Sure, there are multiple REI locations across the country, but the Seattle flagship location of Recreational Equipment Incorporated is a destination in itself. Whether you're gearing up for a planned hike at Mt. Rainier National Park, looking for a kayak rental to ply Puget Sound, or you're a helpless outdoor gadget geek, this is your place. Shopping for your outdoors enthusiast family members and friends? Even better. The sheer volume of the place itself is a wonder, but before you get to the ice-axe handles of the giant wooden front doors, you wander along a miniature section of Northwest trail complete with pine trees, ferns and a waterfall. In addition to wowing first-time visitors, the area is meant for testing out hiking boots and mountain bikes before buying. And if it's climbing gear you've come for, check the performance of rock-climbing shoes and carabineers on the towering indoor climbing wall (reservations required).