seattle tourist season

The best time to visit Seattle to avoid the rain (maybe)

Jun 28, 2023 • 5 min read

August is the best time to unwind on a relaxing stroll on the beach © Inti St Clair / Getty Images

Seattle : a city of hippies and hipsters, technology and nature, craft beer and coffee...and rain. Lots and lots of rain. Or is it?

Yes, Seattle gets more rainy days than most other cities in the United States, but it’s actually drier than, say, New York or Miami.

When to visit depends on what you want to do in Seattle.  If you want to explore the parks and gardens that gave the Emerald City its name or catch incredible views from the Space Needle , you’ll want sunny skies – which come with crowds of tourists.  If you'd rather pay less for accommodation and avoid the crowds in the low season, you'll need to pack an umbrella.

Despite the association with inclement weather, Seattle has something for every type of traveler, whatever time of year you decide to visit. Whether you're looking to explore  iconic architecture  or dive into a thriving  craft beer scene , here's our guide on when to visit Seattle.

April to May and September to October are ideal for exploring museums and farmers' markets 

Spring and fall see lower temperatures than the short summer and fewer crowds while still escaping the heavy rain showers of winter.  Budget travelers can find good deals on accommodation and car rental rates at this time. Even during the shoulder season, the best time to drive through Seattle is between 9am and 4:30pm, and later between 7pm and 6:30am, in order to avoid rush hour. 

April is usually the month where you’ll find the center of the “nice weather” and “cheaper hotel rates” Venn diagram. It’s not always sunny, but there are plenty of stunning days. Enjoy a celebration of the beauty of Japan at the  Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival or raise a glass to the end of winter at the Seattle Scotch and Beer Fest .

May brings big business for waterside attractions. Visit before Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) – this could be your last chance for an affordable hotel rate for a while. Get a taste of the local culture of the Pacific Northwest at the Northwest Folklife Festival but be careful – you may run out of reasons to ever leave the area!

September has one of the highlights of the cultural calendar:  Bumbershoot ,  a multi-day arts festival that began in the 1970s. This is also one of the best times to go whale watching in Seattle. Once Bumbershoot’s over, the tourists go home, and hotel prices deflate. But the weather usually remains sunny and relatively warm until early October, making this the perfect time for spotting whales without the crowds.

There’s always the chance of a prolonged summer early in October, while the start of the shoulder season brings lower prices. The best time to visit Seattle in the fall comes as the clouds roll in and people get out to celebrate Halloween and the Seattle Queer Film Festival .

Average highs are in the 50s and 60s (Fahrenheit) during the spring and fall, so you’ll want to bring a warm layer for the evenings.  Rainfall is characteristically a persistent yet light drizzle rather than a deluge, and more than half of these months are completely dry days. Still, an umbrella is a sensible precaution.

June to August is the perfect time for outdoor parks and festivals 

Although blistering sunny weather is infrequent in Seattle, overcast but not rainy days are not unusual. The record number of consecutive dry days is 55, set in 2017, and your best chance for a clear forecast falls between June and September. 

Summer is on the way in June and when the mercury rises, you can feel the city loosen up and sigh contentedly. It’s also Pride month, and celebrations are abundant in Seattle .

The ever-improving weather in July means bigger crowds and the high season sees peak demand for flights, transport and hotel prices. Expect crowds at famous Seattle sights like Pike Place Market and the Museum of Pop Culture .  The best time to visit the Seattle Space Needle is on clearer days, either early in the morning before the crowds arrive or at sunset, so you can get daytime and nighttime views in one visit. Book ahead for popular events in July such as the 4th of July celebrations at  Seafair .

Salmon bakes, neighborhood street fairs and lazy beach afternoons give August a laid-back feel. But school’s out, so expect ubiquitous cries of excited kids. BrasilFest brings the party atmosphere to town with a huge celebration of all things Brazilian at the Seattle Center.

November to March is the best time to get cozy in a coffee shop and explore the music scene

November can be a dismal month for weather in Seattle but don’t let anyone convince you that this is the worst time to visit. Most sights stay open and, with the low season kicking in, some hotels slash their prices to half the summer rates. Indoor spaces such as theaters and music venues come into their own during the low season; the soggy weather is partly responsible for Seattle’s famously creative music scene and its vibrant coffee shop culture.

Seattle’s surrounding ski resorts open up in December, making the city an ideal urban base for snow-related activities. Hotel prices continue to drop along with the temperatures. The festive season ramps up with Winterfest , the Christmas Ship Parade of Boats and New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Space Needle .

January shuffles in with a hangover and occasional flurries of snow. Plan indoor activities, or bring your skis and head to the nearby mountains. Of all the months in the year,  January historically sees the most discounted prices on plane tickets. Brave souls can start the new year with a splash as part of the Polar Bear Plunge and dive into the new year invigorated if a little chilly. Plunges happen at multiple bodies of water all over the city and are a wonderfully positive start to the new year. Food trucks with hot beverages await you once you run for cover.

The dark, dreary days of February and occasional bouts of genuine cold keep most in figurative hibernation. Scour the internet for hotel deals and book a night at the theater – super low prices mean this a great time to nab a bargain if you don't mind wrapping up. The odd warm day in March can see restaurants opening up their patios, but more often than not, the rain persists. Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations provided a good excuse to shrug off the long, hard winter and turn your face toward the warm light of Spring.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated June 2023

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Seattle Weather & Climate

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The Best Time to Visit Seattle

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Hands down, the best time to visit Seattle is during the warm, dry summer months — June, July, and August. While Seattle has plenty of things to do any time of year, summer is when the skies are most likely to be clear, meaning things like views from the Space Needle or a trip out to Mount Rainier will yield the most reward. And while popular activities in the area like hiking or visiting the city's parks can be done in the winter, spring or fall, it’s always better to be able to leave the raincoat at home.

But like all things Seattle weather , there is not a firm boundary on summer. The late spring and early fall can jump into the summer spirit some years with May and October often warm and dry as well, but it depends on the year. If you can’t make a visit to Seattle happen during the summer, don’t feel like you’re missing out too much if you come during the spring or fall. However, if you’re coming for a vacation, maybe just skip the winter unless you like being drizzled on for days on end.

Rainy Season in Seattle

When you’re figuring out the best time to visit Seattle, the number one factor to consider is: does what you want to do involve the weather? If so, you are probably aware that Seattle gets some rain in the winter. This ranges from relatively dry years to years where it rains every day for months on end. If you want to get out on a hike, visit Mount Rainier or the coast, or even just kick back along the shorelines or at the parks right in the city, then consider visiting anytime other than the rainy season, which can start anywhere from September and last until about March.   However, also keep an eye on the weather in general as you’re planning your visit as some years are dry throughout the winter, and some years get more rain all year long (thanks, El Nino and La Nina).

Crowds and Costs

For the most part, you won’t see wild swings in hotel cost in downtown Seattle, but if you’re planning to get out of the city and stay on the coast, near Mount Rainier or in the Olympic National Park , then prices do change. Summer is peak season for the coast and mountains so hotel costs do go up. On the other hand, so do crowds. If you visit Mount Rainier in July or August, you will need to factor in your arrival time. Getting there right around 9 a.m. means sitting in long lines at the main Nisqually Entrance.

However, like the price of hotels, crowds in Seattle don’t fluctuate quite as much. You will find lines at major tourist attractions like the Space Needle in the summer, but you’ll likely find the same lines in the fall and spring. Lines in winter will be shorter or even nonexistent, but some attractions aren't fully worth it in the winter. For instance, if the day is rainy and overcast, you won't be able to see Mount Rainier or far into the distance from the Space Needle.

Popular Festivals and Events

 Seattle has some awesome festivals and events and, with the exception of some holiday happenings, these take place largely in spring, summer and fall — with summer taking the lead. If you’re coming into town for one of the big festivals, like Seafair , and you want to stay right downtown, book well ahead. However, if you’re flexible about staying nearby, then you’ll have no trouble finding rooms even during huge events. But, be warned, Seattle traffic can be pretty bad so staying farther away during a large event means you’ll be sitting in it. This is especially true for games at T-Mobile Park at CenturyLink, July 4th at Gas Works Park, and some of the larger Seafair events where there is nowhere near enough parking for the masses. Either book well ahead to stay near the epicenter of these events, or look into public transportation.

January is not Seattle’s finest time of year by any means with chilly and usually wet weather in spades. Bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes. You’ll still find people outdoors here and there, but even locals mostly stay inside. Still, if you’re looking for a deal on hotels, this is a better time to find them than in spring, fall or summer, but be warned that hotels are cheaper because enjoying Seattle is just not as pleasant in the winter.

Events to check out:

The Polar Bear Plunge at Matthews Beach Park is the perfect way to start the year…if you enjoy running into freezing cold water and then running back out again before you get hypothermia.

The weather in February is really a toss up. Some years, cherry blossoms start to pop out this month and the sun does as well. Other years, February feels a whole lot like January. Indoor activities like local shows at the 5th Avenue or Paramount Theaters, wandering Pike Place Market, or going out to eat at one of Seattle’s many delicious restaurants mostly trump outdoor adventures this month. But with Valentine’s Day in the mix, the timing couldn’t be better. However, do expect massive crowds at most nicer restaurants on Valentine’s Day and plan to make reservations if you’re going out that day.

The Seattle Boat Show is an extravaganza of all things – you guessed it – boat related. Expect sailing lessons, boat rides, kids activities, boats for sale and more.

The Lunar New Year celebration in Chinatown-International District brings on amazing food, dragon and lion dances, martial arts and cultural performances, and more.

March also can go back and forth between beautiful days and returns to the cold, rainy weather of winter, but if the cherry blossoms didn’t pop out in February, expect them this month! You’ll see cherry blossoms all around town, but head to the University of Washington campus to see one of the most beautiful displays. Keep that raincoat in your luggage, but maybe put some sunglasses in there too. On clearer days, March can be a great month to venture out to the city’s parks and hiking trails ( Discovery Park is always a good choice) to enjoy signs of spring around every corner.

Emerald City Comic Con is a large pop culture conference complete with tons of cosplay; visiting artists, actors, writers and other high-profile guests; vendors galore; and more.

Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade is everything you’d expect from a parade on St. Paddy’s – lots of green, marching bands, and all things Irish. Top it off with a visit to a local Irish pub.

Like March, April goes back and forth between sunny and rainy days. If you’re looking to visit during the Northwest’s off season, this is usually the last month of the year where you’ll find cheap(er) hotels near the beaches, Mount Rainier or other waterfront locations.

The free International Children’s Friendship Festival is run by children, for children. Performances showcase world cultures through music, dancing and art.

Twice a year, Seattle Restaurant Week brings affordable three-course menus to participating restaurants around town. It’s a great way to try some place new without breaking the bank.

May is one of the best months to get out and about if you enjoy festivals or getting outdoors. The weather tends toward sunny or lightly overcast, and the summer festival season starts to kick off.

Seattle International Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in the country, but it’s a lot more laid back than its contemporaries. The focus tends to be on indie, foreign films and documentaries. This event often goes into early June as well. Northwest Folklife is a free festival at Seattle Center that has a little bit of everything – world culture, music, lots of food, vendors and family fun galore.

June is a great time to enjoy just about anything in Seattle. Festivals are plentiful. The weather is all around pretty pleasant. Parks and local outdoor pools are enjoyable, as are hikes through city parks like Discovery Park or trips out to 'Mt. Si' or other farther afoot treks.

If you want to see Seattle’s quirkier side, the Fremont Solstice Parade is the way to go. The entirely non-motorized parade is open to public participation and focused on artistic expression. Oh yeah, and you might see some nudity.

All ages and free, PrideFest fills Seattle Center with LGBTQ with music, arts and culture, and four stages.

If there’s an ideal month to visit Seattle, July might just be it. The weather is usually warm and dry (locals often say summer doesn’t start until after July 4). Yes, you’ll run into a few more crowds or lines at major attractions, but lines are not generally prohibitively long…unless you’re at the Space Needle and then you’ll need to make the call on whether the lines are worth the view for you. Consequently, if you enjoy views, July is the month you’re most likely to spot Mount Rainier in the distance on any given day, and you can catch glimpses of it from the Space Needle, the beach at Discovery Park, and other spots around town.

If you seek Seattle’s largest July 4th fireworks, then you seek the Seafair Summer Fourth. These take place at Gas Works Park and are some of the nation’s largest fireworks. The day is filled with family fun at Gas Works Park, and the fireworks are visible from several other points around town if you want to skip the crowds.

The Bite of Seattle is a free festival at Seattle Center that brings in food vendors from around the area. Try a variety of foods and kick back to listen to some live music.

August is generally much the same as July – warm and dry and a great time to visit Seattle as well as surrounding areas. There are also plenty of festivals and happenings taking place this month, too, including Seafair.

Seafair Weekend is one of the summer events not to miss. Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, getting there can be a hassle as parking is pretty much a no go. But watching the hydroplane races and the Blue Angels is a Seattle tradition.

Seattle Art Fair brings together not only the general public, but also art collectors, galleries, museums and other institutions into one big art celebration.

While fall doesn’t technically start until later September, early September generally starts to feel like fall in the Northwest. Leaves start to turn and this is a great time to go leaf peeping throughout the Northwest . Events heralding in the end of summer kick up their heels. Rain also returns in September and while it’s not usually enough rain to stop locals from having whatever adventures they planned to have, for visitors it may serve as a deterrent. Bring a hat, rain jacket and/or an umbrella with you starting in September and pretty much continuing until May.

The Washington State Fair is one of the largest fairs in the country and it’s worth a visit. Located in Puyallup, about 40-60 minutes south of Seattle, the fair is filled with fair food, rides, games, animals, headlining concerts, smaller shows and more.

Bumbershoot is a large music festival with several stages and talent ranging from headliners to local acts.

One of the preeminent Oktoberfests in the area, Fremont Oktoberfest even has family and dog-friendly days.

October is a great month to enjoy the autumn side of Seattle. The town knows how to celebrate the autumn with festival fun and several haunted houses that go up in the area. Also don’t miss out on visiting a pumpkin patch or touring a corn maze , but do bring some boots along with you as rain and corn mazes mean mud.

Great Pumpkin Beer Fest is the place to be if you love pumpkin beer…there are more than 80 varieties represented!

Seattle Restaurant Week happens twice a year and features many of Seattle’s nicer restaurants serving up three-course meals for a set price.

GeekGirlCon has a focus on women in science, technology, arts, literature, comics and games.

Truth be told, November is not the most pleasant month to visit Seattle if you don’t enjoy rain and wind, but at the same time, the end of the month is the start of the holiday season and downtown Seattle becomes something special then. Holiday light displays come out around every corner. Downtown Seattle gets decorated to the nines. So maybe avoid early November unless you’re here for business or family. Save your visit until after the holiday lights come out.

Start your day with the Macy’s Holiday Parade and end it with the Macy’s Tree Lighting in downtown Seattle. It’s festive and fun for the whole family, especially if you have kids who love Santa as he makes an appearance in the parade.

Festival of Trees is a display of some of the most beautiful Christmas trees you’ll ever see. Sales of the trees and tickets to a gala raise funds for Seattle Children’s Hospital.

December is generally rainy and cool to cold, and yet it’s a fun time to visit Seattle. Holiday happenings fill just about every weekend. Visit Christmas light displays, enjoy a holiday show at one of the local theaters, or sip on special winter brews at local microbreweries.

The Christmas Ship Festival is a unique way to enjoy the season. Argosy Cruises decks its boats out. Riders can enjoy snacks and a choir on board. Others come to meet the Christmas Ship at ports around the Puget Sound (a different one each night) and listen to the choir from shore. Christmas light displays take place everywhere from Seattle Center to Woodland Park Zoo, from Bellevue Botanical Garden to Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma. Like many cities, Seattle’s Pacific Northwest Ballet puts on a production of The Nutcracker each year. It’s a tradition and a beautiful holiday show for many.

The best time to visit Seattle is during the warm summer months, from June through August. Clear and dry days mean you'll be able to make the most out of your trip. 

Seattle's rainy season typically spans the winter months, from November through February. If you don't enjoy rain and wind, you should plan your visit for another time.

Like Seattle, the best months to visit Washington State are the summer months, when the weather is cool and dry and perfect for spending time outdoors.

Seattle Travel. "Weather - Seattle Travel." Retrieved Jan 12, 2021.

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Seattle

Although Seattle is known for its rainy weather, the Emerald City is much more than a gloomy destination for testing out your new rain jacket. This is especially true if, at the end of a day of hiking in pristine wilderness, you can look forward to a cream cheese-covered hot dog .

In a city of more than 700,000 people with a skyline that stands in contrast to snow-capped mountains nearby, there is no shortage of urban and active adventure. If you're heading that way with kids, check out our guide to eight fun things for families to do in Seattle before you go.

Here at TPG , we have put together a few suggestions for the best times to visit, depending on your travel goals.

When to Find the Best Weather in Seattle

Most people don't head to Seattle in search of sunshine and warmth, but if you time your trip just right, you may get lucky.

July and August are the warmest and driest months of the year. Daily high temperatures are in the mid-70s and it rains only about five days per month. During the wet season from November to January, it can often rain up to 18 days per month. This doesn't necessarily mean that winter weather in Seattle is bad — especially if you plan on heading to the mountains with your skis (or snowboard) in search of deep snow.

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Outdoor Adventure

With Mount Rainier, the Cascade Range and Olympic National Park located within a few hours of driving from the city, it's no surprise that Seattle often serves as a jumping-off point for those looking to hike, climb, bike, fish and ski.

July, August and September offer the best weather for outdoor recreation. Many high-elevation roads — like Sunrise Road in Mount Rainier National Park — often are closed from late September through June.

In the winter, the rain in Seattle usually falls as snow in the mountains, which is great if you're in search of endless powder. The best time to head to Seattle for snow sports is December through April, with prime conditions from January through March.

