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The 13 best Seattle events

To understand the origins of the city’s liberal vibe, you’ll want to attend the best Seattle events throughout the year

Ask someone from out of town what Seattle is about and you’ll likely hear about the city’s liberal politics (weed is legal here!), Kurt Cobain’s life (he lived and died here) and all about the many important companies headquartered here, including Starbucks, Microsoft and Amazon.

What you probably won’t hear about is the underlying culture that gave rise to these various Seattle symbols, a culture of non-conformity and appreciation for nature that fostered a local sense of value in the arts (here are the best museums in town), history and, of course, the city’s food and restaurant scene (naturally aided by the gorgeously fertile land that is the Pacific Northwest).

This dedication to the essence of the city is apparent in both the permanent attractions peppered throughout various areas and the best Seattle events that celebrate the local culture year after year.

Whether a foodie, a music lover or a cinephile, these yearly festivals and happenings will make you never want to leave town.

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Best Seattle events

1.  Bumbershoot

Since 1971, this Labor Day weekend, three-day festival has been Seattleites’ last summer hurrah. Taking place beneath the Space Needle and aptly named Bumbershoot (an old colloquial term for an umbrella), it is one of the largest annual international music and arts festivals in North America. Featuring an eclectic music scene (Bob Dylan, Weezer and J. Cole each graced the stage at one point), the festival also showcases other forms of art, including comedy and film.

2.  Seafair

A city surrounded by both salt and fresh water, Seattle is an ideal place to spend the summer. Since 1950, Seafair has celebrated just that when hosting about eight weeks of events from June through August. The 75 happenings include the Torchlight Parade and the popular Seafair Weekend Festival, during which everyone with a boat takes to the water to watch the Blue Angels, hydroplane races and the sunset turning Mt. Rainier red.

3.  Fremont Solstice Parade

More of a local favorite, the Fremont Solstice Parade takes place on the longest day of the year in the most artsy neighborhood in Seattle. Anyone can participate in this people-powered (no motors!), inclusive and creative parade. No written messages are allowed, which breeds expression in all sorts of unique forms: be prepared for naked, painted bodies of all shapes and sizes to take over the street.

4.  PrideFest

Every year in June, PrideFest steals the show in Seattle for an entire weekend. Though the producers have changed, the show continues on with the Pride Parade, 40 years strong, right in the middle of it. Events are held throughout the city all weekend, especially in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the epicenter of local LGBTQ life.

5.  Capitol Hill Block Party

Capitol Hill hosts a few notable parties throughout the year, including the always-fun block party. The three-day music festival, running annually since 1997, takes place during one of the most beautiful months in Seattle: July. Starring big names and featuring local talent across six stages, the block party empties the rest of the city for a weekend.

6.  Emerald City Comic Con

Ever seen someone in a full Wookiee get-up? Giving Halloween a run for its money, Emerald City Comic Con floods Seattle with costume-laden adults. Unless you are attending the event, avoid downtown during this weekend in March: 2018 saw 95,000 fans. Word to the wise? Try to be in town for this one.

7.  Northwest Folklife

Taking place annually at the Seattle Center over Memorial Day weekend for over 40 years, Northwest Folklife celebrates the traditions of every group in the region. Artists apply to participate with anything from hand-crafted items to music to cuisine. It’s sort of like the smaller (expect only a couple hundred thousand participants), free, local (every performer hails from the region), more hippy version of Bumbershoot.

8.  Hempfest

Yes, cannabis is legal in Washington, but Hempfest was around long before that was the case. In fact, this started as a “protestival,” an annual policy reform event that is now almost in its 30th year. Since it first started, the focus has changed from legalizing weed to conducting business post-legalization (among other things). Of course, the event includes music and lots of samples.

9.  Taste Washington

For a little pick-me-up towards the end of winter, engage your senses at the “ nation’s largest single-region wine and food event” in March. Delighting Seattleites’ culinary curiosity for m ore than two decades, Taste Washington bring together over 230 wineries and 65 restaurants for four days of food and wine. To give you an idea of the event’s magnitude, consider that the Grand Tasting takes place at CenturyLink Field—which is where the Seahawks play.

10.  Christmas Ship™ Festival

Since 1949, Seattle has brightened its 10-hours-of-sunlight-per-day-winters with boats covered in hundreds of Christmas lights. The Parade of Boats is one of several events throughout December and it comes with a whole lot of boats that are decked out (#BoatHumor) in lights. The Grand Finale’s lead boat, named The Spirit of Seattle, sails around the city to about 65 various waterfront communities. Seattleites can join on Follow Boats or gather onshore to admire the lights and the choirs performing on board.

11.  PAX West

The Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) is the gaming conference series—like Comic Con for video games. There are several PAX events throughout the year across the nation (Boston, San Antonio, Philadelphia) and one in Australia. Where did the affair first start? A suburb of Seattle. Today, PAX has grown into a four-day event in downtown Seattle over Labor Day Weekend that always sells out.

12.  Seattle International Film Festival

Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF), the largest film festival in the country, will run for the 45th  year  in 2019. The 25-day event brings the audience features, short films and documentaries from over 85 countries—70% of which play exclusively at SIFF. If you miss the festival, at least catch a movie at the SIFF cinema next time you’re in town.

13.  New Year’s Eve Space Needle Fireworks

Though every city celebrates the coming of the New Year with fireworks, no other city shoots them off of the Space Needle. Because the 56-year-old attraction is located a hop north of downtown’s skyscrapers, there’s hardly anything to block the view. There is a celebration in the Space Needle’s restaurant as well, but don’t attend if you want to be able to see the fireworks.

In town with the little ones?

The 11 best things to do with kids in Seattle

The world-famous Pike Place Market (and the local food scene it inspires), sprawling and well-maintained parks, exciting technology companies and the raucous live music scene all contribute to the character of the Emerald City—and make it an ideal place to raise kids. 

