5 relaxing places to take a break during the World Cup in Seattle

Looking for a way to relax before or after a stressful match? Walk the length of Seattle's newly updated Waterfront Park. The two-mile walk from Seattle Stadium will start out crowded with people, but by the time you reach Echo, Jaume Plensa's 46-foot-tall head on the edge of the Olympic Sculpture Park, you'll be completely reset and ready for your next adventure.

Hop on the West Seattle Water Taxi for a short and spectacularly scenic boat ride. Keep your eyes open for waterbirds, seals and the occasional orca. Once in West Seattle, grab a drink or kayak rental from businesses right off the dock or walk north on Alki Avenue to soak in more skyline and mountain views. Free bus connections are also available to explore the West Seattle Junction or Alki beach neighborhoods.

This 22-foot-high man-made waterfall park will make you feel miles away from the hubbub of Pioneer Square and the World Cup. Waterfall Garden Park is open daily during daylight hours and is a great place to bring a take-out lunch or afternoon coffee.

Get to know Seattle through its local artists and original residents. A walk through Stonington Gallery is a great complimentary experience to the nearby Klondike Gold Rush Site or Underground Tour, offering the chance to see the art of modern First Nations of the Pacific Northwest Coast and Alaska. Sculptures, paintings, pottery and prints are available for purchase in a wide range of prices. The staff are very helpful and can offer deeper context on pieces on display.

The U.S.'s oldest and largest state-based hiking organization turns 60 this years, and their mobile app, Trailblazer, makes it incredibly easy to find the perfect hike for you to do on off days between games. Filter for hike attributes like waterfalls, wildflowers and mountain views along the mileage and elevation gained. There are plenty of hikes within Seattle city limits and nearby that are transit accessible.