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15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Seattle

Downtown Seattle may have been founded in the mid-nineteenth century and have a history which dates back to the gold rush days, but it is a surprisingly modern metropolis with only around two dozen historic buildings within its boundaries. What DT Seattle lacks in historical buildings, it makes up for with skyscrapers including one with a staggering seventy-six floors.

Seattle may be the home city of Starbucks, but in Downtown Seattle, there’s more to do than sitting around drinking coffee. Facing out onto the wide expanse of Eliot Bay, Downtown Seattle has a unique waterfront which functions on both a social and industrial level. Watch cargo ships being loaded while revolving on one of the US’s biggest Ferris wheels or stroll along the pier and stop off for a feast of seafood before having your palm read under the glassy-eyed stare of shrunken heads.

There’s only one word to describe Downtown Seattle, and that’s diverse. Check out these fifteen of the best things to do in Downtown Seattle, and you’ll find out just exactly diverse it is.

1. Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel is a one-hundred and seventy-five-foot tall Ferris wheel on Pier 57 of DT Seattle’s central waterfront. Sit in one of the wheel’s forty-two gondolas, rise into the sky and see amazing views of the downtown skyline and right out across Eliot Bay.

Rides on the wheel last between twelve and twenty minutes with a guaranteed minimum of three full revolutions which is more than enough to take in all the sights and snap lots of photos too.

For an extra special ride, take the VIP gondola which has a transparent glass floor and comes with a drink plus a souvenir t-shirt included. Time your visit with the sunset or do it after dark. It’s a magical ride.

2. Olympic Sculpture Park

Art and the outdoors make a unique combination at the Olympic Sculpture Park on Western Avenue in Downtown Seattle. This unusual public park covers eight and a half acres of ground with geometrically sloping paths winding around twenty distinct sculptures.

The varied artistic creations include a vivarium with fungi and moss growing on a tree trunk, benches which represent eyes, fountains with twin jets and a colorful glass bridge.

The park has a narrow stretch of beach facing out onto the bay which is the perfect place to sit and ponder the significance of the park’s sculptures. There is also a small auditorium for open-air events.

3. Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market, one of the oldest established farmer’s markets in the US, has been operating in Downtown Seattle since the early 1900’s. The market on 1st Avenue is close to the waterfront and has impressive views out over the bay.

Browse the alleyways of stalls full of fresh produce being sold by Washington farmers before touring the two hundred or more shops and over eighty restaurants. Open every day; the market is a hive of activity where it’s possible to take a cooking class with a professional chef, a guided walking tour or watch an artist at work in one of the numerous studios.

Pike Place Market is a Downtown Seattle tradition. Don’t miss it.

Suggested tour : Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour

4. Harbor Cruise

Board an open-topped boat on Pier 55 for a tranquil one hour sail around DT Seattle’s harbor. While navigating around Eliot Bay, a guide narrates interesting historical facts and anecdotes about Downtown Seattle, the bay and Puget Sound.

The sailing takes in the busy cargo ship area before heading along the waterfront where you’ll have amazing views of Downtown on one side of the boat and from the other, you’ll be able to see right over to the Olympian and Cascade mountain ranges. Just stunning.

5. Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum is an unmissable building on Downtown Seattle’s 1st Avenue. In front of the museum stands an impressive, fifty-foot tall metal sculpture called the Hammering Man. The statue, which has an automated arm, is one of a worldwide series representing workers and their labors. It swings its hammer four times a minute and makes a great Instagram shot.

Inside the museum itself, there are several floors of exhibitions which contain collections from around the globe. There are examples ranging from ancient American art to Australian Aboriginal creations as well as contemporary pieces presented in multiple formats.

6. Crab Pot

In Downtown Seattle seafood reigns on the restaurant menus. For a rustic but tasty experience try the Crab Pot down by the waterside on Pier 57.

The Crab Pot has starred on the TV program Man V Food and is well known for its Seafeasts. Ask for an Alaskan and expect a massive plate full to overflowing of every type of seafood the ocean has to offer topped by crab, crab and more crab.

Don’t expect deluxe surroundings. There are paper cloths on the tables, a worn tile floor and you’ll be wearing a bib. Yes, eating crab can be a messy business.

7. The Spheres

The Spheres are three enormous glass globes at the Amazon HQ building on 7th Avenue in Downtown Seattle. They were created as an innovative workspace for the company’s employees and contain around forty thousand specimens of cloud forest plants. It’s a living jungle in the middle of DT Seattle.

While at the Amazon HQ, take a tour of the Understory and find out all the facts about the spheres and how they were created. While the Understory is open to the public seven days a week, the Spheres aren’t. The Spheres are only open for viewing on two Saturdays every month and you’ll need to make a reservation beforehand. Take a full Amazon HQ tour, and a visit to the Spheres is included.

8. The Diller Room

The Diller Room is a speakeasy-style bar on Downtown Seattle’s 1st Avenue. The bar occupies what was the foyer of the Diller Hotel, a regular stopping place for pioneers to stay when traveling to and from the Klondike during the gold rush.

The bar has a hide-away atmosphere in keeping with the speakeasy theme and is decorated with polished wood and bare brick reminiscent of an old-world British pub.

Choose a cocktail from the Diller Rooms extensive drink list, sit back on the padded leather seating and it’ll be easy to imagine you’re back in the days of prohibition.

9. Klondike Gold Rush Museum

The Klondike Gold Rush Museum is a two-story building on 2nd Avenue in Downtown Seattle. At the museum, it’s possible to explore the effect of the gold rush on Seattle through the multiple exhibits and memorabilia pertinent to the era on display.

Get to know true characters of the times by watching three short film presentations, discover who the Buffalo Soldiers were and see how gold is panned in a live demonstration.

The Gold Rush Museum may be small, but it’s a fascinating insight into what made Seattle the city it is today.

10. Starbucks Reserve & Roastery

Be immersed in the origins of today’s coffee culture by visiting the Starbucks Reserve and Roastery on Downtown Seattle’s Pike Street.

Observe the entire coffee making process from the arrival of the beans in sacks, their passage through the loading pit then watch as they’re roasted before finally ground. Enjoy the end product served in one of the many variations from everyday espresso to a triple eight-ounce package of clover brewed reserve blends. You’ll leave totally coffee educated.

Want to visit the very first Starbucks store? It’s just nine blocks away from the roastery in Pike Place. Walking from one to the other will help lower your caffeine levels and you’ll be ready for more.

11. Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

There’s fun to be had in the weird and wonderful. Pop into Ye Olde Curiosity Shop at Pier 54 on DT Seattle’s waterfront to explore the curious and macabre. The part museum and part store delights in the darker side and oddities.

Be terrorised by the open-mouthed petrified mummies, grossed out by the collection of shrunken heads and bemused by two-headed animals or four-legged chickens.

Want to know what the future holds? Drop a dollar into the palm of Estrella, the Gypsy Fortune Teller and wait until she delivers you a card with your fate printed on it.

12. Space Needle

While the Space Needle is just outside of Downtown Seattle’s boundaries, it’s the place to go to get the most incredible views of DT. The six-hundred and fifty-foot tower is the iconic landmark of the city and looms above the buildings around it giving uninterrupted, breathtaking vistas out over Downtown, the waterfront and to the mountains.

The Needle’s lower deck has a glass floor which revolves and the upper deck has floor to ceiling glass-walls with transparent benches where you can take unbelievable selfies with nothing but the city in the background. If you’re brave enough to try it, do the virtual bungee jump. It’ll take your viewing of Downtown Seattle to a completely new level.

Included in : Seattle CityPASS®

13. Paramount Theater

The Paramount Theater is housed in one of Downtown Seattle’s historic buildings and first opened in the late 1920’s as a cinema and music hall.

Now a luxurious, multi-purpose performing arts center, the theater’s interior has an elaborately ornate high ceiling, balcony and a seating capacity for almost three thousand spectators.

The theater, which is on Downtown’s Pine Street, regularly hosts major Broadway shows, concerts, productions for television and musicals such as Cats, the Lion King and School of Rock.

14. Pinball Museum

Become a pinball wizard when you visit the Pinball Museum on Maynard Avenue in Downtown Seattle. This unusual museum has fifty antique pinball machines dating from the early 1960’s to the 2000’s

The exhibitions are all hands on and you can play on as many as you want. Don’t expect a quiet visit. There’ll be flashing lights and ringing bells along with the occasional cheer when a high score is reached.

Pinball is a fun and surprisingly addictive game. You could be there for a while. If you work up a thirst, refresh your playing power with one of the museum’s vintage sodas.

15. Westlake Center

Shop until you drop at Downtown Seattle’s four-story shopping mall the Westlake Center. Located on Pine Street, the glass-fronted commercial complex houses top name shops and eateries.

From high-end jewelry stores to handmade cosmetics to designer clothes, there’s not a shortage of different outlets to browse around.

When you’ve had enough retail therapy, stop off for a fresh juice or that all-time Seattle-born tradition, a coffee at Starbucks. Enjoy!

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Seattle:

• Seattle Great Wheel
• Olympic Sculpture Park
• Pike Place Market
• Harbor Cruise
• Seattle Art Museum
• The Spheres
• The Diller Room
• Klondike Gold Rush Museum
• Starbucks Reserve & Roastery
• Ye Olde Curiosity Shop
• Space Needle
• Paramount Theater
• Pinball Museum
• Westlake Center

Seattle   Travel Guide

The 27 Essential Things to Do in Seattle, Washington

If you're a first-time visitor to Seattle, no trip would be complete without stopping by some of the city's most iconic attractions. Browse the bustling stalls of fresh produce and flowers that make up Pike Place Market and take in

• All Things To Do
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Pike Place Market Pike Place Market free

Since 1907, this bustling market near the downtown waterfront has been the go-to place for local produce. Today, you can find almost everything, from local artwork to vinyl records. Plus, the flower market and fish tossing are particular must-sees, according to reviewers. Though Pike Place Market is one of the most tourist-heavy attractions in Seattle (plan to run into crowds, especially on the weekends) that's no reason to scratch it off your to-do list. Recent visitors said the abundance of vendors and lively atmosphere make it an experience you shouldn't pass up, no matter how busy it gets. 

The streets surrounding Pike Place Market are peppered with restaurants and coffee shops, and there's an information booth just west of the marketplace at First Avenue. If you want a little help navigating the massive market, guided tours and food tours are available from third-party companies.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Chihuly Garden and Glass

U.S. News Insider Tip: Utilize the museum’s interactive mobile guide , which provides a map, schedules of live talks and demos as well as an audio guide for insight into the pieces that make up the exhibition. – Vivian Chung

Bursting with artwork spanning the colors of the rainbow, Chihuly Garden and Glass offers visitors a look at creative, glass-blown pieces crafted by renowned Pacific Northwest artist, Dale Chihuly. The permanent exhibition opened in 2012 and has since attracted the admiration of Seattleites and tourists alike. 

Space Needle Space Needle

If there's one thing Seattle is known for (aside from coffee), it's the 605-foot-tall Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle has dominated Seattle's skyline ever since with its unique UFO-like design. The tower's 520-foot-high round observation deck offers spectacular views of the city and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. The Loupe, a seasonal cocktail lounge, features a revolving glass floor. If you're not a fan of heights, check out the SpaceBase gift shop at the bottom of the tower.

Past visitors agreed that the Space Needle is a must for first-time visitors to Seattle, and recommend either purchasing your ticket online in advance or showing up early to avoid long lines. Several said they bought the combo ticket that also includes access to Chihuly Garden and Glass . 

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Kerry Park Kerry Park free

This small viewpoint park, which offers amazing views of Elliott Bay and the Central City (and occasionally Mount Rainier), is a favorite with photographers. Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit, when the city lights up and the Space Needle is a beacon in the night. While the park is tiny, you can see the sculpture Changing Form and a children's play area at the Bayview-Kinnear Park just below the viewpoint of Kerry Park.

Recent visitors said the views are astounding and advise others to come on a clear day and be prepared for crowds.

Capitol Hill Capitol Hill free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Opened in December 2014, a trip to the world’s first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill is a must for coffee connoisseurs. Situated just nine blocks from the original 1912 Starbucks at Pike Place, the Reserve offers exclusive beverages and merchandise. – Vivian Chung

Perched on a hill and bordered by Interstate 5 to the west, 15th Avenue to the east, Roy Street to the north, and Madison Street to the south, diverse and vibrant Capitol Hill stands out as one of Seattle's most popular nightlife and entertainment districts. Marked by rainbow crosswalks and flags, it also serves as the city’s LGBTQ+ epicenter. Infused with cool, hip vibes and a youthful energy, the district is packed with music venues and trendy establishments. 

Museum of Flight Museum of Flight

Seattle is one of the most important cities in the world of aviation and home to several facilities belonging to the Boeing Company, one of the world's leading aircraft manufacturers. You can find out more about the city's unique and fascinating history in aviation at one of its best museums, the Museum of Flight at Boeing Field. The museum is located less than 10 miles south of downtown Seattle. 

The facility is especially enticing for families with young children, who can climb in and around various aircraft. Also recommended is the Red Barn, Boeing's original airplane factory, which features exhibitions chronicling the history of flight. The nearby six-story T.A. Wilson Great Gallery also holds vintage aircraft, offering travelers a unique look into Seattle's prolific technological history. One of the most popular attractions is the SAM 970, which served as Air Force One for presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon, as well as other vice presidents and VIPs until its retirement in June 1996.

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Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) free

These locks – operated by the Army Corps of Engineers – are popular among Seattle visitors and locals. The locks allow boats to pass between Puget Sound and the Lake Washington Ship Canal, offering a live demonstration of Seattle's maritime lifestyle (many have compared the locks to a miniature version of the Panama Canal). After you've watched a couple barges pass by, head to the south side of the locks where fish ladders help salmon migrate during the summer months; if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a sea lion looking for a quick bite to eat. The fish can be seen up close from special viewing windows. The Chittenden Locks are also home to the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, which feature a variety of 1,500 plants from around the world and beautiful views.

Many visitors suggested taking one of the free hourlong tours offered to learn more about the history of the locks. Tours depart from the visitor center. You can also learn more about the locks on one of Seattle's best boat tours . Recent visitors also mention that parking can be difficult to find and the area can feel crowded on the weekends.

Mount Rainier Mount Rainier

Enveloped by lush forests, alpine meadows and glacial landscape, 14,410-foot-tall Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range, takes center stage at Mount Rainier National Park . The park encompasses five developed areas, including Longmire, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, Carbon River and Mowich, with Paradise being the park’s most sought-after. Here, hike the popular 5.5-mile Skyline Trail, which offers views of meadows blanketed by vibrant wildflowers in the summer months. In the winter, Paradise beckons powderhounds to explore its snowy terrain on snowshoes, cross-country skis and snowboards. For scenic viewpoints, head to 6,400-foot-high Sunrise Point to catch daybreak, the highest point in the park accessible by vehicle. And along Stevens Canyon Road, see reflections of Mount Rainier in the tranquil waters of Reflection Lakes.

Despite the two-hour drive from Seattle, recent visitors praise the park’s spectacular natural landscapes, deeming the journey well worthwhile. Additionally, many suggest bringing extra layers, even during the summer, as the park's elevation and mountainous terrain contribute to constant and unpredictable weather changes.

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Museum of History and Industry Museum of History and Industry

If you want to learn about the history of Seattle, pay a visit to this museum. The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) collects and preserves items related to innovation in the Puget Sound region. Permanent exhibits that highlight that effort include the "Bezos Center for Innovation," "Maritime Seattle" and "True Northwest: The Seattle Journey." Its collection includes art, toys, furniture, vehicles, clothing and other locally made or invented products. In addition to its exhibits, MOHAI also houses a cafe and a store featuring products made by Puget Sound artisans.

"Fascinating," "informative" and "engaging" are among the adjectives visitors frequently use to describe MOHAI. As an added bonus, the building offers a nice view of Lake Union, from the maritime history exhibit, appropriately enough.

Seattle Art Museum Seattle Art Museum

Spread across three locations, the Seattle Art Museum houses one of America's premier art collections. Among its collection of more than 25,000 pieces, the museum displays everything from European masterpieces to contemporary sculptures. The Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park are also part of the complex. 

The museum received some mixed reviews from recent visitors for its small size, but most appreciated its eclectic collection and recommended setting aside a few hours. Recent travelers were particularly impressed with the museum's permanent collection of African art and its display of Northwest Coast Native American artists. 

Olympic Sculpture Park Olympic Sculpture Park free

There's no better way to get a healthy dose of culture than to enjoy some fine art, especially when the art is outdoors and free to peruse. In other words, you should plan on visiting the Olympic Sculpture Park, a 9-acre space one mile north of the Seattle Art Museum (with which it's affiliated) that's filled with works by such sculptors as Louise Bourgeois, Alexander Calder, Roxy Paine and Tony Smith. Once you've had your fill of art, turn your attention to the view, which stretches over Elliott Bay to the Olympic Mountains and is a big hit with recent visitors.

Past visitors said it's an enjoyable way to experience the art and ambiance Seattle offers, and appreciate that it’s crowd-free, despite its proximity to downtown. However, they say that unless you’re in the area, you shouldn’t make a special trip to the park as it’s not a “top 10” attraction.

Museum of Pop Culture Museum of Pop Culture

Set in an eye-popping complex designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Museum of Pop Culture celebrates rock music in a myriad of ways. Exhibits at this Seattle Center museum like "Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses" and "Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad, 1966-1970" are excellent and comprehensive looks at these two iconic music phenoms, while the "Guitar Gallery" chronicles the history of the instrument and the musicians who played them. Music isn’t the only aspect of pop culture on display here. The "Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame" exhibit features artifacts from sci-fi literature, film, television and art, including pieces from "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "The Empire Strikes Back." There are also exhibits dedicated to video games and horror films. 

According to recent visitors, the interactive exhibits appeal to a variety of ages, and the museum is worth spending a couple of hours exploring, though reviewers did not appreciate the high admission price. Recent visitors were also impressed by the architectural design of the museum’s building. 

Gas Works Park Gas Works Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Gas Works Park to be a haven for various bird species. Bring a pair of binoculars for the chance to spot double-crested cormorants, goosanders and American coots, particularly along the shores of Lake Union. – Vivian Chung

Encompassing 19.1 acres, Gas Works Park features preserved structures and remnants of the historic Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant, which operated from 1906 to 1956. Its expansive green spaces make this park a favored spot among locals for picnics and kite flying, while Kite Hill, known as the Great Mound, offers a picturesque vantage point for observing seaplanes take off and land on Lake Union. The park also transforms into a vibrant hub each Fourth of July, when crowds come to witness a spectacular fireworks display.

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Discovery Park Discovery Park free

If you're looking to get outdoors without getting out of the city, this is the place. Sprawling across more than 500 acres in northern Seattle, Discovery Park is the city's largest green space. You'll find hiking trails, meadows, beaches and sand dunes abound. One must-see is the West Point Lighthouse – one of 18 active lighthouses in Washington State – which can be reached by following the North Beach Trail, while the South Beach Trail leads to a spectacular view of Puget Sound.

And if you're not one for hiking, keep in mind that Discovery Park also features a tennis facility, a cultural center and a kids' play area that includes swings, climbing structures and a zip line. Many park visitors say this is one of Seattle's finer gems, with something for everyone to enjoy. Hikers commented that there is a trail suitable for every experience level and particularly enjoy the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier on clear days.

Smith Tower Smith Tower

The Space Needle isn't the only way to enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of Seattle. Smith Tower is Seattle's oldest skyscraper, and when it was built in 1914 it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. The 35th-floor observatory that was part of the original construction remains open today, offering 360-degree views of the city. The same floor also has a cocktail bar. In addition to office space, the tower also houses ground-floor retail, special event spaces and historical exhibits.

While the stunning views are the reason to go to the top of the tower, the food and beverages win high marks from reviewers as well, though some find the selection to be limited. Recent visitors also appreciated the self-guided tour showcasing historical information about the tower before enjoying the elevator ride to the 35th floor. For more information about the tower’s past, including its Wishing Chair, consider signing up for one of the 45-minute guided “Talking Tours.”

Alki Beach Alki Beach free

Elliott Bay's Alki Beach is a popular attraction for bicyclists, joggers and anyone seeking to spend a day in the sun. What's more, from its perch on the bay, the beach offers photogenic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound, as well as passing ships. Amenities include fire pits, restrooms, hand-carry boat access, picnic tables and volleyball courts. On Alki Point, there's a monument marking the spot where European settlers first arrived in 1851.

Beachgoers rave about the skyline views seen from the beach, though they do warn that you shouldn’t visit this beach expecting to swim (water temps are chilly, ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-50s). They also appreciate the many restaurants in proximity to the shore. History buffs wanting a break from the sun (or wishing to learn more about those aforementioned settlers) can visit the nearby Log House Museum, which is operated by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society and offers pay-what-you-can admission.

Woodinville Wine Country Woodinville Wine Country

Oenophiles in search of a memorable glass of vino should head about 20 miles northeast of Seattle to explore Woodinville Wine Country. This area within the Sammamish River Valley is home to more than 130 wineries, as well as breweries, shops, hotels and restaurants. To orient yourself, read up on Woodinville's four districts.

The Downtown District, generally regarded as a convenient spot to begin or end a trip to Woodinville – offers numerous options for eating and drinking. 

Mount Si Mount Si free

If you don't have time to make the drive to Mount Rainier (which sits about two hours southeast of downtown Seattle), Mount Si provides a popular alternative. Sitting about 40 miles east of the city center, Mount Si offers several opportunities to strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails. 

On a clear day, views from the summit stretch across the city to the Olympic Mountains. The Mount Si trail to the summit is about an 8-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 3,100 feet. Many recent travelers said the hike is strenuous and definitely not for novices, though the views up top made it worth the journey. They also suggest bringing plenty of snacks and water. Note: There are outhouses located at the bottom of the trail, but no formal facilities along the path.

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Seattle Great Wheel Seattle Great Wheel

U.S. News Insider Tip: Elevate your experience by gathering a group of two to four for an exclusive dinner in one of the Great Wheel’s gondolas. In collaboration with its sister business, Fisherman’s Restaurant, you’ll indulge in a four-course dinner while suspended 200 feet in the air. – Vivian Chung

This colossal, 175-foot-tall Seattle Great Wheel punctuates the city’s skyline and has become an iconic landmark in downtown Seattle since its opening in June 2012. A single ride in one of the 42 climate-controlled gondolas involves three full revolutions of the wheel, lasts up to 20 minutes and offers unobstructed views over downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and, on clear days, Mount Rainier. Illuminated by over 500,000 LED lights, the Seattle Great Wheel hosts vibrant light shows every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from sundown to 10 p.m. during summer evenings.

Bainbridge Island Bainbridge Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To shop local produce and artisan goods from local makers, visit on a Saturday between April and the end of November when the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market operates between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Town Square. – Vivian Chung

Best known for its picturesque scenery and charming small-town vibes, this island 10 miles west of downtown Seattle beckons outdoor adventurers, oenophiles, and art and culture lovers. 

Sky View Observatory Sky View Observatory

Billed as the tallest building in Seattle, the Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center provides stunning panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscapes. To enjoy cocktails and light bites like flatbreads and wraps, head to the onsite Sky View Cafe & Bar.