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Things to Do in Seattle

By Taylor McKenzie Gerlach April 25, 2024

Image: Courtesy Robyn Nielsen

Jump to Your Genre:

  Food and Drink  /  Visual Arts / Live Music   Performance / Film / Special Events / Readings and Lectures / On Sale Now

Seattleites are spoiled for choice when it comes to spending our leisure time. Just take a look at the sheer variety of options: We have an exceptional array of museums , independent bookstores , restaurants , bars  (and bar trivia ), record stores , nightlife options , local shops , and a rich music landscape .

And the actual landscape? Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, especially if you subscribe to the “no such thing as bad weather, only bad  clothing ” mindset (if you don’t, are you really from Seattle?). From abundant hikes ,  swimming holes , state parks , and campgrounds  just beyond city limits to a voluminous urban trail system , there’s something for the outdoorsperson of every skill and stoke level.   Those with little ones (human or furred ) can rejoice at a bevy of great playgrounds , spray parks , and zoos . 

But if you just want a guide already, we've got plenty for  food , outdoors , shopping , and entertainment . Plus, a shortlist of what to do in Washington this month . Or find below the best things to do in Seattle, updated weekly. 

Food and Drink

Cupping fridays at kexp.

april 26, 10am | KEXP Gathering Space, free

Seattle Restaurant Week

through april 27, various  | various, menu

The annual foodie fest has outgrown its week-long time slot into a fortnight of curated prix fixe menus across the Puget Sound. As a taste of what's to come, Fremont's Italian Fiasco dinner starts with a fresh beetroot and citrus combo or spicy prawns; across the water, How To Cook A Wolf's mains feature options from agnolotti to create di gato. 

Cookbook Dinner Series: Misunderstood Vegetables

may 6, 6–9pm  | delancey, $165

The Ballard pizza joint hosts a dinner series inspired by the vessels of recipe know-how themselves. For the inaugural night, Becky Selengut's tome written to change your mind about sunchokes, rutabaga, and eggplant becomes the fodder for a five-course meal—and wine pairings. 

Chef ET's Spaghetti Pizza Pop-up

May 8, 5–10pm | Neb wine bar, menu

Chef Baltimore Vu joins forces with Chef Eric Tanaka to bring the latter's birthday dreams to life: A pizza topped with a pile of spaghetti joins the roster on the Italian wine bar's menu. The collab is the first iteration in a monthly pop-up series dishing unorthodox takes on Italian classics.

Visual Arts

Shine on seattle.

through april 26, various  | pioneer square, free

Light artists lend their maximalist works to Pioneer Square common spaces through the month of April. A glowing walking tour weaves through window displays and outdoor sculptures best viewed after sundown.

Wa Na Wari Art Opening

april 27, 6–8pm  | wa na wari, free

Image: Courtesy Jueqian Fang/Frye Museum

Jessica Jackson Hutchins: Wrecked and Righteous

through may 5, 11–5pm | frye art museum, free

Portland-based artist Jessica Jackson Hutchins' work runs the gamut: relief paintings, needlepoint work, furniture sculptures, and vaguely wearable art. Look for her fingerprints all over the Frye: The art house's rotunda entryway holds a richly textured, two-story fused-glass window commissioned for the gallery. 

april 26, 7pm  | climate pledge arena, $71–282

The three brothers of multi-platinum indie pop band AJR are growing up, and their recent release follows suit: the record melds personal stories with creative soundtracks primed for stadium audiences. Their Climate Pledge show promises a dreamy and highly-energetic atmosphere.

Thunderpussy Live on KEXP

may 2, 4pm  | KEXP studio, free

KEXP hosts hometown rock band Thunderpussy on an otherwise ordinary Thursday afternoon. Self-described as "four wise, willful, and wild women," the energetic group sell tarot hoodies and rocks out with an ever-deepening catalog. 

Justin Timberlake

May 2, 7:30pm  | climate pledge arena, $68+

Performance

Image: Courtesy Deen van Meer

through april 28, various  | paramount theatre, $36–225

A star-studded production and cast list ensure the Disney classic lives up to any genie's magical potential. The colorful stage adaptation features all the film's classic songs—plus new music written by Tony and Academy Award winner Alan Menken, who wrote the tunes for the 1992 film.

Image: Courtesy Lydia Glass

Upper Left Comedy Festival

april 25–27, various  | various, $15–250

Turns out we're funny up here in the Upper Left. The annual fest's third iteration gathers largely local talent (there's a special pass just to watch hometown acts) with nationally-touring comedians at Belltown venues. It's more than just stand-up: The Rendezvous hosts a pun slam competition, an exclusively queer showcase clears the stage for the best LGBTQIA+ performers, and podcast Dumb Pitches records a live show at Here-After.

through may 12, various  | Bagley wright theater, $20–105

The 2022 Pulitzer Prize Winner is reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Hamlet— but stars a young queer Black man. The tale straddles comedy and tragedy with ghost-sightings, family disputes, fatphobia, and love. 

Sasquatch Sunset

through april 28, various  | varsity theater, $12.25

Turns out all those fabled Sasquatch sightings were actually actors Riley Keough and Jesse Eisenberg in ungodly amounts of prosthetics, filming for this oddball project. Almost a nature documentary, the film is decidedly a weird, whimsical showcase of familial ties and might inspire more questions than answers. 

The People's Joker

through april 28, various  | northwest film forum, $14

Multi-faceted talent—she's a writer, director, editor, and star—Vera Drew crafts The People's Joker script from her own life, rendering a documentary air to the psychedelic, uber creative film. The DIY parody take on the classic thriller centers a closeted trans girl in Gotham City in hopes of making it big as a comedian. 

50 Years of SIFF

through may 5, various  | siff cinema egyptian, $12.50–15.50

The Seattle International Film Festival celebrates its Golden Anniversary with a retrospective; longtime festival-goers and staff collected nine films they simply couldn't forget. They'll screen in a revival of sorts, serving to refresh the memory of  past festivals. 

