Seattle, the Emerald City, is known for its stunning waterfront, tech innovations, rich history, and thriving coffee culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new, there’s always something exciting happening in Seattle. From breathtaking views to world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods, here’s an extensive guide to the best things to do in Seattle.

Things to Do in Seattle

1. Visit the Iconic Space Needle

No trip to Seattle is complete without visiting the Space Needle, the city’s most famous landmark. Standing at 605 feet, this observation tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic Mountains.

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for spectacular views.
• Pro Tip: Purchase a Seattle CityPASS to save money on multiple attractions, including the Space Needle.

2. Explore Pike Place Market

One of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the U.S., Pike Place Market is a must-visit for food lovers. Stroll through the market to experience:

• The infamous flying fish show at Pike Place Fish Market.
• Fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.
• The original Starbucks store, which opened in 1971.
• The quirky Gum Wall, a colorful alley covered in chewed gum.

3. Take in the Views at Kerry Park

For one of the best Instagram-worthy views of Seattle, head to Kerry Park. Located on Queen Anne Hill, this small park offers a postcard-perfect view of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier (on a clear day).

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds or at night when the city lights up.
• Pro Tip: Walk around Queen Anne neighborhood for charming cafes and historic homes.

4. Discover Chihuly Garden and Glass

Located next to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is an extraordinary museum showcasing the stunning glasswork of Dale Chihuly. This exhibit features:

• Beautiful, larger-than-life glass sculptures.
• A mesmerizing Glasshouse with a 100-foot-long suspended sculpture.
• The outdoor Glass Garden, where colorful glass art blends with nature.

5. Experience the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Seattle has a strong music and pop culture history, and MoPOP (formerly the EMP Museum) is the perfect place to dive into it. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this futuristic museum features exhibits on:

• Seattle’s music scene, including Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix.
• Science fiction, horror, and video games, with interactive displays.
• Hands-on Sound Lab, where you can play instruments and record music.

6. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

Located on Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel is a massive Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Elliott Bay and the city skyline. It’s one of the largest Ferris wheels in the U.S., standing at 175 feet tall.

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views over the water.
• Pro Tip: Book a VIP gondola for a glass-bottom experience.

7. Stroll Through the Seattle Waterfront

The Seattle Waterfront is a lively area with shops, seafood restaurants, and attractions. Some highlights include:

• Seattle Aquarium, featuring otters, sea lions, and touch pools.
• Elliott Bay Trail, a scenic walk along the water.
• Ivar’s Fish Bar, a legendary spot for fish and chips.
• Olympic Sculpture Park, an open-air museum with modern art installations.

8. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island

For a relaxing escape from the city, take the Bainbridge Island Ferry from downtown Seattle. The ride offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the surrounding mountains. Once on Bainbridge Island, enjoy:

• Charming waterfront restaurants and cafes.
• Beautiful hiking trails and beaches.
• The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, featuring contemporary Pacific Northwest artists.

9. Explore the Underground City at the Seattle Underground Tour

 

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Seattle has a hidden history beneath its streets. The Seattle Underground Tour takes you through abandoned streets and buildings from the city’s early days before it was rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1889. This quirky, humorous tour reveals:

• Old storefronts and sidewalks buried under modern Seattle.
• Stories of crime, corruption, and Seattle’s wild past.
• The origins of Seattle’s Pioneer Square, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

10. Visit the Woodland Park Zoo

If you love wildlife, the Woodland Park Zoo is home to over 900 animals from around the world. Highlights include:

• The Tropical Rainforest Exhibit, featuring jaguars and tropical birds.
• The African Savanna, home to giraffes, lions, and zebras.
• The Butterfly Garden, open seasonally with hundreds of butterflies.

Bonus Activities for Longer Stays

If you have extra time in Seattle, consider these additional activities:

• Tour the Boeing Factory in Everett, just outside Seattle.
• Catch a Seahawks, Mariners, or Sounders game at Lumen Field or T-Mobile Park.
• Explore Mount Rainier National Park, just a 2-hour drive away.
• Visit the Future of Flight Aviation Center to see real Boeing aircraft being assembled.
• Check out the Fremont neighborhood, known for its quirky art and the famous Fremont Troll.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Seattle

1. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Seattle?