Recent travelers strongly recommend choosing a visit here over the Space Needle, thanks to more affordable admission and fewer crowds that result in little to no wait time. Plus, with its viewing platform at 902 feet, the Sky View Observatory provides a notable height advantage over the Space Needle (which stands at 605 feet). For the mesmerizing sight of an illuminated city, reviewers suggest visiting the observatory in the evening.

T-Mobile Park T-Mobile Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a guided tour of the ballpark, which offers exclusive access to areas not often seen by the public, including the dugout, press box and All-Star Club. On select game days, tour participants may even have the opportunity to watch batting practice. – Vivian Chung

Home to the Seattle Mariners baseball team, this stadium features a retractable roof and accommodates up to 47,929 attendees. Immerse yourself in the excitement of live baseball, where crowds cheer and fast-paced action unfolds on the diamond against a striking backdrop of Seattle's skyline. For a more comprehensive experience and to gain a deeper understanding of baseball’s significance to Seattlites and the Pacific Northwest, explore the onsite Mariners Hall of Fame, where its curated collection of memorabilia and exhibits celebrate the history and accomplishments of the Seattle Mariners. 

Washington Park Arboretum Washington Park Arboretum free

The Washington Park Arboretum's 230 acres on the shores of Lake Washington contain a diverse array of plants, some of which can't be seen anywhere else in the region. Its themed gardens include the Pacific Connections Garden, which features plants from five countries connected to its namesake ocean (specifically Australia, China, Chile, New Zealand and the U.S. Pacific Northwest); Rhododendron Glen, one of the arboretum's oldest sections, dating to the late 1930s; and a traditional Japanese garden. It also has a winter garden ideally viewed from late November through March. The City of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens jointly manage the arboretum.

Activities in the arboretum include guided hourlong tours via tram and nonmotorized boating. Kayaks and canoes can be rented nearby. Private walking tours are also available.

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Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience

Situated in Seattle's Chinatown-International District, the Wing Luke Museum is devoted to the art, culture and history of Asian Pacific Americans. The 60,000-square-foot facility, which is housed in a historic building constructed in 1910 by Chinese immigrants, features multiple galleries for both traveling and permanent exhibits. Among the latter are "Wing Luke and the Museum," dedicated to the institution's namesake, who was the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest, and "Honoring Our Journey," which highlights the Asian Pacific American immigrant and refugee experience. 

Recent visitors typically found the Wing Luke Museum highly informative and strongly recommend participating in the Historic Hotel Tour for a walk through the history of the East Kong Yick Building, which houses the museum. The tour comes free with your admission and provides a deeper insight into the museum’s mission.

Pioneer Square Pioneer Square free

If you like history, Pioneer Square should be on your your to-do list. This neighborhood was one of the first settlements in the Northwest U.S. (hence the name), and it has maintained much of its Old West identity. Today, you'll find the cobblestone area peppered with art galleries, restaurants and shops, not to mention an ornamental pergola, which provides shelter to those waiting to hop on the First Hill Line streetcar.

No visit to Pioneer Square is complete until you tag along on the Beneath the Streets tour, one of the best Seattle tours . On this one-hour excursion, expert guides will lead you through underground passageways dating back to the 1890s, sharing historical information, along with stories of the Klondike Gold Rush, the city's architecture and the Coast Salish tribes who originally inhabited the area. Reviewers applaud the well-versed guides and recommend the experience. If you prefer to explore above ground, visit the nearby Smith Tower and its 35th-floor observatory.

Seattle Aquarium Seattle Aquarium

For a glimpse under the sea, head to the Seattle Aquarium, which sits along the waterfront just a few blocks west of the Seattle Art Museum. It may not be as impressive as other cities' aquariums , but Seattle's facility offers a wonderful introduction to northwestern sea life, such as local bird, fish, seals and otters. The highlight of your visit will most likely be the "Window on Washington Waters" exhibit, which houses aquatic animals native to the surrounding area in a 120,000-gallon tank.

Other points of interest include a coral reef tank and a kid-friendly touch tank, where your little ones can shake hands with starfish and sea cucumbers. And don't miss your chance to get the fish-eye view from the aquarium's underwater observation dome.

Woodland Park Zoo Woodland Park Zoo

Founded in 1899, Woodland Park Zoo stretches across 92 acres and is home to more than 900 animals and 250 species, some of them endangered. Its exhibits include the African Savanna, featuring lions, giraffes, hippos and zebras; Humboldt Penguins, with penguins from coastal Peru; Tropical Asia, which includes orangutans, tigers, sloth bears and various birds; and the seasonal Butterfly Garden. The zoo also welcomes temporary exhibits, and in the past has hosted "Dinosaur Discovery," which displayed more than 20 full-size dinosaur replicas, including a 40-foot-long T. Rex. Woodland Park also houses two western lowland gorilla families. 

Recent visitors generally appreciated the zoo's size and the number of animals on display, though some reviewers were disappointed to find that some animals were not viewable due to exhibits being unexpectedly closed.

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15+ Best Things To Do In Downtown Seattle For First Timers (2024)

Downtown Seattle, the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, is a vibrant hub where urban excitement meets natural beauty.

From the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, the area is brimming with attractions, culture, and experiences waiting to be explored.

As the locals attest, stay from three to five days and you shall cover what downtown Seattle has to offer. However, the thing is: where are you gonna start, and how to find a bucket list to tick all off?

Rest assured! We’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we’ll uncover the best things to do in downtown Seattle, including where to stay and how to get around.

This article contains affiliate links where we may get a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. No extra cost is added to you.

🍕 Check out these top-rated Seattle food tours !

1. Visit Iconic Landmarks In Downtown Seattle

Space needle.

The Space Needle is more than just a symbol of Seattle.

When the sun beams down, climb to the top of this iconic landmark to wrap up the finest vista of Seattle from above as your eyesight is spoiled with a whole new perspective standing 605 feet tall.

Take an elevator ride up to the observation deck, where you can gaze upon the stunning skyline, the sparkling Puget Sound, and even catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier on a clear day.

Don’t miss the thrilling experience of walking on the rotating glass floor, giving you a 360-degree view beneath your feet.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the Space Needle’s breathtaking views and unique architecture make it a must-see attraction in downtown Seattle.

Address : 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

General Admission Rates:

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Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is the heart and soul of Seattle’s culinary scene. This bustling trading hub, filled with the aroma of fresh produce and the sound of lively street performers, is a feast for the senses.

Wander through the maze of stalls, where local farmers, artisans, and vendors offer everything from handcrafted jewelry to freshly caught seafood.

One of the coolest traditional performances here is the slippery game of catch that appears up to 200 times a day.

To give your hungry eyes a thrill, don’t forget to stop by the famous fish-throwing stand where skilled fishmongers toss salmon through the air with flair.

Address : 86 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101

Seattle Art Museum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SAM (@seattleartmuseum)

If art is what your heart’s after, spend a few good hours at Seattle Art Museum (known as SAM for short) for a ticket back in time.

Right here in the heart of downtown, SAM walks you through an impressive collection of art that spans the globe and various time periods.

Wondering what SAM has in store for you? Get ready to soar through an epic collection housing everything from European masterpieces to contemporary works by local artists.

On top of that, the museum’s dynamic layout and engaging displays make art accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Throughout the year, special exhibitions and events keep the experience fresh, offering new insights and perspectives.

From showing off dramatic changes and comparing similarities between the Japanese Edo period and Paris in the past centuries to epic tales of catastrophe and heroism of Haitian life, stay tuned on the event page to keep up with the latest happenings.

Address : 1300 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Seattle Aquarium

Be a marine for a day! Seattle Aquarium is famous for good reasons.

On any given day, rain or shine, the aquarium is flooded with knowledge-hungry travelers as well as families with kids who wanna dive into an underwater world without leaving the city.

Situated on the picturesque waterfront, the aquarium offers a window into the marine life of Puget Sound and the vast Pacific Northwest out there.

Wander through immersive exhibits that bring you face-to-face with playful sea otters, graceful jellyfish, and colorful coral reefs.

The touch tank allows hands-on interaction with starfish and sea anemones, while daily feedings and talks provide insight into the lives of sharks, seals, and more.

Address : 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101

🚌 See the top-rated Seattle City Tours here !

2. Outdoor Activities In Downtown Seattle

Waterfront park.

With the giant wheel making a statement from the south side and a bustling boardwalk facing the busy Elliott Bay, Waterfront Park is a serene oasis in the midst of downtown Seattle’s hustle and bustle.

The breathtaking bay shelters life, allowing you to soak in the whimsical views of the water, mountains, and city skyline when the air is crisp.

Whenever you just wanna be lazy doing nothing, come and stroll along the picturesque promenade, dotted with artistic sculptures and vibrant flower beds.

Somewhere from afar, families with kids watch their juniors splashing in the playful fountains, while parents relax on the comfortable benches, taking in the tranquil scenery.

Address : 1401 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

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Olympic Sculpture Park

Just a few walks north of Waterfront Park, Olympic Sculpture Park is another highlight in downtown Seattle where art and nature collide.

This unique outdoor museum showcases large-scale sculptures and installations, thoughtfully placed amidst the park’s beautifully landscaped grounds.

Wander along the winding paths and you’ll soon encounter works by renowned artists, all set against the backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

In this beautiful location, your mind will be fully fed by larger-than-life sculptures outstandingly emerging against the simulated coastal aspen forest.

Benches are plenty to rest your tired legs while mingling with artwork and basking in the sun. The best part is that Olympic Sculpture Park is totally free to visit.

Address : 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

Ferry Rides

If you’ve had enough of what the land has to offer, get on one of the best ferry rides in downtown Seattle to immerse yourself in the sparkling waters of Puget Sound.

The Washington State Ferries offer various routes, connecting Seattle to nearby islands and peninsulas.

Feel the West Coast wind kissing on your hair as you’re traversing on this scenic voyage that provides unparalleled views of the city’s skyline, majestic mountains, and lush coastal landscapes.

Whether you choose a short trip to Bainbridge Island or a longer excursion to the San Juan Islands, the ferry ride itself is an adventure to remember.

To make the most of your ferry ride, stick to the outside deck on top to bask in the beautiful landscape when the weather is pleasant and sunny.

Plus, plan wisely as there are plenty of scenic stops along certain routes, including bike rides and even camping spots.

3. Shopping And Dining In Downtown Seattle

Westlake center: shopping options and highlights.

Speaking of maxing your credit cards in downtown Seattle, Westlake Center never disappoints!

Being around for a while, Westlake is not to please modern shoppers or mall enthusiasts who like to get lost in a wild number of stores that span levels. In fact, Westlake is a humble spot where shopping options are filtered down to a few.

This four-story shopping center offers a variety of stores ranging from high-end fashion to everyday essentials.

The record has 23 stores collectively, with seven of them focusing on specialty shops such as toys, hobbies, gifts, and services.

Clothing stores feature Zara and Bay Trendy Boutique while Claire’s and Mermade Paintings & Accessories serve as the hub for accessories.

If you ever find yourself down the road of Pine Street catching the light rail, check out Westlake Center!

Address : 400 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101

Local Restaurants: Recommendations For Local Cuisine

Oh, the food! How can we forget such a tempting thing that delights your taste buds and injects some energy when you get drained from traveling all day?

We have 11 best food spots by the waterfront for you to check out. We know, it takes a while to consult this epic list. So we pick out a few to give you a heads-up.

Ivar’s Acres of Clams is the good old classic spot steeped in a rich American style. This place is casual but thrived with exciting nautical accents. Here, seafood has made a statement.

Seared Alaska Halibut or Fried Clam Strips are the best calls for years while night time cocktail makes this place even more welcomed by couples after sunset.

And then, Maximilien comes in to satisfy even the most demanding palates for French cuisine.

The sunset view here is second to none, feeding your eyesight while your empty stomach dances with joy in the medley of Caviar d’ with Siberian sturgeon caviar on ice, served with blinis, and creme fraiche.

Coffee Shops: Highlighting Seattle’s Famous Coffee Culture

Coffee in Seattle is not only famous. Almost no other cities on the west coast can keep pace with this so-called Kingdom of Coffee. The best part?

Most of the best coffee shops in Seattle can be found within a few miles from the downtown core.

Tick one off your bucket list every day. That means you need 12 days in total to complete this curated list of the best coffee shops in Seattle . But here we name a few.

Fulcrum, a few steps north of Belltown and Pike Place Market, charms hearts with its oat milk latte. This is a clean, lightweight version of coffee if you’re not keen on the bitterness.

Tagging your pooches along? Don’t look over Zoka Coffee Roaster! Smack dab in the heart of Boren Ave, the dedicated baristas whisk up Single-origin Espresso on a daily basis.

For the ladies, you don’t wanna miss out on the fruity and floral notes of Bolivia Siete Estrelles when summer is around the corner.

4. Nightlife And Entertainment In Downtown Seattle

Theaters and concert venues: listings and popular shows.

Where do you think people go in downtown Seattle when the sun is out? Discothèques and speakeasy bars pop up everywhere, but the cultural side of Seattle has more to offer.

Let’s change it up with something new. A few hours at one of the top theaters and concert venues in the city core will be your next favorite thing to call it a day.

Here are a few suggestions for a heads-up.

Paramount Theater is no stranger to frequent Pine Street. The shiny neon lights capture attention with its grand doorsheltering history and a list of well-received Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts.

15 minutes southwest on foot from Paramount, the Moore Theater has been around since 1907, housing marvelous architecture and a diverse lineup of performances.

Standing the test of time, the Moore is now ranked as the oldest theater in all of downtown Seattle.

Whether you’re a fan of musicals, plays, or live music, Seattle’s theaters and concert venues provide endless entertainment options.

Bars And Clubs: Recommendations For Nightlife

When the sun goes down, downtown Seattle comes alive with a bustling nightlife scene.

The only thing you need to do is find a really good place with unforgettable cocktails and a super chill vibe to kick back for a memorable night.

Do you think you can find the right spot from 12 great recommendations on our list right here?

We bet you will! But first, take a quick review of what we have in store for you.

Bathtub Gin & Co is our favorite hidden gem offering craft cocktails in a speakeasy setting. Repeated customers are hypnotized by the skillful hands whisking up Diamond Hands and Jellyfish Sting.

They are not just tasty, they are flawless. Try some yourself!

For the old schools, head to Revolver Bar and find yourself some of the best old-fashioned cocktails in Seattle. For us, their Old Fashioned and Fireball Hot Toddy are truly wonderful.

Warm, soothing, and delicious – this is for you if you wanna have some spices to stay warm before bedtime.

Seasonal Events: Festivals And Events In Downtown Seattle

Seattle’s downtown area is a hub for various seasonal events and festivals that add to the city’s charm.

Though irregular, new events keep flooding the city with great fun, uniqueness, and colors to help you unveil a new hobby or simply stay socialized with your besties.

Downtown Seattle Association keeps you updated with happenings every week. If you’re close to Pioneer Square, Seattle Center, or Westlake Park then we guarantee you will not miss out on anything.

If you’re a hardcore music fan, keep an eye on Bumbershoot, a multi-day music and arts festival held every Labor Day weekend.

Otherwise, Pike Place’s Magic in the Market is another great event worth expecting featuring decorations, music, and Santa visits.

🤓 See the 20 pros and cons of living in Seattle !

5. Family-Friendly Activities In Downtown Seattle

Seattle children’s museum: exhibits and activities for kids.

Museums are great but it’s not all roses for kids. Are you afraid your little ones will ruin the experience of you and others?

Well, Seattle Children’s Museum will have you covered!

The Seattle Children’s Museum is a wonderland for young explorers. Located in the Seattle Center, this museum offers 18,000 square feet of interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity.

From the Global Village where kids can explore different cultures, to the Discovery Bay designed for toddlers, there’s something for every age.

On top of that, the staff here go above and beyond to encourage hands-on learning, making it a perfect destination for a fun and educational family outing.

Address : 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Admission Rate:

The Great Wheel: Ferris Wheel Experience

Walk back to Waterfront Park, the grand Ferris Wheel here has seen millions of visitors a year, day and night.

Soaring over the waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and Puget Sound. Standing 175 feet tall, each enclosed gondola provides a comfortable and thrilling ride, making it suitable for all ages.

An average ride time lasts between 12 to 20 minutes depending on the season. You can obtain the tickets online and in person.

However, digital tickets need to be printed into a physical piece beforehand. Otherwise, you’ve gotta wait in line for the staff to issue it.

Whether you ride it during the day to see the city’s skyline or at night to enjoy the dazzling lights, the Great Wheel is a must-do experience for families visiting Seattle.

Address : 1301 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, WA 98101

Parks And Playgrounds: Best Spots For Family Outings

Downtown Seattle is dotted with beautiful parks and playgrounds, providing perfect spots for family picnics, playtime, and relaxation.

To seek art and blend in with nature, Olympic Sculpture Park is a great place to start.

Walk the winding paths soaking in quirky designs before stepping foot to the shoreline to chill by the beach.

Other than that, Westlake Park is a household name where families with kids enjoy the playground, water features, and regular events.

For us, Harborview Park is second to none when it comes to elevated vista. The lush green space here is made to pamper.

Though small, this little green escape is an absolutely great therapy to break from all the concrete and steel of the city.

6. Cultural Experiences In Downtown Seattle

Historical tours: exploring seattle’s history.

Seattle’s rich history is waiting to be explored, and there’s no better way to do so than by taking a historical tour.

Right here in downtown Seattle, you will be spoiled with choices that range from the city’s maritime heritage to the dark journey underground or travel back in time to the Gold Rush era.

A two to three hours on a guided tour will keep you occupied for a meaningful morning.

But how about night time? Be spooked out at haunted spots where Seattle terrors shape unsavory histories.

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the city’s roots, these tours provide an engaging way to learn about Seattle’s unique story.

Art Galleries: Showcasing Local Artists

Other than museums, art galleries serve as the best gateway to the city’s rich personality.

Seattle’s vibrant art scene is reflected in its numerous galleries, showcasing everything from contemporary art to Indigenous crafts.

The downtown area is home to many galleries, each with its own unique flair. If you’re unsure where to go, try the Frye Art Museum which offers free admission and features European paintings and sculptures.

For those interested in contemporary works, the Greg Kucera Gallery and the Traver Gallery are must-visit spots.

Art walks held regularly in different neighborhoods provide a fun way to explore local art and meet the artists.

Music Scene: Jazz Clubs And Live Music Venues

Known as the birthplace of grunge music, Seattle’s music scene is as diverse as it is lively.

There’s no doubt that grunge puts Seattle on the map, but jazz enthusiasts have been forming a strong community here since the golden era of the 1920s.

Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley is a household name in town that’s dubbed as one of the top jazz clubs in the country.

A cozy feel in an intimate setting becomes the trendsetter for other heavyweights to follow. Their food and drinks are scrumptious, so don’t miss out!

Next, we have Crocodile, a legendary venue, hosts live performances ranging from rock to hip-hop. It’s casual, engaging, and low-key which is perfect to host a night out with the besties.

No matter your musical taste, Seattle’s downtown area has a venue to match, making it a fantastic city for music lovers to explore and enjoy.

7. Seasonal Activities In Downtown Seattle

Summer activities in downtown seattle.

Summer in Seattle is a time of celebration, with outdoor concerts, festivals, and events that take advantage of the beautiful weather.

Whether you’re a music lover or a foodie, summer in Seattle offers something for everyone.

The Seattle Center hosts free outdoor concerts featuring local bands and artists.

Festivals like Bumbershoot and the Seattle International Beerfest offer music, food, and fun in the sun.

And then, Pride Month lights up all downtown streets when June is around the corner, inviting LGBTQ+ performers, food trucks, local nonprofit booths and queer vendors to make summer more alive than ever.

Winter Activities In Downtown Seattle

When Seattle enters the final months of the year, the magical feel lights up with twinkling Xmas trees, holiday markets, and ice-skating rinks transforming the city into a winter wonderland.

The Winterfest at Seattle Center draws crowds to flood its ice rink while the live performances and festive decorations keep the nights young.

Take a stroll through the beautifully lit Garden d’Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.

Bring your camera along as more than 500,000 sparkling lights will have you in awe by turning into a dazzling sea full of plants, birds, animals, and cascading waterfalls.

Spring And Fall Activities In Downtown Seattle

When the coldest times of the year have gone, ring in the new year with plenty of renewal and cultural activities.

In spring, garden tours showcase the city’s blooming cherry blossoms and tulip fields. Meanwhile, fall brings cultural festivals like the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival and the Earshot Jazz Festival.

These seasons are also ideal for exploring the city’s parks, like the Washington Park Arboretum, where you can enjoy the changing colors of the leaves.

Whether you’re interested in nature or cultural experiences, spring and fall in Seattle offer a rich array of activities to enjoy.

Tips And Recommendations

Transportation: best ways to get around downtown.

Navigating downtown Seattle is a breeze with various transportation options available that won’t limit you to walking.

First, Seattle Streetcar and Metro buses are affordable and efficient that cover short-distance travel.

Look for routes offered by the King County Metro bus system which not only fetches you around the downtown core but also connects to Bellevue and Vashon Island.

To hop between the airport and downtown Seattle, opt for the light rail and you’ll be home in no time.

If you prefer to explore on foot, the city’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking a pleasant option.

For those looking to rent a bike, Seattle’s bike-share programs offer an eco-friendly way to see the sights.

And of course, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Consider purchasing an ORCA card for unlimited travel on public transportation, and don’t miss the chance to take a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound.

Accommodation: Suggestions For Staying Overnight

For first-time visitors, finding a safe and convenient spot to spend the nights is not an easy task.

But rest your worries as the downtown core offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

Luxury hotels like the Fairmont Olympic Hotel provide top-notch amenities and a central location.

For a unique experience, consider staying at the Edgewater Hotel, which sits over the water and offers stunning views.

Budget travelers can find comfortable options at hostels like the Green Tortoise Hostel located near Pike Place Market.

For lesser-known spots yet more unique with a strong personality, check out a range of Airbnb spots where the hosts rent out their chic apartments as well as cozy houseboats.

Safety Tips: Staying Safe While Exploring

Downtown Seattle is generally safe, providing a great network of lively neighborhoods connected by walkable routes.

However, like any urban area, it’s wise to take precautions.

Though the crime rate here is low, smash-and-grabs are pretty popular so stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit areas.

Keep valuables secure and out of sight, and be cautious when using ATMs.

If you’re exploring on foot or by bike, follow traffic rules and be mindful of busy intersections.

Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911. Utilize the friendly locals and hotel staff for advice on safe neighborhoods and current conditions.

By following these common-sense safety tips, you can enjoy all that downtown Seattle has to offer with peace of mind.

Downtown Seattle is a place where every street corner offers a new discovery, and every visit feels like an adventure.

We know, packing all these places for a time-strapped journey is a daunting task.

Why not let a local guide take care of the hard job and all you need to do is let loose and explore? Here are our nine favorite Seattle tours to check out . From a short city tour to food tasting and ghost tours, you name it!

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The 16 Best Things to Do in Seattle

By Jenna Scatena and Naomi Tomky

Seattle's famous drizzle feels like an afterthought when you're soaking up the view from aboard a sailing hot tub, and the dampness barely registers while looking up at a spectacular waterfall from an Indigenous cultural center. Getting outdoors all year round, and in any weather, is part of the culture in a city where gardens of colorful glass, giant wooden trolls, and world-class sculptures complement lush parks and tree-lined streets. Puget Sound panoramas unfold all around, from the top of the remodeled Space Needle, to the Marketfront Pavilion addition to iconic Pike Place Market to a ferry ride across Elliott Bay (usually for a great restaurant).

