Livestream's a Dream

Kudos to Seattle residents, including our very own Wallyhood folks. The New York Times estimates that Seattleites have cut travel from an average of 3.8 miles/day to an astonishing average of 61(!) feet away from their homes. Way to stay home and stay safe, everyone!

Speaking of home, if you’re like me, you’ve spent some serious time at that home recently. No lingering over a latte and an eggel at Irwin’s, no browsing of Peak Picks at the library, no casual pop-in at Wally Pets for a re-stock lamb lung and a healthy dose of pup socialization.

Keema (or is it Denali?) poses stoically. Photographer: Shannon Kringen.

Perhaps you’re oscillating between low-grade panic and low-grade boredom. May I offer a suggestion, reader? Switch up your pandemic news binge/Facebook/Zoom routine by virtual visits to some of your favorite local places, all from the comfort of your Wallingford couch.

Check in on your local National Park with Mt. Rainier NP’s view of snowy Paradise, updated every five minutes.
No flying fish here, but take a peek at the fishmongers at Pike Place Market, along with the occasional shopper.
Is the mountain out? The view overlooking UW’s Red Square is Hogwarts-esque, overlooking Drumheller Fountain in the distance, and, when we’re lucky, Mt. Rainier.
Who doesn’t need a little harbor seal in their life? Check out your Seattle Aquarium buddies here.
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s the Space Needle’s Panocam! Click on the “Best Views” option to see some wild past footage (hint: August 16, 2016).
Better rapport than the Cuomo brothers? You be the judge: spy on Woodland Park Zoo’s resident brother pals, Keema and Denali.
You know what’s surprisingly soothing? Watching bats stretch, hang on, and continue their slumber via the WPZ’s Bat Cam.
Feeling fancy, but not $125/plate fancy? Eat your homemade pasta dinner listening to the live strains of Canlis’ Piano Livestream (Monday-Friday, 6-9 pm).
Reminder: do not visit! Instead, enjoy the aerial view of the iconic University of Washington quad with cherry blossoms in full bloom.
You otter believe it! Arguably the best live stream in the Evergreen State follows four playful creatures at the Seattle Aquarium: Adaa, Lootas, Aniak, and Mishka. Aww!