SPECIAL EVENTS

Image: Courtesy Argent Rabbit Photography

Seattle Erotic Art Festival

april 26–28, various  | Seattle Center’s Exhibition Hall, $22–120

The annual fest centers everything sultry, saucy, and NSFW: three days of workshops (poetry, erotic movement), performances (burlesque, drag, aerial), and visual art. Plus, the event features late night parties and a screening of shorts from the Eros Film Festival.

Image: Courtesy Nicole LaBrie/Centro de la Raza

Cinco De Mayo

may 4, 11am–6pm  | El centro de la raza, free

The Beacon Hill community hub celebrates Mexico's 1862 victory in the Battle of Puebla with a parade, vibrant performances, live music, and nosh.

Boating Opening Day

may 4, 8:30am–6:30pm  | montlake cut, free

Summer is around the corner, and the Seattle Yacht Club carries on a long tradition of Opening Day. The water-centric celebration kicks off with a concert and boat parade before a regatta, lakeside picnics, and a heavy dose of pomp and circumstance ring in boating season.

READINGS AND LECTUREs

Haley weaver: give me space but don't go far.

april 30, 7–8pm  | elliott bay book company, free

Seattle illustrator Haley Weaver launches her debut graphic memoir—a tender storyline following Weaver and her own anxiety as the main characters learning to coexist—at the Capitol Hill book emporium. 

Living Breath of wǝɫǝbʔaltxʷ Indigenous Foods Symposium

may 3–4, 9–5pm  | Intellectual House, $20–35

Taha Ebrahimi: Street Trees of Seattle

may 6, 7pm  | Third Place Books seward park, free

Data visualization royalty Taha Ebrahimi transforms spreadsheets into a beautiful guide to urban tree-spotting in her recent book. At Third Place Books, she'll discuss the illustrated walking guide and point out the neighborhood's tree species.  

On sale now

Girl from the north country.

june 25–30, various  | Paramount Theatre, $40–125

Swinging a Duluth, Minnesota guesthouse door wide open transports audiences back to 1934. Rousing renditions of 20 legendary Bob Dylan songs ("Forever Young," "Like A Rolling Stone") bring the lively, Tony Award-winning musical to life.

Tasting Notes

july 19, 7:30pm | benaroya hall, $20–525

Music is an art form; food is an art form. What happens when best-in-class musicians partner with renowned chefs? It turns into a chamber music party helmed by James Beard Award-Winner Kenji Lopez-Alt and violinist James Ehnes—complete with nosh and entertainment. 

Cigarettes After Sex

september 28, 8pm  | climate pledge arena, $44–444

Slow burn pop songs with love right smack dab in the middle? Enter indie trio Cigarettes After Sex, touring in support of their yet-to-be-released third studio album, X . 

november 24, 7pm  | climate pledge arena, $110–1,226

"Dream On" singer Steven Tyler—who is 76 years old—will be back on stage following a fractured larynx to finish out the rock band's farewell tour this fall. Forever dynamic performers, the five piece makes even the largest stadiums feel like a raucous club; pre-injury tour reviews promise the band peaces out with loads of rock style. 

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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

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Pike Place Market Pike Place Market free

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

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

Chihuly Garden and Glass Chihuly Garden and Glass

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

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

Space Needle Space Needle

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

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

Popular Tours

Viator Exclusive Day-Tour From Seattle to Mt. Rainier

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from $ 185.00

Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours

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from $ 66.99

Seattle Harbor Cruise

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from $ 45.38

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.

Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket

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Seattle Grand 4-Hour City Tour

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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.

Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour

(738 reviews)

from $ 320.00

Forest Hike to Gorgeous Twin and Snoqualmie Falls

(239 reviews)

from $ 79.00

Small Group Mount Rainier National Park Day Tour from Seattle

(19 reviews)

from $ 142.80

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.

Touring and Hiking in Mt. Rainier National Park

(169 reviews)

from $ 179.00

Exclusive Leavenworth tour from Seattle

(224 reviews)

from $ 195.00

Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

(1077 reviews)

from $ 135.00

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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The 16 Best Things to Do in Seattle

By Jenna Scatena and Naomi Tomky

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

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

Read our complete Seattle travel guide here .

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

Discovery Park Arrow

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

Chihuly Garden and Glass Arrow

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

Pike Place Market Arrow

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

Hot Tub Boats

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

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Seattle Art Museum Arrow

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

Kubota Garden Arrow

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

Wa Na Wari Arrow

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

Bainbridge Island Arrow

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

Olympic Sculpture Park Arrow

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

Space Needle Arrow

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

National Nordic Museum Arrow

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

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience Arrow

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

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King Arrow

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

Snoqualmie Falls, Gift Shop and Visitor Center Arrow

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

Green Lake Park Arrow

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

Frye Art Museum Arrow

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

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Welcome to Seattle

A vibrant city surrounded by unrivaled natural beauty, seattle boasts world-class attractions, a renowned arts and culture scene, major sports teams, and more. it’s a city that offers the best of both worlds—from sailing to shopping and museums to mountains. and it’s all waiting for you to explore. no matter where you come from, what you look like, or whom you love, you can find community, acceptance, and opportunity here. we can’t wait to welcome you to the emerald city, travel professionals:.

We would love to connect! Learn more about what’s new and what resources we have available .

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Dreamy islands, scenic drives, and gorgeous natural wonderlands are a quick car, ferry, or seaplane ride away.

One of the most notable things about Seattle is the number of world-class activities, from exquisite dining to breathtaking art, that fit into the accessible city. Another alluring aspect of this area is the plentiful day-trip and weekend destinations nearby, making it easy to have Seattle as your home base or as a jumping-off point for a tour of. Go on and choose your next adventure.

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Fun Facts About Seattle

Did you know.

Seattle is surrounded by three national parks and has more than 485 parks within city limits.