When to Visit Seattle if You Want to Avoid the Crowds

As with most popular tourist destinations, the best weather usually brings the crowds. If you value the freedom to walk the streets without dodging selfie sticks during a daily dose of sunshine, visit in the months from late October to early March — Seattle's rainiest but least-crowded season.

Rain happens some of the time during spring and fall, but the weather is significantly better than in winter. There will be tourists in the streets — but not the mid-summer crowds.

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Events and Festivals

From food to film festivals, there is always something worth checking out in Seattle. Of course, summer brings myriad outdoor festivals, but there is plenty to do in the spring, winter and fall, as well.

Seattle's nearly month-long International Film Festival showcases more than 400 films from around the world and draws almost 200,000 people annually. The festival usually starts in May and lasts into June, giving guests the opportunity to see a variety of independent short films, features and documentaries — 70% of which will not be shown in theaters — alongside films from established cinematographers and producers.

Bumbershoot, which occurs every year over Labor Day Weekend, may be Seattle's most popular music and arts festival. This renowned festival has been featuring comedians, musicians, dancers and other artists since 1971. The festival — whose name pays tribute to the city's famous weather (a bumbershoot is an umbrella) — also features a variety of food vendors, morning yoga and even an electronic dance experience.

During October, artists and technology professionals come together to create light art exhibitions and a multimedia video mapping contest that is projected on to the Museum of History & Industry. Over four evenings in the Lake Union Park neighborhood, the Borealis Festival of Light features street art performances, installations of light art, and live music. Artists from around the world create visual light shows that are projected onto buildings. Local vendors supply food and drink.

Winter isn't usually when you find tourists flocking to Seattle, but Winterfest from late November into December offers plenty to do. There are ice sculptures, ice skating, live music, a Fountain of Light dance party and a New Year's Eve fireworks display to mark the holiday.

When to Visit Seattle for Whale Watching

Located on the Puget Sound, Seattle is the perfect embarkation point for whale watching in the Pacific.

Orca whales can be spotted year-round but they are most prevalent during the spring and summer (May through October is a safe bet). Humpback and minke whales can also be seen during this season. Gray whales usually stop in Puget Sound on their migration north in March and April.

Cheapest Time to Visit Seattle

Staying in Seattle will generally be most expensive during the summer peak, but surprisingly, it is cheaper to book airfare from certain destinations during early summer.

In order to balance weather, crowds and affordable prices, visit Seattle during the shoulder seasons, which occur in April and May and again in September and October.

Affordable Airfare

According to the travel search engine Skyscanner.com , the cheapest time to buy tickets to Seattle depends on your point of origin. From New York, the cheapest flights average $211 in November. Traveling from DC is also cheapest in November, with similar prices. If flying from Los Angeles or Atlanta, it's cheapest to travel in June. The average cost is around $158 and $247, respectively. The best month to travel from Chicago is in October, when prices land around $154. Make sure to stop by the revamped Seattle Centurion Lounge (no longer a "Studio") while you're in the airport, which opened for business in 2017.

Affordable Hotels

According to historical data obtained by the booking platform Priceline.com, the average daily rate for hotels rated with 2.5 stars and above is around $172. Unsurprisingly, prices begin to rise in May as the weather improves, and peak between June and August — Seattle's high season. In 2018, the average price per night was at its highest, averaging $222. Prices begin to decrease in September, and hit a low point between November and December. During this time, a night can be booked for as little as $135 on average. Check out our reviews of the W Seattle before and after renovations here.

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Best Time to Go to Seattle: Your In-Depth Seasonal Guide

Discover Seattle’s charm in every season! From budget-friendly travel during shoulder seasons to exploring waterfalls at their peak, our in-depth guide covers the ideal times for various activities.

Seattle, one of the most popular cities in the United States known for its rain. Its reputation for rainy weather might deter some travelers, but if we gave you just the right information, maybe you’d find that the answer to the question “When is the best time to visit Seattle?” would be, for you, in May more than July.

We’re not going to tell you there’s a perfect month with no rain at all. But by the time you read to the end, you’ll understand when is the best time to visit Seattle based on what you want to do and see in the Emerald City. Whether you’re dreaming of facing majestic waterfalls or experiencing the best festivals in town, you’ll know when to go.

Best Time to Visit Seattle on a Budget

Wondering when to visit Seattle on a budget? The best month to visit Seattle is during shoulder seasons, from May through June and September to October. During shoulder season, airfares are lower and hotels typically offer promos due to reduced tourist demand.

The most popular attractions remain open throughout the year. With fewer visitors, this means you’ll likely find shorter lines in the places you’re planning to explore. Additionally, the temperature during the shoulder seasons is still considerably comfortable enough to explore outside, just not dry enough! There are a few more clouds in the mix with slightly lower temperatures (around 66-71 degrees Fahrenheit (19-21 Celsius). Expect rainy days too, of course.

For a wallet-friendly trip to Seattle, check out discount tickets to attractions offered exclusively by Tripster. It’s also possible to save up to 45% by bundling attraction tickets with your hotel of choice.

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Good Weather

The best time to go to Seattle for good weather is during the summer season–June, July and August. Visiting during this time means being graced by warm weather, less chance of rain, and longer sunlight hours.

You can count on glorious and sunny days during the summer. But you know what that means too! You won’t be the only one traveling to the Emerald City. The warm weather also happens to be the high season, meaning room rates soar and demand also goes up. If you’re thinking about planning a summer vacation in Seattle, be sure to book your accommodation and attraction tickets early!

Related Post: Seattle Indoor Activities: Exploring New Adventures When the Rain Pours

You can book tickets to popular attractions like the Space Needle and Sky View Observatory online. Ticket prices typically don’t increase even during high season, but some attractions limit the number of daily entries to ensure a pleasurable experience for visitors. Meanwhile, some public attractions like the Pike Place Market (home of the Gum Wall!) remain free and do not typically restrict the number of visitors in a day.

Summer is also the best time to enjoy outdoor attractions in and around Seattle. You could hike up the Olympic National Park or Mount Ranier National Park, both teeming with blooming flora and thriving fauna. For aquatic adventures, make a day trip to the San Juan Islands for whale watching. You’ll have the best chance of seeing orcas (killer whales), particularly the Southern Resident killer whales, which are the most famous and frequently sighted. If you have more time, explore more of the Puget Sound region to spot bald eagles, herons, ospreys, and more!

Summer is also a good time for wine tasting in Woodinville. This period offers warm and dry weather, ideal for vineyard tours and wine tastings. Book a Woodinville Warehouse Wine Pass to taste some of the finest wines of Woodinville’s Warehouse District!

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Waterfall Hiking

For waterfall chasers, the best months of the year to see the falls in their full glory are roughly from May through July. Spring and early summer are ideal because the snowmelt from the mountains feeds the waterfalls, making them fuller and more dramatic.

As for weather conditions, the days during spring and summer are longer. This gives you more daylight to enjoy the hiking trails! The weather is also more predictable, making it safer and more comfortable for hiking. It’s the best time of the year to visit Seattle if you want to visit as many of the popular waterfalls around Seattle as you can. However, always remember to be careful around fast-flowing water and slippery rocks.

If you happen to visit in May, surely you won’t just be visiting for the waterfalls! Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of summer in Seattle, so you’ll be treated to more events, activities, and cultural celebrations. Take time to explore the best of Seattle with a private walking tour or if you’re a foodie, a mouthwatering Pike Place food tour !

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Festivals

Wondering when is the best time to visit Seattle Washington for the energetic festival scene? That’s a tough choice because festivals are held in Seattle year-round!

Capital Hill Block Party, a three-day music festival featuring local and international music acts, typically kicks off during summer (July to August). It’s the most popular time of the year for music festivals in and around Seattle.

Related Post: Free Things to Do Seattle – 19 Must-Try Activities

Meanwhile, the Seattle International Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in the United States, occurs during late spring (May to June). And of course, we also have the Northwest Folklife Festival happening around the same time, a major event that celebrates the Pacific Northwest’s ethnic art and culture.

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Fewer Crowds

Want to explore Seattle but without the crowd? The best time to travel to Seattle is anytime from late October to April. This is generally when the Seattle crowds clear out. Families will usually go back to school and work, and then some of them to warmer countries for vacation.

Although late Fall to Winter is the Seattle best time to visit to explore with fewer visitors, remember that there’s a reason why the crowds disperse during this time. The rainy season will be in full force, which means more rainy days than ever. Don’t expect clear skies, especially when temperatures begin to drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 Celcius). This is probably the best time to hit up breweries and get cozy in a coffee shop.

With fewer crowds in Seattle, you can also take advantage of hotel prices. Hotel deals run rampant, a couple of the best rates available on Tripster. It’s not a great time for sightseeing, but you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding during the day, and then snuggle up in a Seattle hotel of your choice.

If you happen to be in Seattle in early spring, head over to the Quad at the University of Washington! It’s arguably the most famous spot in Seattle for cherry blossoms. The Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom against the backdrop of the university’s historic architecture are a favorite subject for outdoor photography.

Seattle Vacation Packages for Your Ideal Time to Visit

No matter what time of the year you want to visit Seattle, you can always count on Tripster’s vacation packages to offer budget-friendly deals! Bundle a stay at a hotel of your choice with discount tickets to places you really want to explore.

With a tailored vacation package, you decide where to stay and what fun stuff to do. No matter if it’s sunny or rainy, your Seattle trip can be just how you want it.

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Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...

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A Guide of the Best Time To Visit Seattle – Which Season is Best?

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The best time to visit Seattle depends on the value you are looking to get and your travel needs . Are you looking for a more affordable time to visit or a period with the best atmospheric condition? Do you prefer to visit when there is less crowd or the time of the year that has more fun events to offer tourists? Your answer to these questions determines your best time to visit Seattle.

Summer months are commonly the most crowded and costliest to visit Seattle. If you’re looking to reduce cost, your best time to visit Seattle is between September and October when the summer crowd is dwindling and the weather is still friendly.

 Summer is Season is Seattle tourists’ high season. The cost of accommodation rises this time and also the rooms are scarce. Winter is the least visiting tie in Seattle.

Even people who are very passionate about sightseeing are seriously discouraged by the winter weather. So, this period is the least crowded and expensive but who want a trip out when it’s freezing.

With regards to the atmospheric condition, the best time to visit is early fall. During this time, summer weather still hangs on while the crowd is gradually fading away. Thus, during this time, you get surplus hotel rooms at affordable rates.

You’ll equally get cheaper accommodation and warm weather during the spring season. However, this can sometimes be marred by rain showers and chiller winds. Don’t forget to pack suitable warm clothing to manage under the rain and keep sufficiently warm.

If you have no budget constraints and don’t mind large crowds, the most suitable time to visit Seattle and enjoy and have the most fun is during the summer months. The months of June, July and August are the warmest and driest period in Seattle.

Although Seattle has a lot to offer tourists throughout the year, the sky is clearest during these summer months. These months offer you the best space needle sightseeing experience. Also, you gain the most fun this time from your visit to Mt. Rainier.

Although you can equally take part in Seattle popular activities like hiking and visiting the park during the spring, fall, or winter season, you’ll love the comfort and convenience of visiting during the summer months.

However, Seattle weather doesn’t have a stable summer borderline. Summer can sometimes start in late spring or early fall. When this happens, the months of October and May are equally warm and dry. This, however, differs from year to year.

If you’re unable to visit Seattle in summer, all hope is not lost. You have a lot to catch up on during the spring or fall. Winter months are not the best time to visit Seattle for tourism. Unless you have a major reason to visit during this time, you want to skip it completely.

Best time to visit Seattle:  Travel Seasons considerations

1. high or peak season in seattle.

High tourist season in Seattle starts from June and ends in August. The period comes with bright sunshine. The weather is warm and dry with a temperature of roughly 24 degrees centigrade. The relative humidity is equally low within this time and this increases the number of air travels, ferries, and other tours within this city.

The downside of visiting within this period is the soaring hotel prices and accommodation scarcity. The best catch is to book a hotel room in advance. This season is characterized by a large crowd and inward vs outward cruise tour to Alaska from the Port of Seattle.

2. Shoulder Season in Seattle

The shoulder season in Seattle includes the months of April, May, September, and October. If you want to visit Seattle for sightseeing, these months are the best time because of the feature good weather with a mean temperature of 15 degrees to 20 degrees centigrade.

The crowd that visits Seattle will begin to leave at the start of these months. So, you can get one of the best hotel rooms at a good bargain price. Nevertheless, these months are characterized by drizzles. So, don’t forget our raincoats or umbrellas.

These months are equally your best month to go whale watching. The Orcas and humpback whales commonly show up these months.

3. Low Season in Seattle

The months of November to March is characterized by poor weather. You want to avoid these months if you’re visiting Seattle for tourist interests. The weather is commonly showery, icy, and windy and the temperature falls within 4 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius.

Nevertheless, if your aim of visiting Seattle is to visit museums, these months are the best time of the year to have the most fun. It is equally the best time to go skiing and airfares are most affordable during this time. If you love nature, you may also want to visit the parks this time to spot blooms of daffodils and cherry trees.

The Best Time To Visit Seattle: Weather Considerations

The best weather in Seattle falls around late June and early September. July and August are the busiest months when hotels are full and restaurants are crowded.

May, June, September, and October, equally, have nice weather. So, if you don’t mind missing the summer weather, they are the next best time to visit Seattle.

Many tourist attractions in Seattle can be enjoyed even under slight showers of rain and this makes the city good for a year-round vacation.

Weather consideration: Precipitation

If you want to visit Seattle during the driest part of the year, your best time is in July, August, followed by June. The period you’re least likely to experience rain or snow is from early July to mid-July.  On the other hand, you’re most likely to experience snow or rain showers in the middle of December. The week of 17th September commonly experience roughly four days of heavier precipitation.

Seattle Rain by Month (mm)

Best Time To Visit Seattle: Rainy Season Consideration

While considering your best time to visit Seattle with regards to weather condition, one important thing to note is that Seattle experiences some rain showers during winter.

However, this differs from year to year. Some years, you don’t get these at all while you can find it raining day in day out some years. If you love hiking, visiting Mt. Rainier, the coast, or the parks, it is better to avoid visiting Seattle during the rainy season. Rainy season in Seattle begins around September and ends roughly in March.

Although it is better to check the general weather conditions for the year as some years have more rains during winter while other years are dry.

Best time to visit Seattle: Humidity and Wind considerations

Some months experience high relative humidity, others have average relative humidity. While the month with the least relative humidity is July and the month with the highest relative humidity is January.

Seattle is not very windy. The windiest month is March, the next month with the highest wind is in April and then December. The mean wind speed in March is roughly 5.3 knots and around 6.1 MPH to 9.9 KPH which is considered a slight wind.

The period with highest non-stop winds that last far beyond some moments falls around the middle of March with the mean highest non-speed of 11.8 knots. This is taken as a modest breeze.

Seattle wind speed throughout the year in knots

One Knot is equal to 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Relative Humidity by Month

Temperature considerations.

Mean temperatures in Seattle differ significantly. Seattle is not as temperate as most world tourist destinations. It is rated as the thirty-seven percent tourist destination in the world with nice weather. If you want to visit Seattle during the warmest time of the year, the best months to visit are August, July, and after the two months, September.

It is commonly warmest in the middle of August with the highest temperature constantly approximately 81 degrees Fahrenheit or 27.2 degrees Celsius and the lowest night temperature always approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit or 15.6 degrees Celsius at night.

Average Seattle Temperatures by Month

Average daily high temperature calculated for all the months of the year represents the weather conditions for that month. When the mean value is very low, it commonly implies that the night temperature is very cold.

Visiting Seattle and January Weather

January is the middle of the rainy season in Seattle. The atmosphere is commonly damp, and there could be rain anytime. Although the weather is cold this month, the temperature is not very low to necessitate snow. Either you decide to stay indoors or you go for mountain activities. Therefore, the month is not the best time to visit Seattle. If you want to, don’t forget to pack rain cats and rainproof shoes.

Some people do go outdoors this time but most Seattle natives prefer to stay at home. However, if you’re after bargain hotel prices, you get it better at this time than in springtime, summertime or in fall. Be aware though that the reason behind the bargain hotel pricing is that it is not a pleasant time to enjoy your visit to Seattle. Temperature is roughly 8.3 degrees Celsius.

Seattle Weather in February

February weather in Seattle is more or less fifty-fifty. It is commonly windy and dry. The rate of precipitation starts to dwindle.

Cherry blooms more sometimes begin to show up this time. Some years, the month remains barely the same as January. Nonetheless, February is the best time to visit Seattle for going to museums, galleries, and cafeterias.

Indoor activities are more prevalent during this time than outdoor activities. Example of indoor activities you can partake in during this time is local displays at the fifth Avenue or Paramount Theaters. You can equally take part in the wandering Pike Place Market, pop out for a delicious meal at any Seattle restaurant.

With Valentine’s Day falling within this month, some of the best restaurants in the city get very crowded every 14th of February. So, don’t forget to make a booking before venturing outside. The temperature of this month is roughly 9.4 degrees Celsius.

Seattle weather in March

Starting from early March, you will begin to see sunshine and the temperature begins to rise but you can still experience the outflow of the stormy rain showers that began in February. During this time when the sky is blue is your best time for exploring the parks in the area.

March weather can move to and fro lovely days and a revisit of the cold, showery winter temperature. And where the cherry blooms did not appear in February, they start to emerge this time.

The city is this time  full of displays of cherry blooms but if you want to see the most spectacular display pop out and visit the University of Washington campus.

Save your raincoat in your baggage, however, remember to take your sunglasses. When the weather is clear, March is the best time to visit the city’s parks like discovery park and hiking trails. March temperature is roughly 11.6 degrees Centigrade.