But the beauty extends to the indoors, too: Look down from the pinnacle of the city's most famous tourist attraction, the Space Needle, at the patchwork of neighborhoods hosting museums and galleries that show off the city's deep cultural roots—and, of course, the incredible food scene that comes with Seattle's diversity. Here are the best things to do in Seattle, no matter what time of year you're visiting.

Read our complete Seattle travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Discovery Park Arrow

Discovery park offers 534 acres of lush urban respite. Set on the quiet shores of the Puget Sound in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood, this is the city's biggest park. Twelve miles of walking trails leading to coastal bluffs, tidal beaches, serene meadows, and wooded groves, but if you're short on time, the 2.8-mile Loop Trail offers a best-hits list (it's also one of the easier to accomplish hikes in the area).

Chihuly Garden and Glass Arrow

Seattle's Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases the oeuvre of glass from world-famous glass artist Dale Chihuly. This forward-thinking museum inspires creativity and imagination as much as it pays tribute to the artist, through a surreal landscape of colorful glass sculptures that interact with the natural environment. The magnum opus of the museum is arguably the Glasshouse. This towering 40-foot-tall work of art is the result of Chihuly’s fondness for conservatories. The centerpiece inside is a massive 100-foot-long sculpture, which is one of Chihuly’s largest suspended sculptures. The artwork takes on different qualities throughout the day, as the natural light changes it. The Garden is also a must. Strangely beautiful handmade glass artwork sits amid ferns, vines, and perennials.

Pike Place Market Arrow

One of Seattle’s most iconic destinations, this century-old public market houses dozens of stalls and shops for farmers, restaurants , purveyors, and artisans, all overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront. The bustle is non-stop here. From locals buying fresh seafood and flowers to visitors eating their way through the different gourmet food stalls, there’s an endless array of movement and chatter. Showing up without a game plan can be overwhelming, but you can find a fully customizable planner with suggested itineraries on the market’s website .

Hot Tub Boats

See the city from a different angle: staring out from the comfort of a private hot tub as you motor around Lake Union with up to five friends. Anyone can rent these floating spas by the hour, year-round, from two different companies that offer slightly differing styles of boat, and each one fits up to six people. The small boats come with lights for nighttime floats, bluetooth speakers, and room for a cooler to keep everyone entertained and hydrated as you tour the waterway. Look up at the Space Needle towering above, watch seaplanes land just overhead, and take a self-guided tour of the local houseboats. Lake Union is one of the city's aquatic playgrounds; depending on the day and time of year you might weave among sailboat lessons, kayak commuters, and competitive canoers. Plus you'll get a close-up look at the Museum of History and Industry, the Center for Wooden Boats, and the Steamship Virginia V which dodging big boats and pricey yachts as they ply the canal from Puget Sound to Lake Washington and Gasworks Park.

Seattle Art Museum Arrow

The Seattle Art Museum’s sleek and contemporary digs are as artful as the works that inhabit it. As an institution of Seattle’s art scene, it’s a must-see for any visiting art lover. And while it's not uncommon that a museum’s exhibits play second-fiddle to the permanent collections, here they are one of the main attractions. Spanning topics like, "Who authors history?" to extreme landscape paintings, each exhibit is well-curated and beautifully positioned at a nice pace throughout the museum.

Kubota Garden Arrow

Hidden fountains, bright-red bridges, koi darting about elegant ponds. At Kubota Garden, 20 acres of gorgeous Japanese gardens await visitors willing to make the trip to the Rainier Beach neighborhood in South Seattle. First started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, the complex is now part of Seattle’s public park system. Make time to wander; an incredible number of native Northwest flowers, shrubs, and trees grow amid the interweaving paths. Just know that the 15 minute drive each way can grow to 30 or more minutes in traffic.

Wa Na Wari Arrow

Wa Na Wari features Black art as part of the organization's mission to promote Black ownership (of land, culture, and joy) in Seattle's historically red-lined Central District. Works of all types, from local artists' to international pieces, hang around the living room and bedrooms of the converted house. The use of a house as a gallery means the downstairs exhibits in the main rooms offer plenty of space for grand ideas, while the smaller bedroom exhibits upstairs give an intimate feel. Bright lights and a multi-space setup makes it easy to explore at your own pace. Friendly staff greet visitors from the porch, but do little more than a welcome. This is a must-stop for anyone who cares about how history, art, and urban geography converge.

Bainbridge Island Arrow

A 35-minute trip from the Seattle Ferry Terminal, Bainbridge Island makes a great day trip for families or couples, even on a short stay in Seattle. Whether you walk, drive, or ride your bike off the boat, you’ll arrive in downtown Winslow quickly. From there, explore the bookstores, coffee shops, clothing boutiques, and cafés that line Winslow Way, or head to Waterfront Park and City Dock for an easy hike along the shore. Extend your stay with dinner at Ba Sa , a modern Vietnamese restaurant infused with regional ingredients, and stay the night at the fairytale-evoking Eagle Harbor Inn.

Olympic Sculpture Park Arrow

An offshoot of the Seattle Art Museum perched on the northern edge of downtown, this park's paths winds down toward Elliott Bay through nine acres of artwork from local and internationally renowned artists. Alexander Calder's "Eagle" overlooking the water provides one of the city's most iconic views, particularly during the sunset. Teresita Fernandez's “Seattle Cloud Cover” beautifully links the natural atmosphere of the park to the man-made art, and Jaume Plensa's waterfront “Echo” is simply mesmerizing. Smooth paths and ample ramps make it easy to navigate. While little information is provided at the various sculptures, the downloadable map and guide on the park's website helps with context. Admission is free and a visit can be a quick stop for a few photos, or a more leisurely stay for a picnic.

Space Needle Arrow

The Space Needle is undoubtedly one of Seattle's ( and America's ) most iconic landmarks. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, it's a futuristic observation tower and the most prominent building in the Seattle skyline. Visitors can reach the top of the Space Needle by elevator for unparalleled 360-degree views of the area: the $100 million renovation that debuted in 2018 gives visitors both an enclosed view level with a glass floor and an open-air deck level above.

National Nordic Museum Arrow

The region has one of the largest populations of nordic peoples in the United States, and this museum gives a deep dive into their history. The thought-provoking collection is primarily built from textiles, archival ephemera, and artwork brought from Nordic countries through generations that emigrated to the United States from 1840 to the present day. Temporary exhibits showcase a wide range of works from artists of nordic descent. Freya , the museum restaurant, isn't just an afterthought like some museum cafes—it's destination dining highlighting the best of Nordic cuisine, and the menu offers a litany of savory smørrebrød. 

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience Arrow

This 60,000-square-foot facility focuses on the confluence of Asian and Pacific American history. The permanent collections include a tribute to the museum's namesake, Councilman Wing Luke (the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest), and other exhibits exploring the cultural heritage of pan-Asian Pacific American immigrants, addressing topics like local history, working conditions, and social justice. It's a great place to begin exploring the stories of Seattle's under-represented communities, especially if you can schedule in one of the Chinatown Discovery Tours—including the Friday afternoon food one.

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King Arrow

Over the course of 2023, five large wooden trolls landed in the greater Seattle area (plus a sixth in Portland), all designed by Danish artist Thomas Dambo from recycled materials, and each with its own backstory. Part outdoor art and part play structure, they are designed for exploration and to encourage curiosity. While three of the trolls live in suburbs that require a ferry, car, or both to access (Issaquah, Bainbridge Island, and Vashon Island), Frankie Feetsplinters outside of Ballard's National Nordic Museum and Bruun Idun, who sings to orcas near Colman Pool in West Seattle, are the easiest to find and visit.

Snoqualmie Falls, Gift Shop and Visitor Center Arrow

The magnificent 270-foot waterfall just east of Seattle and the short walk to its base alone makes for a wonderful half-day trip. But since the ancestral caretakers of the land, the Snoqualmie Tribe, purchased their land back, they have made it even more meaningful in adding more to see. In 2023, the Snoqualmie added a visitors center that tells the story of the Snoqualmie (both the tribe and the falls) through cultural resources, including Indigenous art, with a gift shop that sells art by minority and women artists. This is the fastest way to get an idea of the Pacific Northwest's splendor without having to drive too far from the city or stay too long.

Green Lake Park Arrow

When the Olmstead Brothers planned Seattle's system of connected parks throughout the city, Green Lake quickly became one of the focal points. More than a century later, the crowds walking or rolling the three-mile path around the lake rarely subside, the sports fields and facilities bring people from all over the city, and the beaches attract crowds throughout the summer. A walk around Green Lake introduces anyone to staples of Seattle culture, mostly through the people one passes: the walkers, the fishermen, the picnicking families, and the soccer players. But also through the buildings, including historic bathhouse and aqua theater.

Frye Art Museum Arrow

The Frye is a sleeper gem, with a convenient central location, no admission fee, and creative exhibitions and events. The building's bold, attractive entrance leads visitors through to the galleries full of modern and contemporary art with a natural flow and plenty of natural light. Founded with a private collection of more than 200 oil paintings from the late 19th century and early 20th century, from Europe and the US, the museum has since greatly expanded and enriched its collection by expanding into later artists and pursuing works by under-represented people in the same time periods. The result is a well-rounded, excellent selection of art, curated into informative exhibits.

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25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seattle, WA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Seattle is like its own planet in the Pacific Northwest. Its gravitational pull is hard to avoid as the biggest city in the region, enticing with a broad selection of outdoor and indoor attractions alongside a vibrant community. I find something new that adds to the sparkle of the Emerald City with every visit, especially in the summer, when the entire city shines after winter's frequent drizzles.

Visitors may conjure the image of the Seattle Space Needle when envisioning a trip to Seattle. And this 605-foot spire is well worth the visit, especially the surrounding Seattle Center, home to other attractions like Chihuly Garden and Glass and Climate Pledge Arena. But peel Seattle back beyond these renowned tourist destinations, and the city has so much more to explore.

You'll never see everything in a single day or weekend. I once stayed for an entire month and felt pressed for time. That's because between seaside parks, underground tours, immersive museums, and iconic spots like Pike Place Market, things to do in Seattle span all hours of the day and throughout the year. Luckily, there are plenty of coffee shops to aid in making the most out of a vacation.

Prepare to explore the sunny side of Seattle my list of the best attractions in Seattle.

1. Seattle Center & the Space Needle

2. pike place market, 3. discovery park, 4. chihuly garden and glass, 5. go underground in the pioneer square historic district, 6. learn about puget sound at the seattle aquarium, 7. woodland park zoo, 8. mohai: the museum of history & industry, 9. watch boats pass at hiram m. chittenden locks (ballard locks), 10. take a water taxi to alki beach park, 11. wander the galleries at the seattle art museum, 12. take a trip to the museum of flight, 13. whale watch from seattle, 14. get lost at the washington park arboretum, 15. catch the sunset at gas works park, 16. walk around green lake, 17. find fun at the museum of pop culture, 18. ride the seattle great wheel, 19. sunbathe on a seattle beach, 20. picnic at volunteer park, 21. explore the olympic sculpture park, 22. head to the international district, 23. meet the fremont street troll, 24. dive into the living computers: museum and labs, 25. experience benaroya hall, where to stay in seattle for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in seattle, wa, best time to visit seattle, wa.

Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle, is often included on a first trip to Seattle. And for good reason. These iconic attractions were first built for the 1962 World's Fair and have since been converted into an entertainment complex and park area with a long list of community attractions.

This public space is also home to the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden and Glass , two of the best museums in Seattle (and two of my favorite). Restaurants and shopping also line the pedestrian paths across campus, alongside ample public areas for wandering or sitting down and people-watching. This is especially true at the International Fountain with its orchestrated waterspouts and light shows.

The newest addition to Seattle Center is Climate Pledge Arena . This state-of-the-art sports venue is home to the Seattle Kraken, freshly minted into the NHL during the 2021/22 season. Seattle's best radio station, KEXP, also operates out of a studio in the Seattle Center, giving music fans a reason to gather.

Despite all the other world-class attractions in Seattle Center, the Space Needle claims the most international fame. And while the paid trip to the top of the Space Needle has some of the classic frills of a tourist trap, the view atop is indeed spectacular and worth the few hoops required to jump through.

It's a moderate admission price to get to the top of the Space Needle, and when I visited during a midweek morning in August, I waited about 45 minutes in line for my ride to the top. I opted out of the commemorative photograph taken after the elevator ride, but I spent extra time exploring inside and outside.

Anyone with a fear of heights should not go to the top of the Space Needle. But as someone with unlimited trust in the guardrails and glass-bottom floors, I didn't want to go back down once I got up. Plan to spend at least half of the day if you want to ride to the top. Sunny weather is certainly the most preferred forecast, though a rainy day could provide an exciting ambiance.

Address: 400 Broad Street, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.spaceneedle.com

Pike Place Market is another busy tourist area worth a visit. It offers an authentic taste of the maritime culture associated with the city, comprising a wide range of vendors on the two bustling levels floors near the waterfront.

Fish, fruit, vegetables, and all sorts of odds and ends tantalize the taste buds and camera lenses. And keep an eye out for fresh fish flying through the air from the Pike Place Fish Market . If you don't have the hotel facilities for cooking seafood, head to one of the 80 local restaurants and bakeries or pick up goodies to bring home from one of the specialty foods stores.

In addition to plentiful food choices, there are more than 200 proprietor-operated shops that range from antiques and collectibles to bookstores and quirky specialty shops. The historic nine-acre shopping haven includes a crafts market with 225 local and regional creators.

Although it's possible to spend all day admiring each stall in Pike Place Market, typically, it's only a part of a touristic day. The market is in the central downtown area, surrounded by several other places to visit. Visitors can also check out the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Seattle Great Wheel at Pier 57 within a short walk.

Address: 1st and Pike Streets, Seattle, Washington

Official site: http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/

Discovery Park covers nearly 550 acres and is the largest park in the city and one of the top beaches in Seattle . It's located on a point protruding into the sound from the Magnolia neighborhood, west of downtown. Coastline, forest, and meadows comprise much of the park's landscape, with dirt and paved trails winding throughout.

I headed straight to the West Point Lighthouse on my first visit to Discovery Park, which required about a two-mile hike from the Discovery Park Visitor Center and park entrance. The lighthouse was immediately recognizable as the popular photo destination that it is. But the actual view in person, including an expanse of the Olympic Mountains backdropping Puget Sound, made me understand why it's such a popular Seattle destination.

A paved trail parallels the beach that extends from either side of the lighthouse, offering great views across the water the entire way. The entire network of trails is sprawling within the park, but abundant signage makes navigating throughout the 500-plus acres fairly easy. I never lost reception in the park, either, so I could use my online maps to navigate.

Discovery Park is the former site of Fort Lawton, and some of its military history remains today. An Environmental Learning Center is also onsite at the Visitor Center, hosting interactive exhibits, information about the park, and education programs for all ages.

Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, Washington

If you're heading to the Seattle Center for the Space Needle, be sure to budget at least some time to check out the next-door Chihuly Garden and Glass. The colorful exhibits of this world-renowned museum display and explore the work of innovative glassblower Dale Chihuly - a Tacoma native.

Chihuly's work is known for using glass as a purely artistic medium and creating captivating sculptures. And captivated I was while walking through the eight darkened galleries of the museum, illuminated by glass gardens and densely packed exhibits. It gets a little crowded in these galleries but easy enough to stand still and admire the artistry.

The Glasshouse is the capstone of a visit under the shadow of the Space Needle. An amorphous glass sculpture hangs delicately above this beautiful rotunda encapsulated by glass, changing colors and appearance with the arcing sun above. Between the galleries and the grand Glasshouse, expect to spend between ninety minutes and two hours at the museum (minimum).

The Art Plaza and Collections Café is next to the Greenhouse, offering a lovely place to sit and enjoy hourly glassblowing demonstrations. The plaza abuts the garden, where visitors find Chihuly's work presented within a natural environment, enhancing the flow and depth of the glass.

Address: 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.chihulygardenandglass.com

Pioneer Square is the city's historic heart, marked with a 60-foot totem pole. It's an area of town that retains much of its historic character distinct from modern parts of downtown, including beautiful Victorian-era buildings. Smith Tower stands out for its imposing height (42 stories), with an observation deck on the 35th floor that's ideal for sightseeing.

In the same neighborhood, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park remembers the surge of prospectors who departed for the Yukon during the 1897 Klondike Gold Rush. This monumental event brought new prosperity to Seattle, the marketed "Gateway to the Gold Fields."

Something to know about visiting Pioneer Square in modern times is that the area is an example of some of the city's urban challenges. Expect to see Seattle's un-housed population while visiting, and while statistically, it's a safe place to visit, it's a spot to take out earbuds and pay attention to your surroundings.

I elected to explore Pioneer Square by going underground and joining the expedition on the famous Bill Speidel's Underground Tour . This 75-minute tour explains how the current city streets were established after the 1889 Great Seattle Fire and dives into the legacy of the almost forgotten underground sidewalks. It turned out to be a great experience that allowed me to get more comfortable with the area under the wings of a tour guide.

The non-profit Seattle Aquarium operates on the downtown waterfront, just a short walk from the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57. Through several live animal exhibits, the aquarium captivated my attention the entire afternoon and inspired my interest in the nearby Puget Sound.

The Window on Washington's Waters is the first exhibit encountered at the aquarium. This 120,000-gallon tank has nothing but good views thanks to its 40-foot-wide window, leaving plenty of room for kids to gather near the front at this popular family attraction.

The tide pool touch tanks tend to be the next area of attraction at the aquarium. This is also a popular attraction for kids, but I'll admit I spent most of my time at the museum reaching into the water to gently put my fingers on sea anemones and other colorful invertebrates.

The aquarium is also home to various marine mammals, including different kinds of seals and otters. Thanks to the tank designs, you get to see these playful residents above and below water. And wandering throughout the museum are staff members ready to answer any questions and engage with visitors.

The aquarium is open seven days a week. Expect to spend at least a few hours at the aquarium, if not more. It's also in a touristy part of Seattle's waterfront, with tons of lunch spots nearby to enjoy after a visit.

Address: 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, Washington

Official site: https://www.seattleaquarium.org/

Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo is a 92-acre facility with many threatened and endangered species from around the globe. This AZA-accredited facility was the first to create naturalistic exhibits, and its 300 different species range from Asian and African elephants to snow leopards, jaguars, lemurs, and grizzly bears.

It's a popular family attraction, although, as an adult, I was tired after a half-day walking the enormous complex. And I didn't partake in any of the daily programs, animal feedings, or educational lectures throughout the week, nor did I ride on the solar-operated carousel.

If you're here in the summer, consider visiting first thing when the zoo opens, or stick around until it's about to close. Many animals will ride out the heat of the day in their enclosures.

Visitors can book an animal experience tour for a real treat, allowing animal lovers to get up close to some of the zoo's most fascinating wildlife, often with the chance to feed or touch the animals. Experiences include the opportunity to meet giraffes, penguins, lemurs, and other residents.

Address: 601 N 59th Street, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.zoo.org

The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) celebrates Seattle's position as a leader in innovation and industry, showcasing this legacy with planes hanging from the ceiling and other engaging exhibits across three levels.

The True Northwest exhibit takes tourists on a journey through the region's history, from indigenous cultures through the present, exploring how geography and cultural events like the Klondike Gold Rush shaped the Emerald City.

Permanent collections in the museum's main gallery include a wide range of historical objects, from vintage clothing to locally invented products. Visitors also enjoy 360-degree views of the city using an authentic WWII-era Tang periscope in the Maritime exhibit.

The museum's third major gallery focuses on how local inventors have put the region at the forefront of innovation and new technology. It includes interactive exhibits and a chance to get a sneak peek at concepts being explored.

Adjacent to MOHAI, The Center for Wooden Boats is another popular community attraction. This non-profit strives to provide public access to water recreation and maritime travel. The center offers workshops, public sailboat adventures, and rentals throughout the week.

Address: 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington

Official site: https://mohai.org

These busy locks northwest of Seattle Center are also known as the Ballard Locks. They are a fascinating work of engineering in Salmon Bay, constructed to keep the saltwater of Puget Sound separate from the freshwater of Lake Washington while also providing a boat elevator between the two.

Commodore Park and the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Center are on either side, connected by a bike path that crosses the Locks. This path may be impeded by passing boat traffic. But you can get close to the action, and I spent extra time just watching boats, big and small, transfer from one waterway to the other.

Besides watching the boat traffic move between Puget Sound and the lakes, I recommend checking out the fish ladder in Commodore Park, where salmon struggle upstream. On the other side of the locks, the Botanical Center is a quieter spot to rest and appreciate well-tended gardens.

Tourists can take a narrated sightseeing cruise along the canal, which offers various views of some of the city's most iconic features, like the Space Needle, the Great Ferris Wheel, and even the houseboat community featured in Sleepless in Seattle . The tour typically lasts 2.5 hours and includes transportation back to the starting point.

Address: 3015 NW 54th Street, Seattle, Washington

Alki Beach Park is a popular destination in West Seattle with a lot of history. It's where the first white settlers landed in 1851, greeted by Chief Seattle and his tribe. Today, it's a 2.5-mile linear park and a guaranteed busy place when the weather is nice.

But with ample sand and space to stretch out some volleyball nets, overcrowding isn't always the biggest issue on summer weekends. Instead, finding a parking space can sometimes require extra patience. To avoid the hassle of parking, it's much easier to hop on a water taxi from Pier 50 in downtown Seattle. The water taxi drops you off at the eastern end of Alki Beach Park.

Timing a visit to Alki during low tide opens a world of tide pool exploring. A 2.5-mile concrete pathway parallels much of the beach, and benches and local businesses line much of this route, offering plenty for an afternoon of exploring.

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is downtown, one block from Pike Place Market. It's a massive repository for world-renowned art and a must-see for casual observers and enthusiasts alike. I spent just over two hours here, including time spent in a special Monet exhibit I paid extra for.

The museum's collection is spread across four floors of expansive gallery space. The bottom three floors feature rotating exhibits and pieces from the permanent collection. Some permanent displays include Native American, European, and Islamic Art. The museum also houses a robust collection of contemporary and modern art.

SAM also oversees two other prominent art facilities for even more aesthetic pleasure. SAM also operates the Olympic Sculpture Park, less than a mile to the north on the waterfront, which is free to enjoy. And in Volunteer Park, in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, SAM also operates the Seattle Asian Art Museum .

Address: 1300 1st Ave, Seattle, Washington

Official site: https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/

Seattle's Museum of Flight is home to a wide array of airplanes, educational exhibits, and flight-related historical objects. The museum is open Thursday through Monday, and many visits take the entire day. Alongside general admission, the museum offers premium experiences that lend access to behind-the-scenes exhibits.

An outdoor gallery displays the largest aircraft in the collection, including a Concorde, the first jet Air Force One, and military planes like the B-17F Flying Fortress. The indoor Great Gallery at the museum gives onlookers the thrill of seeing many of the aircraft suspended in flight. The Lear and Space galleries focus on space travel, both its history and future.