Washington is the second-largest wine-producing state in the US.

289 cruise ship stops are scheduled in Seattle for 2023

There are more than 700+ bars and restaurants within city limits

Washington has more than 1,050 wineries , 420 breweries , and 100

To learn more interesting facts about Seattle, click here. >>

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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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Essential travel guide to seattle [updated for 2024].

Seattle is a lovely city, surrounded by the beautiful Elliot Bay and Lake Union, with gorgeous mountains towering in the background. As a city, Seattle isn’t overwhelmingly large, or too complicated to tackle in a weekend, but it still has a big city feel and all of the services and excitement you expect.

We’ve put together this essential travel guide to Seattle to help you quickly plan an outstanding Seattle trip, whether you’re going for a weekend, or a week. In this Seattle travel guide, you’ll find the best hotels , things to do in Seattle, restaurants to enjoy , breweries , and more.

If you love being near the water, you’ll love visiting Seattle . The natural beauty is astounding, and if you are lucky enough to visit on a nice summer day with blue sky, you’ll never want to leave. In Seattle, you are surrounded by water with Elliot Bay on one side, Lake Union in the middle, and Lake Washington on the other side.

» Check out these top instagrammable spots in Seattle to soak up all the beauty.

Are you planning your trip to Seattle?

• Get into the city on the Sound Transit Light Rail or get an Uber or Lyft.
• Rent a car at the Seattle airport through Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in Seattle See all hotel options

• The Westin Seattle – Can’t get a better location, great rooms at a good price.
• Sheraton Grand Seattle  – Great location in the middle of town, walkable to everything.

Best Tours and Experiences in Seattle: (if you do nothing else, do these!)

• Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours
• Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour
• Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour

Table of Contents

About Seattle

Seattle is a large cosmopolitan city, covering around 90 square miles. The city incorporates many smaller communities and historical neighborhoods, like Ballard, Belltown, Capitol Hill, Pike Place Market, Fremont, Greenlake, Pioneer Square, Queen Anne, SoDo and University districts.

While the downtown core is where much of the activity happens for tourists, each of these neighborhoods contains unique and varied attractions. So you’ll want to plan activities in all areas of the city in order to see it all.

When to Visit & Weather Considerations

The Seattle area is known for rain. If you trust the movies, it’s always raining in Seattle. But that’s a bit unfair because the city’s annual rainfall averages less than 40 inches. It’s not a lot. Typically, it will mist or light rain for a bit of the day and then clear up to blue skies in the evening.

Most of the time, the weather in Seattle is a mixed bag. But in the summer, from July through September, it is glorious! Temperatures are hottest during the months of July and August, peaking at around 77°F, only sometimes getting up into the 80s.

If you can visit in the summer, you’ll get the best weather, but the prices will be high. Hotels in the city center can become excessive and it will be cheaper to stay just outside the city on the light rail line.

January is the coldest month, when temperatures during the daytime average 46°F, and it rarely ever snows.

What To Do In Seattle

Seattle is an excellent vacation destination, thanks to its notable landmarks and monuments, museums and art galleries, parklands, and recreational activities.

Top attractions include:

• The Seattle Center and Space Needle, which was constructed for city’s World Fair in 1962

Pike Place Market

• Fisherman’s Terminal
• Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
• Smith Tower Observation Deck
• Seattle Art Museum
• Museum of Pop Culture
• Seattle Aquarium on the Waterfront
• Fremont Troll
• Gasworks Park & South Lake Union
• The Great Wheel

If you’re looking for the ultimate list of things to do in Seattle, here are all 43 fun things we love to do in Seattle.

Top Tourist Attractions

One of our favorite things to do in Seattle is exploring the waterfront and Pike Place Market , a 9-acre permanent farmers market that’s been around since 1907.

You can grab a drink at the original Starbucks location, watch the cheese curds being made at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese (you’re going to want to get a tub of curds and possibly a grilled cheese sandwich there!), grab a bouquet of flowers from the market stalls, or just wander around taking it all in.

There are some really great places to eat in Pike Place Market. If you have time, make a reservation at The Pink Door and Place Pigalle . Then save time for wine tasting at The Tasting Room .

Seattle Parks

On a nice day in Seattle , you can see the sunny sparkling off the water and it draws everyone out to enjoy the plethora of outdoor activities, from kayaking on Lake Union to enjoying a picnic at Gasworks Park or taking a long walk along Elliot Bay at Myrtle Edwards Park.

Popular parklands in the Seattle area include Discovery Park, Freeway Park, Green Lake Park and the Washington Park Arboretum.

If you want to get outside of Seattle, check out these things to do in the Puget Sound , that are all within day-trip range of Seattle. You can go wine tasting in Woodinville within 30 minutes of Seattle to taste all that great Washington wine. We also recommend taking a trip to the San Juan Islands which you can do by ferry. The islands are some of the best spots along the Pacific coast to view whales from shore .

Tours & Day Trips in Seattle

If you want to participate in any tours, it’s always a good idea to pre-book for popular tours. They sell out fast. Here are our favorites:

• 3-Hour Seattle City Tour
• Beneath the Streets Underground History Tour
• Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market
• Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

What & Where To Eat In Seattle

Seattle is known for it’s breweries and great restaurants. Seattle takes its coffee very seriously and is famous for being the origin of Starbucks, with the first store still in operation at Pike Place Market.

If you’re in the Pike Place Market area, don’t miss a stop at Beecher’s for some of the best local cheese and Rachel’s Ginger Beer for a quick refreshment. Grab a bowl of chowder at Pike Place Chowder. For dinner, make a reservation at The Pink Door or Matt’s in the Market .

In Capitol Hill, there are dozens more restaurants you’ll want to try. It’s easy to walk up to this neighborhood from downtown – no car needed. Be sure to visit the incredibly popular Kedai Makan for Malaysian street food, Spinasse for exceptional Piedmont cuisine, Terra Plata for farm to table, and Quinn’s Pub for one of the best burgers in town.

