easily overwhelmed by the number of people or possibilities, but quickly settle down as everyone is so nice.
A must-try food is the Chowder, from local food places around the area, usually easily identified by the queue outside due to its popularity, but the queues are not long at all, and it's worth it. Although Seattle is not the hometown of Chowder, Seattle is well known for their New England Chowder amongst other flavours like Clam Chowder. The story of origin can change depending on who you ask, but essentially, it's a statement of the city’s love for seafood, and it showcases the town's commitment to quality and success. Chowder is basically like a thick soup with loads of flavors and often containing meat like clam, fish, or ham.
Other must-visit spots are the shopping center and Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Seattle waterfront, and the Gum Wall. These are not the only options, there are parks, museums, and plenty more activities.
Pike Place is a vibrant Market area and neighbourhood made up of many farmers and local shops, selling a variety of things from food to clothes to jewelry to decorations, a very beautiful market is the flower one, extending over the front of it, the flower bouquets are hand made and unlike any you see in supermarkets, heavy packed with colours and varieties of flowers.
The Space Needle is popularly known for the stunning views it provides of the city if you go up it. If you choose to remain on the ground, the tower is pretty empowering and lit up at night.
Seattle waterfront consists of 20 piers with food, fun, and attractions where you can find some of these places previously mentioned, not only do you have plenty to do but if you want to just sit back and relax you can watch the water shimmering and reflecting the city’s light as boat of various shapes and sizes pass by. The Gum Wall is a famous spot to visit and take pictures with an interesting story. I encourage you to find out!
You can make a day, weekend, or week trip to Seattle with endless possibilities and a great break and change of pace from a calmer city like Longview.