Seattle weather in April

The temperature rises in April but there is usually a cold breeze which keeps the weather col. At the same time, the rate of rainfall starts to fall. If you want to visit Seattle during a period with less crowd, you can get some fantastic bargain hotel prices this time.

Similar to the March weather, you could experience sunshine or rainfall in April. If you want to visit during the Northwest’s offseason, this is normally your last chance of grabbing cheap hotels close to the beaches, Mt. Rainier or the rest of waterfront localities. The temperature is roughly 14.7 degrees Celsius this time.

Seattle weather in May

May is one of the loveliest months in Seattle. You get sunnier days and blue skies than rainy days but still, the evenings are frosty. Ensure you take your jacket and an umbrella when you stroll out in the evening.

May is a time when you will enjoy local festivals and venturing outdoors. It is the beginning of Seattle’s festival season. The temperature is roughly 18.2 degrees Celsius.

Seattle Weather in June

June is the best time for going outdoors. There are a lot of festivals and the weather is very nice. You can enjoy visiting the outdoor pools and parks. You can equally go hiking at Discovery Park or visit the Mount Si. June is marked with longer days. On the 21st of June, for example, the sun sets around 10 pm which makes it a nice day for family picnics, going to festivals and enjoy your dinner while the sun is still shining. The temperature is roughly twenty-one degrees centigrade.

Seattle Weather in July

July is when you’ll get the best of Summer weather. It is commonly overcrowded with tourists. This means you’ll sometimes have to queue up for a table in restaurants. You’ll get quite a lot of sunshine which makes the month for venturing outdoors.

July is the best time to visit Seattle with regards to the weather condition. The weather is normally dry and warm. You’ll meet queues in most tourist attraction but the crowds are not that prohibitive.

However, you’d need to make a call to check on the queue at the Space Needle to ensure you can comfortably wait. It is characterized by a large crowd. However, you can get a good view of Mt. Rainier from the Space Needle and a glimpse of the beach from Discovery Park. The temperature falls around 24.3 degrees Celsius.

Visiting Seattle in August and Weather

The warmest month in Seattle in August. Even though marine air makes the environment cool at night, you can enjoy the day by visiting the Puget waters during the day.

August weather is mostly similar to that of July and is characterized by warm and dry air. It is one of the best times to visit Seattle. You’ll get lots of festivals and events like Seafair, in August. The temperature is roughly 24.6 degrees Celsius.

Visiting Seattle in September and weather considerations

The month of September is characterized by a reduced crowd and nice weather which makes it a good time to visit Seattle. By this time, you start to get shorter days and longer nights but you still experience outflows of summer weather. Although the standard take-off time for fall is late September, it starts to feel like fall in the northwest during early September. Leaves begin to change color this time and the period makes a great time to go leaf-peeping.

End of summer events take place at this time and rainfall starts to return. However, the rain is insufficient to stop locals from venturing outdoors but a lot of tourists may not feel comfortable in the rain.

If you’re visiting Seattle this time, remember to take your hat, a rain jacket or an umbrella. The temperature is roughly 21.4 degrees Celsius.

Visiting Seattle in October and weather considerations

If your purpose is to experience Seattle’s autumn weather, October is the best time to visit Seattle. You’ll enjoy the lovely fall foliage on Mount Rainier. By this time the temperature begins to fall and the leaves start to change their colors.

Seattle locals celebrate the autumn with festivals and numerous weird houses all over the place. You’ll love a visit to the pumpkin patch or a tour to a corn maze.

However, remember to put on your boots because it can get muddy because of the rain and corn maze. The temperature is roughly 15.4 degrees Celsius.

Visiting Seattle and the November Weather

November is not the best month for outdoor activities if you’re visiting Seattle. It is characterized by heavy downpours and wind storms. The rainy season in Seattle starts in November. However, the holiday season starts towards the end of November. The city gets decorated with holiday lights with the most spectacular display in Downtown Seattle.

So, the month might be the best time to visit Seattle if you enjoy visiting museums, galleries, and eateries. If you’re visiting for tourist interest, postpone your visit towards the end of November after the display of the holiday lights. The temperature is roughly 10.5 degrees Celsius.

Visiting Seattle and December Weather

If you’re after mountain hiking, this is the best time to visit Seattle. The whole ski resorts in the city open in December. Nonetheless, the sun sets earlier than 5 pm in December. So, it can get dark and windy. The temperature also drops at this time and you can witness coats of snows on the mountains.

Despite the cold and rain that characterize the month, December provides a lot of funs to tourists. There are a lot of holiday events scheduled for the weekends. You can either watch Christmas lights displays, go for a holiday show at some theaters in the locality. You can equally enjoy winter brews at small local breweries.

The temperature is roughly 7.6 degrees Celsius.

Best time to visit Settle: Popular Festivals and Events considerations

Seattle has a lot of amazing festivals and events. Besides holiday events, most of these events fall within summer, spring, and fall. One of the most popular festivals is Seafair. Below are the different popular festivals and events in Seattle and their respective months to help you plan if you want to attend any of them.

Popular Seattle events in January

• The Seattle Boat Show with watercraft exhibitions and marine-associated conferences.
• Seattle two weekend’s Chamber Society Winter Music Festival by word-class musicians
• The Polar Bear Matthews Beach Park plunge

Popular Seattle February Events

• A display and garden show at the Washington State Convention Center
• The Wintergrass Music Festival dedicated to the American bluegrass music.
• The Seattle Boat Show
• The Chinese Lunar New Year celebration at Chinatown-International District

Popular Seattle Events in March

• Emerald City Comic Con pop culture with artists, actors, writers, and more visiting
• Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade with a tour to a local Irish pub.

Popular Seattle Events in April

• The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival for viewing stretches of tulips and daffodils
• Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
• The open International Children’s Friendship Festival
• Seattle Restaurant Week

Popular Seattle Events in May

• The Opening Day of Boating Season characterized by sailboat races and boat parades
• Seattle International Film Festival   with a show of documentaries
• Northwest Folklife open festival at Seattle Center

Popular Seattle events in June

• The Fremont Solstice Fair which celebrates with music, food, and artistic display of cyclist with some elements nudity.
• The Seattle PrideFest which is the most extensive LGBT get-together drag queens, and the Seattle Pride Parade

Popular Seattle Events in July

• The Seattle International Beerfest for beer lovers
• The Bite of Seattle food festival,  featuring the best food vendors, chefs, eateries, wine, and beer.
• The Capitol Hill Block Party,
• Chinatown DragonFest
• The Chamber Music Society Summer Festival
• Seafair which is a collection of several events that run from July to August.
• The fireworks of the 4th July and the Seafair Summer Fourth at Gas Works Park

Popular Seattle events in August

• Hempfest events which include a political rally, concert, and art and craft fair. The other is
• The Seafair Weekend where you can watch hydroplane races, the Blue Angels and watch air shows.
• Seattle Art Fair with lots of art display from art galleries, museums and more.

Popular Seattle Events in September

• The PAX Prime Gaming Show which is a celebration of the game culture.
• The Washington State Fair held at the Puyallup and featuring fair nourishments, rides, sports, wildlife, featuring performances, minor shows, etc. and more.
• Bumbershoot a popular music festival which features a different artist and headliners like the popular Oktoberfests, Fremont Oktoberfest.

Popular Seattle events in October

• Seattle Children’s Festival
• Seattle Queer Film Festival
• The Earshot Jazz Festival
• Great Pumpkin Beer Fest for enthusiasts of pumpkin beer
• GeekGirlCon women events

Seattle Popular Events in November

• The Sheraton Seattle’s Gingerbread Village show
• Visiting the Magnuson Park to buy the best locally made jewelry, clothes and artworks like portrait, and sculptures.
• Visiting the historic Pike Place Market to watch caroling competitions, tree-lighting event and more.
• Macy’s Holiday Parade with Santa appearance and Macy’s Tree Lighting in Downtown.
• Festival of Trees which involves the display of the most beautiful Christmas trees with a gala fundraising for Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Popular December events in Seattle

• The Winterfest event: This features displays like ice sculpting and ice skating.
• The Great Figgy Pudding Carolling contest hosted at Westlake Center.
• The Christmas Ship Festival with Argosy Cruises and the Puget Sounds
• Christmas lights displays
• Seattle’s Pacific Northwest Ballet show

Best time to Visit Seattle: Season of the year consideration

1. best time to visit seattle: spring season.

The spring season in Seattle runs from March to May. The spring weather is moderately cold due to the mixed effects of humidity and temperature. The highest daily temperature ranges between 70.3 degrees Fahrenheit or 21.3 Celsius to 52.2 degrees Fahrenheit or 11.2 degrees Centigrade.

The later months are warmer than the earlier months. You have roughly six to eleven days of a significant amount of drizzle every month. Besides the summertime, the next most tourists visited period in Seattle is the Springtime.

Hotel prices are also cheaper this time. So, you might be able to get really good hotels at affordable prices because most haven’t adjusted their rates for the summer season.

Major SpringTime Events in Seattle include the following:

• Moisture Festival which falls between March and April
• Japanese Cultural and Seattle Cherry Blossom festivals celebrated in April
• Seattle Restaurant Week which falls in April
• Seattle International Film Festival which falls around May to June

2. Best time to visit Seattle: Summer Season

The summer season in Seattle falls between June and August. It is the widest tourist visited time and the busiest in Seattle. So, accommodation rates are high within this period. To get better hotel pricing, it is better to book in advance.

The rate of precipitation decreases from one to four days every month and the temperature is at a tolerable range of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the weather is commonly friendly this time, don’t forget to pack a light jacket in the event of icy breeze.

Major tourist Events in Seattle during the summer season include the following:

• Seattle International Film Festival which falls between May and June.
• Seattle Pride celebrated in June.
• Seattle International BeerFest celebrated in July
• Capitol Hill Block Party celebrated in July.
• Seafair Weekend event in August
• Seattle Art Fair event in August

3. Visiting Seattle and the Fall season

Seattle experiences the fall season from September to November. The daily maximum temperature ranges from 75.5 degrees Fahrenheit or 24.2 degrees Celsius and 49.9 degrees Fahrenheit to 9.9 degrees Celsius which comes with icy feeling due to the humidity and wind.

At the same time, the rate of rain or snowfall increases due to the approaching winter. You want to pack some warm clothing. Average rain or snow showers in a month are roughly four to twelve day.

Rooms are very affordable this time because not many tourists like visiting this period. The fall season is your best time to head to Seattle if you are looking to get a bargain and enjoy autumn festivals.

Major tourist events of the fall season include the following:

• Bumbershoot event which takes place in September.
• Earshot Jazz Festival which falls between October to November.
• Seattle Restaurant Week which is celebrated between October to November.

4. Visiting Seattle in the Winter Season

The winter season in Seattle runs from December through February. The climate is too chilly this time of the year for tourists especially if you don’t like cold weather or enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

The average highest temperature in this season is roughly between 53.3 degrees Fahrenheit or 11.8 degrees Celsius and 46.5 degrees Fahrenheit or 8.1 degrees Celsius. The average number of rains or snows for this season is eight to twelve times every month.

Major Events of the winter season include the following:

• Earshot Jazz Festival which runs between October and November.
• November Seattle International Comedy Contest
• Seattle Marathon & Half Marathon hosted in December
• Christmas Ship Festival which is celebrated in December
• The February Seattle of Improv Theater festival.

If you’re visiting Seattle and want to enjoy a bit of all the fun Seattle offers to tourists, consider the following areas: – Pike Place Market and Belltown – Downtown Seattle – Queen Anne – Pioneer Square – Waterfront areas

The best time to visit the Pike Place Market is in the morning before it is midday if you want to skip crowds. These periods are characterized with fewer crowd Mornings before noon are generally less crowded. Also, late fall, winter, and early spring apart from holidays are not crowded. If you don’t mind the crowd, visiting in the mornings during the weekdays in the Summer is the best time to visit.

The Space Needle is one of the most widely visited attractions in Seattle. It is open all year round and is normally crowded. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning by 10.00 am Weekdays-Monday-Thursday and 9.30 am on Fridays.

You can check your items and a coat at Guest Services when you visit the aquarium. You must remember to pick up your items before leaving.

If you want to avoid crowds, try visiting anytime beyond 2 pm both during weekdays and weekends.

The best time to visit Seattle comes down to what value you are looking to get. Are you after the fun summer weather of Seattle or its popular events and festivals? Or are you looking to visit during the low season with bargain hotel prices or you are specific about experiencing a certain event or visiting a specific tourist attraction?

Whatever your reason, we have provided a detailed guide in this article to help you choose the best suitable time to visit Seattle. Enjoy your trip! We wish you a happy fun time. Don’t forget to let us know how it goes.

Further read:

• Epic Destination List: Most Popular Travel Destinations!

The Best Time to Visit Seattle, WA, US for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Seattle for ideal weather are

May 7th to October 21st

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Seattle Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Seattle Travel Info

Weather in seattle.

Average temperatures in Seattle vary greatly. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 37th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Seattle, the hottest months are August, July, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid August where highs are regularly around 81°F (27.2°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 60°F (15.6°C) at night.

Seattle Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Seattle temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Seattle Perceived Temperature (F)

Seattle perceived temperature (c), average seattle temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Seattle are July, August, and then June. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early to mid July. For example, on the week of July 9th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid December with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of December 17th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Seattle.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Seattle (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Seattle has some very humid months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is July (50.1% relative humidity), and the most humid month is January (72.7%).

Wind in Seattle is usually calm . The windiest month is March, followed by April and December. March’s average wind speed of around 5.3 knots (6.1 MPH or 9.9 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid March where average top sustained speeds reach 11.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Seattle.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to seattle.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for the United States; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 04, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Seattle, WA, US is July, followed by June and August. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Seattle in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall seattle travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderately cold. Highs range from 70.3°F (21.3°C) and 52.2°F (11.2°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 6 to 11 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with 1 to 4 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Seattle, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 75.5°F (24.2°C) and 49.9°F (9.9°C), which will feel chilly given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 4 to 12 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is too cold this time of year in Seattle to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 53.3°F (11.8°C) and 46.5°F (8.1°C). On average, it rains or snows a great amount: 8 to 12 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › the United States › Seattle, WA, US

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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
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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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This Pacific Northwest Hub Has Something for Every Traveler — From an Iconic Fish Market to the Sky-high Space Needle

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

The Pacific Northwest is known for its unadulterated natural beauty — from picturesque waterfronts to mountains beyond the city — and truly excellent coffee. And Seattle, as a hub of the PNW, is a perfect gateway to the area. Seattle feels simultaneously like a buzzing city and an outdoor lover's paradise. Lined by the Puget Sound, Lake Union, and Lake Washington, it's also home to some of the best seafood in the country, which is part of the reason why its food scene is so revered. Beyond the terrific restaurants, Seattle is known for its long and storied music history — it's the land of Jimi Hendrix, The Postal Service, Nirvana, Macklemore, Foo Fighters, and Pearl Jam, among others.

As for Seattle's tourist attractions, you'll spend your days taking the monorail between sites like Pike Place Market, Olympic Sculpture Park, and the Space Needle. From strolling Pike Place Market at lunch, to curling up with a book at a local coffee shop on a rainy afternoon, to hitting the music clubs in Belltown, you'll spend a few days in Seattle and quickly find you'll never want to leave.

Pacific Standard Time

The best time to visit Seattle is from June to October. Seattle sees a lot of rain, but June, July, and August are the driest months. And with the breeze coming off the Puget Sound, the summers aren't too hot. It starts to cool down in September and October, but the fall in Seattle is crisp and inviting, especially as the abundant trees change color.

As for events to keep on your radar, April is a big month for Seattle because it brings both the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival and the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Beyond the flower shows, the Seattle International Film Festival is in June, the Seattle International Beerfest is in July, and the Seattle Marathon is in November.

Seattle Center is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city. It spans 74 acres and was once the site of the 1962 World's Fair. Within Seattle Center, you'll find the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass, among other attractions.

The Seattle monorail is a scenic, above-ground train that runs from Seattle Center to Westlake Center, which lies three blocks from Pike Place Market. A monorail ride costs $3 and is a great way to get around when you're sightseeing in the city.

Seattle is a tech capital of America, home to the headquarters of Amazon, IMDB, and Zillow, among other influential companies.

The city is also an important music hub, where you can always catch up-and-coming bands at clubs in Belltown. Plenty of A-list musical talent has come out of the Seattle area, from Jimi Hendrix to Death Cab for Cutie.

Seattle's Pike Place Market is one of the oldest-operating farmers' markets in America. It opened in 1907.

Trains: King County Metro has four different railway options: the Link light rail, Seattle Center Monorail, Seattle streetcar, and the Sounder train. The Link runs through downtown Seattle all the way to Sea-Tac Airport. Meanwhile, the Seattle streetcar has three different lines operating throughout the city. The Sounder train is a commuter rail that brings passengers outside the city limits. And finally, the monorail, which costs $3 for adults and $1.50 for kids, runs from the Space Needle at Seattle Center to Westlake Center, located just three blocks from Pike Place Market.

Buses: King County Metro offers more than 200 buses to take you around Seattle and the surrounding areas. Find a list of bus lines and their schedules here . You can pay for the bus with an ORCA card or with the exact fare in cash. (It's worth noting that bus drivers will not be able to offer you change.) Bus rides cost $2.50. Car Service and Taxis: Uber and Lyft both service Seattle. You can also find a taxi easily at the airport or select stands around the city, but it's easier to schedule one through a service like Seattle Yellow Cab . For a black car service, try local companies like Seattle Royal Town Car .

Thompson Seattle

Address: 110 Stewart St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 623-4600 Book Now

Located right near Pike Place Market, Thompson Seattle has lavish modern decor, a fantastic cocktail program at its rooftop lounge, Nest, and rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the Puget Sound. Choose from king bed rooms, one- or two-bedroom suites, or residences — the rooms and suites are outfitted with modern art and Sealy Tempur-Pedic mattresses.