• Our favorite Seattle breweries
• Our favorite Seattle restaurants
• Where to find the best pizza in Seattle
• Where to find the best burgers in Seattle
• Where to find the best taco trucks in Seattle

Transportation

One of the most popular ways to travel around the city is on the Metro Transit Buses, which are cheaper outside of peak hours. Renting a car is the easiest transport option so you can get around easily without waiting on buses, but parking can be difficult in the city center.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is just a 15 minute ride from the city center. You can take the light rail from the airport directly into the city in about 45 minutes. Or rent a car from the airport and begin your journey.

Where to Stay in Seattle

Seattle is the type of city where you need a car to get around if you’re planning to get out of the downtown area at all. If you’re just going to be exploring downtown, you can really easily take the light rail from the airport to anywhere in downtown, and you won’t need a car.

We still highly recommend staying downtown, no matter how you choose to explore the city. Just beware that parking can cost as much as $30-40 a night at area hotels. Here are our recommended Seattle hotels.

• Crowne Plaza Downtown – this is a nice, affordable luxury hotel that is right in the middle of the action. Very walkable. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor | check prices on Expedia.com
• Hotel Vintage – for a more boutique hotel feel, check out this place. It offers a free wine happy hour every day. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor  | check prices on Expedia.com
• Seattle Westin  – also in a very good location in downtown, this hotel is lovely inside and there are dozens of restaurant at its base. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor | check prices on Expedia.com

>> Save time and money with the Seattle CityPass .

Essential Travel Guide to Seattle

(This guide is copyrighted. If you want to display this guide on your own site, please credit https://www.savoredjourneys.com.)

Tours to Book:

More on seattle.

Guide to Seattle’s Pike Place Market + Hotels Near Pike Place Market

5 Best Taco Trucks in Seattle

11 Best Must-Try Restaurants in Seattle

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Top 17 Food and Drink Events in Seattle

7 Best Ways to Enjoy Seattle on a Sunny Day

48 Top Things to Do in the San Juan Islands

43 Fun Things to Do in Seattle

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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65 Crazy Fun Things To Do in Seattle

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 65 Crazy Fun Things To Do in Seattle

With a blend of nature and urban attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Seattle for every type of traveler! We’ve spent lots of time in this city, and are sharing our very favorite things to do in Seattle to help you plan the perfect trip. Plus, we’re including some epic day trips as well as our picks on where to stay in Seattle.

Seattle is a city that urbanites and nature-lovers can both appreciate. And with the ocean on one side and majestic mountains on the other, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Seattle.

Aside from it’s undeniable natural beauty, the food, art and music scene are reason enough to get yo’ booty over to this PNW metropolis. NOW.

We called  Washington state  home for the better part of a year, and have made many-a-trip to Seattle where we packed our weekends full of fun (and usually cheap!) things to do. We can’t wait to share all our favorite spots in Seattle with you!

Some are the super famous touristy “must-dos”, and others are local secrets you won’t find in the guidebooks.

Whether it’s your first time in Seattle and you have a weekend to soak it up or you’re a Pacific Northwest local looking for fun things to add to your bucket list, we’ve got some can’t-miss spots and quirky additions to any Seattle itinerary.

Let’s dive in and plan your trip to the “Emerald City”!

Seattle Travel Guide Contents

Click the links to jump to the section you are looking for, or just keep scrolling…

Where to eat in Seattle

• Perfect Seattle Itineraries  (for all types of travelers)
• Seattle Day Trips
• Where to stay in Seattle

How to get around Seattle

Ultimate PNW Bucket List!

Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? We have just what you need!

We’ve created the  ultimate PNW Bucket List , filled with fun and unique adventures. From epic outdoor escapes to off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, we have a little something for every type of traveler!

Go ahead and grab your copy now.  It’s totally free , so what do you have to lose?!

Top things to do in Seattle

If you’re looking for a quick list of the very best things to do in Seattle, here you go:

• Eat the best of Seattle on a food tour 
• Shop local at Pike Place Market
• Ride in a hot air balloon beside Mount Rainier
• Snap a selfie with the Fremont Troll
• Have a picnic in Gasworks Park
• Order a handcrafted cocktail at a speakeasy
• Go on a day trip to Snoqualmie Falls & Twin Falls
• Get the best free view of the city at Kerry Park

Now your trip to Seattle is almost planned!

But don’t stop here…

Want more ideas?  Well, you are in for a treat, my friend, because this article is absolutely PACKED with all kinds of crazy fun things to do in Seattle plus all sorts of insider tips! 

1. Get up close & personal with the Fremont Troll

I’m a sucker for quirky art installations, and the Fremont Troll is one of those things you just have to see if you’re in the area. In true troll fashion, this grumpy beast lives beneath a bridge in the Fremont neighborhood. You can find him hiding under the north end of the George Washington Memorial Bridge .

Insider tip:  After a photo op next to this Seattle staple, don’t forget to explore the rest of the Fremont district! Walk along the water and daydream about living in one of the houseboats docked near shore, and pop into some of the many cute shops in this neighborhood that endearingly refers to itself as the “center of the universe”!

2. Blow bubbles at the Post Alley Gum Wall

Seattle is full of all sorts of quirky sights and photo ops, but the most famous (and accessible!) is arguably the Post Alley Gum Wall.

While it’s definitely no secret, the gum wall is a quirky stop to make during your visit to Seattle. Plus, it’s right around the corner from Pike Place, so you really can’t miss it.

Bring with you a pack of bubble gum for a cute photo op and try to guess how many pieces are actually on the wall:  Hundreds? Thousands?  (I’m kinda bad at estimations.)

Don’t get too close to the wall though… I don’t think I need to explain why. Opt to add your chewed gummy mess to the wall with all the rest, or (like us) find a trash can just up the alleyway to dispose of it in a more sanitary way.

