12 Things You Didn’t Know About Seattle: A Preview for ICANN82Sara CaplisAlex Dans

As we gear up for ICANN82, taking place in Seattle from 8-13 March 2025, it's the perfect time to explore some lesser-known facts about this vibrant city. While you're here for ICANN's Community Forum, the first meeting in the organization's annual three-meeting cycle, consider these surprising aspects of the city:

1. Home of the First Starbucks: The original Starbucks opened in 1971 at Pike Place Market, a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.
2. A City Built on Hills: With over seven hills, Seattle's topography offers stunning views but also presents challenges for drivers and pedestrians.
3. Birthplace of Grunge: In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Seattle became the epicenter of the grunge music movement, producing iconic bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.
4. Underground City: After the Great Fire of 1889, much of Seattle was rebuilt above the original streets, creating a hidden underground city that you can explore.
5. Home to the First Team in the U.S. Major League Soccer: Seattle Sounders FC, established in 2009, quickly became a beloved team, reflecting the city's passion for soccer.
6. A Hub for Innovation: Not only is Seattle home to many tech giants, it also boasts a vibrant startup scene in biotechnology and aerospace.
7. Unique Weather Patterns: While often thought of as rainy, Seattle has fewer rainy days than cities like New York; it's the drizzle that gives it that reputation.
8. The Space Needle's Transformation: Originally built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle recently underwent a $100 million renovation to enhance its observation deck experience.
9. Culinary Capital: From fresh seafood to international cuisine, Seattle's food scene is influenced by its coastal location and diverse population.
10. Rich Literary Heritage: Home to notable authors like Tom Robbins and David Guterson, Seattle also hosts the annual Seattle International Film Festival.
11. Seattle's Indigenous Heritage: The names of surrounding cities and bodies of water are often rooted in local indigenous languages. This includes the name Seattle, which comes from Chief Si'ahl (which makes Seattle the only major city named after a Native chief.) Artwork can be seen at the Burke Museum and Seattle Art Museum, and public displays around the city.
12. Pike Place Market: One of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the United States, Pike Place Market is home to cafes, restaurants, famous fish-throwers, local fruit, vegetable, and flower farmers, as well as local artisans.

As you prepare for ICANN82, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in Seattle's unique culture. Register now to join us for insightful discussions and a memorable experience in this extraordinary city!