Hotel Theodore

Address: 1531 7th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 621-1200 Book Now

This downtown boutique hotel fuses modern decor with regal design. The common spaces have high ceilings, inviting light to pour in, and the hotel boasts a museum-quality art collection. Looking for a special occasion room to reserve? The 2,000-square-foot penthouse, called The Residence , takes up the hotel's entire 19th floor and has three terraces.

Address: 1112 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 264-6000 Book Now

W Hotels are known for their vibrancy, and the W Seattle's interiors bring the colorful palette to the next level. The W Seattle's programming is inspired by the city's musical roots — the property has a private recording studio, the W Sound Suite, as well as a live music series hosted at the hotel.

The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle

Address: 1007 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98104 Phone: (206) 624-4844 Book Now

Walking distance from Pioneer Square, the Seattle waterfront, and Pike Place Market, The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle is an updated property that dates back to 1901. Decorated with a collection of local art and serving craft cocktails at The Bookstore Bar & Café, this is an eclectic spot that really embraces the artistic and cultural flair of Seattle.

The State Hotel

Address: 1501 2nd Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (800) 827-3900 Book Now

From The State Hotel, you can walk a few minutes to Pike Place or the monorail, which takes you right to Seattle Center. The State Hotel is home to Ben Paris, a restaurant serving elevated American food, and 91 beautifully appointed rooms.

Motif Seattle

Address: 1415 5th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 971-8000 Book Now

The atmosphere at Motif is heavily inspired by Seattle's vibrant music and arts scene. The downtown hotel has a chic rooftop lounge, and its restaurant, Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails, is not to be missed.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle

Address: 1101 4th Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 621-1770 Book Now

Kimpton's reputation as a boutique-feeling, elevated hotel experience translates perfectly in Seattle. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco, situated in downtown Seattle, is decorated with greenery and inviting fire pits, and the rooms offer romantic city views.

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

Address: 99 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 749-7000 Book Now

The Four Seasons Hotel Seattle is known, among other things, for its heated rooftop infinity pool that appears to cascade right into Elliott Bay. Many of the accommodations, from the corner deluxe rooms to the two-bedroom suites, have beautiful views of Elliott Bay and the Puget Sound. The hotel also has multiple on-site dining options, including Goldfinch Tavern and a rooftop bar. Plus, it's steps from Pike Place Market.

The Edgewater

Address: 2411 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 792-5959 Book Now

The Edgewater celebrates rock 'n roll in downtown Seattle on Pier 67. With waterfront-view rooms, Six Seven restaurant on the Puget Sound, and guitars available for guests to rent, this is not your average hotel stay.

Inn at the Market

Address: 86 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 443-3600 Book Now

The Inn at the Market is aptly named, seeing as though it's located within the renowned Pike Place Market. With rooms overlooking the bay and a rooftop deck where you'll experience the Pike Place atmosphere firsthand, this 79-room inn is abuzz with Seattle flavor.

Palihotel Seattle

Address: 107 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 596-0600 Book Now

The 96-room Palihotel Seattle is situated right across from Pike Place Market and Elliott Bay. The enclave on Pine Street features eclectic touches, like Smeg fridges in all the rooms, and is also home to The Hart and the Hunter, a Palisociety restaurant that started in Los Angeles and has since expanded to the Emerald City.

Address: 2408 NW 80th St., Seattle, WA 98117 Phone: (206) 472-4150

Situated in the Ballard neighborhood, Cafe Munir is a Mediterranean restaurant that stands out in the city's dining scene. You'll love the marinated chicken, mezze platters, and kabobs — all for a reasonable price.

Off the Rez Cafe

Address: 4300 15th Ave. NE, Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Seattle, WA 98105 Website

Originally a favorite Seattle food truck, Off the Rez has now set up a brick-and-mortar restaurant in the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. It serves Indian fusion tacos on delicious fresh-fried bread.

Address: 1054 N. 39th St., Seattle, WA 98103 Phone: (206) 632-0185 Website

Kamonegi is an exquisite Japanese restaurant under acclaimed chef Mutsuko Soma. You'll find soba dipping noodles, chicken katsu sandwiches, and innovative dishes like duck fat eggplant and foie gras tofu.

Address: 2576 Aurora Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 283-3313 Website

One of Seattle's all-time great upscale restaurants, Canlis has been around since the 1950s. It specializes in New American cuisine, and its posh dining room is situated right on the water with a gorgeous view of the sound.

Address: 1531 14th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 251-7673 Website

A luxurious Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, Spinasse also has a terrific wine list and location. Try the tajarin al ragù , the risotto with matsutake mushrooms, and the 14-month aged prosciutto di parma .

Address: 300 E Pike St. #1200, Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 557-7273 Website

French-Vietnamese fusion is what you'll find at Stateside. On East Pike Street in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, this upscale joint is decorated with tropical plants and printed wallpaper, and the food is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Address: 1040 E. Union St., Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 900-8699 Website

Bateau is a luxe steakhouse with French flair. Under chef Taylor Thornhill, the grass-fed steaks are prepared with precision, as are various other meat-forward French delicacies, like steak tartare. The whole experience comes together in a room with inviting modern decor and a chic bar lined with brass stools.

Cafe Campagne

Address: 1600 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 728-2233 Website

A French-style brasserie within Pike Place Market, Cafe Campagne is a lovely place to take a load off during a day of sightseeing. Fancy a post-shopping cocktail in the afternoon? They have innovative drinks here, which pair perfectly with a slice of fresh-from-the-oven crab quiche.

Piroshky Piroshky

Address: 1908 Pike Pl., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 441-6068 Website

Visiting Piroshky Piroshky, a renowned Polish bakery across from Pike Place Market, is a must while at the public market. Try their stuffed piroshkies, from beef and potato to the chicken, curry, and rice option.

Herkimer Coffee

Address: Multiple Locations Website

Can you go to Seattle and not have phenomenal, locally roasted coffee? Herkimer Coffee is the place to find exceptional Pacific Northwest coffee. Established in Seattle in 2003, this company purchases sustainable beans from farms growing "complex coffees" and roasts the beans in house daily.

Pike Place Market (Public Market Center)

Address: 85 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 682-7453 Website

Pike Place Market is simultaneously a top Seattle attraction, food hall, farmers' market, and shopping venue. In short, it's a main event in Seattle. Come for lunch, do some shopping, or just grab an iced coffee and wander the market, taking in the spectacle.

Space Needle

Address: 400 Broad St., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 905-2100 Website

Opened in 1962, the Space Needle towers at 605 feet tall. The 520-foot observation deck is purposely shaped like a saucer, as part of the tower's futuristic aesthetic. General admission tickets cost $35, senior citizens pay $30, and children 12 and under are charged $26.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Address: 305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 753-4940 Website

Right next to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is an exhibit within the Seattle Center. The sculpture garden and art exhibition showcases the work of Dale Chihuly. You can buy combined access tickets for the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass for $49 ($39 for seniors and $34 for youths).

Olympic Sculpture Park

Address: 2901 Western Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 654-3100 Website

Owned and operated by the Seattle Art Museum, Olympic Sculpture Park is a fantastic outdoor display of modern and contemporary sculpture. The nine-acre area of landscape art has an indoor pavilion, and the space extends all the way to the shores of the Puget Sound.

Seattle Center

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Address: 305 Harrison St., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 684-7200 Website

A number of Seattle's great attractions are within the Seattle Center, including the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Seattle Center takes up 74 acres in the city's Uptown Arts and Cultural District. It was the site of the 1962 World's Fair, and today, the space is focused on advancement, social and racial justice, sustainability, and the arts.

The Museum of History & Industry

Address: 860 Terry Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 324-1126 Website

The Museum of History & Industry — affectionately called Mohai by those in the know — is right by the water and delves into the innovation roots of Seattle. Visit permanent exhibits like the Bezos Center for Innovation (which looks at the technological past, present, and future of Seattle) and Maritime Seattle (which explores how maritime and industrial activities have influenced the city).

Museum of Pop Culture

Address: 325 5th Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 770-2700 Website

The Museum of Pop Culture was founded by Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen in 2000. The museum boasts one of the largest collections of "contemporary pop culture historical objects" in the world. Get ready to see Jimi Hendrix's hat, Janis Joplin's feather boa, iconic turntables from generations past, and an impressive display of new-age artistry.

Gas Works Park

Address: 2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103 Phone: (206) 684-4075 Website

Sprawled in the middle of Seattle is a manicured, 19-acre park on a site that was once a coal gasification plant. It has a beautiful view of Lake Union, and much of the old equipment used by the Seattle Gas Light Company plant has been preserved within the park.

Seattle Aquarium

Address: 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 386-4300 Website

What better way to experience the marine wildlife of the Pacific Northwest than by visiting the Seattle Aquarium? The Seattle Aquarium is focused on the conservation of marine animals that live on the Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest. On the Puget Sound and Salish Sea, the aquarium is home to puffins, octopuses, otters, and seals, among other animals.

The Center for Wooden Boats

Address: 1010 Valley St., Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: (206) 382-2628 Website

Boating is extremely popular in Seattle during the warmer months. It's an opportunity to see the city from a new vantage point while being outside. If you're not exactly a speed demon, renting a wooden sailboat is a perfect way to glide serenely on Lake Union. Rent a boat from The Center for Wooden Boats' South Lake Union boathouse, or sign up for a private sailing lesson.

Elliott Bay Book Company

Address: 1521 10th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 624-6600 Website

Elliott Bay Book Company has a terrific assortment of new and used books. The enormous space has character, with distinctive ceiling beams and wooden shelves, plus it's packed from floor to ceiling with books.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market isn't a place to shop in Seattle — it's the place to shop. This open-air food market has prepared foods, restaurants, and high-end vendors selling chocolates, cheeses, seafood, wine, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for the fishmongers observing a time-honored tradition: throwing a nice piece of fish across the market before selling it.

Beecher's Handmade Cheese

Address: 1600 Pike Pl., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 956-1964 Website

Beecher's is one of the most talked-about shops in Pike Place Market. The renowned cheese shop has even expanded to New York City, but the original is here in Seattle. Visit to learn about the craftsmanship behind their cheese, and walk away with an armload of fromage .

Address: 1435 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 622-0141 Website

At DeLaurenti, you'll find cheeses, premade Italian goods, and high-end wines. Think of this Italian enclave less as a wine store and more as a niche, upscale grocery. DeLaurenti sources wines locally (you'll find a fair share of Willamette Valley pinot noirs from the neighborhooding state of Oregon), but it also has an impressive selection of imported bottles.

Pacific Place

Address: 600 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 405-2655 Website

At this downtown Seattle shopping center, you'll find a mix of legacy fashion brands and boutique stores. Visitors can expect beloved lines, like Aveda and Lululemon, but also an art gallery and a showroom with jewelry from local artisans.

Fremont Vintage Mall

Address: 3419 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 Phone: (206) 329-4460 Website

The Fremont Vintage Mall is where you'll find 40-year-old wicker chairs in mint condition, silk bomber jackets at a great price, and used books. The mall sells some of the very best antiques in Seattle, all with eclectic flair.

Address: 1525 Melrose Ave., Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: (206) 641-7646 Website

A designer boutique you'll be reluctant to tear yourself away from, Glasswing offers clothing, furniture, and home goods. Peruse their pieces from local designers, as well as items from around the world, like the Kinto Japanese coffee collection.

Georgetown Trailer Park Mall

Address: 5805 Airport Way S., Seattle, WA 98108 Website

The Georgetown Trailer Park Mall in Seattle is all about sustainability and vintage finds. Located in the Georgetown neighborhood, this venue was initially made up of eight vintage trailers and seven independent retailers, though it has since expanded to house other artists and vendors.

Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is simultaneously trendy and residential, with lovely coffee shops, eateries, and local boutiques. It's close to downtown, attracting a lot of young professionals and families, as well as tourists looking for the "it" neighborhood in Seattle.

South Lake Union: At the southern edge of Lake Union, near downtown, this Seattle neighborhood is upscale with enticing real estate and local businesses.

Pioneer Square: One of the oldest neighborhoods in Seattle,Pioneer Square offers a beautiful display of Renaissance Revival architecture. The area dates back to the 1850s and is now a marriage of the old and new Seattle.

Ballard: Slightly northwest of downtown, Ballard is lined by two gorgeous bodies of water. On the west side of Ballard is the Puget Sound, and on the south side, Salmon Bay. It's a trendy neighborhood filled with shops, bars, and restaurants, and its Scandinavian roots still inform the culture and atmosphere of the area.

Belltown: Right in downtown Seattle, Belltown is where you'll find great nightlife and music venues. This neighborhood is known as the artistic epicenter of Seattle, so you can expect chic galleries and beautiful displays of public art around every corner.

Seattle gets the majority of its rain in the winter, which is why December, January, February, and March aren't ideal times to visit. December is, in fact, the wettest month. July and August are the driest months, as well as the warmest. But because of the breeze coming off the water and the region's northern geography, summer temperatures in June, July, and Augusy are moderate, in the high 70s. The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month. Average annual precipitation in Seattle is 15.03 inches.

January 37 - 48 February 38 - 51 March 40 - 54 April 44 - 59 May 49 - 65 June 54 - 71 July 58 - 76 August 58 - 77 September 54 - 71 October 47 - 61 November 41 - 52 December 37 - 47

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The Best Time to Visit Seattle

Seattle Travel Guide › When to Visit Updated: March 7, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Seattle
• Best Family Hotels in Seattle

When is the best time to visit Seattle?

As a Seattle resident, I think the best time to visit the city is from June to September. It’s when you can expect sunny skies, minimal rain, and numerous outdoor events and festivals. April, May, and October offer great deals and consistently pleasant sightseeing weather. From November through February, you’ll likely find the city chilly, gray, and wet – but great for museums, restaurants, and the covered shops at Pike Place Market.

Me, my two sons, and some high school friends in downtown Seattle.

• Best time for outdoor recreation : Seattle has consistently dry, sunny, and warm weather from early July through September – perfect for local hiking, biking, and boating. April, May, June, and October are often unpredictable and swing from rainy and chilly to warm and sunny so be prepared for anything if visiting. November through March is generally cool and damp, and many Mount Rainier hiking trails are closed for the winter. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing season in nearby mountain areas usually lasts from late November until April or May. Even in summer Puget Sound waters are not ideal for swimming, as they rarely get above 13°C.
• Best time for food and wine : The best Seattle restaurants and the winery tasting rooms in nearby Woodinville are great to visit at any time of year (though they can be very busy in the peak season months of July and August). The region’s famous Copper River salmon arrives in Seattle’s restaurants and markets in May and is generally available through mid-June. Many of Seattle’s best restaurants create and sell special three-course dinners at a discount during Seattle Restaurant Week, held twice-yearly in April and October. The Bite of Seattle, Seattle’s biggest food festival, takes place under the Space Needle in mid-July. Taste Washington, a regional wine and food event, is held in late March or early April.
• Best time to visit Pike Place Market : With dozens of covered stalls, restaurants, bars, and galleries, any time of year can be a good time to visit Pike Place Market. Blooming flowers and blue skies mean that the Market is at its loveliest (and most crowded) during the warm, sunny days of late spring, summer, and early fall. Winter months at the Market are just as charming, without being as busy. Generally pleasant weather and the thinner non-summer crowds make the months of May and September a best bet. And keep in mind: there are several great hotels near Pike Place Market .
• Best time for whale watching : Whale watching season near Seattle falls between March and October, with the species of whale you’re likely to see varying by month within that range. The first gray whales appear in the region in March and April. Orcas are common in the summer months of May through September, and humpback whales are most often seen in October and November.
• Best time to view flowers : Seattle is abloom in the springtime, making it the perfect time of year to see beautiful flowers during your visit. The University of Washington’s famous blossoming cherry trees bloom yearly in March, and April brings the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Prime blooming season at the Rhododendron Species Garden is mid-March through mid-May, and of course bright bouquets of blooms can be found year-round in the stalls of Seattle’s Pike Place Market.
• Best time for music fans : Summer in Seattle is bookended by two large and popular music festivals that take place in the shadow of the Space Needle: The Northwest Folklife Festival takes place over Memorial Day weekend (the last weekend in May), and the Bumbershoot Festival happens over Labor Day weekend, the first weekend of September. October brings the Earshot Jazz Festival. The Seattle Symphony’s season runs from mid-September through mid-June, and the Seattle Chamber Music Festival takes place annually in January.
• Best time to visit Mount Rainier : July, August, and September are the best months to visit Mount Rainier National Park, when the snow has melted and hiking trails are open. Mountain wildflowers are at their peak around early August, and fall colors are best in the first half of October. Many park areas and roads are closed throughout the winter (mid-October/early November through June), though the road to Paradise stays open year round for those who wish to see the mountain by car.

Seattle Travel Seasons

• High Season (June to August) : Sunny, dry, and warm, with daytime highs generally around 24°C and low humidity. Flights, ferries, and tours all run with greater frequency during this time. Hotel and travel prices will be higher, and availability will turn scarce – make reservations well in advance. This is cruise ship season, with many sea-going tourists in town as they journey to and from Alaska via the Port of Seattle. Expect crowds, especially on weekends, as local music and art festivals mean that both tourists and locals are out en masse.
• Shoulder Season (April to May, September to October) : Crowds dwindle with the possibility of rain, though the weather is often wonderfully pleasant – especially in May and September – with plenty of sun and daytime highs around 15-20°C. The combination of lower travel prices and the lack of summer sightseers can make shoulder season an ideal time to visit Seattle if your plans do not require a guarantee of dry weather.
• Low Season (November to March) : Tourists generally stay away from Seattle during the colder months. The weather is often wet, breezy, and chilly (usually around 4-10°C.), but breaks in the gloom are common and it’s not unusual to have gorgeous days (though still cool) throughout winter. Museum-lovers and those heading to the mountains to ski can find some great deals on airfare and hotel rooms during this period.