3. Start your day with strong Seattle coffee

If there was an award for the city with the best coffee in the United States, Seattle would win gold.

Stroll down just about any block in Seattle and you’re bound to find a handful of wonderful coffee shops that serve a good, strong brew.

Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong because stiff competition keeps the quality high.

If you don’t know where to start, here are some local gems:

• Milstead & Co.
• Caffé Vita  (multiple locations)
• Seven Coffee Roasters Market & Cafe
• Storyville Coffee Queen Anne
• Ballard Coffeeworks

Psst! If you’re really into coffee, this Seattle Coffee Culture tour looks pretty fun!

4. Float beside Mount Rainier in a hot air balloon

It takes something special to get us up before sunrise, but we’d definitely agree, this experience is worth making an exception for.

Floating in a hot air balloon at sunrise directly in front of Mount Rainier is what dreams are made of .

You’ll launch just prior to sunrise, which gives you the opportunity to view cotton candy skies from thousands of feet. Not only do they fly right in front of Mt. Rainier, but you’ll also float over rivers, lakes, and forests. Dreamy, huh?

I was invited on a hot air balloon flight with Seattle Ballooning and was seriously impressed with everything from the epic views ( umm, hello Rainier! ) to my super passionate pilot. 

I wrote all about my experience hot air ballooning in Seattle for anyone who is interested or on the fence about booking a flight. I included everything from my honest opinions about the experience and what to expect on a flight, to insider tips (like what to wear!).

There are a few hot air balloon companies in the region, so here’s why we chose Seattle Ballooning :

• They’re the #1 rated balloon company in the NW . Need we say more?
• They earn rave reviews that speak for themselves. Seattle Ballooning was also featured in the NY Times and The Washington Post , so you know they’re legit! 

Choose from different flight options – from a private flight to an original group ride that carries 8-10 guests – one thing’s for certain; this will be one of your most memorable experiences in Seattle without a doubt.

Discount alert! We’ve secured a 10% discount for anyone booking their hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning. Just use the code: “ 2soles ” when checking out!

5. Go on a Seattle food tour

Whenever we’re in a new place, we like to check out local foodie hot spots and taste  everything  the city is known for. After years of traveling around the world,  we’ve found the very best way to get a good feel for the local cuisine is to go on a food tour.

We’ve been on food tours in dozens of cities around the world (from Bangkok to Reykjavik ), and we’re honestly  obsessed ! I mean, you get to taste specialties from the best restaurants, plus, you get insider scoop on the foodie scene from a local. Can’t really beat that.

Here are our top choices for a food tour in Seattle:

Chef tour of Pike Place

If you want to sample the best of the best in Pike Place, tour this market in the company of a chef!

Along with your expert in all things food, you’ll stop at 9 different artisanal vendors and sample the flavors of the PNW.

Here’s what guests are saying:

“Loved this experience with Eric as it including a wide variety of great food, a bit of Seattle history and interesting information about the market. As a long time Seattle resident I learned a lot about the market I didn’t know. Highly recommend!” -Beth, February 2023

Plant-based in Pike Place food tour

If you’re a vegan (or just interested in plant-based eating!), you won’t want to miss this tour that earns rave reviews.

In the tour guide’s own words:

“ Plant-based eating shouldn’t have to be a sacrifice. Too often restaurants overlook the opportunity of plant-based cooking, leaving vegans with a disappointing choice between salad or french fries. This tour fixes that.”

This specially-curated tour gives guests the opportunity to sample the best vegan eats that Pike Place has to offe r. Plus, the guide shares all sorts of background info and tips on this historic market as well as fun tidbits and stories about Pacific Northwest foodie culture.

“No hype – Will’s plant-based Pike Place tour was AMAZING! Really appreciated his extensive knowledge of the market’s rich history, the delicious and diverse range of treats, and his genuine rapport with the local vendors. You can tell he deeply respects all of them. I’m a longtime Seattle resident who went on the tour with a friend visiting from out of town, and now we both feel more connected to this beautifully special city. Thanks Will.” – Kat, January 2023

6. Visit the iconic Pike Place Public Market

Even if you’re not into the idea of a food tour (see above), a visit to Seattle would be incomplete without stepping foot in this iconic market.

Did you know it is the oldest continuously-operating market in the United States ? Crazy, huh?!

Super touristy? Yes. Worth a visit? Heck yes! 

Arguably the most famous farmers market in America, Pike Place is one of the can’t-miss things to do in Seattle.

The most famous attraction here are the  fishmongers  who toss the fresh catch of the day between each other when a customer makes a purchase. I remember visiting Pike Place as a child and being wowed by this, and I was pleased to find that they’re still flingin’ those fish nearly two decades later. Get your camera out to capture those flying fish because it’s quite the sight!

If aerial seafood doesn’t impress you, walk down the rows of fresh produce, locally-made cheese and artisan goods and you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.

Best stops & things to do at Pike Place Market

• Oprah loves the mac ‘n cheese here, so you probably want to give it a whirl!
• Pike Place Chowder  serves up a tasty bowl of creamy seafood goodness.
• For a pick-me-up, stop at  Rachel’s Ginger Beer  for a famously fun drink!
• Piroshky Piroshky  is a small Russian bakery that is famous in the area.

While you’re at Pike Place, here’s a cool idea…

Book a photo tour with a local where you’ll see a different side of Pike Place and get some amazing pictures of yourself. (Aka a sweet souvenir from your time in Seattle!)

• Daytime photo shoot
• Nighttime photo shoot

7. Support vendors at smaller farmers markets

Pike Place is undoubtedly the most famous market, but it’s far from the only one in Seattle.

For an experience where you bump shoulders with locals instead of camera-toting tourists, head to the city’s lesser-known farmers markets for a morning bite or to purchase a unique souvenir.