History buffs will especially love the Personal Courage Wing, dedicated to the critical role of aviation during World War I and II. Exhibits include 28 restored fighter planes, personal stories of pilots and air support troops, and interactive experiences like a flight simulator.

Address: 4097, 9404 E Marginal Way S, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.museumofflight.org

The city-defining waters of Puget Sound host a wide array of marine life. This proximity to a wild habitat gives residents and visitors a unique opportunity to see the landscape's largest mammals.

While several types of whales enjoy the water close to the city, it's often orcas that are sought out. The summer is considered the best time to see orcas from Seattle, specifically between mid-June and early September.

Watchful tourists can spot whales from the shore without boarding a boat. Spots along the western banks of Seattle, like Alki Beach and Golden Gardens , offer some of the best vantage points. Patience and a little help from resources like the Orca Network go a long way in spotting whales from the Seattle shore.

Several whale-watching boat tours are also available from Seattle. In years past, boat noise and boat disturbance became known contributors to declining orca populations. When booking a whale-watching tour, consider finding a company like Puget Sound Express with a long track record of responsible practices.

Covering over 230 acres in the Madison Park neighborhood northeast of downtown, the Washington Park Arboretum is the best spot to step away from the city. It's co-managed by the city of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, and it's open every day to the public, free of charge.

Among the expansive green space, the arboretum maintains several specific gardens. A few notable paths include the jaunt through Rhododendron Glen and Azalea Way – the historic heart of the park. Visitors can also expect to encounter Japanese maples and a 2.5-acre plot devoted to New Zealand native plants.

Self-guided and guided tours are available at the arboretum. Guided excursions include Tram Tours , which navigate the entire park in an hour. If you're trying to walk through the whole park, plan for at least this same amount of time. For more information and trail maps, visit the Graham Visitors Center near the northern border.

Official site: https://botanicgardens.uw.edu/washington-park-arboretum/

Gas Works Park is on the northern shoreline of Lake Union , with a fantastic view across the water toward the downtown skyline. Alongside this shimmering view of boats and buildings, the park also has several pieces of eye-catching infrastructure.

Before becoming a park, Gas Works was the site of an industrial coal gasification plant. This history is still readily apparent, as many historic structures are now reclaimed into public art pieces. Some of the old facility is even now incorporated into playground equipment and park structures.

A large earthen mound with a paved trail offers an excellent vantage point of all the park has to offer. Here, towels and blankets punctuate the elevated spot as people enjoy the lakeside ambience. Come sundown, the entire area comes under a special glow as the last bit of day reflects off the water.

Green Lake is an approximately 260-acre lake north of downtown. A popular residential area of the same name borders the eastern and northern edges of the water, and a 2.8-mile multi-use paved trail circles the entire lake, connecting several places to spend the day.

East Green Lake Park is one of the most popular pitstops. Here, sandy shoreline and ample green space abound with people throughout the warmer months. Popular things to do at the park include volleyball, swimming, and lounging about close to the water. Boat rentals are also available.

Opposite East Green Lake on the northern shoreline, West Green Lake Beach offers similar amenities on a slightly smaller scale. On the southern end of Green Lake, connected by the paved multi-use trail, Woodland Park and the Woodland Park Zoo offer their own day of things to do.

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a top attraction within the Seattle Center . It's next to the Space Needle, and with a colorful and fluid-like building, it's hard to miss when visiting this central tourist district.

MoPOP dedicates itself to telling the continuing story of modern culture. Exhibits span three levels and include hundreds of artifacts, including costumes, guitars, and a constant stream of memorabilia. Among other subjects, the permanent collection relates to the world of horror movies, the sci-fi universe, and the meteoric rise of the 90s grunge band Nirvana. And new exhibits frequently rotate on display.

The museum is open daily. Plan to spend a few hours wandering the eye-catching and sometimes interactive displays. The museum also regularly hosts events, including movie nights from their ever-evolving list of "100 Horror Films to See Before You Die."

Address: 325 5th Avenue N, Seattle, Washington

Official site: https://www.mopop.org/

The Seattle Great Wheel is a 175-foot-tall Ferris Wheel on Pier 57 on the downtown waterfront. It's just minutes from Pike Place Market and easily visible from the Seattle Aquarium . For many, taking a revolution is a quintessential downtown experience.

The Great Wheel spins seven days a week. Depending on the crowd size, a ride on the Great Wheel takes approximately 20 minutes. During that time, a revolving view of Elliot Bay and downtown keep the ride captivating. Although the wheel spins on rainy days, blue skies offer the best experience.

The Great Wheel is only one part of the larger Miners Landing on Pier 57. Other tourist attractions include a classic carousel and a unique "flying theater" known as Wings over Washington. The area also has an ample supply of souvenirs and gifts available.

Water surrounds all sides of Seattle. The saltwater of Elliot Bay and Puget Sound offer lapping waves to the west, and Lake Washington has freshwater to the east. While this doesn't mean the entire outer edge of the city is a sandy beach, the marine landscape does offer a few incredible shorelines to enjoy.

On Puget Sound, beaches at places like Golden Gardens and Carkeek Park rank high as local favorites. These two beaches offer some of the most spacious sandy stretches in the city and are popular for all beach-related activities. The world-famous Discovery Park also has a Puget Sound shoreline with a sandy beach bisected by a scenic lighthouse.

The east side of Seattle, on Lake Washington, also has several shoreline areas with sand. Matthews Beach Park , in Northeast Seattle, is one of the largest. It features a designated swimming area with lifeguards, a swimming platform, and ample green space to lay a blanket down.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in the Seattle Area

In the north Capitol Hill neighborhood, Volunteer Park features a century-old conservatory with tropical plants and trees. Visitors can also find simple attractions within the park like walking trails, sports facilities, a children's play area, and picnic grounds.

It's simply a lovely park to wander through and is especially a nice place to bring a blanket to enjoy a picnic or casual hangout with a view. A historic water tower in the park offers a circular staircase to ascend for a 360-degree view of the entire area.

The lush green space also encompasses the Seattle Asian Art Museum (a branch of the larger Seattle Art Museum downtown), where galleries display Chinese, South Asian, and Southeast Asian art; decorative arts; and textiles.

Address: 1247 15th Ave E, Seattle, Washington

The Olympic Sculpture Park is free and open to the public year-round, positioned at the edge of Elliott Bay. Some of its more remarkable sculptures are the Eye Benches and a glass bridge titled Seattle Cloud Cover . Many Seattle residents and tourists come to the park to wander the day away and photograph or admire the installations.

The park's setting is as significant as its artwork. The space underwent an environmental transformation from a post-industrial brownfield site to an ecologically balanced green space that includes a salmon habitat and employs sustainable practices like rainwater collection.

The inland entrance to the park is on Western and Broad Street, and the park follows a "Z" trail down to the waterfront. The trail passes by the PACCAR Pavilion with more art inside. This open community space also has a café and available window seating.

The park is maintained by the Seattle Art Museum , which is located one mile away, close to Pike Place Market . The museum's collections include artwork from around the globe and across millennia, as well as an extensive gallery dedicated to the art of Native Americans in the northwest.

Address: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/olympic-sculpture-park

To the east of Pioneer Square is the colorful International District, where Japanese and Chinese shops and restaurants dominate the street scene. There are many things to do here, but the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience is a must. This museum charts the history of Asian immigration. It's named for Wing Luke, a Chinese American who was the first Asian American elected official in Washington.

Another fun place to visit within the International District is the Seattle Pinball Museum . This hands-on museum doesn't just relate the colorful history of these popular arcade accessories, it encourages visitors to flick the flippers of countless pinball games. The surrounding district is also filled with several international restaurants and cultural centers.

Address: 719 S. King Street, Seattle, Washington

The Fremont Troll is the result of a public art competition that took place over three decades ago. It was an effort to clean up a notorious dumping ground beneath the Aurora Bridge. Now, with a few fresh coats of paint over the years, the Fremont Street Troll has solidified itself as a city attraction and success in urban planning.

The most popular thing to do at the troll is to pose for a picture. The enormity of the sculpture comes into view in real life while standing next to his long stringy fingers and peering up to his singular metal eye. It only takes a quick visit to check out the troll under Aurora Bridge, five miles north of downtown.

Living Computers Museum and Labs is a techie's heaven, packed with items and interactive opportunities that look at the history of computers, modern accomplishments, and future potential.

Their extensive vintage collection includes some of the first computers, as well as exhibits that look into the lives and work of the geniuses who revolutionized the personal computer and beyond, including Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Paul Allen.

The museum's philosophy is that visitors cannot fully appreciate technology without experiencing it, so the majority of exhibits encourage interaction. Visitors can experience cutting-edge virtual reality, take a simulated drive in a self-driving car, and even sit down to write some code for their very own video game. Other topics include robotics, artificial intelligence, and the world of Big Data.

Address: 2245 1st Ave S, Seattle, Washington

Official site: www.livingcomputers.org

Benaroya Hall is Seattle's premier arts venue and seats 2,500 for Seattle Symphony concerts. The performance hall is downtown, across the street from the Seattle Art Museum . Look for the large glass art sculpture by Dale Chihuly, featured prominently in the lobby. It's similar to the works at Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Center and at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma.

Benaroya Hall presents a variety of shows and performances. The Seattle Symphony is a staple exhibition, but this beautiful concert hall also features folk performances, family concerts, and lively speaker series. Whatever show brings you to Benaroya Hall, the decadent 2,500-seat auditorium itself adds to the experience of visiting.

Address: 200 University Street, Seattle, Washington

Official site: https://www.seattlesymphony.org/benaroyahall

We recommend these great hotels in the city center, near top attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle:

• Inn at the Market : This eco-friendly, luxury, boutique hotel is convenient for sightseeing, with its Pike Place Market location. Enjoy water views, the rooftop deck, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
• The Maxwell Hotel - A Staypineapple Hotel : For mid-range rates, funky decor, an espresso bar, a free shuttle, and an indoor pool, this is the place.
• Best Western Executive Inn: With affordable pricing and a location near the Seattle Center and the Space Needle, it's hard to beat this Best Western.
• Comfort Inn & Suites Seattle: This budget-friendly hotel offers affordable rates, clean rooms, free Wi-Fi and parking, laundry facilities, and free breakfast.

The best time to go to Seattle is in the drier season between mid-June and mid-October . The city comes to life this time of year, with sunny skies, outdoor festivals, and blooming mountain landscapes. Seattle is in full swing in the summer, with millions of tourists checking out top attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.

Some say that summer in Seattle starts on July 5th, just in time for fireworks to dry out from the 4th of July. The truth is that rain can extend well into the first couple of weeks of July. The summer season in Seattle really begins any time after the clouds break in July. Everyone in the city tries to take full advantage of the sunny weather this time of year after a wet winter and spring.

To avoid the biggest summer rush , the autumn months are the best time to travel to Seattle. Hotel availability tends to go up after Labor Day Weekend, and the weather remains warm throughout the beginning of the season. Increased precipitation should be expected later into October. Cultural events like the Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival occur throughout the fall.

A small caveat to summer travel in Seattle is wildfire smoke that blows in from across the American West and British Columbia. A few smoky days are nearly guaranteed during the Seattle summer, and how many depends on several variable conditions. While it's hard to predict months in advance when wildfire smoke will blow through, it's worth monitoring a week or so prior to traveling. If the wildfire smoke is heavy enough, it's ill-advised to engage in rigorous outdoor activity.

• Center for Wooden Boats
• Central Freeway Park
• Children's Museum
• Coast Guard Museum
• Frye Museum
• Fun Forest Amusement Park
• Kingdom (demolished)
• Klondike Gold Rush NHP
• Maritime Heritage Museum
• Omnidome Film Experience
• Pacific Science Center
• Pike Place Market
• Pioneer Square
• Seattle Aquarium
• Seattle Art Museum
• Seattle Center
• Smith Tower
• Space Needle
• Washington State Convention & Trade Center
• Wing Luke Asian Museum

More on Washington

A Day in Seattle: What You Can’t Miss (Perfect Itinerary for a Single Day)

Posted on Published: September 27, 2021  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

This fun, iconic city in the Pacific Northwest is so much fun you could spend a week exploring the area. But what if you only have a day in Seattle?

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

There’s a ton to see in Seattle in a short amount of time, especially in downtown. You’ve likely seen Pike Place Market over and over again, but the city has so much more to offer! This guide walks you through exactly what to do in Seattle for 1 day, including how to get around, where to stay and other insider tips.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, family or solo, this city will fascinate you and leave you hungering for more than a day in Seattle. You’ll want to come back , that’s for sure!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s the  best Pike Place Market food tour . A must-do for first-time visitors!

Day trip to Seattle

If you’re heading into Seattle for the day from nearby Portland, Vancouver or anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest, I highly recommend to hit the road early to make the most of your day ! Otherwise if you can stay overnight at least one night, that will give your more time to explore this great city.

You may be flying into Seattle to spend some time exploring the popular Mount Rainier National Park , heading on an epic road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway or you may even have a full day layover before hitting the beach in Kauai, Hawaii .

Regardless of what’s bringing you into the city, this is an action-packed itinerary for your one day in Seattle .

This guide walks you through the best sights in the downtown area. You’ll be able to see a lot on foot, before needing wheels to visit a few other spots near downtown. Then, we’ll head to West Seattle to finish off the day.

Get ready for some awesome sights!

Map for your day in Seattle

If you’re a visual person, use the map below to see where the top sights and activities to experience Seattle in a day. This guide will walk you through each sight or activity, along with how to travel between them.

How to get around the city

If you’re wondering how to get around for your one day in Seattle, there’s good news! Many of the best sights are within walking distance of each other.

If you have a car, you’ll want to park it for most of the day while you walk to attractions, food and activities. It’s nice to have a car for a few different areas within this guide.

And by the way if you need to rent a car to go beyond the city, I highly recommend the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals (using the most reputable car carriers)!

Alternatively, you can use ride share like Lyft or Uber , which is what I recommend for a few parts of this itinerary.

There’s also public transportation and a great monorail system in Seattle . If you’re staying in Seattle you could consider this to transport downtown and a couple places on this itinerary if you don’t have a vehicle. But since you only have one day in Seattle, the timing is a bit trickier using public transportation, so just keep that in mind!

A day in Seattle

Alright let’s get to it! The guide below will walk you through how to see Seattle in one day. And because it’s nice to have options, you’ll get alternative recommendations so you can customize your Seattle itinerary based on what you want to do .

And for the purposes of seeing as much as you can in a day, this guide assumes you’ll start the day early in Seattle. If you’re flying in or planning to get in mid-morning, adjust as needed.

Let’s dive in!

Visit the original Starbucks

Estimated time: 5 – 30 minutes Schedule: 8:00 – 9:00am

Regardless if you love Starbucks coffee or not, it’s an icon in Seattle and worth a visit. Stopping at the original Starbucks location in Downtown Seattle will set you up good for the day, as most other things are walkable from here.

While the atmosphere (and line at the door) might reflect nostalgia, the drinks inside are what you can find at most other Starbucks locations. So keep your regular order and enjoy the history!

Fun fact: the actual original Starbucks was located at 2000 Western Avenue from 1971–1976 and moved to its current location. This is currently the oldest operating Starbucks.

Location: 1912 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101

Pike Place Market

Estimated time: 1 – 3 hours Schedule: 9:00 – 11:00am

I mean, obviously the market is going to be on your list, especially if it’s your first time to Seattle ! And honestly, even if it’s not your first visit – there’s so much to see, do and eat at Pike Place Market that it’s worth visiting over and over again.

Wanna see flying fish at the fish market? How about watching cheese made by hand? And how about finding the most gorgeous bouquet of flowers for less than $10?

It’s all at the Pike Place Market!

The best time to go to Pike Place Market is right when it opens at 9am. Although some businesses and merchants will still be opening, you’ll see far less crowds.

You could spend an hour here or an entire day soaking up the sights, smells and tastes of Pike Place Market. So since you’re crunched for time on this day trip to Seattle, these are a few of the highlights…

Book now: Pike Place Market food tour!

Best things to do at Pike Place Market

• Visit the original Pike Place Fish Market . Watch them throw fish back and forth to each other. Or ship some fresh back home!
• Shop the market. Flowers, jewelry, home decor and a whole lot more!
• Go to Beechers Handmade Cheese . Made on-site and delicious. You’ll usually find a line out the door.
• See the mascot, touch the pig . And if you have spare change, donate to the cause . Two bronze pigs hang out at the market and collect change for charity. More about Rachel and Billie here .
• Grab produce to go. It’s fresh and local. And if you’re hitting the road after your day in Seattle, grab some produce for car snacks.

Location: 86 Pike Place, Seattle, WA 98101 (address to the fish market)

Seattle Great Wheel (for epic sights during a day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 11:00am – 12:00pm

Right down the street from Pike Place Market is Pier 57, home to the Seattle Great Wheel . It’s a walkable area with scenic views of Elliott Bay.

A ride on the Ferris wheel will show you the city, and is one of the top things to do in Seattle in one day! See the city’s skyline, ships and boats at the marina, and on clear days a great view of Mount Rainier.

Perfect for all ages, The Seattle Great Wheel is the largest Ferris wheel on the west coast at 175 feet tall. It’s got to be on your list of things to do in Seattle with kids !

Buy tickets in advance or at the ticket counter to keep on scheduled to be sure to see everything you want in a day in Seattle. In the peak of summer, on weekends and holidays expect a line at the big wheel, as it’s one of Seattle’s top tourist attractions. (Another reason to reserve your time in advance!)

Location: Miners Landing, 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

Alternative: Seattle Art Museum

Estimated time: 1 – 2 hours Schedule: 11:00am – 12:00pm

If you’ve got a fear of heights or just prefer art over rides, this one’s for you. The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is located in downtown and in a building that’s sleek and contemporary, and as creative as the art within it . It’s a multi-level space with a permanent art collection and often fascinating rotating exhibits.

An important part of this museum is the focus on a wide variety of cultural and ethnic art, including Native American, Asia, Mediterranean and Australian Aboriginal collections. The SAM also features a library and restaurant to check out while you’re there.

Pro tip: buy tickets in advance! As of the time of this publication, the museum only accepts reservations for guests.

Art lovers could easily spend an afternoon at the SAM, but with only one day in Seattle, it’s time to move on!

Location: 1300 First Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Lunch at Pike Place Market (the perfect spot to eat on this Seattle itinerary)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 12:00 – 1:00pm

Return to Pike Place Market for lunch because there’s just so many incredible restaurants to try, you absolutely must eat here ! Grab a famous Flagship Sandwich from Beecher’s Handmade Cheese and eat it at the picnic tables overlooking the bay.

Or try one of the many restaurants in Post Alley. From Italian to Thai, Irish to Mexican, there’s something for everyone here. A few other favorite spots to try are…

Best lunch spots Pike Place Market

• A bowl of delicious chowder at Pike Place Chowder
• Enjoy a classic American style yeeros at Mr. D’s Greek Delicacies
• Farm-to-table cuisine at The Pink Door
• Sit outdoors and people watch while enjoying delightful Pizza and Pasta Bar
• Local and affordable seafood at Jack’s Fish Spot Seafood Bar

Oh, and be sure to grab some sweet treats to go from Three Girls Bakery , The Confectional (my favorite) or Joe Chocolate Co .

If you really want to get into the food scene in Seattle, be sure to check into the best Pike Place Market food tours . Yum!!

Olympic Sculpture Park

Estimated time: up to 1 hour Schedule: 1:00 – 2:00pm

Walk off all that food by heading down to the Olympic Sculpture Park . Just a few blocks away from Pike Place Market is this sculpture park. It’s surprisingly serene and relaxing considering the hustle and bustle of the city and the nearby bay. It’s also got great views of the entire area, perfect for seeing Seattle in 1 day!

Walk among the giant sculptures and absorb the city sights all around you. Made with different types and styles of art, the sculpture garden is fun to look at for all ages. In fact, it reminded me of the sculpture park in Minneapolis, Minnesota which I visited as part of a Midwest road trip .

Bonus: there’s a glass pavilion on site with public restrooms. It’s free, although they take donations if you’d like to donate a couple bucks to keep the place clean and running.

Location: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

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From here, you can take the Seattle Center Monorail , drive a rental car or take a ride share to your next destination…

Space Needle

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 2:00 – 3:00pm

It’s an iconic landmark in Seattle since 1962, and one that’s recognized all over the world!

If this is one of your top things you’re most excited to see, then riding to the top of the Space Needle is a must! It’s highly recommended to buy tickets in advance to reserve your time – especially if you’re only spending a day in Seattle you’re crunched for time!

Once at the top, the views are spectacular. You’ll get 360 degree views of the city, Mount Rainier plus the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges, all from 605 feet above ground!

If you only kind of want to see it, then simply driving by or walking the grounds is an option, too. You can get some fun photos and see it up close without spending the time to ride to the top.

Location: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

Chihuly Garden and Glass (a must-see for one day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1-2 hours Schedule: 3:00 – 4:00pm

Located right near the Space Needle is the Chihuly Garden and Glass . It’s one of the most unique things to do in Seattle, and a fun stop for all ages.

The works from famous glass artist Dale Chihuly, this glass museum is full of vibrant colors and designs, all breathtakingly spectacular. There are 6 rooms inside the exhibit and an outdoor garden to stroll. There’s even a theater to watch how the exquisite designs are made.

You could easily devote an afternoon here, but since you’re only spending a day in Seattle, be aware of your time as you explore this place!

Pro tip: be sure to listen to the free audio tour on your phone as you walk the museum and see the pieces.

Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Quick note: if you’re planning to see the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden Glass and more attractions, I highly recommend the Seattle CityPASS . You’ll save up to 46% off admission prices!

Estimated time: up to 30 minutes Schedule: 4:00 – 4:30pm

Next we’re going to venture a little further from downtown. If you don’t have a vehicle, I recommend taking a ride share to get to Kerry Park.

Kerry Park is a spectacular spot in Seattle to see the city skyline . From here, you’ll be able to view the Space Needle, downtown, waterfront park, the bay and on a clear day, Mount Rainier in the background.

It’s one of the best views in all of Seattle, and can be seen quickly or you could spend a bit more time to sit and relax.

The park itself isn’t very big and doesn’t have a lot of parking, so be prepared to walk a little. If you’re traveling with kids, watch out for the drop-off and hill at the lookout as it’s steep.

Location: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119

This next spot is a good one, but no where near downtown. You’ll need a car or ride share to get here, and plan to allow at least 20 minutes travel time.

Estimated time: 1-2 hours Schedule: 5:00 – 6:00pm

Alki Beach in Seattle is one of the best sand beaches in the whole area! Nestled right on the Elliott Bay, the waves are fierce enough to crash on the beach. Water temperatures peak at about 57 degrees in the summer, so not very many people swim, even on the warmest of days.

The beach is deep enough to sit on the sand and enjoy the water and waves. There’s also sand volleyball courts set up and on most weekends you’ll find teams playing volleyball.

The area is built up with steps for sitting on, so you don’t actually have to get sandy if you don’t want to, perfect if you only have a day in Seattle and don’t want to worry about bringing extra beach gear. By the way, if you love these kinds of pebble coastal beaches, head further north to experience the best of North Vancouver Island , including Cape Scott Provincial Park, Grant Bay, Malcolm Island and more.