Seattle Weather by Month

The best weather in Seattle is from late June to early September. July and August are the busiest months when hotels are full and restaurants are crowded. May, June, September, and October usually have nice weather and fewer tourists making them great months to visit if you’re not after hot summer weather. Most of Seattle’s best attractions lend themselves to enjoying even with a little rain which makes Seattle a good year-round destination.

• January weather in Seattle : January falls squarely in the middle of Seattle’s rainy season. Temperatures are cold (though usually not cold enough for snow), it’s raining much of the time, and the air is damp. Most locals choose to stay indoors or escape to the mountains for snow activities. (Average Max Temperature: 8.3°C. Average Rainfall: 142mm.)
• February weather in Seattle : Temperatures in Seattle remain chilly in February, though rainfall tends to be a bit lighter and we begin to see a few more dry days. Nevertheless, Seattle remains grey and windy, and everything is usually wet. It’s a great time to visit Seattle’s many museums and restaurants. (Average Max Temperature: 9.4°C. Average Rainfall: 89mm.)
• March weather in Seattle : March sees about the same amount of breezy rain as February, but daytime temperatures begin to creep above 10°C. The sun also begins to poke through the clouds a bit more on dry days and bits of blue sky are seen amid the grey. Daffodils and cherry trees are in bloom, making March a good time to explore Seattle’s charming neighborhoods and parks. (Average Max Temperature: 11.6°C. Average Rainfall: 94mm.)
• April weather in Seattle : Temperatures continue to rise in April, and we start to see a significant drop in rainfall compared to the previous two months. The sky is more often blue, but breezes remain chilly and the air can be damp, so you’ll want to pack layers. (Average Max Temperature: 14.7°C. Average Rainfall: 68.5mm.)
• May weather in Seattle : May is generally a beautiful month in Seattle, with temperatures into the late teens and more days of sun and blue skies than rain. Even so, the evenings in May are chilly, and periods of rain are not uncommon, so a jacket and an umbrella are still a good idea. (Average Max Temperature: 18.2°C. Average Rainfall: 48mm.)
• June weather in Seattle : Seattle’s fickle June weather marks the change from the rainy to dry season. While some days are sun-filled, warm, and summer-like, others can feel more like March or April: gloomy, cold, and damp. Approaching the solstice on the 21st, the sun doesn’t set in Seattle until almost 10pm, providing long days perfect for outdoor recreation. (Average Max Temperature: 21°C. Average Rainfall: 40.6mm.)
• July weather in Seattle : Summer truly arrives in Seattle in July. A pleasant and predictable pattern sets in with little rain, daytime temperatures in the mid-20’s, low humidity, and plenty of sun (especially in the middle and latter part of the month). Outdoors is the place to be. High tourist season is well underway, so expect crowds on dining patios and hiking trails, and book outdoor excursions well in advance. (Average Max Temperature: 24.3°C. Average Rainfall: 17.8mm.)
• August weather in Seattle : Dry, warm, sunny summer weather continues throughout August, traditionally Seattle’s warmest month. Daytime temperatures hover pleasantly around the mid-20’s, rarely getting above 30°C. Marine air cools the city at night, so packing a light jacket is advisable. And while the sun may shine hot, Puget Sound water temperature hovers at a brisk 13°C during the summer months, so most folks enjoy being on the water, rather than in the water. (Average Max Temperature: 24.6°C. Average Rainfall: 22.8mm.)
• September weather in Seattle : Days shorten and the air begins to feel crisp at night, but Seattle Septembers still feel summerlike. Expect warm temperatures, little rain, and plenty of sunshine this month. Tourism begins to slow after Labor Day Weekend, and the combination of thinning crowds and pleasant weather make September an ideal time to visit Seattle. (Average Max Temperature: 21.4°C. Average Rainfall: 38mm.)
• October weather in Seattle : Late October is traditionally the beginning of Seattle’s rainy season. While the beginning of October is often sunny and dry, the average air temperature cools significantly throughout this month, and we begin to see the return of clouds, fog, and wet weather. Leaves turn colors and autumn begins: early October is the best time to view the fall foliage on Mount Rainier. (Average Max Temperature: 15.4°C. Average Rainfall: 89mm.)
• November weather in Seattle : Seattle’s wettest month is November, with heavy rain and winds. While not ideal for outdoor activities, the discounted hotel and travel rates that accompany the rainy season can make October a great time to visit – staying warm and dry in Seattle’s many museums, galleries, and restaurants. (Average Max Temperature: 10.5°C. Average Rainfall: 167.6mm.)
• December weather in Seattle : December in Seattle is dark and windy, with almost constant rain. Days grow shorter, and the sun sets before 5pm around the mid-month. Temperatures have dropped significantly, and though snowfall is rare in the Seattle area, the surrounding mountain peaks are newly coated in the white stuff. Nearby ski resorts are now open and busy – it’s a good time to head for the hills. (Average Max Temperature: 7.6°C. Average Rainfall: 137.2mm.)

Seattle Special Events by Month

January events.

• The Seattle Boat Show – Thousands of watercraft and marine-related seminars at the West Coast’s biggest boat show.
• Seattle Chamber Society Winter Music Festival – Two weekends of world class chamber music and visiting artists, with nightly free recitals.

February Events

• Northwest Flower and Garden Show – Stunning exhibition gardens, seminars, and vendors, all warm and dry in the Washington State Convention Center.
• Wintergrass Music Festival – A celebration of American bluegrass music, with dozens of performances and workshops for all ages.

March Events

• Emerald City Comicon – The Pacific Northwest’s premier comic book and pop-culture convention.
• Seattle Irish Fest – Music, dance, and vendors galore to celebrate St. Patrick and all things Irish.
• Taste Washington – Local wineries and award winning restaurants sample their wares at the nations largest regional food and wine event.
• Moisture Festival – An annual celebration of Vaudeville, comedy, burlesque, and all things weird and wonderful. Lots of fun performances, a few of them kid-friendly, most adults only.

April Events

• Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival – Traditional and contemporary Japanese cultural performances and cuisine.
• Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – Acres of tulips and daffodils abloom in the charming rural farmland north of Seattle.
• Opening day of Boating Season – Sailboat races, boat parades, and the University of Washington’s Windermere Cup regatta.
• The Vigor Seattle Maritime Festival – A celebration of Seattle’s working waterfront, with demonstrations, tours, and kids’ activities.
• Seattle International Film Festival – A month of independent, International, and documentary films at one of the top film festivals in North America.
• Northwest Folklife Festival – Music, dance, food, and crafts from local and international cultures. A bit like Bumbershoot, but free and not nearly as commercial.

June Events

• Fremont Solstice Fair – A whimsical summer celebration of music, food, and art, featuring a free-spirited parade with over 1,000 nude-but-painted cyclists!
• Seattle PrideFest – The largest LGBT gathering in the Pacific Northwest: bands, DJs, drag queens, and Seattle’s annual Pride Parade.

July Events

• Seafair Summer 4th – Fireworks, food, and family fun on Lake Union.
• Seattle International BeerFest – Exotic beers and bands under the Space Needle.
• Sequim Lavender Festival – Annual street fair and self-guided tour of area lavender farms in full bloom.
• Seattle Chamber Music Society Summer Festival – World-class chamber performances at Benaroya Hall, with free pre-concert recitals.
• Ballard SeafoodFest – Traditional salmon barbecue and local music, arts and crafts, and family entertainment.
• Bite of Seattle – Seattle’s biggest food festival, featuring local chefs, restaurant tastes, entertainment, and wine and beer gardens.
• Capitol Hill Block Party – Three-day music and arts festival, with food, beer gardens, and over 100 local and national artists in indoor and outdoor venues.
• Chinatown DragonFest – Pan-Asian cultural performances and $3 restaurant tastes in Seattle’s International District.
• Seafair Torchlight Parade – Balloons, bands, and swashbuckling pirates parade through the heart of Seattle’s downtown.

August Events

• Hempfest – Political rally, concert, and arts and crafts fair celebrating marijuana on Seattle’s downtown waterfront.
• Seattle Seafair Weekend – Air shows, picnics, and hydroplane races on Lake Washington.

September Events

• Bumbershoot – Expect crowds, along with concerts, comedy, food, and film at this monster-sized music and arts festival under the Space Needle.
• Washington State Fair – Animals, rides and games, fair food, concerts, and a rodeo, held annually in nearby Puyuallup, WA.
• PAX Prime Gaming Show – A celebration of gamer culture, with concerts, panels, an exhibition hall, and digital and tabletop game play.
• Fremont Oktoberfest – Beer gardens, live music, food and a 5K at this popular neighborhood festival.

October Events

• Seattle Children’s Festival – Global culture for kids, with live performances and interactive workshops.
• TWIST: Seattle Queer Film Festival – Annual celebration of queer film, accompanied by GLBT community parties and gala receptions.
• Earshot Jazz Festival – Dozens of local and international jazz acts perform at various local venues.

November Events

• Seattle International Auto Show – The lastest models from international automakers, featuring rare and high-end vehicles and on-site test drives.
• Sheraton Seattle’s Gingerbread Village – Local architects and baking teams unite to create and display holiday scenes made entirely of candies and treats. Runs through early January.
• Macy’s Holiday Parade – Floats, costumed characters, and of course Santa Claus kick off the holiday season in downtown Seattle. The Parade usually kicks off at 9am on the Friday following Thanksgiving.
• Best of the Northwest Art & Fine Craft Show – Locally crafted jewelry, clothing, painting, and sculpture for purchase and perusal. Held in Magnuson Park in Northeast Seattle.
• Magic in the Market Holiday Celebration – Holiday treats and activities, caroling contest, and tree-lighting ceremony in historic Pike Place Market.

December Events

• Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition – Festive holiday team sing-off held annually in Westlake Center, benefitting Pike Place Market’s food bank and senior center.
• Argosy Christmas Ship Festival – Enjoy on-board or ashore as a flotilla of illuminated and choir-carrying ships visit local waterfront communities for caroling and bonfires.
• Winterfest – Seattle Center’s month-long seasonal celebration, featuring performances, ice sculpting, ice skating, and a model train exhibit.

About Santorini Dave

This info has been great! We are planning a trip in October. We are hoping to stay close to public transportation in the downtown area. We do not want to rent a car and have to drive in a strange city. Any suggestions regarding hotels in that area?

The Seattle Link light rail system runs from the airport into the heart of downtown. Any hotel near the Westlake Center station will be both convenient to public transportation and walkable to Pike Place Market, shopping, restaurants, and waterfront attractions like the Great Wheel, Aquarium, and harbor tours. A few hotels that I especially like in this area are Inn at the Market (wonderful boutique hotel located actually in Pike Place Market, surrounded by great restaurants), The Thompson (newer and modern, with a popular rooftop bar), and Mayflower Park Hotel (traditional and historic, right on top of the light rail station, with an excellent Italian restaurant and charming lobby bar). But there are many other great choices.

HI! I’m going to be visiting Seattle at the end of February through the first week of March for Comic-con. I’m from Hawaii and will be staying in the downtown area. I was wondering what kind of warm clothing and shoes (gloves, scarf, etc) would be appropriate for that time of year. Keep up the great work! Galen

Be prepared for a bit of anything. Could be cold (even snow), could be sunny weather with temperatures in the 60s.

Seattle & Portland in May Great page. My wife & I are planning 3-4 days in both Seattle & Portland in May. I like the train suggestion for moving from one city to the other. Any recommendation on which city to visit first? Steve

Seattle and Portland are both great cities to visit, but they have different vibes to them. Which one you visit first will depend on what type of traveling experience you want. Do you want to jump in with both feet, visit the busier city first and then wind down with a mellower experience? Make your first stop Seattle. Alternately, if you want to begin at a slower pace and ramp up throughout the trip, Portland’s a good place to start.

Hi there! I’m planning a trip to Seattle for my girlfriend and I. We are from Southern California and have both never been to Seattle! Our plan is to spend a week, half in Seattle and half in Portland. I didn’t realize Seattle and Portland are in driving distance ! Do you recommend , flying to Seattle and then driving to Portland and then flying home as opposed to adding an extra flight from Seattle to Portland? (Maybe a train, or renting a car for a day to drive over there.) Also, were thinking dates from December 28 – January 3. Is there a lot to do in Seattle for New Years? We don’t drink by the way, so something not involving a bar or whatever. Thank you so much for your help! Also, any other suggestions on what to do and what to see are greatly appreciated! –Aleena

My favorite way to get from Seattle to Portland is to take the train . It’s an easy, pretty ride, takes about four hours, you won’t have to worry about traffic, and its cheaper than flying. Additionally, Portland has a great public transit system so it’s really easy to get around without a car, and you won’t have to worry about finding parking (which is expensive and hard to come by). Amtrak’s Cascades and Coast Starlight lines run between the two cities; if it works with your timing, take the Coast Starlight down – it’s bigger and has a great Observation car with floor to ceiling windows that everyone has access to.

The Bolt Bus also runs multiple daily trips between Seattle and Portland, and can be a great option if you’re looking to save a few bucks and want someone else to do the driving. Tickets generally cost between $15 and $30 each way, with some trips being offered for a mere $1. The Bolt Bus has wi-fi and outlets to charge your devices, and while it’s not luxurious, it’s comfortable and clean. Just like traveling by car, though, taking the bus leaves you vulnerable to delays caused by heavy traffic.

Seattle’s biggest New Years event is the annual fireworks show at the Space Needle. You can buy tickets to one of the parties inside, join the crowd at the Needle’s base for free, snag a hotel room with a Space Needle view ( The Westin , Pan Pacific , Hyatt House , Holiday Inn , Holiday Inn Express , and Hampton Inn & Suites – be sure to ask for a view room), or watch from another location . There are generally a host of special concerts, cruises, and whatnot – it’s too early at this point to know what’ll be happening this year, but here’s a good list of what was on last year so you can get a general idea. Many restaurants have special, prix-fixe menus for the evening, and if you’re up for it, there’s the Polar Bear Plunge on New Years’ Day, in which hundreds of hearty souls brave the frigid winter waters of Lake Washington to start the New Year off with a bang.

Love your page! I’m needing help planning and would love some tips on traveling with a little one (7 yr old) for the first time to Seattle. We will be flying in Saturday morning March 11th, and leaving Wednesday the 15th around midday. We are staying at the Green Tortoise Hostel and looking for places that are kid friendly and a mixture of indoor and outdoor things to do for first timers! We won’t have a car so anything that is accessible by local transportation or possibly taxi. Also any tips on what to pack and good places to eat on a budget would be helpful. Thanks in advance!

You’ll definitely want to visit Pike Place Market – just half a block from the Green Tortoise; it’s a great activity with kids, rain or shine. Pike Place highlights with a 7 year old include Daily Dozen Doughnuts, the Giant Shoe Museum (not a museum as much as it is a small attraction), and the Market Magic shop (ask nicely, and they’ll perform a trick for you). And no trip to the Market would be complete without a visit to the famous Gum Wall – which is kinda gross, but you certainly won’t find it anywhere else.

Other attractions I’d suggest for that age are the Seattle Aquarium and Woodland Park Zoo , the Pacific Science Center , the Seattle Pinball Museum in the International District (no experience needed – pay one cover and play for free all day), and the free Klondike Museum in Pioneer Square. If the weather is great, take the ferry to Bainbridge Island , or the Water Taxi to West Seattle .

As far as packing goes, plan for chilly and wet. You’ll want a warm jacket, because even if the temperature isn’t too low, it can be windy downtown right off the bay. Jeans, layers, a good jacket, a hat, and good walking shoes should suffice.

My favorite budget eats downtown are all located within Pike Place Market: Pike Place Chowder , Piroshki Piroshki , Jack’s Fish Spot , LoPriore Pasta Bar , Ellenos Yogurt , Beechers Cheese , and Biscuit Bitch . Also, the food court at Seattle Center has lots of great, cheap, locally-owned options, and Green Leaf in Belltown and the International District serves up fantastic Vietnamese at a great price.

Have a great trip!

First off, thanks so much for your super informative and helpful website. You obviously put a lot of work into it.

My husband and I are interested in moving to Washington and would like to schedule an initial trip during off-peak to get a real feel for the Seattle area and Northwest region – so tourist meets prospective residents during the least pleasant weather. Any suggestions or recommended resources?

Visiting during the “off season” is a great idea – our summers are divine, November and December are our worst months for weather (though we’re all distracted with the seasonal lights and festivities), so planning a trip during the “blah” months of January through April is your best bet to experience the “real” Pacific Northwest weather that locals love but drives some out-of-towners mad.

The Seattle housing market is one of the most expensive in the nation right now, so you’ll probably want to look not only at Seattle proper, but also tour nearby communities that are just as lovely, but gentler on the pocketbook. If you’d like to be in/near Seattle, the general rule is that things get more expensive the closer you are to the city center, with north end neighborhoods being pricier than those to the south. I’d recommend looking at cities north and east of Lake Washington, as well: consider Bothell , Kirkland , Redmond , and Woodinville – these areas won’t have the 100 year-old Craftsman homes that Seattle neighborhoods are prized for, but they have great communities, schools, and business centers. And there are always the islands! Some great deals can be found on Bainbridge and Whidbey Islands for those who don’t mind a ferry commute to the mainland.

If you don’t need Seattle to be your home base, but like the Pacific Northwesty Puget Sound/coastal vibe, other similar cities to look at would be Tacoma (45 minutes from Seattle without traffic, but there’s ALWAYS traffic), Olympia (90 minutes), And Vancouver, WA / Portland, OR (3 hours from Seattle). (Vancouver and Portland are super close – just across the Columbia river from each other.)

For trip-planning purposes, I’d schedule a few days in Seattle, sightseeing and touring the Seattle metro area (maybe four days if you’re considering islands), then head south, driving through and spending a bit of time in Tacoma and Olympia on your way down to the Vancouver/Portland area. Then spend a night in Portland to explore that area a bit.