Fremont Sunday Flea Market

If you happen to be in Seattle on a Sunday, try to make it to the Fremont Sunday Flea Market and we don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

With up to 200 vendors selling antiques, collectibles and other goods, this is the coolest market in you’ll have fun scoping out the quirkiest treasures you can find (as well as sniffing out the best-smelling food!). Open rain or shine, all year long, Seattle’s coolest market (in our opinion!) has been in operation since 1990.

University District Farmers Market

If you are looking for a farmers market without the tourists, head to the University District Neighborhood which holds a market every Saturday year-round, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

At this local favorite, you’ll find more than 70 farmers and other vendors selling fresh produce and local goods.

Ballard Farmers Market

This hip neighborhood has a weekly farmers market which runs all year long on Sundays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

8. Get the best (free!) view of Seattle at Kerry Park

For sweeping views of the skyline famously punctuated with the Space Needle, Kerry Park is the place to be. And better yet, this spot is free ! (Hey, that rhymes)

Here you’ll get a panoramic view of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier looming in the distance (if you’re lucky enough to have a clear day!).

Don’t let the big views fool you – this park is perched on a tiny little slice of land, so you don’t need to allot much more time here than it takes your camera shutter to click. And boom, you’ve captured one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seattle!

On the other hand, if you’re looking for time to kill with a killer view, Kerry Park makes a great setting for a picnic!

9. Picnic in Gasworks Park

Seattle is a city with a lots of green space. It is nicknamed the “Emerald City” after all!

You’ll have no problem finding parks for picnicking and people watching. But if you’re looking for a park that’s out of the ordinary, here is a park with a bit more character than most.

Located on the north shore of Lake Union, this park is the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company plant . It’s cooler than it sounds, trust us. The old plant structures are still intact, though a little graffiti “decoration” has been added for… color?  Character?

On a nice day, you’ll see people in Gasworks Park flying kites, enjoying picnics on the lawn and taking in the unique view of Seattle that many tourists miss.

Insider Tip:  This park isn’t far from the Fremont Troll statue or Fremont Brewing Company. We think a combination of all three stops would make the perfect afternoon in Seattle!

10. Go on a free walking tour 

One of the top things to do in Seattle for first-time visitors is to take a walking tour.

We love going on Free Walking Tours in cities we’ve never visited before. We find it gives us a lay of the land and helps us set our bearings. Plus, the guides usually share local tips and interesting history that you can’t get elsewhere. 

Sometimes if we really like the guide, we stay afterward and pick their brains about their go-to restaurants and bars in town so we have the local inside scoop!

There are a few Seattle Free Walking Tours to choose from:

• Seattle 101 (general city tour)
• Pike Place Market Tour
• Old Seattle Cemetery Tour

They require reservations in advance  because tours have limited space.

Good to know:  Free Walking Tours don’t cost anything, but guides typically reply on tips. If you enjoyed the tour, gratuity is always appreciated.

11. Take an e-bike tour of Seattle

Learn about Seattle’s history, see the top sights, and discover hidden gems, all from two wheels! 

Taking an e-bike tour allows guests to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time . 

Here’s what guests are saying:

“I had a great experience on this tour! The bike was really fun to ride and Joe was a great guide. He kept us safe and told us so many interesting tidbits of information about Seattle. Loved the views! I saw a side of Seattle I wouldn’t have otherwise seen since I was staying in Capitol Hill without a car. Definitely recommend!” -Nancy, October 2022

12. Indulge in the prettiest macaroons you ever did see

Lady Yum Macaroons is what a dessert lover’s dreams are made of! 

With a handful of ever-changing seasonal flavors and a hefty list of menu staples, this macaroon shop serves up some pretty creative morsels:

• Circus Animal
• Espresso Fudge
• Raspberry Chardonnay
• Honey Lavender 

And they’re not just delicious — they’re over-the-top pretty too. Perfect for your Instagram feed, if that’s your style!

Lady Yum has a handful of locations around Seattle, but the Pioneer Square shop will likely be the most convenient one to visit.

• Google Maps location

13. Spend a sunny day at Alki Beach

If Seattle is enjoying a beautiful day, head to Alki Beach to soak up the sun, see the city from a unique perspective and experience a different feel than the rest of the city .  We found the vibe to be hipster-meets-Jersey-Shore and the crowd to be more locals than tourists .

Relax on the sand, use one of the public grills and picnic tables or s ip on an iced coconut Americano from Ampersand Cafe .

If you’re in the mood for a beer, head over to West Seattle Brewing Company to enjoy the laid-back patio atmosphere and an ice-cold brew .

And in the evening, you can enjoy a bonfire on the beach and watch the sunset from your sandy seat.

14. Spot the iconic Space Needle from below (or go to the top!)

Located in the Seattle Center, the Space Needle is without a doubt the most iconic man-made feature of Seattle . 

This iconic building is an integral piece of the Seattle skyline, and you can either opt to see it from the ground, or get up in there and take in the view of Mount Rainier (on a clear day) from 520 feet in the air on the observation deck.

Tickets cost for the Space Needle is $36 for adults and $28 for kids.

Our opinion: Personally, we’d recommend skipping going to the top of the Space Needle, and instead heading to this observatory , where you can enjoy a handcrafted cocktail with a view!

Seattle Center

While you’re near the Space Needle, be sure to check out the other notable sights in the Seattle Center:

• Seattle Center Armory
• Chihuly Garden and Glass
• Museum of Pop Culture
• International Fountain
• Artists at Play
• Climate Pledge Arena
• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center
• Seattle Center Skate Plaza
• Pacific Science Center (see more below!)

Money-saving Tip: If you want to check out a few more popular things to do in Seattle, like the Chihuly Gardens and Glass, Seattle Aquarium and take a harbor tour, you might want to look into getting the Seattle CityPASS. The CityPASS saves you quite a bit of money if you plan to visit the most popular attractions in Seattle. Calculate your savings and buy your Seattle CityPASS .