There are a few palm trees sprinkled throughout the area. It’s not quite like the gorgeous beaches of Aruba or as warm as Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico , but it will certainly do for any beach lover!

Location: 2665 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116

Duke’s Seafood (a favorite during a day in Seattle)

Estimated time: 1 hour Schedule: 6:00 – 7:00pm

Okay, when you’re in Seattle, you absolutely must eat at Duke’s Seafood ! With several locations to choose from, you’ll likely be close to one. Especially if you follow this guide on how to spend one day in Seattle!

They’re known for…. well, everything! From the fish and chips, crab ‘un’ cakes, bread bowl clam chowder (served in 4 size options), you’ll find really good seafood at Duke’s.

And can I share something else about Duke’s Seafood? They have incredible margaritas! As a margarita lover, this means a lot to have the perfect marg alongside fish tacos. I mean, their margaritas are right up there with the margs in Old Town San Diego – and that’s saying a lot !

Duke’s Seafood has locations in Alki, Bellevue, Lake Union, Green Lake, Ruston Way, Kent Station and Southcenter. It’s some of the best seafood in Tacoma , Seattle and the surrounding area!

Location: 2516 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116 (at Alki Beach)

This is the last stop on this Seattle itinerary, but I encourage you to check out the bonus activities below and incorporate some into your day.

If you love quickly visiting a city and seeing the top sights, you’ll definitely want to add spending one day in Rome to your bucket list. The incredible history and architecture in the city is simply unbeatable.

Bonus activity: visit the flagship REI location

Swap this activity out for another on this list, or squeeze it in before heading to Alki Beach.

Estimated time: up to 1 hour

So many cool, founding companies in Seattle, right? You’ll want to drive or ride share over to REI, as it’s a bit off from downtown, located in the Cascade neighborhood. And to be honest, you’ll probably miss it if you didn’t know it was there!

The flagship REI store is disguised under heavy foliage, right in the city! Waterfalls and lush, tree-lined paths welcome you as you walk to the front door . It’s a welcome change from the concrete city that surrounds REI.

If you’re an outdoor lover (like I am), then make time to visit REI on your one day in Seattle! Read more about the history of REI here .

And by the way, if you enjoy hiking, here’s a few guides to inspire future travels!

• 8 Incredible Hikes in Glacier National Park
• 10 Canyonlands National Parks that Promise Epic Views
• 30 Best Hiking Trails for Beginners (all across the USA)
• Gorgeous Hiking and More in Dillon, CO
• 12 Top-rated Hikes in Arches National Park
• 16 Scenic Hikes in the Midwest You’ll Love

Anyway, grab any gear you’ve been eyeing while you’re here!

Location: 222 Yale Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Day trip to Seattle: additional things to do

It’s nice to have options, isn’t it? Well just in case one of the things above isn’t your cuppa tea, here are some alternative ideas for how to fill your time!

One day in Seattle: more ideas

• Seattle Aquarium . Be sure to book in advance to witness sea otters, seals, octopus, a variety of birds, fish and more!
• Underground tour of Seattle. After a massive fire in 1889, the current city was rebuilt above the old one. Touring past storefronts and sidewalks through interconnecting tunnels underground is a fun, unique way to see into the city’s unique history.
• Walkable Waterfront Park. This area includes 20 piers to eat, relax and enjoy the sights. Many whale watching tours start from this area, too.
• Museum of Pop Culture. If you’re a pop culture fan, you’ll love this place! You could spend just an hour seeing the highlights or a whole day exploring everything music from Disney to Pearl Jam. This is also one of the best things to do in winter in Seattle !
• Freemont Troll. A weirdly fun attraction just about 15 minutes drive north of downtown Seattle. It’s a photo op that kids and adults will love. Kind of reminds me of the Breckenridge Troll in Colorado!
• Market Theater Gum Wall . If you’re into germy things, anyways! 😆 Located in an alley under Pike Place Market, feel free to leave your mark…er, gum, here.
• Waterfall Garden Park in Pioneer Square . This lovely gem is a beautiful, serene spot in a busy city! I love that you can hear it as you drive by! And fun fact, it’s located at the founding location of UPS!
• Gas Works Park. A huge park built on a former coal gasification plant. It’s a fun spot for relaxing, picnicking, kayaking and enjoying views of Seattle across the water.

Alright do you have your plan set for your day trip to Seattle? Next let’s go over a few more details for your time in the city.

Where to stay in Seattle

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Seattle to take full advantage of your full day of exploring, I got you!

To stay close to the action, you’ll want to get accommodations in downtown, Belltown, Lower Queen Anne or the Cascade areas. Here’s a few places below that are within these areas…

Places to stay in Seattle:

• Seattle Marriott Waterfront , for best views of the bay
• The Charter Seattle , closest to the action
• Mayflower Park Hotel , historic hotel in prime location
• Belltown Inn , affordable luxury
• Vacation rental properties in Seattle for every budget

I like staying in hotels and vacation rental properties, and using a search site like Booking.com allows you to search both at the same time. And bonus – it’s one of the more affordable travel sites out there!

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What to pack for Seattle

Real quick, before wrapping up this Seattle itinerary, let’s talk about things that will make your day exploring this city even better.

• Comfy shoes . Spending a day in Seattle, you’re going to be walking a lot and you don’t want to be uncomfortable. Consider versatile travel shoes perfect for the city.
• Over the shoulder bag or purse. The most convenient way to hold your money while exploring, plus a larger bag supports small shopping purchases, too! Make sure you get one with a zipper so it’s more difficult for pickpocketers to take advantage of you.
• Rain jacket . Let’s face it, Seattle is known for rain. If you’re visiting anytime except during the peak of summer, you could face drizzly rain. Your day will still be awesome, but packing a jacket might make you more comfortable. This is my favorite lightweight jacket I took to Seattle.
• Mace. As a traveling female, I always carry mace with me! Just note if you’re flying in you’ll need to pack it in your checked luggage.

A day in Seattle (a recap)

Seattle is a fun, vibrant city that is fun to explore. Between the historic charm, sweeping views of the water and surrounding mountains and activities for all ages, Seattle is full of exciting things to do in any amount of time.

Here’s a recap!

One day in Seattle:

• 8:00am Visit the original Starbucks
• 9:00am Pike Place Market
• 11:00am Seattle Great Wheel or Seattle Art Museum
• 12:00pm Lunch at Pike Place Market
• 1:00pm Olympic Sculpture Park
• 2:00pm Space Needle
• 3:00pm Chihuly Garden and Glass
• 4:00pm Kerry Park
• 5:00pm Alki Beach
• 6:00pm Dinner at Duke’s Seafood

Add in a few bonuses or alternative spots above, and you’ve got your customized Seattle itinerary! Have fun exploring this city!

Related content to read next: Ultimate Guide to Skyline Trail Mount Rainier 22 Best Hikes in Mount Rainier NP: Cool Trails You’ll Love 33 Amazing Spring Break Ideas on a Budget 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 26 Places to Visit in Fall in the USA You’ll Love 30 Incredibly Warm Winter Vacations in the US

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Suvarna Arora

Wednesday 6th of October 2021

It sounds like Seattle is a nice place to visit.

simplyjolayne

Monday 4th of October 2021

We did a scavenger hunt in Seattle the last time we were there and it was awesome. We saw lots of things we wouldn't have otherwise known about, ie., the gum wall!

Oh that sounds like an awesome experience! A great idea anywhere, but I bet it was really fun to see Seattle while doing a scavenger hunt.

Sunday 3rd of October 2021

So many fun and cool things to do in Seattle. This is a perfect one-day itinerary!

Holly Lavender

Saturday 2nd of October 2021

I love Seattle, Kerry Park is honestly has the best views! I actually ended up there trying to find the Grey's Anatomy house haha.

Haha that's awesome!🤣 I agree Kerry Park is a must!

Katie Diederichs

I LOVE Seattle! It seems I find new things to do there on every trip (and I've been there many times!). One of my favorite things about the city is how close it is to nature. Oh, and the amazing food scene! Great tips for how to spend a day in Seattle!

Yessssss Katie! So many great things about the city that make you want to see more! Thanks for hanging out on the blog today :)

The 15 Best Downtown Seattle Activities & Things to Do

Seattle is a vibrant city located in Washington State. It is the jewel of the pacific northwest and known for amazing seafood, unique culture and natural beauty. Since the city has so much to do, it can be hard to choose which downtown Seattle activities to prioritize.

I have lived in the Seattle area my entire life. I grew up in a suburb of the city, then went to school at the University of Washington Seattle.

As a lifetime Seattleite, I have spent many weekend exploring the city, playing tourist, and enjoying the fantastic restaurants.

While this list includes some of the main tourist attractions, it also includes some hidden gems. I recommend seeing it all because touristy places are that way for a reason and the local attractions will provide a glimpse into the local culture.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

My Top Three Picks: Things to Do in Seattle

Pike Place Market Guided Food Tour

✅ 12 tasting and 9 stops

✅ Led by a local chef

Seattle Underground Walking Tour

✅ Learn the history of downtown Seattle

✅ Explore the underground tunnels of the city

Seattle Harbor Cruise

✅ One hour boat tour of Elliott Bay

✅ See the Space Needle and Seattle Great Wheel

What to do In Downtown Seattle

1. pike place market.

Yes, the Pike Place Market is super touristy but that is okay! Some Seattle activities are so touristy because they are essential places to visit.

The fun stalls and landmark stores of the market make it a must visit. Some must see places in the market include: Flying fish – another super touristy attraction but its iconic! Wait around the fish counter for someone to order to see fish flung across the counter.

The Pink Door – this is my favorite restaurant in Seattle. It is delicious Italian food in a unique setting. If dining for lunch, sit out on the patio and admire the views of Puget Sound. If visiting for dinner, plan to see aerial performers while you eat.

Local vendors – there is a stretch of the market with stalls of local artists and farmers. Taste fresh fruit, buy some local crafts, and pick up an affordable and beautiful bouquet.

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – visit this store to see them making the cheese and sample some as well. If you are here during a mealtime or want a good snack, you must get the mac and cheese. It lives up to its name as the “world’s best”.

Wander around and explore different stores- there are a ton of hidden gems in the market and I am always finding new places worth seeing

To visit the market, I recommend taking this chef’s tour or taking a self-guided tour with the help of my complete guide to Pike Place .

2. Tour the Seattle Underground

The Seattle Underground was founded in 1865, when the first settlers arrived in the area. The city was built atop of a gorge that was filled with debris and waste from the nearby logging industry.

As the city grew, an underground network of tunnels was created to house retail stores, saloons, and other businesses. Over time, these tunnels were abandoned and filled with mud until they were rediscovered in 1965.

Since then, tours have been conducted through this mysterious below-ground world. I highly recommend a Seattle Underground tour that is equal parts spooky, historical, and entertaining.

This underground tour is a must-do activity in downtown Seattle. This underground tour covers 4 blocks of the historic Pioneer Square and three different underground tunnels.

Along the tour , you will learn about the history of the city, including the famous fire. You will also hear spooky and comedic stories that makes the tour extremely entertaining.

Check prices and availability to explore Underground Seattle

3. Seattle Harbor Cruise

Since I’ve moved to Arizona, the thing I’ve missed most about Seattle is the water. You cannot beat the view of the Seattle waterfront on a sunny day.

This harbor cruise is only an hour long, but provides views of all the city skyline. It goes around the Elliott Bay area which has views of the Seattle Great Wheel, Space Needle, and most of downtown.

This boat tour is also a great downtown Seattle activity to get off your feet for a bit and relax.

Check prices and availability of this harbor cruise

4. Experience Seattle Coffee Culture

Seattle is a coffee-lovers paradise. I’d say the top two things Seattle is known for are rain and coffee. While rain is a bummer, coffee is delicious!

With numerous cafés, roasteries, and independent coffee shops scattered around the city, Seattle has a thriving coffee culture. The city’s diverse selection of artisanal coffee blends rival some of the best in the world.

From the very first Starbucks to high-quality neighborhood coffee shops, you never need to go far to find a cup of joe.

This Seattle Coffee Culture tour is a great way to learn all about the culture and taste the best varieties. The tour is in the Capital Hill neighborhood, which is a cultural center of Seattle.

You will visit a few neighborhood coffee shops, learn about coffee history, and the brewing process. In addition, the local guide will provide insider tips about the area and answer any of your questions.

Check prices and availability of this coffee tour

5. Ride in a Hot Tub Boat

If you are looking for a unique activity in Seattle, this is for you. You can rent a boat that doubles as a hot tub to cruise around South Lake Union.

The entire boat is a hot tub, so wear your swimsuit. The water is warmed by a wood burning stove on the boat, so it stays warm your entire trip.

I recommend this activity for the summer, fall, or spring. In the winter, it gets too cold, even with the warm water.

6. Visit the Chihuly Garden of Glass

I’m not a huge museum person, but one of my favorites is the Chihuly Garden of Glass , which showcases the glass blown artwork of Dale Chihuly.

There are more than 2,000 pieces of Chihuly’s art throughout the museum, with colors and shapes that are mesmerizing.

The museum also offers interactive activities such as glass blowing and guided tours to give visitors an all-encompassing experience of this unique art form.

Pre-book your tickets here

7. Explore MoPOP and the Seattle Center

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a nonprofit museum in Seattle dedicated to contemporary popular culture.

Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, MoPOP houses a vast collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the world of music, science fiction, pop culture, movies, television, video games, and others.

The museum offers interactive exhibits like the Sound Lab, where visitors can create their own songs using a variety of instruments.

It also features an extensive array of artifacts from iconic films like Star Wars and Lord Of The Rings as well as a variety of unique educational programs for all ages.

MoPOP is located in the Seattle Center, which has other museums, large parks, and is walking distance to the Space Needle.

8. See the City from Above at the Space Needle

The Space Needle is a Seattle icon, soaring 605 feet into the sky and offering incredible views of the city and its surroundings.

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it has become an intrinsic part of the Seattle skyline and a very popular tourist attraction.

While some say the Space Needle is overrated, I don’t think you can beat the observation deck to take in the breathtaking views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and more.

9. City Views from Kerry Park

Kerry park is a small neighborhood park in an area known as Queen Anne. The best part of the park is the stunning view of the city!

I recommend going at night to get a beautiful skyline view including the iconic Space Needle.

Bring a picnic to have a romantic date night or just settle in for sunset. It will be crowded, but you should be able to find space on the grass.

10. Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park, located on the north shore of Lake Union in Seattle, is a 19.-acre public park and the only remaining coal gasification plant in the United States.

It is an open park with two enclosed structures: the remnants of a coal gasification plant that operated from 1906 to 1956, and a storehouse built around 1910.

The site has been preserved as a reminder of Seattle’s industrial past and as a place for visitors to enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

In addition to its historical significance, Gas Works Park is known for its colorful landscape, featuring large grassy fields, pathways lined with trees, hillsides covered with wildflowers, and artwork installations throughout the park.

11. Explore Capitol Hill Neighborhood

One of my favorite downtown Seattle activities is wandering the eclectic neighborhoods. Capitol Hill is a fun, quirky Seattle neighborhood that will give you a small taste of Seattle culture.

Walk the streets and wander into shops that interest you- you really can’t go wrong!

Swing by Optimism Brewing for some locally brewed beer and fun food truck bites.

12. Go to a Local Sports Game

Good or bad, Seattleites love our sports teams. Depending on which sport is in season, a Mariners, Sounders, Kraken and a Seahawks game are must-do downtown Seattle activities.

Baseball : Although the Mariners aren’t the best team, the tickets are cheap, the stadium is nice, and nothing really beats baseball on a warm day.

Soccer : For a super fun American soccer experience, catch a Sounders game! The crowd is electric, and the team has had a lot of success the past few seasons.

Football : To experience the full power of the 12 th man, go to a Seahawks game and be ready to yell loud.

Hockey : Seattle just got a hockey team and a newly renovated arena, if you’re here during hockey season, plan to check out the brand new Seattle Kraken.

13. Wander Discovery Park

Discovery park is just outside of downtown Seattle but will transport you to the outdoors. Follow the various walking paths around the park to see some of the natural beauty that Seattle has to offer.

Make sure to make your way down to the beach for the best views or to the lighthouse for the above iconic picture.

You can also explore the park on a guided electric bike tour

14. See the Olympic Sculpture Park

The Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle is a 9-acre public park that is owned by the Seattle Art Museum.

It’s home to works from some of the world’s most acclaimed artists, including Alexander Calder, Louise Bourgeois, Richard Serra and Henry Moore.

In addition to the artwork, there are also many trails for jogging or walking, picnic areas and public restrooms.

15. Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island

One of the lesser-known Seattle activities involves getting out of the city. Channel your inner Derek Sheppard (where are my Grey’s Anatomy fans at) and take a ferry boat across the Sound to Bainbridge island.

Board the ferry at the downtown terminal, either in your car, on bike, or on foot. Ferry prices will vary by which transportation method you choose.

While you can try to time the ferry schedule, I recommend arriving at your leisure as the wait time should always be under 45 minutes.

On the boat ride, make sure to go out on the deck and soak in the views. If you have time, wander around the cute town of Bainbridge or wander the beaches.

If you don’t have time, the ferry ride is a fun activity in itself. Look back at the city from the water for some of the best skyline photography in Seattle.

What activities to Skip in Seattle

While there are many great things to do in Seattle Washington, there are some things I recommend skipping. These activities aren’t bad, but there are better ways to spend your time and money.

• Seattle Great Wheel
• Columbia Tower Observation Deck
• Klondike Gold Rush Museum

Best Hotels in Downtown Seattle

Thompson Seattle

• Contemporary luxury hotel with a sleek design and an excellent location near Pike Place Market.
• It features a popular rooftop bar, a high-end restaurant, and well-appointed rooms with modern amenities.

Four Seasons Seattle

• This hotel is known for its prime location on the waterfront, offering stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
• It features upscale accommodations, a spa, a rooftop infinity pool, and a renowned restaurant.

Fairmont Olympic

• Historic luxury hotel in downtown Seattle.
• It boasts classic elegance and a convenient location.
• The hotel offers fine dining, a fitness center, a spa, and opulent rooms.

Summary of the Best Things to Do in Downtown Seattle

Related posts:.

• Planning A Trip To Washington State: Insider Tips From A Local
• The Best Seattle Weekend Trip Guide & Itinerary From A Local
• 21 Incredible Weekend Trips from Seattle (within 5 hours)
• The Best Shops In Pike Place Market: Complete Pike Place Market Guide
• Easy Hikes Near Seattle | Best Western Washington Hikes For Beginners

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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15 of the best things to do in Seattle

Jun 24, 2023 • 9 min read

From hanging out in Discovery Park to visiting the Space Needle, here are Seattle's unmissable experiences © Stanton j Stephens / Getty Images

While the rain does fall often in Seattle , it brings with it the lush beauty and life that the city thrives on to make it such a special place.

Amongst that beauty and life is a throng of diverse and unique things to do. From experiencing the historical music scene that brought legends like Nirvana to the forefront of the industry to dining at fresh seafood joints with a beautiful mountain backdrop, here are some of my favorite things to do in the Emerald City.

1. Spend a day in Discovery Park

To get your nature fix without actually leaving the city, Discovery Park is the place to go with 534 acres of natural area to explore.

Go for a hike on the 12 miles of trails among the evergreen trees, relax or search for seashells on the sandy beach or visit the West Point Lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1881. The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center tells the history of the Indigenous Duwamish who once lived on the land.

2. Shop and eat at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market has a special place in the heart of Seattle. With a maze of shops and secret foodie spots, this famous market is a tourist destination that’s worth a visit. There’s a wall that you can leave your mark with a chewed-up piece of gum – is it fascinating or unsanitary? You decide.

Watch seafood vendors fling fish from one part of the store to another. Most come for the spectacle, but the ultra-fresh filets or shellfish make for an unforgettable home-cooked meal.

Stroll around the many quirky shops like Eighth Generation , an Indigenous-owned home goods and art shop, Lamplight Books , a used book store with everything from modern literature to vintage favorites, or peep massive footwear at the Giant Shoe Museum . But who are we kidding? You came here to eat.

Planning tip: Go hungry. Find tasty Russian dumplings at Piroshky Piroshky, swig some Rachel’s Ginger Beer , indulge in the best mac 'n' cheese you’ve ever tasted at Beecher's Handmade Cheese or grab a sweet Earl Grey cookie at Three Girls Bakery .

3. Rock out at the Museum of Pop Culture

Not only is the Museum of Pop Culture a unique architectural wonder to admire, but the exhibitions will take you on a journey through the history of the music industry, with a special soft spot for Seattle legends Kurt Cobain and Jimi Hendrix.

And beyond music, there are year-round showcases and events celebrating all things pop culture and entertainment. Check out Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter’s collection from films like Black Panther (2018), Malcolm X (1992) and  Do the Right Thing (1989).

Planning tip:  If you want to give your secret desire to be a rock star a try, spend some time in the Sound Lab, where you can get in a jam studio and record your own songs.

4. Ride the Puget Sound ferries

For a beautiful view of Seattle and a worthwhile day trip , take one of the many ferries in the area to another Pacific Northwest location. Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Vashon Island, or one of the San Juans provide that small-town getaway feeling without going too far.

Local tip:  When you’re on the ferry, head up to the passenger deck for a full panoramic view of the Seattle skyline from one side and the beautiful Cascade Mountains on the other.

5. Have a cup of coffee (obviously) 

Everyone knows Starbucks began in Seattle, but it's not the only coffee shop worth trying. With multiple cafes on every block, Seattle is considered the coffee capital of the US for a reason. 

You can’t go wrong with sampling espresso from practically anywhere in the city. Diva Espresso has often been left off those “best coffee shops in Seattle” lists, and it’s a shame – the coffee is outstanding. It has seven locations spread throughout the city and serves some of the best iced brews. Grab a pinwheel pastry, and your perfect order is complete. 

Support Black-owned Black Coffee Northwest in Ballard, which gives back to the community through youth development programs.

Planning tip: If you must venture to a Starbucks, make it the Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill. You can try menu items like pizza and tiramisu and special brews like espresso martinis not found in a normal store.

6. Watch a drag show in Capitol Hill

Catching a drag show, eating brunch at an excellent restaurant or viewing some eclectic street art are just snippets of what the Capitol Hill area has to offer. 

This LGBTIQ+  friendly neighborhood has rainbow crosswalks, lots of queer-owned nightlife and a park to relax in an ultimately special pocket of the city. Watch some of your favorite RuPaul’s Drag Race performers and local Seattle queens lip sync up a storm at Queer/Bar or Julia’s on Broadway . 

One of the best restaurants in the neighborhood is Oddfellows Café + Bar , an all-day and all-night spot where you feast on everything from deviled eggs (with dill) to pesto linguine. And always leave room for the strawberry shortcake with Chantilly cream. Right next door, you can find Molly Moon's , an ice cream parlor with local flavors like honey lavender.

7. Take a ride up the Space Needle

The city icon, which is as synonymous with Seattle as the letters S-E-A-T-T-L-E, was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and in 2018 got a face-lift to bring it into a new era.

Although it's no longer Seattle's tallest structure, one million annual visitors still squeeze into the Space Needle’s slick, speedy elevators to enjoy views that are best described as awesome. Granted, tickets are expensive, and you'll be elbow-to-elbow with tourists, but stop complaining and get in line: this is an essential Seattle pilgrimage.

