DRINK coffee. Put on another layer of dry clothes. Repeat. This is the formula to warm inside and out. Then attack a Seattle winter day undaunted, ignoring downpours like the locals, who act as if the epidermis were made of Gore-Tex.

The first stop is a coffee shop, haunt or outdoor stand. Which one is best is a matter of grave dispute in a city where caffeine rivals precipitation in ubiquity.

As to the number of cafes, “I think there are zillions,” said Patia Woods, a longtime resident. She sat at the Macrina Bakery, where the cheese-and-spinach croissant, raspberry oat bars, dill scones with whipped cream cheese and other delicacies are made on premises.

More great ideas for a Seattle winter vacation from the New York Times.