Some ideas in life start off small and grow to become a vision that is embraced by many. At NAESP's 86th Annual Convention and Exposition, you'll see why Seattle is definitely a city of growth and vitality.

The city of Seattle is centered around Seattle Center, home of the 605-foot tall "Space Needle," constructed for the 1962 World's Fair. The idea for the spire started as a drawing on the back of a napkin and grew to become a multicolored "flying saucer-shaped restaurant" with spectacular 360° views of Seattle and the surrounding area.

But long before the Needle was constructed, a saloon-owner and a pioneer couple had a dream for a civic hall/area that would be held for public use forever.

Their vision is now host to more than 10 million visitors each year. Seattle Center is home to community festivals, sporting events, concerts, cultural programs, theater performances, conventions and trade shows, or to those who simply want to frolic in the International Fountain and delight in the beauty and splendor of the 87-acre landscaped campus. It's no wonder then, that those in Seattle claim their city to be a rich and varied community that is "the nation's best gathering place."

Head down to the waterfront and experience "the soul of Seattle" - the Pike Place Market. Pike Place Market is internationally recognized as America's premier farmers' market and is home to nearly 200 year-round commercial businesses, 190 craftspeople, and 120 farmers who rent table space by the day. "The Market," as the locals affectionately say, annually attracts millions of visitors, making it one of Washington state's most frequently visited destinations.

Venture outside of the city center and you'll encounter unique museums such as the Museum of History and Industry, the Center for Wooden Boats Maritime Museum and the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. You'll experience magnificent vistas of the Olympic Mountains from the newly developed Olympic Sculpture Park, an 8.5 acre green space that allows residents and visitors to experience distinctive art outdoors.

If being in the city has you feeling constrained, then head to the great outdoors and savor the water, nature and wildlife. Numerous charter companies offer boat tours of the beautiful Pacific Northwest shoreline, including expeditions out into open waters for whale watching. You can take a trip to the lovely, serene San Juan Islands, which boasts numerous art galleries, hiking trails, wineries, and outdoor activities. (If the thought of grey skies has you unsure, San Juan boasts of 247 days of sunshine and half the rain of Seattle!)

If the majesty of the mountains is more your style? Then visit the breathtaking scenic splendor of the North Cascades and the historic Seattle company town of Newhalem. You can cruise Diablo Lake for amazing views of glaciers and cascading waterfalls.

And, should you be traveling with your kids, then you might want to stop by the Woodland Park Zoo and visit the Jaguar Cove. Perhaps drop by the Children's Museum to sample a few of the interactive, hands-on exhibits. For interaction, visit the Seattle Aquarium and see, touch, and explore the amazing underwater world.

These unique and amazing sites are just a few of the many attractions that Seattle has to offer. So take the opportunity to visit the "left" coast, experience the culture and fun of the Pacific Northwest, and interact with your friends and colleagues at NAESP's Annual Convention and Exposition. You'll soon see for yourself why this IS the nation's best gathering place!