Local tip: Get up early to have the Needle all to yourself. 

8. Have some fun at Lake Union

Looking to get out on the water without actually getting wet? Lake Union is the central spot in Seattle to enjoy all things aquatic. Formed by glacial erosion over 12,000 years ago, Lake Union offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, seaplane journeys and even hot tub boat rentals. 

And if being on the water isn’t your specialty, you can enjoy the lake from the land at Gas Works Park , which has a lovely view of the Space Needle , especially at night. 

If you’re up to the challenge, you can walk or run the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, which takes you six miles around the perimeter, with plenty of houseboats to admire.

9. Enjoy the city's public art 

Seattle likes to display its art out in the open with no holds barred. Sculptures and statues decorate parks, streets and squares, from the weird stone troll underneath a bridge, to the iconic Jimi Hendrix statue, to the existential Waiting for the Interurban .

The city even has its own dedicated repository for 3D work – the city's  sculpture park  is an outpost of the Seattle Art Museum that spreads its works across a beautifully landscaped outdoor space overlooking glassy Elliott Bay.

10. Bike through Coleman Park 

Head south along Lake Washington Blvd E through the very upscale Madrona Park neighborhood and you’ll end up at  Colman Park . The entire lakefront stretch between here and Seward Park is parkland. This is an especially good area for cycling. On the weekends the boulevard is closed to cars.

11. Dine in Belltown

If you’re unsure where to eat and don’t have anything specific in mind, Belltown is where to go. With over 100 restaurant options covering every cuisine you can imagine, you won’t have a problem finding something to sate your appetite. 

For hearty Italian pizza, head to Rocco's for its Classic Sausage. If you need a sushi fix, try Shiro's . Biscuit Bitch should be your brunch stop if you need a serving of Southern-inspired breakfast foods. And for some Caribbean eats, Jerk Shack is a must (try the jerk chicken plate). Drink some ales in the warehouse-style tasting room at Cloudburst Brewing .

The macarons at Lady Yum are so pretty it might be hard picking between eating them or snapping a few photos. A few flavors include classic vanilla bean, espresso fudge, salted caramel, honey lavender, and of course, chocolate.

12. See a performance at LANGSTON 

This Byzantium Revival building began life in 1915 as a synagogue for a congregation of Orthodox Jews. By 1969 the demographics of the neighborhood changed and the building was reintroduced as the  Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center , named after the famed Black American poet and social activist. 

In 2016, the nonprofit  LANGSTON organization  took over programming events in the space to highlight Black art and culture in Seattle. Visitors can catch musical performances, plays, poetry events and film festivals.  

13.    Watch ships and sealife at the Hiram M Chittenden Locks

Seattle shimmers like an Impressionist painting on sunny days at the Hiram M Chittenden Locks. Here, the fresh waters of Lake Washington and Lake Union drop 22ft into saltwater Puget Sound. You can stand inches away and watch the boats rise or sink (depending on direction). Construction of the canal and locks began in 1911; today 100,000 boats pass through them annually. 

Located on the southern side of the locks, a fish ladder was built in 1976 to allow salmon to fight their way to spawning grounds in the Cascade headwaters of the Sammamish River, which feeds Lake Washington. Keep an eye out for the migrating salmon during spawning season (mid-June to September).

Nets keep them from over-leaping and stranding themselves on the pavement. Meanwhile, sea lions chase the fish as they attempt to negotiate the ladder. Displays near the fish-ladder windows help you identify the various species.

At the northern entrance to the lock area is the  Carl English Jr Botanical Gardens , a charming arboretum and specimen garden. Trails wind through beds filled with flowers and mature trees, each labeled. Flanking the gardens is a  visitor center  containing a small museum documenting the history of the locks.

14. Cheers to the beer culture in Ballard

A one-time fishing village founded by Nordic immigrants, the  Ballard neighborhood  has been reincarnated as Seattle’s beer capital with enough bars in its own right to satisfy a city. Boldly experimental, Ballard's small breweries concoct big flavors that are served in a cornucopia of drinking establishments.

There are nano-breweries, brewpubs, old-school biker hangouts (try Backfire Moto ), tasting rooms, whiskey bars (try The Ballard Cut ), sports bars, dives peddling rock and bars with book corners. Check out Bad Jimmy's Brewery  and  Obec Brewing . Once you’re done with the booze, you can immerse yourself in Ballard's unique Nordic Museum and a necklace of waterside parks.

15. Marvel at the genius of the Chihuly Garden & Glass

Opened in 2012 and reinforcing Seattle’s position as a leading city of the arts, this exquisite exposition of the life and work of dynamic   local sculptor Dale Chihuly is possibly the finest collection of curated glass art you'll ever see.

It shows off Chihuly's creative designs in a suite of interconnected dark and light rooms before depositing you in an airy glass atrium and – finally – a landscaped garden in the shadow of the Space Needle. Glassblowing demonstrations are a highlight.

This article was first published May 26, 2021 and updated Jun 24, 2023.

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The best things to do in Seattle right now

A city famous for rain, coffee and Evergreens, here are the top attractions in Meredith Grey’s hometown

Photograph: Shutterstock

The Emerald City may not be known for fantastic weather year-round, but that’s part of the charm! There’s nothing like strolling Pike Place on a drizzly day with a cup of coffee in hand (some of the best in the world). Or enjoy a day of museum-hopping followed by a wine tasting on the Eastside and an amazing seafood dinner. And honestly, don’t let the wet weather deter you. Bring your rain gear (but leave the umbrella at home; we don’t use those out here), get out, and explore like the locals do!

If you do happen to visit during the spectacular summers or again, don’t mind a bit of rain, there are plenty of outdoor spaces to enjoy. Take in city views at Gas Works, sunbathe at Alki Beach, or escape the hustle and bustle with a day trip to Bainbridge Island. Seattle will surely delight, no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for. From parks to attractions and landmarks, these are the best things to do in Seattle.

This guide was updated by Seattle-based writer Sydney Baker. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Seattle 🍷 The best bars in Seattle ☕ The best coffee in Seattle 🍻 The best breweries in Seattle  🥑 Where to eat the best brunch in Seattle

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Seattle

1.  pioneer square.

Is it a weekend away in a new city if you didn’t spend hours people-watching in a square? No, is the answer. And Seattle has just the thing. Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood and features everything you need for the perfect afternoon—cafés, bookstores and lovely architecture, to name a few. While you’re there, head to the   Klondike Gold Rush museum, and then check out the Smith Tower , which for a while was the tallest building on the West Coast and boasts some pretty spectacular views. This is also the spot for the brilliant Bill Speidel's Underground Tour , where you can learn about Seattle’s underground passages, dark tunnels and subterranean passageways. 

2.  Space Needle

Every city needs a freakishly tall structure with overpriced champagne, right? Well, this is Seattle’s. The space needle was originally constructed to be part of the 1962 World’s Fair and boasts the most incredible views of the city. From here, you can see the Cascades, Olympic Mountains and more, and it’s had several renovations to make it really shine. Now, there are tilting glass walls (called Skyrisers), which make you feel like you’re floating, and a revolving glass floor to make you dizzy. If you worked up a thirst or appetite, grab locally sourced snacks, coffee, beer and wine at the Atmos Café , or check out the Atmos Wine Bar. Additionally, post renovations, The Loupe Lounge is now open and serving cocktails as the world’s first revolving bar.

3.  Chihuly Garden and Glass

A unique visual experience, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the epic work of Northwest glass artist Dale Chihuly with a series of mind- and glass-blowing indoor and outdoor installations. The sculptures range from the elegant to the extravagant, particularly in the garden, where plants and glass pieces tangle in a blaze of colors. Refraction means an entirely different experience in different weather conditions—but permanent Instagram gold. It also pairs well with a Space Needle visit, as the museum is just steps away from the famous landmark.

4.  Pike Place Market

• Pine Market

A famous market and a must-see, no matter the length of your trip. It is the most visited landmark in the city (impressive for a market, right?) and a fabulous place for foodies to indulge in tasty grub.   Sleuth out the rosy entrance to hidden local favorite  the Pink Door , which serves up deliciously fresh Italian grub. Other great options for sit-down lunch include  Pike Place Chowder —serving some of the best clam chowders this side of Boston—and  Lowell’s , where you can tick the Seattle Joe Scramble (sausage, spinach, and mushrooms) off of your gastronomical bucket list. Skip over to the other side, and you can discover another of Pike Place's secret foodie havens  The Crumpet Shop , though they have been known to sell out by lunchtime. 

5.  Bainbridge Island

This nearby island is the antithesis of the skyscraper-stuffed city, with 150 acres of gardens, ponds, and meadows to explore in the beautiful  Bloedel Reserve . Like NYC’s Staten Island Ferry, the  Bainbridge Island Ferry  is a splendid way to eyeball a significant amount of Seattle’s highlights swiftly—and cheaply. But before you take the 35-minute ride back, stop for a treat at one of the West Coast’s finest ice cream parlors,  Mora Iced Creamery , where flavors include cheesecake with raspberry jam and mojito.

6.  Seattle Barista Academy

Located a short drive from downtown in Tukwila, the Seattle Barista Academy offers three-hour classes for javaholics. If you’re a fan of the black stuff, the epicenter of the North American coffee scene is the perfect place to get your hands dirty. Learn everything from beginner latte art to how to brew the perfect espresso in the span of an afternoon. Pro tip: Better book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

7.  Marination Ma Kai

• North Admiral

Born from a popular food truck, Marination Ma Kai serves up mouthwatering Hawaiian-Korean fusion food at an ace location on the glistening waterfront. Board the West Seattle water taxi at Pier 50, and 15 minutes later, you’ll arrive in Seattle's take on the tropics. With jaw-dropping views from its patio, this restaurant makes you feel like you are on an island. For eats, opt for a pork katsu sandwich with kimchi (beware the spice, though) or say aloha to some sexy (their word, not ours) tofu tacos.

8.  Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel , on Pier 57, is one of the largest of its kind in North America, and gondolas are fully enclosed for rain-or-shine rides. The views from this 175-foot-high Ferris wheel more than compensate for its corniness. From the top, you’ll enjoy a grand panorama of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and—if you’re lucky—the Olympic Mountains. First opened in 2012, the wheel isn't a particularly old landmark, but that hardly matters. Besides, you can expect fantastic views when you're going for a ride, and the wheel itself lights up, providing the Seattle skyline with a little razzle-dazzle.

9.  Seward Park

• Rainier Valley

This park covers all of the Bailey Peninsula, and its lush, old-growth forest (some of the trees are more than 250 years old) is a popular escape from the urban jungle. A forested 300-acre peninsula jutting out into Lake Washington, Seward Park is only a 20-minute drive (or taxi ride) from downtown Seattle, but it feels like a different world. With beaches, boating, tennis courts, and hiking trails, it’s an excellent day-trip option for all ages.

10.  Museum of Pop Culture

MoPOP is Seattle’s tribute to the history of Northwest music, from Jimi Hendrix to Nirvana and much more. Celebrating all things pop culture and science fiction, the exhibition space is wrapped inside a fluid Frank Gehry design. Play in your own virtual rock band while learning about the region’s rich rock legacy, or geek out in the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. It is conveniently located in the Seattle Center, next door to the Space Needle and Chihuly Glass.

11.  Chateau Ste. Michelle

Washington prides itself on its wine—and Chateau Ste. Michelle (less than 20 miles from Seattle) is the state’s oldest and most celebrated winery. A turreted French-style mansion surrounded by 105-acre grounds, Ste. Michelle produces chardonnay, cabernet, merlot, riesling, and other varietals that visitors can taste during regular tasting sessions. If you visit during the warmer months, don't miss the popular summer concert series on the winery's pristine lawn.

12.  Fremont

"De libertas quirkas" ("the freedom to be quirky"), is the unofficial motto of Fremont , Seattle's indie enclave. Home of the Fremont Troll, the hip nabe has some of Northwest's best vintage stores and independent boutiques. Among the highlights are PIPE + ROW , an expertly curated boutique known for its unique accessories, and Show Pony , which champions local designers and is a mine of affordable fashion. If you are into record collecting, don't miss Jive Time , where you can pick up used vinyl for a fraction of the retail price. Finally, for all the bookworms, Ophelia’s Books , home to a great selection of used and new titles, is a can’t miss!

13.  Ballard Locks

• Parks and gardens

Officially named the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, these labyrinthine waterways linking the Puget Sound with Lake Washington and the Ship Canal are one of the city's most popular attractions. On sunny days, people flock to the waterside and the neighboring Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden —one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city. If the sun is out, many will kick back dockside or stroll on the swinging walkways to watch the boats come and go. In late summer and early fall, head to the Salmon Ladder on the other side of the locks, where you can see migrating salmon in the underground viewing room.

14.  Tom Douglas restaurants

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lola Seattle (@lolaseattle)

Self-taught chef Tom Douglas remains MVP on Seattle’s restaurant scene, gracing the city with several fabulous restaurants. Whether you opt for thin-crust wood-fired pizzas at Serious Pie, Greek-influenced cuisine at Lola, or seafood at the Seatown Rub Shack and Fish Fry, you'll taste some seriously good grub.

15.  Beneath the Streets Tour

The Rainy City’s reputation may be exaggerated, but when the weather looks menacing, simply duck underground to roam forgotten subterranean passages with expert guides. For a sub-sidewalk circuit of the city, get on a Beneath the Streets tour. Setting off from Cherry Street, the one-hour walk snakes under Pioneer Square, past beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, and into the earliest roots of Seattle. You can now explore underground Seattle in a new light by joining a Red Light District Tour. Expect to come face to face with Seattle's grimy underbelly, including discussions about prostitution, gambling, vice, and drinking.

16.  Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour

The 90-minute Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour covers the past, present, and future of human flight in a state-of-the-art museum and gives you entry to the Boeing factory. You get to go behind the scenes at the facility where the famous Boeing aircraft are made and tested. At a sprawling 98 acres, this is officially the largest building in the world (measured by volume)—and the place where Boeing developed the Dreamliner. Please note that the Center is in Everett, about 30 miles north of downtown Seattle.

17.  Museum of History & Industry

• South Lake Union

Seattle’s Museum of History & Industry covers the region's heritage through a colossal collection of four million artifacts.  In 2012, this Smithsonian affiliate   relocated to its grand new home in the Naval Reserve Armory in Lake Union Park. The bigger premises allows the museum to display more of its collection, including outstanding pieces like the Petticoat Flag—an 1856 American flag sewn by women during the Battle of Seattle—and Boeing’s first commercial airplane (the 1919 Boeing B-1).

18.  Seattle Art Museum

• Central Business District

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM to its friends) is one of the city’s unmissable highlights.  The extensive permanent collections of Native American and Pacific Northwest artwork are worth the visit alone, but the diverse, lively temporary exhibitions keep locals and visitors returning time and again. If you can, try to time your visit to include the first Thursday of the month, when entry is free, and leave time to check out the nearby outdoor art at Olympic Sculpture Park. 

19.  Wing Luke Museum

• International District

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wing Luke Museum (@winglukemuseum)

Located on South King Street in the Chinatown-International District, the Wing Luke Museum is dedicated to exploring the culture, art, and history of Asian Pacific Americans. The museum is particularly strong on folk art and oral history but also curates many fascinating neighborhood walking tours. Of course, there’s plenty of love for Seattle’s most famous Asian Pacific son, the mighty Bruce Lee, in an exhibition that includes some of his poems and personal possessions.

20.  Triple Door

Triple Door—a beautiful 1920s vaudeville theater with stints as a burlesque house and blue movie theater—is well worth checking out. Now one of the Northwest’s top live music venues, it combines world-class acts with an award-winning restaurant, Wild Ginger. If you don’t want to commit to a full concert experience, the no-cover Musicquarium Lounge is great for pre-dinner happy hour cocktails and a taste of local music before moving down Union Street.

21.  Golden Gardens

One of the best beaches in the city, it is named for the golden sand that graces the shores, a rarity in a region better known for rocky coastlines. Golden Gardens is located in Ballard and makes a great afternoon walk from the top of Sunset Hill down the stairs to the sand. Or, make a full day of it, bring a cooler and snacks, and enjoy views of the Olympics on clear days. Cafe Fiore at the top of the stairs also serves up top-rate Seattle espresso and pastries.

22.  Gas Works Park

Another popular outdoor space in Seattle is the 19.1 acres where a former industrial plant now serves as the city’s playground. Gas Works is ideally situated between Fremont and the University District. Gas Works is right off the Burke Gilman trail and is a great place to stop off for a picnic after a bike ride. Enjoy panoramic views of the skyline and Lake Union. And if you’re in need of refreshments after a day spent outside, head over to the nearby Fremont Brewery .

23.  West Seattle & Alki Beach

Just a 10-minute water taxi ride (located at Pier 50) away from the downtown Seattle Waterfront lies West Seattle. This neighborhood is just across the water but feels a world away. The relaxed vibe and beach town feel make it a favorite day trip among Seattleites. Once disembarking the boat, rent bikes or walk the one-mile stretch along the water to Alki Beach. Like Golden Gardens, it is a rare sandy beach amongst the rougher shores in most of the Pacific Northwest.

More great things to do in Seattle

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56 Essential Things To Do In Seattle At Least Once, According To Locals

How many of these quintessential Seattle activities can you say you've done?

Looking for fun things to do in Seattle?

There’s no shortage of things to do in the Emerald City—and that can be overwhelming! So we asked Seattleites on Instagram and Facebook what they consider to be the most essential things to do in Seattle. After all, who better to ask than the locals?

Some of these are seasonal activities, most of them are kid-friendly, and many are free! If you’ve done more than half of the things on this list, you can say you’re a seasoned Seattleite. If you’ve done all 50, congrats: you’ve won the key to the city.

Here are over 50 of the most essential things to do in Seattle:

1. See the cherry blossoms at the University of Washington

Every spring, cherry blossoms start to bloom all around Seattle from the end of March to mid-April. One of the most stunning displays is located in the Quad at the University of Washington . It’s a sight that is not to be missed.

2. Go to a Candlelight Concert

If you want to experience a memorable night of live music at an iconic Seattle venue , you need to know about the Candlelight Concert series. Every month you can choose from different concerts featuring everything from classical music to modern hits from artists like Taylor Swift. Get more info and tickets for upcoming Candlelight Concerts .

3. Visit Columbia Center for the view

Sky View Observatory atop Columbia Center offers a stunning vista of the Seattle waterfront and Elliott Bay. But those in the know recommended including a trip to the 76th-floor bathroom while you’re there.

4. Take a Seattle harbor cruise

What better way to see Seattle than from the water? You’ll get to see the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, and more stunning views on this one-hour cruise. Get your tickets here .

5. Try a Seattle Dog

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You can’t leave Seattle without having tried a Seattle Dog: a hot dog graced with cream cheese and onions. As one Seattleite put it, the most authentic experience is getting one from a street vendor after a night out.

6. Go to Harry Potter™: Magic at Play

Did you know that you can visit the wizarding world of Harry Potter™ from Seattle? Harry Potter™: Magic at Play  is an immersive experience that allows all ages to get hands-on while exploring multiple locations straight out of Harry’s world. Get your tickets while it’s still here!

7. Experience the Fremont naked bike ride

It’s up to you whether you want to partake in the famous naked bike ride or simply watch from the sidelines. This unsanctioned tradition happens every June as part of the Fremont Fair and Solstice Parade .

8. Walk through Astra Lumina

This is a new must-do winter activity in Seattle! You can brighten those long, dark winter nights in Seattle by walking through Astra Lumina: A Night Walk Amongst The Stars in the Seattle Chinese Garden. The music, lighting, and projections make this a sensory wonder for all ages. Tickets are on sale here !

9. Eat a 12-egg omelette at Beth’s

Beth’s Cafe used to be Seattle’s most beloved all-night diner, until it closed down in 2021. Happily, Beth’s reopened recently . You can once again order the 12-egg omelette, although the full experience (eating it drunk at 3:00 a.m.) will have to wait until they expand their hours.

10. See a live show

Seattle has no shortage of excellent live music venues. Whether you want to catch an iconic musical artist at Climate Pledge Arena or see a small local act at a cafe, there’s options for every night of the week. See our guide to the best live music venues in Seattle , as well as Seattle restaurants with live music in case you want dinner and show.

11. Visit the Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight is a must-visit. Hot tip: they offer free admission between 5:00 and 9:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month, and children under the age of four are always admitted for free.

12. Go to a Concert Under the Stars

A really cool live music experience in Seattle is this evening concert series that takes place on a stunning rooftop with cocktails and a view. Tickets are still available for these Concerts Under the Stars:

• Amy Winehouse Under The Stars at The Olympic Rooftop
• From Ella to Alicia Under the Stars at The Olympic Rooftop Pavilion

13. Take a ferry to one of the islands

A ferry ride should definitely be on your Seattle bucket list. Your destination options include Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, Whidbey Island, and the San Juan islands.

14. Tour the Seattle underground

You can head to Seattle’s historic neighborhood Pioneer Square to take a tour of the Seattle underground. You’ll be able to walk along underground tunnels that were once at street-level while you learn some fascinating Seattle history.

15. Eat at Dick’s Drive-In

Some genuinely love Dick’s burgers, while others argue that they’re overrated. Either way, you haven’t had the true Seattle experience until you can say you’ve tried a bag of Dick’s. (As a bonus, it’s one of Seattle’s most affordable meals.)

16. Visit the Chihuly Glass Museum

This famous museum of glass artwork located at Seattle Center is truly a stunning sight.

17. See the Pacific Northwest Ballet perform The Nutcracker

Many Seattleites have fond memories of seeing the Pacific Northwest Ballet perform The Nutcracker every Christmas. This is a great holiday tradition to do with kids.

18. Visit Smith Tower

Smith Tower is a historic building located in Pioneer Square. You can go to the Observatory & Bar for a great view, and as of 2023 you’ll also find brunch, free movie nights, cocktail classes, and events. Read more about things to do at Smith Tower .

19. Go to the top of the Space Needle at sunset

You can get small bites and cocktails atop the Space Needle while you walk on the revolving glass floor and watch the sun set over the 360-degree view. Yes, it’s a tourist attraction, but it’s also a fun experience to do at least once.

20. Eat Molly Moon’s ice cream at Kerry Park

You’ll find possibly the most iconic view of Seattle at the miniature Kerry Park in Queen Anne. Molly Moon’s ice cream is within walking distance of the park if you want to try a popular Seattle treat.

21. Spend a day at Pike Place Market

Yes, Pike Place Market (never Pike’s) is typically full of tourists. But locals go there too! You can buy fresh flowers, produce, seafood (and do the fish toss at least once), and eat at dozens of delicious restaurants.

22. Go to the Seattle Aquarium

If you don’t like watching adorable otters eat and play, then we can’t help you.

23. Swim in Lake Washington

Every summer, Seattleites flock to the east side of the city to swim in Lake Washington. The “beaches” may be grassy rather than sandy but we don’t mind.

24. Ride the Burke-Gilman trail

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a 19-mile paved trail that provides an excellent way to see a large part of Seattle via bike. You can also walk or jog along it.

25. Have dinner and a show at Can Can Culinary Cabernet

This cabaret dinner theater located at Pike Place Market is a truly memorable experience.

