What should my husband and I do in Seattle this Friday and Saturday for July 4? Where should we stay?

We've never been to Seattle before, so we want this to be a great experience that doesn't kill our budget. So, we realize that we may need some hotel options that aren't in the downtown area, and if we have to drive into the downtown area are there good parking option? Thanks.What should my husband and I do in Seattle this Friday and Saturday for July 4? Where should we stay?
There are plenty of things you can do in Seattle, specially if you are outdoor person. But since you are here (in Seattle) for only two days may be you should stick to popular attractions in Seattle only. Since you have not mentioned your interests, I will mention the general tourist places:

- Visit Space needle (open on July 4)...it will be crowded thou

- Visit Pike place market for sure

- Try Argosy cruise (small cruise - different kinds)

- Visit Seattle Aquarium

- Visit Boeing Museum of flight

- Try Boeing IMAX 3D, currently playing 'Kung Fu Panda' in 3D



This should be enough for two days......don't miss the fireworks on July 4, try WAMU fireworks show, its one of the best in country.



All the places mentioned above are close to each other, so you wont be spending too much time on road.



Staying in Seattle:

Downtown is expensive but close to all attractions. Further south it will be cheaper, you can find plenty of good deal near airport (approx 12-15 miles from downtown). North to Seattle you can find cheap but decent hotels on aurora avenue. Try WWW.Expedia.com you can find decent deals there with free gas cards.



Parking in Seattle is relatively OK. Avoid downtown, but you can find decent parking deals near the piers (Alaskan way). This is walking distance from almost all tourist places. Pike place also offers decent parking places (close to piers again)What should my husband and I do in Seattle this Friday and Saturday for July 4? Where should we stay?
I can't be much help on where to stay, but for the 4th you should be at Gasworks Park on Lake Union. It's crowded so be ready but it is the best show around. The park is huge and is set up for a day of fun with food booths, kids activities, a beer garden, musicians, etc... The show is great and you can't beat the view of looking at the Space Needle. Parking is rough so I'd recommend the bus or planning on parking way out and walking to the water!