Seattle is home to many famous landmarks and attractions, including:

• Space Needle – The city’s most iconic landmark with breathtaking panoramic views.
• Pike Place Market – A historic market known for fresh seafood, local artisans, and the famous fish-throwing vendors.
• Chihuly Garden and Glass – A mesmerizing glass art exhibit by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – An interactive museum dedicated to music, movies, and science fiction.
• Aquarium – A great place to explore marine life, including sea otters and jellyfish.
• Kerry Park – The perfect spot for a postcard-worthy view of the Seattle skyline.

2. What Outdoor Activities Can I Do in Seattle?

Seattle is surrounded by natural beauty, offering plenty of outdoor activities such as:

• Hiking at Mount Rainier National Park – Just a short drive from Seattle, this national park is a paradise for hikers.
• Exploring Discovery Park – A massive park with trails, beaches, and stunning Puget Sound views.
• Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Lake Union – Rent a kayak and enjoy the city skyline from the water.
• Biking on the Burke-Gilman Trail – A scenic route that stretches for miles through the city.
• Taking a Ferry to Bainbridge Island – Enjoy a relaxing boat ride and explore the island’s shops, wineries, and trails.

3. What Are Some Unique Things to Do in Seattle?

For those looking for a different experience, consider:

• The Underground Tour – A guided tour exploring the original streets of old Seattle beneath the modern city.
• The Fremont Troll – A quirky, giant troll statue under a bridge in the Fremont neighborhood.
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery – A high-end coffee experience at the original Starbucks Roastery.
• Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder – Watch boats pass through the locks and see salmon migrating upstream.
• The Pink Door – A hidden Italian restaurant featuring burlesque and cabaret performances.

4. What Are the Best Museums?

Seattle has a variety of museums catering to different interests, such as:

• The Museum of Flight – One of the largest air and space museums in the world.
• Art Museum (SAM) – Featuring global and contemporary art collections.
• The National Nordic Museum – Celebrating the Nordic heritage and history of the Pacific Northwest.
• The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture – A fascinating look at Pacific Northwest natural history.

5. What Are the Best Neighborhoods to Explore?

Seattle’s neighborhoods each have a unique vibe, including:

• Capitol Hill – Known for nightlife, coffee shops, and LGBTQ+ friendly bars.
• Ballard – Home to breweries, Scandinavian heritage, and the Ballard Locks.
• Fremont – A quirky and artistic area with shops, cafés, and the famous Fremont Sunday Market.
• Pioneer Square – Seattle’s oldest neighborhood with historic buildings and hidden speakeasies.
• Alki Beach – A laid-back coastal area offering sandy beaches and stunning views of the city.

6. What Are Some Family-Friendly Activities in Seattle?

Seattle offers plenty of fun activities for families, including:

• Woodland Park Zoo – A world-class zoo with a variety of animals.
• Seattle Children’s Museum – Hands-on exhibits and activities for kids.
• Pacific Science Center – Interactive science exhibits, a butterfly house, and a planetarium.
• Ride the Seattle Great Wheel – A giant Ferris wheel on the waterfront with amazing views.
• The Museum of Flight – A great place for kids to explore aircraft and space exhibits.

7. Where Can I Find the Best Food in Seattle?

Seattle is a foodie’s paradise, offering:

• Seafood at Elliott’s Oyster House – Known for fresh oysters and salmon dishes.
• Dick’s Drive-In – A classic Seattle burger joint.
• Canlis – A fine-dining restaurant perfect for special occasions.
• Tilikum Place Café – Famous for their Dutch Baby pancakes.
• Taylor Shellfish Farms – A must-visit for oyster lovers.

Final Thoughts

Seattle is a city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and modern attractions. If you’re exploring the famous landmarks, indulging in the coffee culture, or discovering hidden gems, there’s something for everyone.