26. Rent a hot tub boat on Lake Union

Here’s an outdoor activity that you can do year-round in Seattle: rent a hot tub boat on Lake Union! You’ll be warm and toasty while taking in the city views, even if it’s raining.

27. Explore the Olympic Peninsula

The Olympic National Park is only about a four-hour drive from Seattle and is home to mountains, hot springs, stunning beaches, and even a rainforest.

28. Visit the Fremont Troll

Make sure you visit Seattle’s famous Fremont Troll before he moves to Bellevue ! Just kidding 😉

29. Get a drink at Central Saloon

Central Saloon’s claim to fame is that it’s the “birthplace of grunge,” since Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden and more have played there. Nirvana actually had their first Seattle show there. They still host live music almost every night so be sure to go there and catch a show.

30. Visit Easy Street Records

Another iconic Seattle spot for music lovers is Easy Street Records & Cafe in West Seattle. You can browse for records, catch a live show, and eat a great meal at their diner-style cafe.

31. Go to the Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s not hard to see why. There’s an exhibition for everyone there, from movies and TV to music and video games.

32. Try Fran’s Chocolates

A Seattle delicacy, Fran’s Chocolates can be found in downtown Seattle as well as in Georgetown and Bellevue.

33. See a laser dome show at Pacific Science Center

A classic Seattle experience is seeing a laser dome show at the Pacific Science Center. Hot tip: PacSci often hosts a monthly happy hour event for ages 21 and up, in case you’d prefer to go when there are no kids running around.

34. Spend a weekend in Capitol Hill

There’s so many things to do in Capitol Hill … You can go to Volunteer Park on a nice day and tour the conservatory, you can shop and eat your heart out, and you can go dancing, see live music, or bar hop all night long.

35. See a local band play

It’s not hard to find live music in Seattle. Besides all the local summer music festivals and the annual Capitol Hill Block Party , there are venues such as Neumos, Nectar Lounge, and the aforementioned Central Saloon are just a few places to go support musical artists.

36. Spend a day at Alki Beach

One of the few sandy beaches in Seattle, Alki Beach is one of our favorite things to do in West Seattle during the summer months.

37. Take a tour of Theo Chocolate Factory

Seattle has its very own chocolate factory that fills the air in Fremont with a heavenly scent. You can sign up for a tour of Theo Chocolate Factory online .

38. Eat a geoduck

Listen, it’s not for us to comment on geoducks’ appearance, taste, or weird name (pronounced gooey-duck ). We’re just here to tell you that eating one is a very Seattle experience.

39. Spend a hot summer day at Golden Gardens

Seattle’s other sandy beach is Golden Gardens in Ballard. You’ll find that the temperature of Puget Sound is frigid year-round, but that doesn’t stop Seattleites from flocking to this beach en-masse all summer.

40. See the Ballard Locks in action

The Hiram M. Chittenden (more commonly known as the Ballard Locks) is a waterway system connecting the saltwater of Puget Sound to freshwater. You can watch the locks in action and see ships go through them—for free! The botanical garden there is also worth a visit.

41. Go on the Wings Over Washington ride on the waterfront

If you find yourself on the Seattle waterfront, skip the Great Wheel and go on Wings Over Washington instead. This short virtual-reality ride is surprisingly fun (although you really only need to do it once).

42. Visit the Woodland Park Zoo

Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo is a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Hot tip: the adjacent rose garden is free to visit and quite lovely year-round, but especially so when the roses are in bloom.

43. Get dim sum in the International District

Seattle’s Chinatown-International District (commonly called the CID) is a foodie heaven. Go here for dim sum: one of Seattle’s most hearty and affordable meals.

44. Take an electric boat out on Lake Union with friends

An easy summer birthday activity in Seattle is renting an electric boat on Lake Union with friends. You can bring snacks and drinks with you and blast music while you enjoy the city views.

45. Take a scenic seaplane flight over the city

Want to see a unique view of Seattle? You can take a scenic flight with Kenmore Air. The seaplane will take off from and land on Lake Union for a thrilling ride.

46. Go to a Seahawks game

If you’ve been to a ___ (fill in the blank with Seahawks, Sounders, Mariners, or Kraken) game then you get a point.

47. Stroll through the arboretum

The Washington Park Arboretum is an underrated must-visit in Seattle. Bonus points if you’ve seen the fall foliage or the spring flowers blooming. If you’ve visited the Japanese garden there, you’re a true Seattleite.

48. Have a picnic at Gas Works Park at sunset

On a sunny day, all of Seattle will be at Gas Works Park flying kites, having picnics, walking their dogs, and throwing their frisbee right at you. The view is worth the odd frisbee to the head, though.

49. Ride the Monorail

The Seattle Center Monorail travels less than a mile and has only two stops, so it will be a short ride. It’s worth doing at least once though, for the views and just to say that you did it.

50. Visit the Seattle Central Library

Firstly, you should really take advantage of all the free things you can do with a Seattle library card if you live in King County. Secondly, you have to visit Seattle Central Library the next time you’re in downtown Seattle. First check out the Red Hall, and then go all the way to the highest viewpoint on the top floor.

51. Take a free wooden rowboat out on Lake Union

The Center for Wooden Boats offers free rowboat rentals. You just have to sign up in advance. It’s a great budget-friendly activity in Seattle.

52. Shop at Uwijimaya

Uwijimaya is a popular Asian grocery store in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District. You’ll also find an amazing food court there.

53. Go to the world-famous tulip festival

Seattleites know that the arrival of April means it’s time to make the day trip to nearby Mount Vernon for the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival . The rows upon rows of colorful tulips are quite a sight to behold.

54. Visit Leavenworth in October or at Christmas

Another local destination on many Seattleites’ bucket list is Leavenworth, WA. This Bavarian-style mountain town goes all out in the fall for Oktoberfest and in the winter for Christmas.

55. Browse the stacks at Elliott Bay Book Co.

Seattle has no shortage of amazing independent bookstores but Elliott Bay Book Co. in Capitol Hill is the largest. They have something for every reader, in addition to ongoing events, a charming in-store cafe, and a cozy kids’ section.

56. Hike in Mt. Rainier National Park

Finally, it’s essential to catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Mount Rainier (known by the indigenous people of the Puyallup Tribe as Tahoma). If you’re lucky you’ll see the volcano from Seattle on a clear day—or you can see it up-close by enjoying a trek through Mt. Rainier National Park. Even if you’re not up for a long, strenuous hike you could go and follow the short trail from the parking lot to Myrtle Falls .

How many things on this Seattle bucket list have you done? Let us know!

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The 40 Best Things to Do in Seattle

Noah Kreyenhagen / TripSavvy

Seattle, Washington's state's biggest city, offers a unique mix of metropolitan flair and natural beauty. Situated on the Puget Sound and home to several urban lakes, the city's natural spaces and parks are a welcome reprieve for both locals and visitors . However, you don't have to be outdoorsy to appreciate the Emerald City's splendor. Famous attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, as well as the city's thriving art and food scene, will keep culture buffs busy too.

Visit Seattle Center

Noah Kreyenhagen​ / TripSavvy

Home to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center, the Seattle Center is the hub of the city's cultural activity. Here you'll find the famous  Space Needle , the Chihuly Gardens and Glass architectural exhibit, and museums like MoPOP and the Pacific Science Center. With plenty of things to see in this expansive facility, families can keep themselves busy for days. Check out the International Fountain or enroll the kids in a fun day camp. Catch the Seattle Center Monorail from downtown and back again for the full experience.

Catch Fish at Pike Place Market

There's no better way to experience Seattle’s local vibe than to hang out at Pike Place Market. Marvel over the impressive fresh seafood vendors, sample some in-season produce, buy a bouquet of flowers, and eat at a trendy restaurant. Pike Place Market is conveniently located right on the Sound, making it the perfect dockside lunch stop to sit and watch the scene. After you eat, stroll down to the Seattle Aquarium or take a ride on the Great Wheel.

Explore Downtown Seattle

Downtown Seattle is walkable (as long as you don’t mind a hill or two), fairly compact, and filled with shops, restaurants, and theaters. Stop by the Westlake Center for coffee or a peek into the shops. Take in a musical show at the historic 5 th Avenue Theatre. And don't forget to enjoy a few oysters on the half shell (a Seattle delicacy). Tankard & Tun will fix you up right and give you a microbrew to accompany your raw-bar spread.

Add to the Gum Wall

Just down the ramp from Pike Place Market’s main entrance sits the Gum Wall—a quirky Seattle attraction that allows you to leave your mark on the city. And it's just what it sounds like—a big wall with colorful gum stuck all over it. This 50-foot wall started collecting its samples in the mid-1990s when people waiting for shows needed someplace to put their spent gum. Today, you can create your own gum designs on this icky wall. And while you're at it, grab a selfie in front of the melting gobs of goo.

See the Animals at the Zoo

Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo houses both local Pacific Northwest animals and exotic species from around the world in natural habitats. Families will enjoy wandering around exhibits on Humboldt Penguins, Assam Rhinos, and the African Savanna. Visiting the zoo over the holidays, when it's decked out in Christmas lights, makes a special treat. It's a feel-good visit that supports the zoo's conservation initiatives, too.

Tour the Seattle Underground

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer

The Seattle Underground offers you an up-close look at the city's original footprint. After the Great Fire of 1889, the city rebuilt itself on top of its former structure. Venture underground to see antique storefronts and streets that are preserved like a time capsule. The tour leaves out of Pioneer Square and offers quirky humor and history snippets along the way.

View Ancient and Modern Art

TripSavvy / Noah Kreyenhagen

The Seattle Art Museum offers visitors a view of ancient American and Mediterranean art, as well as modern and contemporary works. It also features rotating exhibits throughout the year. Don't want to pay the admission fee to see fine art? Check out the museum's Olympic Sculpture Park , open from sunrise to sunset (no fee required), and located on the water next to the Myrtle Edwards Park. Or you can visit most of Seattle's museums for free on the first Thursday of each month during specified hours.

Smell the Flowers at the Arbortoreum

Filled with trails winding through woodlands and along natural shorelines, the Washington Park Arboretum is a nature lover's paradise. This park is run by the University of Washington's Botanic Gardens and offers seasonal highlights throughout the year. In the winter, check out the year-round blooms of the Camellia collection; azaleas and rhododendrons line the fragrant pathways in spring; summer boast hydrangeas and magnolias; and fall produces the vivid colors of the sour gum, Buckeye, and witch hazel trees.

Take a Cruise on the Water

While there are tons of ways to get out on the Puget Sound or one of Seattle's lakes, Argosy Cruises offers a special trip. Their harbor cruises, venturing from the docks on the downtown waterfront, give you a unique one-hour vantage point from which to view the city's iconic landmarks. You can also take a cruise through Ballard Locks, or on Lake Washington or Lake Union , to see houseboats, seaplanes, and Bill Gate's waterfront home.

Attend a Ball Game

Football fans will enjoy catching a Seahawks game (or preseason training) at  CenturyLink Field . The fans are ferocious, making for one of the loudest football games you'll ever attend. Seattle’s resident soccer team, the Sounders, also play at CenturyLink. Baseball fans can head to T-Mobile Park for a Mariners game. And while the Sonics left town long ago, the Seattle Storm still bring their basketball game to the city, in perfect female style.

See a Performing Arts Show

Paramount Theater

While Seattle is filled with theaters large and small, the Paramount Theater , home of the Seattle Theater Group, is the city's benchmark. This playhouse showcases Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more. Together with its sister theaters, The Moore and The Neptune, the group delivers over 600 performances a year. National acts and Broadway shows sell out fast so be sure to book tickets before your stay. You can also take a free tour of all three historic theaters, complete with architectural highlights and plenty of stories.

Exercise on the City's Trails

The Burke Gilman Trail is one of the city's best hiking trails for those that like cutting through town on a level and paved path. You can also grab some quick exercise at Discovery Park or at the Washington Park Arboretum. But if you really want to go all out, head to Issaquah’s Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park to enjoy 120 acres filled with miles of mountain bike trails for all ability levels.

Explore Capitol Hill

The streets of Capitol Hill are filled with Seattle-centric shops, hangouts, and nightlife venues. While there, pop inside the Elliott Bay Book Company, the city’s largest book store. Before getting lost in aisles of books, enjoy the store's cafe or one of their many events and book signings.

Visit Fremont

Exploring the neighborhoods in Seattle is a great way to uncover each area's distinct characteristics. But, Fremont is an especially fun district to hang out in. The Fremont Troll under the Aurora Bridge is a giant sculpture that makes for an awesome photo op. Fremont is also home to the Fremont Rocket sculpture, a tail boom that looks like a missile, and the old Communist-era colossus of Lenin. All are within a block of each other and not far from the Theo Chocolate Factory , where you can book a mouthwatering tour.

Dine at Top Restaurants

Real foodies will dig Seattle's food scene. In fact, you can shape your entire trip around the city's hotspots. To start, book a table at Tom Douglas' Etta's to enjoy a market-driven seafood experience. This local chef also has several other restaurants located in or near downtown. In fact, his Dalia Lounge offers upscale American fare and offers a "quintessential Seattle dining experience." For something more casual, duck into Dick’s Drive-In for a burger or Molly Moon’s for homemade ice cream. And, of course, you can just nibble your way through Pike Place Market.

Grab a Nightcap

Mike McCune

Seattle loves its beverages. And if you’re a cocktail fan, Seattle's speakeasies offer some of the best spots to explore the local drink scene. Enjoy a handcrafted microbrew from the widely-distributed Pyramid Brewing Co. next to the stadiums. Or sample hyper-local microbrews at Pike Brewing Company (near Pike Place). Unpretentious wine bars, like Left'Bank Seattle , offer a neighborhood feel and serve superior glasses of wine at a fair price.

Shop Until You Drop

If you prefer the mall experience, Westlake Center and Pacific Place (both located in downtown) are filled with the usual finds like Nordstrom Rack, Zara and the Pacific Northwest's own lululemon. But across the 520 Bridge, at Bellevue Square, you can shop at Nordstrom's, Anthropologie, and eat at stand-alone restaurants or the food court. To the south in Tukwila, enjoy the Westfield Southcenter Mall with its range of mid-level stores and a whole wing filled with Asian eateries, Seafood City, and an Asian grocery store.

Relax at a Spa

For women, the Olympus Spa in Lynnwood lends a unique opportunity for indulgence. This women-only day spa boasts a number of pools, an infrared steam room, and dry saunas, as well as treatments such that include Korean body scrubs and facials. Most of the clientele participate in the spa's services in the buff (and in the true Korean spa tradition). So, if modesty is your preference, you may want to look elsewhere.

Enjoy Cultural Festivals

Bridget Christian

Year-round happenings, from cultural festivals at the Seattle Center to holiday celebrations , grace the Seattle scene. Keep an eye out for Bumbershoot in September, one of the area's biggest concerts. The Fremont Solstice Parade is full of costumed bike-riders. Northwest Folklife boasts folk music, food, dance, and crafts. Bite of Seattle celebrates the local food scene. And Seafair , Seattle’s ultimate summer gatherings, holds festivities in dozens of citywide neighborhoods.

Take a Tour of the University of Washington

Chris VR / TripSavvy 

The University of Washington is more than a just college campus. It’s a beautiful oasis of trees and historical buildings amidst an urban setting. Check it out on your own or drop by the visitor’s center for a guided tour. For a special treat, visit the campus in the spring when the cherry blossom trees are at their peak.

Drink and Watch a Movie

FilmMagic/Contributor/Getty Images

Adults can spend an evening at one of Seattle’s 21-and-over movie theaters. Kick back with a drink in hand while watching a favorite Hollywood flick. Cinerama offers something more than your average movie theater. With props, chocolate popcorn, yummy concessions, and laser projection in a historic theater, this venue gives you an out-of-the-box movie-going experience.

Watch the Boats at Ballard Locks

No trip to Seattle is complete without an afternoon spent at Ballard Locks. Watching boats load into one of the busiest locks in the world is oddly mesmerizing. While you're there, cross over the locks to watch the salmon ladder in action. July and August are the best times to see different species like Sockeye, Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead. Check the tides and book a tour for the best viewing experience.

Go to the Beach

Several beaches lie within city limits, including Alki Beach Park and Golden Gardens. And, typical of the Pacific Northwest, the water isn’t especially warm, but you can still stretch out on the sand or enjoy beach volleyball on a sunny day. Pop on a wetsuit and take a dive in the sound or check out the small swimming beaches on Lake Washington, if you prefer warmer water.

Go Skydiving

AlenaPaulus/Getty Images

iFLY Seattle is not your typical skydiving experience. Located in Tukwila, iFly lets you try skydiving in a controlled indoor wind tunnel. Armed with a wind suit, ear protection, goggles, and a helmet, you can experience what it's like to soar through the air, no plane jumping required. They offer coaching, a flight school that teaches skills progression, field trips, and birthday parties. Take a rainy day and head inside at iFLY.

Take in the View

Of course, the Space Needle offers the most famous views of the city, but it also comes along with lines and crowds. Alternatively, Smith Tower (one of the oldest and tallest buildings in Seattle) pairs a great city view with local history and good eats from the bar and cafe at the top. Another stunning viewpoint can be had from the Sky View Observatory at the Columbia Tower—the tallest building in Seattle.

Fly at Emerald City Trapeze Arts

Romilly Lockyer/Getty Images

For another indoor flying experience, check out Emerald City Trapeze Arts. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy introductory trapeze instructions and try aerial circus stunts first-hand. Special events take place throughout the year, including New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day, when performers put on a show for guests paired with snacks and appetizers.

Climb Wilcox Wall

If you want an off-trail urban workout, try climbing the Queen Anne Public Stairs on Wilcox Wall. Built in 1915, the staired wall (complete with 785 stairs) was meant to be part of the Queen Anne Boulevard infrastructure. The boulevard was never built, but many of its structures are now used as jogging paths. From the top, enjoy views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.

Discover West Seattle

Seattle’s largest residential neighborhood has a laidback vibe, great local shops, and plenty of places to eat. Take a water taxi from downtown Seattle or hop over the bridge. Once there, visit Alki Beach Park, take photos of the Seattle skyline across the water, enjoy the local businesses, and stroll along the waterfront walkway.

Read at Central Library

Believe it or not, the Central Library is one of the most interesting buildings in Seattle. As soon as you see it—with its angular walls, deep red hallways, and bright yellow escalators—you’ll know it’s something special. Take in the view from the top floor, peruse the artwork located throughout the building, or hole up in a corner with a good read.

Attend a Program at the Gates Foundation Discovery Center

TripSavvy /  Noah Kreyenhagen

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center acts as an interpretive exhibit that showcases the foundation's initiative to reduce inequities related to poverty, health, and education. Explore exhibits on global change, fighting disease, and making a difference. The center also hosts various programs throughout the year focused on teaching design concepts and fostering teens to advocate for change.

Attend Mass at St. James Cathedral

Enjoy old-world charm right in the heart of the city with a visit to St. James Cathedral, built in 1905, and dedicated in 1907. The structure just might make you feel like you’re in a European city, with its Renaissance architecture and stained-glass collection. Take a tour or experience the more spiritual side of the cathedral by attending a mass or watching a choir performance.

Learn About Glassblowing

Seattle area is a hub for the practice of artisanal glassblowing. And glass artist Dale Chihuly leads the charge (he’s from Tacoma and lives in Seattle). At the Seattle Glassblowing Studio, you can shop the galleries, watch live glassblowing, or attend a class that teaches you the art. This outing makes the perfect date night, especially for serious learners.

Take in High Tea

Seattle isn’t the most formal of cities, but you can still enjoy tea time at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown. The Georgian Restaurant offers an elegant afternoon high tea from noon to 3 p.m. on the weekends. Enjoy a mother-daughter outing over the holidays, complete with a champagne bar. Or, bring your children to this special affair, complete with a kid's menu just for them.

Buy Gifts at Archie McPhee’s

If you’ve got a taste for gag gifts or general silliness, Archie McPhee’s is the place to go. This store in Wallingford is filled, top to bottom, with gags like bacon Band-Aids, clip-on man buns, and librarian action figures. Find hundreds of items you never knew you needed until you were inspired by this oddities store.

Ride a Seaplane at Kenmore Air

Seaplanes regularly take off from Lake Union in the heart of town, only adding to the unique city vibe. You can experience the fun, too, with an air tour by Kenmore Air. This small airline offers city tours, as well as transportation to and from regional locales, like the San Juan Islands. Hopping a seaplane is a pretty cool way to see the city or embark on a day trip offshore.

Attend a Taping of New Day Northwest

Daniel Koebe/Corbis/VCG/Getty Images

Seattle’s very own morning TV show is famous among the locals, airing every day on King Channel 5. And live tapings of New Day Northwest are open to the public Monday through Thursday mornings. Join host Margaret Larson as she chats with authors, sports stars, chefs, gardening experts, and musical guests. Submit a request to join the studio audience and reserve your ticket.

Browse the Fremont Sunday Market

In the spirit of European street markets, the Fremont Sunday Market sets up shop every Sunday all year round. Vendors sell street food, crafts, art, and more in true flea-market fashion. Grab brunch at a food truck, then shop for antiques, vintage items, and imports. You never know what you find at this favorite local event.

Visit the Duwamish Longhouse

Chas Redmond

The Duwamish Longhouse is a traditional cedar longhouse located at the mouth of the Duwamish River near an ancient village. This meeting place (officially on the National Register of Historic Places) provides a venue for official tribe business. However, the longhouse also hosts Native American workshops, demonstrations, and other public events.

Drink Coffee in Starbuck's Hometown

Pay homage to one of Seattle’s most recognizable companies with a visit the Starbucks Roastery . And this visit is more than a trip to a coffee shop. Delve into the world of coffee in what appears to be a mini coffee museum. Try special roasts or spend time watching the roasting process up close. This is also a great spot to buy exclusive merchandise not found in stores.

Go Thrifting

jennifer m. ramos/Getty Images

Home to the grunge subculture, thrifting is a big deal in Seattle. In fact, thrift shops are located in almost every part of town. But the shops in the U-District are often the best, as here you’ll find plenty of trendy clothing finds catering to and donated by the students who live nearby.

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• Entertainment
• 8 things to do in the Seattle area this weekend

Welcome to the weekend! From Seattle’s Pride weekend events to hikes and tasty food, here’s our latest on local things to do.

Eats and drinks

• Washington chefs didn’t win any James Beard Awards this year — but at this sustainable West Seattle sushi spot , Hajime Sato launched his Beard-winning legacy.
• This watermelon aguachile bursts with the flavors of Seattle summers, our recipe writer says.

Community events

• From a Seattle waterfront festival and parties across Capitol Hill to the Pride Parade’s big celebration, here’s your guide to celebrating Seattle’s 50 years of Pride this weekend.

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• 6 must-see concerts in June and July
• 5 Seattle-area art shows to see in July 2024
• Highway 20, aka the North Cascades Highway, is the state’s longest highway — and a gateway to countless hikes and campsites. Here are six summer suggestions.

Movies and TV

• Heading to the theaters? Check out what our reviewers thought of Lily Gladstone’s “Fancy Dance,” “A Quiet Place: Day One” and other recent releases .
• Critic Moira Macdonald recommends 16 LGBTQ+-themed stories of love , from teenage rom-com to aching tales of loss — great viewing for Pride month or any time of year.
• From “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” to the Summer Olympics, here’s what’s coming to streaming services in July .
• Honor Pride month with your next read. Seattle Public Library staffers recommend four books that speak to the power of queer community. Plus, we asked five local writers and booksellers what they consider essential LGBTQ+ reading, and the new and forthcoming stories they’re excited about.