Here are some resources you may have already come across, but that I find to be pretty accurate/helpful: Best Places to Live in Washington Curbed Seattle Redfin Moving to Seattle Guide Metafilter Thread about Seattle area v. Portland area

Hi Thank you for this great website about Seattle. Really very informative and complete. I’m thinking about planning a tour starting from Seattle. This 8-days tour includes: Seattle – Olympia – Portland – Silverton – Woodburn – Astoria – Tacoma – Olympic National Park – Snoqualmie Falls – Leavenworth – Mt Rainier National Park. I need your advice/comments about the tour/destinations and about the weather condition in Seattle and around during March. Are those places really worth to see, despite Seattle which has already been in my bucket list? Of course I also plan to stay in Seattle for a few more days to explore the city. Can I still see great things/places in Seattle during March? Any advice/comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Albert N.

This is a very ambitious itinerary for eight days! You can easily make the drive from Seattle to your Oregon destinations in a day, though I’d give yourself some time to poke around in Portland, maybe to spend the night. Your can’t miss cities in WA and OR will be Seattle and Portland, and Astoria for the ocean. From Oregon, I’d head up to Mount Rainier National Park, but keep in mind that much of the park will still be closed for winter. You may be limited to using the Carbon River and Nisqually entrances. Check here for more information on seasonal closings. Snoqualmie Falls is at its best in the spring, when the river’s full and running at greatest capacity. If you can swing a night at the Salish Lodge while you’re there, I would. Leavenworth is a cute Bavarian-type village, and worth a stop if it’s on your way, but if I were you I’d skip it and head from Rainier through Snoqualmie Falls, to Olympic. Spend a night there, and then back to Seattle to explore.

Weather in Seattle in March is a bit of a mixed bag. It won’t be cold, but might be rainy and breezy. Expect high temps to be in the low 50s C, though it’s not uncommon for temps to creep up toward 60 on a sunny day. Daffodils and cherry trees will be in bloom. And don’t worry, there are lots of great things to do in Seattle year-round.

I have already booked tickets for seattle and would be there from 22nd Nov to 28th Nov. I read on different sites about the seattle weather that is normally bad for tourists during Nov but I want to go to Mt. Rainier so can anyone tell me whether it is recommended to visit Mt. Rainier during Nov end? Thanks in advance!

November is one of Seattle’s rainiest months, and late November has the potential to be pretty dark and wet. You might get lucky and see some beautiful and sunny fall days, but I wouldn’t bet on it.

Additionally, some areas of Mount Rainier National Park, including Sunrise, White River, Ohanapecosh, State Routes 410 and 123, and the Stevens Canyon Road close for the season in mid-October or early-November and do not reopen again until the summer months. All campgrounds and picnic areas in the park will have closed for the season by the time you arrive. Some visitor centers at the park have already closed for the season, but if you happen to hit some nice weather in late November, there are still a few that will be open. Here’s a regularly updated list that will tell you what’s open and closed . Here’s a link to current and forecasted weather conditions at the park.

My friends and I are going to Seattle November 18-20. I know its really rainy and lots of attractions are shut but what do you recommend to see or do you know of anything going on that weekend?

There’s still a lot to do in Seattle during rainy weather. Here are my rainy day recommendations: Pike Place Market (all the stalls are covered), the Pioneer Square Underground Tour , an Argosy boat cruise (I like the Harbor/Locks tour best), and museums: my favorites are Seattle Art Museum (they’ve got a great Yves Saint Laurent fashion exhibit on now), Chihuly Garden and Glass , EMP , and the Museum of History and Industry . If you and your friends appreciate a good cabaret show, check out the Can Can Kitchen or the Saturday night cabaret at the Pink Door – both located in Pike Place Market. Or go all out and do the dinner show at Teatro Zinzanni . And any time of year is good for a food or wine tasting tour.

As far as the specific weekend you’ll be in town, Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox is in town at the Paramount Theatre on the 18th, doing vintage-style rendition of modern pop/rock songs ( this is one of my favorite examples ), the Museum of History and Industry kicks off its newest exhibit, Edible City , on the 19th, and there’s a cool Sherlock Holmes exhibit on now at the Pacific Science Center.

We have booked a trip to Seattle for February 9th – 12th. Are there any attractions that close due to weather? Like the boat tours? What else would you recommend?

You can expect a few tours/attractions to be unavailable during the winter months (whale watching cruises don’t generally start up until February, for example, and Tillicum Village is closed for the season), but most of Seattle’s best attractions are designed to be enjoyed all year, even in the wetter months.

The stalls of Pike Place Market are covered, and much less crowded throughout the winter months, so that’s something you can definitely do. Below the market on the waterfront, the Great Wheel ‘s pods are all entirely inclosed, and the new Wings Over Washington ride takes place indoors. The Seattle Aquarium , also on the waterfront, makes for a fun hour or two. The Underground Tour in Pioneer Square is great at any time of year. Argosy boat cruises are still running (I like the Harbor/Locks tour best), and it can be a great time to catch a ferry over to Bainbridge Island, and explore the museum and shops . There are lots of great museums in Seattle, as well: my favorites are Seattle Art Museum , Chihuli Garden and Glass (conveniently located next door to the Space Needle and EMP Museum ), and the Museum of History and Industry . If many of these attractions appeal to you, consider saving some money by purchasing a CityPass .

More good news for you is that February is generally the month in which Seattle starts to dry up a bit. The heavier storms of November through January are done, and if there is rain it tends to be of the drippy or misty variety. February sees a bit more sun than the previous months as well, and the daffodils are beginning to bloom around the city.

Can we still take the ferry to the San Juan Islands in November? I just booked November 12th-19th for our golden anniversary. My hubby has never been there but I have and loved the ferry ride to Orca Island after a Seattle visit and tour. If I remember the 10+ years ago girlfriend trip we ended back somewhere near the original Dungeness crab restaurant, does that sound familiar? We will have a car rental. What about going up Mt. St. Helen’s? I was there in August and realize weather may be a factor trying to revisit these awesome places. Your assistance is greatly needed. You are a great resource for us travelers….. Sincerely, Donna White

You can definitely take a ferry to the San Juans in November (and you can even reserve your spot ). Expect the weather to be chilly (50’s) and rainy at this time of year, though the ferry will be warm and dry, and the islands will be just as beautiful. An inn or lodge on Orcas Island would make a cozy anniversary getaway, and you’re likely to find some good deals on hotel/lodge rates in the San Juans at this time of year – I’d do a San Juan Island search on Booking.com to see what’s available. I don’t know the particular restaurant you’re referring to, but you’ll be spoiled for choice of great seafood in the San Juans.

Mt. St. Helens might be a different story, as that experience is more likely to be impacted by the cold and wet. If you’re set on going, it can be a good idea to take an organized tour and leave the driving to someone else. Evergreen Escapes offers a great Mt. St. Helen’s day tour – check it out (as well as other tour options) at Get Your Guide .

My wife and I will be visiting Seattle for the first time this year early December. According to my readings December is not a popular time of the year to be visiting, but the Carolina Panthers vs Seattle Seahawks seem like a super exciting match up! I would like to know what are we in for on this trip weatherwise? Any other tips and places you recommend would be appreciated!

Weather wise, December in Seattle is not great. It’s wet and chilly (daily max temperature are in the upper 40s), and windy at times. We rarely get snow, but some people find the damp chill worse. You’ll want to pack warm clothes and waterproof shoes.

There’s lots to do inside when the weather’s lousy. Pike Place Market is entirely covered, and a great spot to visit year-round – take a tour (and drink a pint) at Pike Place Brewery . Down on the waterfront, a trip to the Seattle Aquarium makes for a great afternoon, and Seattle’s newest attractions, the Great Wheel and Wings over Washington , are both completely enclosed. Just north of downtown, Seattle Center is home to fantastic museums ( Experience Music Project , Chihuly Museum ) and the Space Needle . The Underground Tour in Pioneer Square is a good option for bad weather because it’s, well, underground. (And also Seattle’s best and most fun historical tour.)

Quick note, Emerald City Comicon is happening in March next year, 2nd-5th, not April.

Good to know – I’ll update the page.

What a great and through resource. I’m going to bookmark it so I can send it to our (frequent) visitors. I did notice one error – the Seattle International Auto Show is listed as occurring n October. This year it’s actually in November. Could you please make that change? I do the PR for the Auto Show as well as the January Boat Show, so if you have questions about either of those events, don’t hesitate to contact me. Thanks!

Thanks so much for letting me know, Lisa – I’ll get that updated ASAP!

Thanks so much!

Husband and I visiting Seattle for 1st time in early October. Wanting to visit Pikes’ Market, Needle and take a tour of Mt. Rainer. Staying in downtown area. How convenient is the monorail for airport? Other public transportation for getting around the town/ downtown area? Not familiar with Seattle at all, but would like to visit interesting neighborhoods. Pedestrian friendly areas? Proper attire for October 3rd-7th?

Link light rail is the train system that runs from SeaTac Airport through downtown and up to the University of Washington in Northeast Seattle. It has station stops at the sports stadiums, the International district, Pioneer Square, downtown, and Capitol Hill. The airport station is about a 5 minute walk from the main terminal and baggage claim, trains depart every 5-10 minutes or so, and the trip into downtown takes about 35 minutes. (This is longer than a taxi ride in the best conditions, but can be quicker if there’s heavy traffic – which there often is, nowadays.) You didn’t mention which hotel you’re staying in downtown, but most are within a few blocks of an underground light rail station. You can find a downtown station map here (you’ll have to zoom in to see downtown. I think it’s a pretty convenient way to go, and you can’t beat the price – $3/person.

Other transit: The Seattle Street Car has two different lines, one running from downtown to South Lake Union, and one from Pioneer Square to Capitol Hill, via the International District. The Monorail runs from Westlake Center in downtown Seattle to the base of the Space Needle in Seattle Center. Buses go everywhere. You’ll likely want to use a combination of all of these options to get around Seattle, and it’s easy to do so. Payment is coordinated between transit lines through an Orca card – you can use it for just about all Seattle public transit, including ferries. With an Orca card, you won’t have to worry about having exact change, and transfers are free within a certain time frame. The one exception to this is the Monorail, which is privately owned and you’ll have to pay for separately. You can pre-load your Orca card with funds use like cash, or with a regional day pass, good for unlimited rides under $3. Having an Orca card will save you money; you can use it to transfer across transit lines for free – without one, you’ll pay multiple fares. You can buy one in advance online, or at the airport light rail station prior to boarding. You can find lots more information and links to maps here .

Most of downtown is pedestrian friendly, and it’s pretty easy to get around. If you want to get outside of downtown into the neighborhoods, two of the easiest to get to (and most interesting) are the International District and Capitol Hill – both can be reached via the Seattle Street Car line that begins in Pioneer Square. The 62 bus will take you directly to funky Fremont, and the D Rapidline bus goes to charming old Ballard. You can plan your transit route to/from any point easily here .

As for weather, the beginning of October tends to be sunny and dry, with temps in the 60s Fahrenheit. While it will feel quite pleasant in the day, you’ll want a light jacket or heavy sweater for the evenings or cooler mornings. And as October is a transitional month for us, it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella along – you might encounter some early season rain.

Hi. My two teenage kids and my mom and I will be traveling to the Seattle area from 10/8 through 10/15 this year. We currently have a hotel in Renton and will only be renting a car for a few days. This will allow us to take the train into Seattle as well as rent a car for Mt. Ranier and hopefully Mt. St. Helens too. We are also interested in checking out the Hurricane Ridge area and maybe take the ferry to Victoria as well. Would it be better to stay in a hotel in that area for a night to see both of those? How doable is this and what kind of weather might we be hitting in this time frame? Any other suggestions would be welcome.

You can do just the Hurricane Ridge area in a day, especially if you’re willing to leave early in the morning. Likewise Victoria (the Clipper passenger ferry is an easy way to get up and back in a day). To hit both, a hotel will be required.

It’ll take about 3-4 hours to get up to the Hurricane Ridge area from Renton, and it’s a 90 minute ferry from there to Victoria. This is what I recommend if you want to see both: leave Renton early in the morning to arrive at Hurricane Ridge by late morning/mid-day. Spend the early afternoon doing an easy hike and perhaps checking out the views around Lake Crescent . Drive back down to Port Angeles in late afternoon, to take the 5:20 Coho ferry to Victoria. Spend the night in at a hotel in Victoria (maybe splurge a little: the monetary exchange rate is currently working in our favor) and explore Victoria the next day ( Butchart Gardens , maybe high tea at the Empress Hotel) before catching the 3pm ferry back to Port Angeles and making the drive home.

As far as the weather in mid-October goes, expect highs in the mid-upper 50’s Fahrenheit, with a mix of sun and some light to moderate rain. This is right around the time the weather begins to turn, so you could luck out and hit a late-season patch of sunny days, or lots of cloud cover and light rain. You shouldn’t hit any major storms, though – those don’t generally begin until late November.

Take care, and have a wonderful trip.

If you want to visit Canada, make sure everyone including the kids brings a passport.

Good point, Michael. Travel between the US and Canada requires a passport these days – even for the very little ones.

Thanks for your post, it’s very helpful. Can you pls let me know when it will the autumn starts in this October? I planned to go to Seattle at the middle of Oct, is it good for sight-seeing? Thanks, Annie Ng

Autumn usually arrives in Seattle around the middle of October. October generally starts sunny and dry, with leaves just beginning to change color. The air temperature cools throughout this month, and by the end of the month we begin to see the return of clouds, fog, and wet weather. Mid-October is usually lovely. The air will be crisp, with temperatures in the 60’s Fahrenheit (Mid 15’s Celsius) – great for sightseeing. Still, the possibility of rain will increase as the month wears on, so bringing an umbrella is a good idea.

Good morning,

I will be traveling solo to Seattle from the USVI in January of next year. I know it will be colder than I’m used to, but I’m having a hard time knowing what to pack. Will I need a scarf and hat? Will I see snow? What do you recommend I pack so that I can don’t freeze my tush off?

Snow is rare in January, but expect cold – temperatures average around 50 degrees Fahrenheit at that time of year. And rain – January is one of Seattle’s rainiest months. In addition to a parka or well-lined overcoat, you’ll want waterproof boots or shoes that can take some puddles. A scarf and hat are a good idea as well, especially downtown where the breeze comes in off the sound.

We are coming Spokane in August and staying with friends till 9th, then I’m considering either Seattle or Vancouver till 12th. Our ship leaves from Seattle on 12th to Alaska. Not sure which is better to spend few days in before the cruise. We are from Australia so have no idea about hotels,food,bars things to do.

Since you’ve only got a couple of days, I’d definitely stay in Seattle. In addition to the extra time it would take to get up to Vancouver from Spokane, you’d be heading back down to Seattle on a Friday in the summer – and that means lots of heavy traffic on the interstate. Probably not something you want to deal with when you have a cruise ship to catch. You could take the Clipper ferry down to Seattle from Victoria BC, but it’ll take you 3 1/2 hours just to get from Vancouver to the ferry terminal, and you wouldn’t get into Seattle until mid-afternoon.

Seattle is a walkable city with decent public transit, so you won’t need a car. (Parking is expensive, anyway.) Stay downtown if you can, see the Space Needle , and be sure to visit Pike Place Market . Maybe take a ferry to Bainbridge Island .

We will be visiting Seattle in August. Will the temperature at night be cool enough for us to be sleeping in a non air conditioning room? Or you think it would be better if we book a room with air conditioning. Thank you.

Seattle does cool down at night, but a few consecutive days of really hot weather can heat a room up enough that getting it back down to a comfortable sleeping temperature can be tough without air conditioning. I can’t say at this point what the weather’s going to look like this summer, but the past few summers have each had at least a few spates of really hot weather (90’s F).

Additionally, most hotels without AC are located downtown, so fully open windows at night will mean that you’ll be dealing with a considerable amount of street noise that will also make sleeping difficult. In August, I would book a room with air conditioning, if possible.

I’m a midwesterner visiting Seattle for the first time this August, driving up the Pacific Coast from California with my daughter. I’m having a hard time knowing what to pack. I know it doesn’t rain as much in the summer months, but will it still be chilly and damp? Should I pack an umbrella? Will it be noticeably colder than California, because it’s further north? Will I need a jacket? Thanks.

You most likely won’t need an umbrella in August in Seattle – that’s right in the middle of our annual summer drought. Think warm, sunny, and dry; average high temps in Seattle in August are in the mid 70s F (low/mid 20s C). Seattle weather is not quite as warm as California at any time of year – you’ll most likely notice a slight cooling as you travel up the coast.

As for whether to pack a jacket, a light one is definitely a good idea. There’s a cooling off in the evening that occurs all up and down the Pacific Coast (we get down into the mid/upper 50s F here in Seattle), and our Seattle summer days often begin under a cloud cover that burns off by around noon.

Planning a trip to Seattle. It will be a 2 or 3 night visit and our main interest is exploring Pike Place Market. Is there a best time or month to experience the market?

Pike Place Market is great at any time of year; there’s always something going on, and it remains vibrant and charming in even the most dreary of weather. That said, it’s easiest and most fun to explore when the weather is pleasant and you can wander Post Alley and the outside shops without worrying about getting wet. In the dry summer months, you’ll pay for the great weather with heavy crowds of tourists, though, which can be just as unpleasant. The shoulder season months of May and September (even into early October) offer your best chances for the hard-to-come-by combination of pleasant weather and thinner crowds that can make exploring the market much more enjoyable.

Looking to avoid the rain as much as anything. We are from New York and planning a 10 day trip that includes Vancouver, BC and Portland. When would you recommend visiting Seattle for the best weather and smallest crowds (with the priority being on good weather)?

Either May or September would be a great choice for your trip. Both fall during shoulder season, so the city will be quieter than in the height of summer, and both have generally great weather with more sun than rain. That said, the two months are different enough that the question is worth exploring a bit further.

