Perfect Day: Mary Lambert’s Seattle

Photo Credit: Zoe Rain

Mary Lambert first caught our attention with "Same Love," her breakout collaboration with Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. But just before the soulful vocalist soared to the top of the charts, she'd recently graduated from the Cornish College of the Arts, navigating Seattle's slam poetry scene. While gaining a local following, the singer also picked up an impressive knowledge of the Emerald City -- enough to cull a foolproof list of go-to spots. From a bike ride along Alki Beach to a sweet little something from the popular Cupcake Royale, there's much to experience in Lambert's hometown.

Photo Credit: Grady Tyree

1. Easy Street Records
Vinyl isn't dead, and this West Seattle institution -- 26 years strong -- is not only a great resource for vinyl favorites, but a great venue for musical performances. Patti Smith, Lana Del Rey, and Robyn have all played here. 4559 California Ave., EasyStreetOnline.com

Photo Credit: Tia White

2. Brunch at Local 360
Chicken and waffles? Check. Deviled eggs? Absolutely. Peanut butter and jelly bonbons? You need them in your life. Local 360 aims to source 90% of its raw ingredients from within a 360-mile radius of Seattle, and it shows. 2234 First Avenue, Local360.org

Photo Credit: Joe Mabel

3. Alki Beach Park
Ride bikes along the Alki Beach Trail. If you're lucky, you'll spot seals in the surf, but with or without the sea life, this is a stunning escape from city stress, with lovely views of Puget Sound. Seattle.gov/parks

Courtesy of Cupcake Royale

4. Cupcake Royale

Six Seattle locations (and a seventh coming soon) mean you're never too far from a cupcake in this city. Choose from seasonal favorites such as strawberry-rhubarb crisp and classics such as red velvet. CupcakeRoyale.com

5. Hourglass Footwear
Every shoe is designed, hand painted, and triple sealed by a team of talented Seattle artists. From platforms to flats to clogs, you're sure to find the perfect fit. Go walk the city! 1807 N.W. Dock Pl., HourglassFootwear.com

6. Second Avenue in Belltown
The street has great cocktails and awesome vibes. Check out Pintxo, the Upstairs, Clever Bottle, and Bathtub Gin and Co. for some of my favorite libations. PintxoSeattle.com; TheUpstairsSeattle.com; CleverBottle.com; BathtubGinSeattle.com