Most Read Entertainment Stories

• The Latest | Trump and Biden squared off for the first time in the 2024 election season WATCH
• ‘Horizon: Chapter 1’ review: Saddle up for Kevin Costner's long, loping ride WATCH
• Sean Penn says he felt 'misery' making movies for years. Then Dakota Johnson knocked on his door VIEW
• 'A Quiet Place: Day One' review: Prequel lacks franchise's cleverness WATCH

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

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Seattle Restaurants

Make a free reservation, book for breakfast today in seattle / eastern washington.

Outdoor dining in Seattle / Eastern Washington

See what locals rave about in seattle.

• OM OldManPopz Portland / Oregon • 6 reviews 5.0 Dined 2 days ago Finally an amazing Italian place!! Spinasse gave us an experience in culinary enjoyment that blew my wife and I away; from the history of the restaurant to the food itself. The inclusion of half plates always makes a fun date night out more enjoyable to be able to share food. Everything was fantastic and I have already recommended this place to several people. More info Spinasse $$$$ Price: Very Expensive • Italian • Capitol Hill / First Hill • 4.8
• CK CraigK Seattle / Eastern Washington • 4 reviews 5.0 Dined 2 days ago Great service, cool drinks and an always changing food menu, which is the best part. More info OOLA Capitol Hill $$$ $ Price: Expensive • Contemporary American • Capitol Hill / First Hill • 4.9
• LG LuisG vip Seattle / Eastern Washington • 3 reviews 5.0 Dined 4 days ago Our server was a bit rude, food was awesome though. More info Momiji Capitol Hill $$$ $ Price: Expensive • Japanese • Capitol Hill / First Hill • 4.7
• DW DanW Seattle / Eastern Washington • 7 reviews 5.0 Dined 6 days ago If i could give it 10 stars I would. Great food, flavor was outstanding, presentation excellent, service and attitude was amazing. If you get the chance, just go. You will not ve disappointed. More info MariPili Tapas Bar $$$ $ Price: Expensive • Tapas / Small Plates • Capitol Hill / First Hill • 4.6
• CC ChloeC vip Seattle / Eastern Washington • 1 review 5.0 Dined 6 days ago Great food, very nice staff! We sat outside in the patio area was fun! More info Osteria La Spiga $$ $$ Price: Moderate • Italian • Capitol Hill / First Hill • 4.6

Trending dishes in Seattle

Restaurant experiences trending in seattle / eastern washington, afternoon tea service, omakase - dining room table, omakase with chef at sushi bar, coffee lab: a journey of the senses, nordic nouveau: chef's counter tasting menu, new ✨ultimate 5-course experience, afternoon tea, get inspired by our collections of the top restaurants in seattle.

• 12 top date night restaurants in Seattle

Seattle’s romantic restaurants show that with market-fresh plates, Northwestern wines, and some mood lighting, sparks can fly in the Emerald City. Set the stage for a monumental moment with exquisite seafood at a kaiseki spot in Belltown. In Pike/Pine, whisk a date away on a whirlwind trip to not-quite Greece. Or share a plate of hand-cut noodles to celebrate a special occasion at an acclaimed Piedmont trattoria. Even though most people in town consider fancy flannel dressing up, these places serve you a splash of something sexier. Read on for a guide to Seattle’s 12 most romantic restaurants to book now.

• 5 Must-Book Restaurants in Seattle

Despite economic challenges, restaurant openings currently outpace closures in the Seattle area. The exciting new crop mirrors the Emerald City’s own diversity, and includes a swanky, American brasserie at the city’s revamped Fairmont Olympic Hotel, a Moroccan restaurant in the heart of Pike Place Market, and a family-run Vietnamese joint in Haller Lake. Here are five hot spots to book in Seattle right now.

• The Best Places to Grab a Drink in Seattle

Like the dazzling Emerald City itself, Seattle’s bar scene is a lot of things at once: it is a craft beer haven, teems with celebrated grunge dives, and boasts wine lists featuring the best of Washington’s locally produced bottles. No matter your drink of choice, there is a speakeasy, wine bar, or brewery for whatever strikes your fancy. Find your next drink at one of these innovative bars focused on craft, quality, and, of course, good times.

• The Top 9 Seattle Restaurants for Outdoor Dining

For much of the year, Seattle is gray, a bit cold—and yes, rainy. But from May to September, sunshine and warm temps transform the city. Across Seattle, there are many perfect patios for sipping cocktails, lakeside venues with skyline views and fresh seafood, and cozy backyards to enjoy al fresco dining. So while the sunshine doesn’t last long in the Emerald City, as summer inches closer, here are a few of the best places in the city to visit for excellent food and drinks outside.

• The 10 Greatest Restaurants in Seattle

There’s great seafood to be consumed in Seattle, but it’s only the beginning of what the Emerald City has to offer. Boasting one of the country’s most creative and diverse dining scenes, Seattle is dedicated to sourcing locally—from land to sea. Storied restaurants, from Canlis, the pinnacle of Pacific Northwestern fine-dining, to chic modern hangouts like the Walrus and the Carpenter, prove Seattle’s range and prowess. And even as the city’s changed over the last decade, growing and evolving under a massive tech boom, its soul remains as vibrant and bold as ever.

• The Top Restaurants by Cuisine in Seattle

Whether it’s a margherita pizza or sashimi you seek, here are the best places by cuisine type, according to our tastemakers.

Discover Seattle

The iconic city tucked inside the Pacific northwest coast does see a lot of rain, but when the sun shines on Seattle, it dazzles. Don’t miss the chance to dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants serving oysters and Pacific-caught seafood. Take a stroll downtown and wander in and out of bookshops and bakeries. Arguably the birthplace of American coffee culture, there’s hardly a better place to enjoy leisurely lattes accompanied by hours of computing and the occasional pen and paper sketch.

Frequently asked questions

Which restaurants in seattle are dog friendly.

Dog friendly restaurants in Seattle include The White Swan Public House , Fisherman Jack's and Sparrow - Kirkland

Which restaurants in Seattle are child friendly?

Child friendly restaurants in Seattle include Portage Bay Cafe - South Lake Union , Salty's on Alki Beach and Queen Mary Tea Room

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A Perfect Workcation In Seattle: How Much It'll Cost, Things To Do, & Tips

• Seattle is a beautiful travel destination and perfect for a workcation in September and October when tourist crowds are less and accommodation rates are lower.
• When packing for a workcation in Seattle, make sure to have all necessary documents and download essential apps like OneBusAway, Seattle Tree Walks, Parkopedia, Yelp, and Seahawks.
• Choose the right hotel for a workcation in Seattle, such as Homewood Suites By Hilton Seattle Downtown, Hyatt Regency Seattle, or Mediterranean Inn, and expect to spend around $260-$300 per day on average for a workcation in the city.

Home to Gas Works Park, one of the most beautiful city parks in the US , Seattle is known to be a bucket list travel destination on the West Coast, and guarantees an awesome visit, regardless of the season. The Emerald City is surrounded by gorgeous scenery, including vast forests, snow-covered peaks, and gorgeous parks. It also boasts plenty of vibrant neighborhoods and multiple skyscrapers in the city center.

Planning to go for a workcation in Washington? Seattle is among the perfect U.S. cities that offer scenic workcations for remote work . It has a wide range of cuisines, zero network issues, splendid temperatures, and plenty of accommodations offering amazing packages for such tourists. Want to have a perfect workcation in Seattle? Here is how much it’ll cost, things to do, and tips.

Related: These Are The 10 Best Workcation Destinations Around The World For Remote Work Travel

When To Visit Seattle For A Workcation

Seattle is beautiful any time of the year, but when will workcation enthusiasts have the best experience in the Emerald City? September and October are the perfect months to plan a workcation in this stunning destination.

Summer is ruled out because it is the most popular time to travel, which means the accommodation rates rise because of the high tourism. Winter is not so good for a workcation because the cold can prevent vacationers from sightseeing.

• The best time to go for a workcation in Seattle: September & October

Things To Pack For A Seattle Workcation

As challenging as some people may think it is, planning for a workcation doesn’t have to be complicated. What to pack for a Seattle workcation depends on what kind of job you do. Here are the general things not to miss when packing for a workcation in the Emerald City.

Have All The Necessary Documents

While everyone is going digital right now, it is important to have hard copies of travel medical insurance, passports, and plane tickets. Before traveling to Seattle from a different country, it is important to buy travel insurance.

Consider travel insurance when planning a trip in case anything unexpected happens.

Download Seattle's Best Apps: Rideshares, Airlines, Weather, And More

Thanks to the advancement in technology, vacationers will find almost everything in various apps. Whether looking for rideshare, a place to enjoy some fine dining, weather forecasts, airlines, or just directions, here are some of the apps to have in Seattle.

• OneBusAway : On This app, transit agencies give riders necessary information related to transit, including departure and arrival info, travel alerts, and more.
• Seattle Tree Walks : Want to explore the urban forest of the Emerald City right from the comfort of a hotel room? This app allows vacationers to see what makes the city’s urban forest unique and important to the locals.
• Parkopedia : This app helps visitors where to park in Seattle. Search your exact location or address and find out where parking is available in the Emerald City.
• Yelp : Yelp helps one find some of the best dining and drinking in Seattle. Here, previous guests give reviews, allowing travelers to go for the most incredible options, based on the experiences of previous visitors.
• Seahawks : With Seahawks, tourists on workcation get all the latest news about the Emerald City, including live updates, schedules of upcoming sports, and more.

Stay Connected: Double Check WiFi

One of the must-have items in a Seattle workcation packing list is a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. While Seattle is recognized for its incredible internet connection, depending on free internet can be tough for those working remotely.

Verify internet availability at your hotel or Airbnb ahead of time, but have a backup plan in place just in case.

Related: 10 Surprisingly Free Things That You Can Do In Seattle

The good news is that some locations in Emerald City offer incredible workspaces, scanners, and printers, which are some of the essentials one will need for a workcation.

Best Hotels In Seattle For A Workcation

Booking the right hotel can make or break your workcation. Here are some of the best spots in Seattle to hunker down for a work trip.

Homewood Suites By Hilton Seattle Downtown

Coming free daily breakfast, Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown is only a few minutes from the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, one of the best food markets in America every foodie should visit .

• Amenities: Free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, digital key, EV charging, fitness center, pet-friendly rooms, meeting rooms, and more.

This hotel has incredible reviews from previous guests. Book Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown on Kayak .

Hyatt Regency Seattle

Located in downtown Seattle, one of the most beautiful downtown areas in America , Hyatt Regency Seattle is one of the best hotels for workcation in the US for remote work travel and comes with free Wi-Fi connection, 24-hour reception, and disability-friendly common areas.

• Amenities: Free internet access, electronic vehicle charging, on-site restaurant, fitness center, pet-friendly, business services, concierge, meeting facilities, and more.

Hyatt Regency Seattle has a rating of above 8.0 on Kayak.com. Book it now for a memorable stay.

Mediterranean Inn

Dating back to 2,000, the Mediterranean Inn underwent renovation in 2013, which definitely enhanced travelers’ accommodation and relaxation experiences. This hotel features a coffee shop, along with other fantastic amenities.

• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, private bathroom, business center, meeting facilities, air-conditioned, terrace/patio, among others.

Book Mediterranean Inn Seattle on Kayak. Previous guests have had amazing stays and left incredible reviews, giving it a rating of above 8.0.

Things To Do In Seattle While On A Workcation

Working may take up the bulk of your time, but when you're off the clock, Seattle makes it easy to enjoy your workcation.

Enjoy Magnificent Views At Space Needle

There are plenty of things to enjoy while on a workcation in Seattle. One of the places not to miss in the Emerald City is the Space Needle , one of the best observation towers in the US, known for its breathtaking views of Mount Rainier .

• Cost of general admission to the Space Needle: $35-$35 for travelers aged 13-64, $30-33 for seniors aged 65+, and $26-$29 for youth (5-12)

Explore The Museum Of Pop Culture

Seattle is one of the cities in America with the best museums , and the Museum of Pop Culture is proof of that. The museum’s exhibits are among the must-have experiences in the Emerald City.

• Cost of entrance: $23-28

Pacific Science Center

Pacific Science Center is one of the best family-friendly attractions to enjoy while in the Emerald City and gives kids an incredible chance to have an intimate experience of impressive creatures at the Tropical Butterfly House.

• Opening hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm with the latest admission allowed at 4:00 pm
• Cost of entrance: $18-$33

Pacific Science Center doesn’t operate on Mondays & Tuesdays

Related: From The Space Needle To Pike Place: Exploring 10 Top Places To See In Seattle

The Cost Of Enjoying A Workcation In Seattle

When calculating the cost of having a workcation in Seattle, one should include the cost of transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and excursions.

Tourists will fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and choose their desired mode of transportation from there. Opt for a taxi, Uber, cycling, light rail, or explore the city on foot.

• The cost of a one-way ride from the airport to downtown Seattle: between $40 and $55
• Cost of getting around by light rail: $2.25 to $3.25
• Cost of one-way trip on a monorail: $2.50 for adults and $1.25 for children between 5 and 12
• Cost of ferry ride: Between $4 and $8
• Cost of taxi: Meters start from $2.60

When it comes to food, tourists can enjoy a variety of delicious culinary delights. On average, one will spend $16 for one meal in a budget restaurant.

• Average cost of meal: $16

For activities and excursions, one can expect to spend about $16 per person, with the cost varying depending on one’s spending habits.

• The average cost of activities: $16

According to budgetyourtrip.com, a hotel room for one person is about $184. One will pay $100 for budget accommodation, $187 for midrange, and about $346.

• The average cost of accommodation for accommodation: $184

So, on average, one can spend $260-$300 per day. A seven-day workcation in Seattle costs $1,820 (without the cost of flight).

• The average cost of a workcation in Seattle: $260-$300, per day, per person

Whether planning a one-week or an extended workcation, Seattle is one of the destinations not to miss. Apart from the city’s incredible work environment, travelers also love the Emerald City for its iconic attractions, music, culture, and general lifestyle.

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Welcome to Seattle

Your next great pacific northwest adventure awaits., support seattle's small businesses, i know a place explore like a local, things to do, celebrate 50 years of pride in seattle, break out your colors—it’s time to show your pride..

Discover ways to connect with people and organizations around the city as you celebrate throughout the month of June.

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Music, Theatre, Museums, Festivals and More

Jinkx Monsoon & Major Scales: Together Again, AGAIN!

Through June 23 Experience the comedy, music, and saucy stylings of two of the Pacific Northwest’s standout entertainers, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Winner Jinkx Monsoon and musical virtuoso Major Scales.

Fremont Fair

June 22 & 23 Seattle's Solstice weekend tradition offers 300+ craft booths, live music, food, a lively parade and more, all in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, aka "the center of the universe."

Poke in the Eye: Art of the West Coast Counterculture

June 21-Sept 2 Explore offbeat ceramics, paintings, and sculpture from West Coast artists of the 1960s/70s to today, featuring traditional craft techniques, bold color, and frequent irreverent humor.

Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO Bricks

Through Sept 22 See astonishing skyscrapers from North America, Asia and Australia constructed in breathtaking detail by Ryan McNaught, one of only 21 LEGO® Certified Professionals worldwide.

Seattle Pride Parade

June 30 Celebrate 50 years of Seattle pride at the largest parade in Washington!

Day In Day Out

July 12-14 Three days of music in the heart of Seattle Center.

Calder: In Motion, The Shirley Family Collection

Through August 4 Discover the iconic American artist who revolutionized sculpture. This exhibition presents more than 45 works from the Shirley Family collection for the first time.

MASSIVE: The Power of Pop Culture

Ongoing Explore the impact of global pop culture on our daily lives as you deep-dive into your role as a creator and consumer of modern pop culture.

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King

Ongoing Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo has a worldwide following for his large, inventive trolls made from recycled materials. Now you can discover six new friends in the PNW!

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Getting Around

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Maps & Guides

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Upcoming Events

Whiskey Class Album Release Show

Whiskey Class will celebrate their album release with Megan Brickwood and The Forest That Never Sleeps at High …

Assemblage 23

Assemblage 23 headlines at El Corazon.

Newgrounds Death Rugby

Enjoy live music with Newgrounds Death Rugby, Oolong, and Sinking Season at The Funhouse.

Chop Suey hosts a triple bill of live music with Blushing, MOAA, and New Age Healers.

Rat King headlines at The Funhouse.

The Band Camino

Showbox SoDo hosts a double bill of live music with The Band Camino and Knox.

Missy Elliott

7/6/2024 through 7/7/2024.

Missy Elliott will share the stage with Ciara, Busta Rhymes, and very special guest Timbaland at Climate Pledge …

Crowe Boys hit the stage with Max Morin at Tractor Tavern.

Now through 9/1/2024

The textile-based works in Soft Power are declarations: potent expressions of care, rebuke, resistance, and resilience. These soft …

Featured Blog Posts

Celebrate Independence Day at the Seafiar Fourth of July Celebration at South Lake Union

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate Independence Day in Seattle with a night of fun, music, and breathtaking fireworks at South Lake Union Park.

Play Break: Top 10 Transit-Accessible Seattle Playgrounds

Whether you’re visiting Seattle or a local to the city, save this list of 10 playgrounds near downtown to ensure your family returns home full of joyful memories.

Happy 50th Birthday, SIFF!

SIFF brings the world to screens across Seattle, featuring hundreds of films from more than 80 countries. Join this Pacific Northwest tradition and celebrate #SIFFTY years of incredible film.

The Best Weekend Activities in Seattle that Embrace Wellness

From cold plunges and saunas to yoga, meditation, foraging walks, and discovering the city's wellness food scene—check out tips on the best ways to spend a relaxing weekend in the Emerald City.

Forage & Feast with Savor the Wild Tours

The PNW is a mecca for fresh seafood. Go on an adventure that takes you right to the source and enjoy an experience for all the senses.

The Iconic Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley

Dimitriou's is a premier jazz club in Seattle, bringing in renowned artists and offering a live music experience hard to find anywhere else.

Must-do Adventures if you're going to Emerald City Comic Con

Seattle is a pop culture hub with tons of fun places to explore, from the Museum of Pop Culture to a rubber chicken museum. Check out our list of must-sees in the Emerald City.

Downtown Hotspots to Hit if You're Going to the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival

We've pulled together a list of some of the best hotspots to check out in Seattle to round out your experience in the Emerald City, from peaceful parks to cozy cafes to attractions.

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Looking to watch the fireworks this Fourth of July? Here’s where you should go in Indy

Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated the dates for the Star-Spangled Symphony. The concerts will be on July 3-5. 

More than 10 sites around Indianapolis will set off fireworks to celebrate this Fourth of July and many of them are accompanied by festivals. The holiday falls on a Thursday, so some events span several days into the weekend. Here’s what you need to know:

Indianapolis Fourth of July fireworks and festivals

July 4, Downtown Indy: Indy’s Downtown Fourth Fest will have a 20-minute fireworks show that can best be viewed from the Indiana War Memorial grounds and the American Legion Mall. The street festival will have live performances and food trucks and starts at 6 p.m. Fireworks start at 10 p.m. The festival takes place on North Street between Meridian Street and Pennsylvania Street.

July 3, Broad Ripple: The White River Yacht Club will perform the Meredith Smith Memorial Fireworks Show over the White River. While the club hasn’t announced this year’s launch times, in 2023, the fireworks show started at 9 p.m..

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

July 3, Beech Grove: Fireworks will launch at approximately 10 p.m. after Beech Grove's All-American Day at the Park. The festival at Sara T. Bolton Park kicks off at 5:30 and will have food vendors, a kids' zone and a DJ.

Fireworks and festivals in Hamilton and Boone Counties

July 3 - 4, Carmel: CarmelFest ends with a 30-minute show culminating in a fireworks display launched from the Carmel Ice Skadium at 9:45 p.m. on July 4. The festival is two days long, starting July 3. On the 3rd, the hours are 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and on the 4th noon to 10 p.m. The festival will have a beer garden, a talent show, live performances, caricature artists and food trucks.

July 4, Fishers: Fireworks will be launched at 10 p.m. from Cyntheanne Park and the Geist Reservoir. They can be seen from Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate & Jr. High School and on the water.

July 4, Noblesville: Fireworks start at 10 p.m. and can be viewed from Federal Hill Commons or Forest Park. A Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks Festival will kickoff with a parade at 4 p.m. followed by the festival in Forest Park from 6 to 10 p.m. The 2023 festival had inflatable bounce houses, bungee jumping, a rock wall, ax throwing and a beer garden.

July 4, Westfield: Fireworks will start at 10 p.m., following a festival at Grand Park Sports Campus. The festival will have live music and games and goes from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

July 4, Zionsville: A Fourth of July celebration will be held at Lions Park starting at 5 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 10 p.m.. There will be children’s bounce houses, games and festival food for sale. Miss Indiana and Miss Teen Indiana will sing the national anthem at 7 p.m.

Fireworks and festivals in Hendricks County

July 3, Avon: The town of Avon’s Night at the Park starts with food trucks, a petting zoo, a concert and pony rides, and ends with a fireworks display. The free event goes from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Avon Town Hall Park.

July 4, Brownsburg: Brownsburg’s July Fourth 2024 Extravaganza will begin at 7:30 at the Town Hall Green. There will be a performance from the Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra. A parade through town will begin at 10 a.m. Fireworks start at 10 p.m.

June 29 to July 4: Poor Jack’s Carnival will be at Arbuckle Acres Park from 6 to 11 p.m. each night. Carnival wristbands are $25, but the rest of the festival, which includes yard games and food trucks, is free.

Family friendly entertainment

July 3 - 5, Conner Prairie, Fishers: The focus of the Star-Spangled Symphony at Conner Prairie is the music, but the finale will be accompanied by fireworks for these three. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra concerts. Gates open at 6 p.m. and music starts at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at indianapolissymphony.org.

July 4, Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site Independence Day Social: From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the home of America’s Hoosier President will have free first-floor tours and patriotic activities. There will be live jazz music, balloon artists, crafts and visiting animals from Indianapolis Care Services. Hot dogs, ice cream and popcorn will be available. The event is free but registration at bhpsite.org is required.

July 4, Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Bats: Tickets are available for the 6:35 p.m. baseball game at ticketsonsale.com. The Indians will play at Victory Field and fireworks will follow the game.

Out to the bars

July 4, Metazoa Brewing Company 4th of July Party: Metazoa Brewing, 140 S. College Ave., will unveil their new beer at their free block party. The event goes from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and will have live music. The brewery is dog-friendly and the Downtown Indianapolis fireworks will be visible.

July 6, Red, White and Brew Bar Crawl: For $25, crawlers can dress up in red, white and blue and explore multiple Indy bars. The event goes from 4 to 6 p.m. and starts at the Saint Shack, 250 S. Meridian St. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com .

July 5, Red White and Brew Party: Hosted by Howl at the Moon, 20 E. Georgia St. , there will be dancing and deals on drinks all night to celebrate the Fourth. Howl at the Moon is open from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Alex Haddon is a Pulliam Fellow. You can email her at [email protected].