May: You’re a bit more likely to encounter rain, but most likely just a passing shower. At this time of year we’ll have just come off the rainy season, to lovely result; grass and trees will be a brilliant green, flowers will be blooming like mad, and the surrounding mountains will still be wearing a stunning mantle of snow.

September: The hallmarks of Seattle summer – warm (but not hot) temps, sunshine, and low humidity – are still very much in effect. September’s generally warmer than May, and with a lower likelihood of rain, but it also marks the end of the dry season, and that’ll show: much of the city’s characteristic green will have browned over the summer, and the haze in the air is yet to be washed away.

Bottom line? If it’s drier, higher temperatures you’re looking for, I’d go with September. But if you’re willing to compromise on weather (just a bit) in order to see the city at it’s most breathtaking, for my money it’s tough to top May.

Considering a visit to Seattle in late February. Will it be nothing but rainy and grey? We don’t mind a little rain but the thought of being stuck indoors for our weekend is not appealing. Thoughts?

While February is typically a wet grey month it’s rare that it rains all day – or even most of the day. I’m a walker and there are few days (even in winter) when I’m not out for a good walk. And with a little luck you could get a few very nice days – sunny and balmy – they’re not common in February but they’re not unheard of either.

Best Time to Visit Seattle 2024

Experience the best of Seattle by planning your visit during the best time of year. Enjoy the spectacular sights and unique attractions this vibrant city has to offer.

• Mild Summers and Festivals (June-August): Seattle's summer, from June to August, is renowned for its mild temperatures and extended daylight hours.
• The city comes alive with numerous outdoor festivals, including the iconic Seattle International Film Festival and the lively Seafair celebrations.
• Fall Foliage and Cultural Events (September-November): Autumn in Seattle is a treat for those who appreciate vibrant fall foliage.
• Explore the city's cultural scene with events like the Seattle Symphony's opening season and various film and music festivals.
• Winter Magic and Holiday Festivities (December-February): Seattle's winters are mild, making it an ideal time to experience the city's holiday charm.

Seattle, the Emerald City in Washington, USA , is a vibrant metropolis bordered by water, mountains, and evergreen forests. Renowned for its tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, the city thrives on innovation and entrepreneurship. Its iconic Space Needle punctuates the skyline, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding beauty. It's renowned for being one of the best cities with some of the finest natural landscapes that you can visit in USA . Seattle's cultural scene is diverse, boasting world-class museums, music venues, and a thriving coffee culture that birthed Starbucks.

Seattle, with its diverse seasons, offers a range of experiences throughout the year. Each season brings its own unique appeal, whether it's the mild summers perfect for outdoor activities or the festive winters adorned with holiday lights. In this guide, you'll discover a wealth of information about Seattle's seasons and their unique charms, helping you pinpoint the best time to experience this dynamic city. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Seattle 2024

The best time to visit Seattle depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit. However, the most popular time to visit Seattle is during the summer months of June, July, and August.

During the summer, the weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24 Celsius), making it an ideal time for enjoying the best USA natural experiences such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring the city's many parks. The days are also longer, providing more time to explore and enjoy the city.

In addition to the pleasant weather, summer is also the peak tourist season in Seattle, which means that there are plenty of events and festivals taking place, including the Seattle International Film Festival, Seafair, and the Capitol Hill Block Party. However, keep in mind that summer is also the busiest time in Seattle, which means that you can expect higher prices and larger crowds.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and higher prices, you might consider visiting Seattle during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is still mild, and there are fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the city's attractions without feeling overwhelmed.

Overall, the best time to visit Seattle depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit, but summer is the most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather and abundance of events and activities.

Best Time to Visit Seattle for Hotel Prices

The best time to find lower hotel prices in Seattle is during the low season for tourism, which is typically from November to April. Hotel rates are generally lower during these months compared to the peak summer tourist season.

Additionally, booking your hotel room well in advance can also help you to find lower prices. It's also worth noting that prices may vary depending on the location of the hotel. Popular tourist destinations such as Downtown Seattle, and Pike Place Market may have higher prices than less developed areas.

Consider alternative accommodation options such as vacation rentals, hostels, or bed and breakfasts. These options can provide a more authentic experience and can be more budget-friendly. Some areas in Seattle such as Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Fremont offer a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury.

Additionally, consider traveling during shoulder seasons, which are the months of April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is still good, and the crowds are fewer, which can help you to find lower prices.

For those with a passion for global exploration during the month of May, allow our article where to travel during May to kindle your innate wanderlust and serve as a compass directing you toward an extraordinary journey.

Best Time for Activities in Seattle

The best time for activities in Seattle depends on the specific activity you're interested in:

Outdoor activities: Summer (June to August) is considered the best time to visit for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and visiting the city's many parks. The weather is warm and sunny during this period, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Food and Drink: Seattle is known for its diverse culinary scene, and there are many restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to explore. Any time of the year is good for exploring the local food and drink.

Cultural Attractions: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are considered the best time to visit for those looking for milder weather and fewer crowds. The weather is mild and comfortable during these times, making it a great time to explore the city's many cultural attractions and festivals.

Winter Activities: Winter (December to February) is considered the best time to visit for those looking to enjoy winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. During this period, the weather can be quite cold and snowy, making it ideal for winter sports.

The best time to visit Seattle depends on what activities you want to do, and the season you prefer. Seattle offers a variety of activities, and it has mild weather, so you can choose what fits your preferences.

Best Time for Flights Prices in Seattle

The best time to find lower flight prices to Seattle is typically during the low season for tourism, which is from November to April. Flight prices are generally lower during these months compared to the peak summer tourist season. Additionally, booking your flight well in advance can also help you to find lower prices.

It's also worth noting that prices may vary depending on your departure location, the time of the week, and the airline. So, it's important to shop around and compare prices from different airlines and travel agencies.

Also, you could use fare comparison websites or set price alerts to be informed of any fare drops. Keep in mind that Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the main airport that serves Seattle and the surrounding area, but there are other nearby airports such as Bellingham International Airport (BLI), which is located about 90 miles north of Seattle, and Portland International Airport (PDX), which is located about 140 miles south of Seattle.

Consider traveling during shoulder seasons, which are the months of April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is still good, and the crowds are fewer, which can help you to find lower prices.

Best Time for Good Weather in Seattle

The best time for weather in Seattle depends on personal preference. Seattle has a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The city is known for its rainy weather, so it's always a good idea to bring an umbrella and rain gear, regardless of the season.

Summer (June to August) is considered the best time to visit for those looking to enjoy warm and sunny weather. The city experiences its warmest temperatures during this period, with average highs in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-27°C). • Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are considered the best time to visit for those looking for milder weather. The temperatures during these seasons are generally mild and comfortable, with average highs in the mid to high 60s Fahrenheit (18-22°C).

Winter (December to February) is considered the best time to visit for those looking to enjoy the cold and snowy weather. The city experiences its coldest temperatures during this period, with average lows in the high 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (3-9°C). It's worth noting that Seattle is known for its unpredictable weather, and the city can experience rain even during the summer. Additionally, Seattle can experience occasional heat waves and cold spells.

Overall, the best time for weather really depends on what you're looking to do and see, and your own comfort level with different temperatures. Seattle offers a variety of activities and it's a great city to visit year-round, so you can choose what fits your preferences.

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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

How to Spend a Weekend in Seattle with Kids

L ocated in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is an ideal destination for families.  The city shines in the summer months with tons of outdoor activities; but is equally as fascinating during rainy season where there’s tons of indoor cultural and educational activities.  From walking along the waterfront to visiting the Space Needle or discovering marine life at the Seattle Aquarium, the city has a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the year.  This is your ultimate guide to spending a weekend in Seattle with kids!

Day 1 – Downtown Seattle, Seattle Waterfront, West Seattle

Spending the morning in seattle.

Start your day with breakfast at Bacco Cafe, located near Pike Place Market.  From breakfast, head down to  Pike Place Market  to check out the produce, flowers, and handcrafted goods.  Pike Place Market is one of the most famous attractions in Seattle, and is the longest continuously run farmers market in the United States, operating since 1907.  When you visit, make sure to stop by the bubblegum wall in Lower Post Alley; a wall that’s been collecting gum since 1990!  (This is continuously cleaned but somehow gum continues to collect.)  You’ll also want to make sure to stop by the famous Pike Place Fish Market to watch the workers throw fish around.  Even as an adult, it’s always fun to see.

Before leaving Pike Place, stop for a pick me up at Indi Chocolate where you can buy some of the best chocolate chip cookies.  From Indi’s head down to the Seattle waterfront area where you can go on a ferris wheel ride and/or visit the Seattle Aquarium.  Currently, the waterfront is undergoing construction until 2025 where it will then be known as “Waterfront Park”.

Spending the Afternoon in Seattle

For lunch, head to Pier 50 where you can get a water taxi over to West Seattle to eat at Marination Mai Kai.  Not only is the food here incredible, but it’s very family friendly without outdoor picnic tables making it easy for kids to run around while waiting for food.  Plus you’ll get amazing views of the Seattle skyline!

To take the water taxi, walk to Pier 50 (801 Alaskan Way).  The ride from downtown to West Seattle only takes about 15 minutes and the taxi leaves every hour (but times are different depending which day of the week you go).  For more information on ticketing and times, check out this  website .  Once you arrive in West Seattle, Marination Mai Kai is directly to the right of the dock.

If it’s raining in Seattle, instead of taking the water taxi to West Seattle, I’d recommend lunch at The Athenian Seafood Restaurant & Bar at Pike Place Market, and going on Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour to learn about the darker side of Seattle’s history.

Spending the Evening in Seattle

As for spending the evening in Seattle with kids, head to Gas Works Park for sunset.  The kids can run around and the adults can enjoy the beautiful skyline and watch the seaplanes come and go.  (Tip:  When you’re at Pike Place Market earlier in the day, pop into Wines of Washington to grab a bottle of wine to enjoy at Gas Works Park).

From Gas Works Park, walk 8 minutes west to Fremont Brewing.  Fremont Brewing is a large, open space with picnic tables and board games.  You can get Mammoth sandwiches or get takeout from one of the nearby restaurants, enjoy some beers, while the kids run around or you play games.  Restaurants nearby that I recommend include Fiasco, My Friend Derek’s Pizza, Pablo y Pablo, or Jai Thai.

Day 2 – Seattle Space Needle, Chihuly Gardens, Museum of Pop Culture

For breakfast, head to Beacon Hill, one of Seattle’s quieter neighborhoods.  To get to Beacon Hill, you can take the Link Light Rail south towards Angle Lake and get off at “Beacon Hill”.  When you get off the train, take the elevator to the street, and you’ll find a coffee shop called Fresh Flours directly to the right of the train station.  Here you can grab some pastries and coffee before walking around the neighborhood.  As I mentioned, this is a quieter part of Seattle so it’s a really great, family-friendly area.  And depending on how small your children are, from Fresh Flours the Beacon Hill Playfield is only a 14 minute walk.

The Space Needle in Seattle

From Beacon Hill, head to see some of Seattle’s most famous sights, starting with the Space Needle and Chihuly Gardens .  Unfortunately, there is not a light rail stop near the Space Needle.  So you can either get an Uber from Beacon Hill – or if your kids are too young and need car seats, you can take the light rail and walk from the Westlake station.  To get from Beacon Hill to Belltown on the Link Light Rail, get on the train heading north towards North Gate where you’ll get off at “Westlake”.  From Westlake, it’s about a 30 minute walk to the Space Needle.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

If you’re planning to visit both the Space Needle and Chihuly Gardens (they are located next to each other and this is something I would recommend), I’d suggest purchasing a bundled ticket to save money.  You can check ticket prices and book  here .

Another great museum to visit with kids is the Museum of Pop Culture , which is only a 1-minute walk from the Space Needle.  If you plan to visit all three of the attractions listed, you might want to consider purchasing a  CityPASS  to save money.

As long as the weather permits, a really unique and fun activity you can do in Seattle is rent an electric boat and take it out for a spin on South Lake Union.  It’s a fun way to spend time in Seattle and it’s very family-friendly. You’ll rent from The Electric Boat Company and prices vary depending on which boat you rent and for how long you rent it.  There is no age limit and life jackets are available in both kid and adult sizes.

For dinner, I suggest dining out or getting takeout.  If you want to eat at a sit-down restaurant, I would head to Ballard where you can eat at an incredible Lebanese restaurant called Cafe Munir.  I love this spot for kids because you can share a bunch of different small plates and the atmosphere is pretty relaxed.

However, if you’d prefer to stay at the hotel, my favorite place for takeout food in Seattle is Cherry Street Thai.  They don’t offer delivery, but I promise it’s worth it to pick up and bring back to the hotel.  (You could even pick up the food before heading out on your electric boat.)

Family Friendly Hotels in Seattle

As far as where to stay in Seattle, I would recommend staying somewhere near a light rail station so you can easily get around the city.  My top neighborhood recommendations are Downtown, First Hill, Capitol Hill, and Pioneer Square (with my top recommendation being Downtown Seattle).  Fremont, Queen Anne, and Ballard are also great neighborhoods, but the Light Rail doesn’t currently operate in these neighborhoods which might make it tricky getting around.  Please know, there are many people experiencing homelessness in Seattle and I would exercise caution taking the light rail at night or walking around at night.

My top family-friendly hotel recommendations include…

• Palihotel Seattle
• Maylfower Park Hotel
• Lotte Hotel Seattle
• Kimpton Palladian Hotel in Seattle

How to Get Around Seattle

Seattle is relatively easy to get around on foot or train (depending on where you stay), and has limited parking spots.  For those reasons I would not recommend renting a car for the weekend.  Instead, I would rely on taking the Link Light Rail (the train), walking, or getting Ubers.

If you plan to utilize the Link Light Rail, it runs in a straight line from north to south and is very easy to navigate.  If you’re heading north, you’ll take the light rail to “North Gate” and if you’re heading south, you’ll take the light rail to “Angle Lake”.  To get tickets, you can buy it at the station or you can download the “Transit Go” app and upload your tickets from your phone.  The price of a ticket varies based on where you’re going.

Lastly, you can also get a rideshare to get around Seattle.  Both Uber and Lyft operate in Seattle.

Best Time to Visit Seattle

The rooftop pool at Silvercloud Inn

The best time to visit Seattle is from July-September.  There is very little rainfall and the weather is perfect at this time.  However, if you like to avoid and the crowds and are looking for better prices, Seattle is rainy – but welcoming all throughout the year.  This guide is based on visiting during the summer months, but I did try to give suggestions on things to do if you decide to visit during the rainy months.

I hope this guide convinces you just how much of a family friendly city Seattle is.  It’s the perfect place to spend a weekend with your kids.

Guest Author: Kylee is a NICU nurse passionate about making travel affordable and accessible to nurses. Inspiring nurses to travel both near and far, Kylee began Passports and Preemies in 2017 while volunteering in Skopje, North Macedonia as a way to reach nurses and advocate for the prevention of nurse burnout by traveling.

27 Best Day Trips From Seattle

10 Family Friendly activities in Seattle, Washington

The post How to Spend a Weekend in Seattle with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels .

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5 outings to see spring flowers around Seattle this May

How to seattle.

March around the Seattle area is known for cherry blossoms. April is for the tulips. But even as May rolls closer, flower season is far from over. 

Many species of rhododendrons, peonies and other vibrantly colored flowers can be admired in their full glory in late spring. Here’s where to see them around the Seattle area, whether you want to wander through a serene garden on your own or join in on one of these festive seasonal events. 

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A historic Olmsted creation in North Seattle

Less than a five-minute drive from Bitter Lake Playfield in North Seattle lies a 7.5-acre garden designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers (the minds behind many beloved Seattle parks) as a summer home in 1915. 

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Dunn Gardens is the only Olmsted residential garden that’s now regularly open to the public in Washington, according to HistoryLink . 

Along with towering Douglas fir trees and broad lawns bordered by shrubs, you’ll find rhododendrons blooming in the garden this time of year. Another “showstopper in the garden is the wisteria — it’s purple, it surrounds the cottage, it’s like walking through a purple curtain of blooms,” executive director Carolyn Cox said, before adding trillium and magnolias to the list. “It’s just a color bomb.”

One more rec if you visit soon: “One of the most spectacular trees right now is the Magnolia kobus” in the southwest portion of the garden, Cox said. Walking underneath the “old, gnarly tree” in bloom is “like standing in a flower house.”

Stop by Dunn Gardens anytime 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday (for nonmembers, the entrance fee is $10 per person) or catch a special poetry workshop at 3 p.m. May 11. 

13533 Northshire Road N.W., Seattle; dunngardens.org

Some of the largest rhododendron and bonsai collections around — in Federal Way

If admiring rhododendrons is a high priority, there’s perhaps no better local destination than Federal Way’s Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden , which features more than 700 species of “rhodies” in its 22-acre woodland garden. 

During the “riot of color” that is spring, you can also find magnolias, camellias and “a host of other beautiful trees, shrubs and wildflowers,” according to a statement from executive director of horticulture Steve Hootman.

Rhododendron-lovers won’t want to miss the big-leaf rhododendron garden, where subsections of the species grow giant leaves — up to 2 feet in length! For your $10 admission (or $7 for students and seniors), you can also explore the visitors center, plant shop, Victorian stumpery — an intentional arrangement of wooden materials like stumps and old logs that create a habitat for ferns and other plants — and several other gardens.

While you’re in the area, pop next door to the Pacific Bonsai Museum . It’s “one of the few public collections worldwide solely dedicated to bonsai,” according to its website, and is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday with a suggested donation of $12 per adult. 

Both Federal Way gems are holding special events over Mother’s Day weekend, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 11-12. BonsaiFEST will celebrate “the height of spring blooms” like azalea and wisteria with bonsai-making demonstrations, tours, pop-up shopping and more, and the rhododendron garden will bring in live music, food trucks and an art market. 

Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden: 2525 S. 336th St., Federal Way; rhodygarden.org

Pacific Bonsai Museum: 2515 S. 336th St., Federal Way; pacificbonsaimuseum.org

More than 50 acres of natural beauty in Bellevue

An urban refuge east of downtown Bellevue, the 53-acre Bellevue Botanical Garden includes about 12 acres of cultivated gardens, plus woodlands and natural wetlands you can wander through. 

The 3,000-plus varieties of plants growing there includes 138 different varieties of rhododendrons, spread throughout the garden. To surround yourself with rhodies, stop by the Rhododendron Glen. 

Garden director James Gagliardi also recommends checking out the nearby, Asian-inspired Yao Garden, featuring azaleas, primroses, a stream and steppingstones. 

“There’s always that peak photo spot, and that’s it, I think, in May,” Gagliardi said. 

Make a day of your trip by adding in a stop to the gift shop and the coffee bar and check out any other trails or gardens that catch your interest. Another popular draw is the 150-foot suspension bridge, which spans a ravine and allows walkers to take in the forest’s topography from a different angle. 

Admission is free, and the garden is open from dawn until dusk everyday. 

12001 Main St., Bellevue; bellevuebotanical.org

A traditional Chinese Garden in West Seattle

Built in partnership with Seattle and our sister municipality of Chongqing, China, the Sichuan-style Seattle Chinese Garden comprises nearly 5 acres of plants, stones, water and architecture. 

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May is a great time to see blooming peonies and some magnolias, said interim general manager Mimi Chan.

On May 11 and 12, the garden’s 2024 Peony Festival will celebrate the blooming flowers and Mother’s Day, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (the final program is forthcoming, but the annual event generally includes music, cultural demonstrations and talks). In past years, about 1,000 people a day have flocked to the festival, Chan said. “It gets very busy, especially if the weather is nice like this.” 

Not ready to head back inside after exploring the Chinese garden? A wealth of nearby greenspaces — West Duwamish Greenbelt Trails, Soundway Park and Puget Park to name a few — makes it easy to extend your nature excursion. 

6000 16th Ave. S.W., Seattle; seattlechinesegarden.org

Downtown Seattle: Springtime edition

A meander along the downtown Seattle waterfront and through Pike Place Market is a classic outing any time of year, but springtime brings its own colorful flavor. 

While you’ll find all sorts of fresh flowers sold on a typical day in the historic market, more than 30 flower farms from King, Snohomish and Whatcom counties will be present 11 a.m.-4 p.m. May 11-12 for the 16th Annual Flower Festival at Pike Place Market . Visitors can shop from seasonal favorites like tulips, daffodils, irises and peonies, plus, of course, from the regular dozens of artisan vendors.

From Pike Place, walk about 25 minutes (or take a 10-15 minute drive or bus ride) to Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Center. The museum’s “Spring Bloom” lasts through the end of May, with daily garden tours, demonstrations of ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement) and spring-themed cocktails. General admission is $35-$39, with senior and child discounts. (Bundles that combine access to the museum, the Space Needle and Climate Pledge arena are also available.) 

Pike Place Market: 85 Pike St., Seattle; pikeplacemarket.org

Chihuly Garden and Glass: 305 Harrison St., Seattle; chihulygardenandglass.com

Outside these five springtime excursions, many more parks and gardens are bursting with color throughout the spring, from Rainier Beach’s Kubota Garden (9817 55th Ave. S., Seattle) to Tacoma’s W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory ( 316 S. G St., Tacoma ) . For more gardens around the Sound to add to your bucket list, visit pugetsoundgardens.org/gardens .

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

Underrated, But Scenic: A Less Touristy Alternative To Seattle

If Seattle is a bit too crowded as the peak season approaches, try the just as scenic but less traveled Clyde Hill.

• Clyde Hill offers scenic beauty and rural charm just minutes away from bustling Seattle, a perfect and peaceful getaway spot.
• Visitors can enjoy a close-knit community, stunning fall foliage views, and a wide range of activities in Clyde Hill, Washington.
• With ideal weather between June and September, this less crowded alternative to Seattle provides a serene escape in the Pacific Northwest.

Seattle is a city like no other. While it is a bustling metropolis, it feels less like a concrete jungle than other cities as a result of the massive amount of green space found within the city. That and the number of activities from hiking, biking, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, allow residents and visitors alike to forget that Seattle is as urban as it is.

As much as there is to do in Seattle, be it for a long weekend or a perfect workcation in the city , when the weather dries up from June to September, visitors come to the city in droves. With the city having its most robust tourist season since the pandemic in 2023 with 33.3 million visitors , the trend is only expected to continue. This means that unless visitors want to come to Seattle in the off-season, the crowds will only continue to grow, making it more difficult to see the sights in the Emerald City, leaving those visiting Washington looking for alternatives.

Fortunately, there are underrated alternatives to Seattle located throughout Washington . One such town that is an underrated but scenic, less touristy alternative to Seattle is mere miles from the city. This allows for travel to Seattle if necessary. But with its smaller population, welcoming residents, and plenty to see and explore, visitors to Clyde Hill may find they have no desire to see Seattle at all.

10 Awesome Things That You Can Do In Washington State

Clyde hill, washington is a less touristy alternative to seattle, clyde hill is just two miles from seattle but feels like it is a million miles away.

Located just two miles from Seattle, across Lake Washington, lies Clyde Hill. Compared to the nearly 750,000 people who live in Seattle, the population of just under 3,100 in Clyde Hill pales in comparison.

While it is not one of the most affordable small towns in Washington , it is a close-knit community and for those who live in the quaint town located in King County, Washington, this is exactly how they like it.

With lots that have a minimum size which keeps homes from being built directly next to one another and several parks with evergreens that create a large green space, Clyde Hill's more rural feel is a big draw for visitors.

In addition to being able to escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle, Clyde Hill offers some of the most scenic views in the region. From the beauty of Lake Washington to Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountain Ranges, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline itself, the views are second to none.

One of the highlights of Clyde Hill is the leaves that change colors during the fall . The area transforms from a lush, green landscape to a wonderland of reds, yellows, and oranges, something that visitors to Seattle in fall thought was only available there.

This allows those who enjoy taking in the colors of autumn to experience this on the West Coast. Something that is not available with nearly as much frequency as it is in states on the East Coast.

These Are The Most Unique Small Towns To Visit In Washington

Clyde hill may be smaller than seattle but there is plenty to keep visitors busy, clyde hill has a number of activities for visitors to enjoy both in town and in towns just minutes away.

Despite Clyde Hill being but a fraction of the size of Seattle, there is plenty to do in the town to keep visitors busy . Specifically, for those who love a good meal, antique shopping, or tackling more adventurous activities, many of which are similar to that which is available to do in Seattle.

The activities that visitors enjoy doing in Clyde Hill include:

• Museum tours
• Antique shopping
• Theater productions
• Five-star dining
• Art galleries

For those who enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing that Seattle has to offer, both Cozy Cove and Fairweather Bay are less than a five-minute drive from Clyde Hill. There are several hiking trails in the town.

There are also charming small towns just a few minutes down the road. But for those who want to head to Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park, the drive is akin to what it would be from Seattle. The only difference is that it is much quieter and more serene to use Clyde Hill as a starting point, versus that of Seattle.

10 Scenic Small Towns Near National Parks In Washington State

Clyde hill's climate makes it one of the most comfortable places in washington, clyde hill's temperature during peak months is between 70f and 85f.

Washington State has a variety of climates throughout the state that range from some cities and towns being temperate year-round to others that face extremes with cold winters and hot summers. Clyde Hill has, perhaps, some of the most perfect weather throughout the year . This is why it is one of the most "pleasant places in Washington."

Like most of Washington State, the best weather in Clyde Hill occurs from June to September. During this time, the weather ranges from 70F to 85F. This makes it one of the cooler places to visit in the state. Very rarely does the temperature get above 90F, with Seattle and other cities seeing more days at this temperature during the year.

While rain can keep visitors away from Clyde Hill during the winter months, the rain it receives is very similar to that of Seattle given its proximity to the city. For those who want to do their best to avoid the wet weather, November tends to be the rainiest with over 18 days of rain.

The least amount comes in August with just five days. But it is because of the rain that Clyde Hill is as green and beautiful as it is. Visitors may want to consider embracing the rain in order to be able to visit this less touristy alternative to Seattle. A locale that is only minutes away but feels more like a lifetime.

Seattle Whale Watching 101

Take full advantage of whale watching season in the pacific northwest., by anna edlund.

There’s nothing quite like seeing Puget Sound’s largest and most majestic residents from an up-close and personal vantage point. While we’re lucky enough to spot Orcas, gray, and humpback whales year round in the Pacific Northwest, southern resident Orcas typically travel through the San Juan Islands May through October. The Sound is home to transient pods as well (mammal-eating orcas) who make regular rounds in search of harbor seals, sea lions and porpoises for their next meal. With a bit of luck, you’re likely to see one of the two on any given tour.

There are a number of places along the coast to catch a glimpse of whales from shore, and local tour options span guided kayak and boat trips off the San Juan Islands to catching a boat or seaplane right out of Seattle. Whichever whale spotting route you choose, don’t forget a camera!

Courtesy San Juan Islands Whale and Wildlife Tours

Before You Go

While most outfits guarantee a 90 percent chance of a spotting a whale, you might consider booking an extra trip if it’s at the top of your bucket list. Some companies offer a complimentary outing if your trip ends sans sighting—check out the policy before booking.

Whales are listed under the federal Endangered Species Act, so many boats keep a respectful distance–the regulated distance for most species is 100 yards; Bigg’s (transient) orcas is 200 yards; and endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales are 300 yards. You can find more info here .

Come prepared if you’re going out on the water. Bring warm layers, binoculars, and a camera. Snacks for the trip won’t hurt, either.

From Seattle

You can try whale watching from the shore at Alki Beach in West Seattle, just a short drive or water taxi trip away from downtown. The beach is a popular spot for seals and their pups to rest, making it a draw for Orcas as well. You’re more likely to spot orcas here during the fall and winter months, but transient whales can be seen here year round. (Pro tip: Bring along a pair of binoculars.)

Find more onshore whale watching spots in the region at the Orca Network’s Whale Sighting Viewpoints Map .

For a whale-centric adventure that leaves directly from Seattle, look no further than FRS Clipper . Their half-day tour is a great option for those who have limited time and are focused solely on whale watching. Enjoy cruising across the Salish Sea in search of these majestic creatures under the guidance of an onboard expert naturalist. clippervacations.com

Three generations of family ownership have made the tour operators at Puget Sound Express some of the most knowledgeable around. Depart from either Port Townsend or Edmonds (just 17 miles north of Seattle) for a whale watching tour through the Sound on one of their three ships, all equipped with indoor seating to keep the ocean’s chill away. pugetsoundexpress.com

San Juan Safaris operating out of Friday Harbor has a variety of options for whale spotting hopefuls, including flight packages where you can take the scenic route to your tour via a Kenmore Air seaplane departing from Lake Union or Lake Washington (keep an eye out for whales on the way). sanjuansafaris.com

From the San Juan Islands

Whale watching and wildlife cruises launch from Friday Harbor with San Juan Excursions and  Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours , Roche Harbor with San Juan Outfitters , and Outer Island Excursions offers boat tours out of Anacortes, Lopez Island, and Orcas Island that explore the surrounding waters. Along with a high likelihood of whale sightings, these companies pride themselves on trips featuring a host other marine wildlife, from sea lions to porpoises.

Feeling adventurous? Crystal Seas Kayak lets you get as close to the action as possible with kayak trips ranging from a few hours to a day-long excursion through the San Juan Islands (add on a bike tour if you want to stretch your sea legs). The outfit also runs a Whale and Wildlife Cruise that provides similar views from the comfort of a sightseeing ship . crystalseas.com

Discover More

While you’re exploring the San Juan Islands, check out the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor to learn more about resident pods and view exhibits on the history of marine mammals, cutting edge research, and conservation efforts. 62 First St, Friday Harbor; thewhalemuseum.org

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Seattle Seahawks 2024 Draft: Will Chasing EDGEs Be Top Priority?

With their entire cast of edge rushers set to return from last season, the Seattle Seahawks may have bigger immediate needs on defense, but that shouldn't dissuade them from drafting one in the first round.

• Author: Corbin K. Smith
• Publish date: Apr 22, 2024

In this story:

During his introductory press conference as the new head coach of the Seattle Seahawks on February 7, Mike Macdonald dished out a few of his go-to philosophical phrases for the first time.

Among his most popular, while sharing his vision for the franchise as a first-time head coach, Macdonald referenced the Seahawks goal of "chasing edges," or aggressively pursuing advantages in a league that strives for the utmost parity year to year. He developed this growth mindset under the tutelage of Jon Harbaugh with the Ravens, where he climbed the ladder from defensive assistant to linebacker coach to eventually returning as a defensive coordinator in 2022.

In theory, this philosophy will encompass every decision Seattle makes with Macdonald at the helm. But as he prepares for his first draft with the team working in conjunction with long-time general manager John Schneider and looks to build a dominant defense like the one he had in Baltimore, it's possible the phrase could be taken literally by prioritizing the edge rush group early, potentially investing their first round pick at the position.

One of the premier pass rushers in all of college football, Laiatu Latu's polished approach could make him a first round target for the Seahawks.

Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

While the Seahawks have undergone dramatic personnel changes on defense this offseason, including bringing in two new starting linebackers in Jerome Baker and Tyrel Dodson, the edge group has remained completely unchanged from a year ago to this point. Along with Uchenna Nwosu returning from a torn pectoral muscle that ended his 2023 season after just six games, Boye Mafe will look to build off a breakout sophomore season, Darrell Taylor re-signed on a restructured one-year deal, and Derick Hall hopes to have a similar jump to Mafe in his second season.

Even from a depth standpoint, former undrafted free agent signings Levi Bell and Joshua Onujiogu were brought back this spring, providing each of them another crack at trying to make the roster as bubble players in training camp.

But during the pre-draft process, the Seahawks haven't concealed their desire to potentially reinforce the edge rushing group with one of their first picks this week. At the NFL combine, they had formal meetings with Alabama standout Dallas Turner as well as Washington standout Bralen Trice and Western Michigan star Marshawn Kneeland. Since then, projected first-round picks Jared Verse of Florida State and Chop Robinson of Penn State met with team brass at the VMAC on official top-30 visits.

Though such visits are far from definitive signals a team will draft a player, Seattle picked five players last season who either had combine formals or top-30 trips. Given how last season played out defensively, even after investing second round picks in Taylor, Mafe, and Hall over the past four years, it shouldn't come as a surprise Schneider and Macdonald would want to fortify their edge rushing group either.

Before Nwosu went down for the season making a tackle against the Cardinals in Week 7, the Seahawks boasted a top-five run defense in yards allowed and yards per carry. Without his presence, however, everything fell apart with Taylor and Hall not being able to pick up the slack setting the edge, as they ranked dead last in yards allowed, yards per carry, and rushing touchdowns allowed in the final 11 weeks of the season, which played a key role in missing the postseason.

Away from Mafe, who racked up 9.5 sacks in his first full season as a starter, Seattle received pedestrian pass rushing production from the rest of its edge group as well. Coming off a career-high in sacks, Taylor produced 5.5 sacks and only eight quarterback hits, his lowest totals over a three-year period. Hall provided minimal contributions harassing quarterbacks in a rotational role, failing to notch a single sack with just five quarterback hits.

With Mafe, Taylor, and Hall all still being young players under 27 years of age, the Seahawks understandably have a sense of optimism that those three players could all take positive steps forward, especially in Macdonald's scheme. But if granted the opportunity to land a clear upgrade in the first round on Thursday night, it would be foolish not to strongly consider such an option.

Arguably the most well-rounded edge prospect in this year's class and a potential top-10 selection, the 254-pound Verse evolved from a lightly recruited high school tight end into a dynamic playmaking force at Florida State. In two seasons with the Seminoles after transferring from FCS program Albany, he tallied 89 tackles, 18 sacks, and 29.5 tackles for loss while earning First-Team All-American honors both seasons, excelling both as a rusher and against the run.

Built with a more lean 6-4, 245-pound frame, Turner offers the burst and quick twitch teams crave off the edge in today's pass-happy NFL. Anchoring the Crimson Tide's top-tier defensive front, he posted a career-high 10 sacks and 14.5 sacks in 2023 while also adding two forced fumbles, joining Verse as a First-Team All-American selection. He followed up with an electric combine performance, running a 4.46 40-yard dash and posting an astonishing 40 1/2-inch vertical jump.

Overcoming neck injuries early in his college career, UCLA pass rushing dynamo Laiatu Latu also will be in the mix to hear his name called in the first 15 picks on Thursday night. The most polished rusher in this class with a wide array of effective counter moves, he racked up 23.5 sacks in his two seasons with the Bruins after transferring from Washington, torturing quarterbacks in Pac-12 play while earning All-American honors in 2023.

Picking 16th overall, Seattle may or may not have a chance to draft Turner, Verse, or Latu, who all could go in the first 15 picks. There's a significant drop off at the position after those players without another consensus first round edge in this year's class, so if none of them remain available, the odds of the team moving down to recoup a day two pick will go up substantially, depending which other players fall to the middle of the first round.

Under those circumstances, by adding a second or third round pick in a trade down, Schneider could go after Trice, Kneeland, or another edge expected to be available on day two who could potentially contribute right away from Seattle's defense.

If Turner, Verse, and/or Latu remains on the board when Schneider and company are on the clock, however, the Seahawks may think twice about trading down while weighing the pros of staying put and taking a blue chip prospect instead. While it may not be the team's biggest need on defense, as last year demonstrated, chasing an edge would be a wise move as Macdonald aims to add as many talented, impactful players to his new defense as possible.

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