15. Pay a visit to the Pacific Science Center

While you’re in the Seattle Center, consider taking an immersive journey into the wonders of science and technology at the Pacific Science Center . 

You can’t miss the iconic white arches just under the Space Needle. The Science Center boasts interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and cutting-edge demonstrations that’ll capture your curiosity at any age. 

Including a planetarium and an IMAX theater, this is a great Seattle attraction for one of those unpredictable (but common) rainy days. 

16. Take a hot tub boat on Lake Union

If a regular boat cruise feels a little too basic for you, this suggestion will be right up your alley…

Rent a hot tub boat.

Yep, you read that right, a HOT TUB BOAT!

Soak in the city views while you, well, soak in warm water . Can’t get much better than that!

Renting a hot tub boat costs $400 for 2 hours , and you can fit a maximum of 6 people.

For more information on how to book your hot tub boat, check out their website .

17. Visit the original Starbucks  (or opt for the Starbucks Roastery!)

Being that the Emerald City is the birthplace of Starbucks, many first-time visitors to Seattle want to step foot in the original.

We did, too.

Below is our (honest!) opinion, so you can decide if you want to add it to your itinerary or give it a miss.

We’re also sharing an alternative – the Starbucks Roastery, which is a more special, elevated coffee experience (more on that below).

Original Starbucks: Our personal experience

We made it there on a Monday and waited about 15 minutes in total from the time we ordered until the time we were handed our specialty coffees. (Not too shabby!)

During the weekend, though, I don’t think we would have braved the wait. It was kind of cool to see the vintage mermaid logo and say that you’ve sipped the original Joe. Was it anything super special? Nah. Would I wait in line again? Nope.

This hyped-up coffee shop is one of the tourist stops that could be skipped (in our opinion). Unless you are a huge fan of the mega-chain, you may be a bit annoyed to find the line wrapping around the block.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room

If you’re a fan of Starbucks and looking for a fancy coffee experience, put a visit to their tasting room on your Seattle itinerary.

With gorgeous copper  roasting basins and some of the best baristas in the city , this facility not only serves up specialty, small-batch coffee, but a stop here is an experience in itself. If it’s a warm day (or even if it isn’t!) do yourself a favor and try a cold brew float!

18. Get nostalgic at the Museum of Pop Culture (MPOP)

This over-the-top museum is right next to the Space Needle and you can’t miss the purple and silver wavy building. Inside the museum takes you through the history of music and movies that have shaped our culture. Step into a rock ‘n’ roll sound lab, view the original manuscripts from Game of Thrones, and peek at hundreds of props from famous movies. 

The entrance Fee for MPOP is $28 for adults and $19 for kids. However, if you pair it with other  Seattle CityPASS  sights you can save quite a bit of money on the top activities in Seattle. 

19. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

Seattle’s Great Wheel (aka ferris wheel) is situated at the edge of the Seattle Waterfront in Elliott Bay , making it a cornerstone piece of the city’s skyline. 

If you’re traveling with kids — or are a kid at heart — hop in one of the gondola cars and prepare for some spectacular city views. 

The Seattle ferris wheel is built over the water , giving riders a unique perspective.

20. Take a sushi-making class

For a really unique activity , sign up for a sushi-making class with Fumiko. Born in Japan, she has lived in Seattle for 30 years. 

After meeting in the kitchen, you’ll walk to the local seafood market where you’ll pick up ingredients for sushi. Upon returning to the kitchen, you’ll dive into making sushi rice and 3 different rolls to enjoy!

After this class, you’ll have the confidence to do your own DIY sushi date nights. Talk about a great souvenir to bring home!

“I loved this experience! Fumiko is so knowledgeable not only Japanese cooking but also history her neighborhood and Seattle as a whole. The walk to market, teaching how she picks out ingredients and coming back to the kitchen to put it all together in a wonderful and tasty meal was very enjoyable. If Iived here, I would sign up for more classes! She’s a great teacher gave me recipes to take home! I am grateful to have met her.” -Amy, January 2023

21. Chase waterfalls just outside the city

You don’t have to go far from the city center to see some epic waterfalls. There are plenty you can easily visit on a  day trip from Seattle . 

Snoqualmie Falls

The largest (and most popular) waterfall near Seattle is Snoqualmie Falls.

This 268-foot cascading beauty is one of Washington’s best waterfalls .

With paved paths just steps from the parking lot, Snoqualmie Falls is super accessible and a nice stop for all types of travelers. That said, due to its proximity to the city and was of access, it tends to get quite crowded. Also, while an impressive sight, it is a quick visit as no hiking is involved.

For more of an adventure, tack on a hike to nearby Twin Falls. This can easily be combined with Snoqualmie Falls as they are located very close together.

This 2.5-mile hike is rated as moderate, and weaves through dense forest and hugs the riverside for a beautiful escape from the city.

For more information on this hike, you can check the  AllTrails guide .

22. Decide who has the best ice cream in Seattle

I have a motto:  There’s always room for ice cream… even when you’re full, it fills in all the cracks!

This motto has encouraged me to make some delicious, but probably ill-advised, decisions in the past.

But Seattle has some seriously good ice cream options. We’re talking contenders for the-best-we-ever-had  good.  So I encourage you to take my motto to heart and sample the city’s best ice cream (yes, even if you’re full!).

So where is the best ice cream in Seattle? Well, that’s for you to decide… We have two favorites that beat all the rest. Plus, a bonus one to try.

Molly Moon’s

In addition to the fact that this local chain has some kick-ass ice cream flavors (more on that in a sec!), they are a consciously-run company , which is something that we are so on board with and excited to support.

They give back to the community, source 90% of ingredients from the local area, use 100% compostable cups, spoons and straws, and pay their employees living wages (with benefits!). *cue slow clap*

So grabbing a scoop (or three!) at Molly Moon’s is not only delicious, but is the socially responsible thing to do. Or at least that’s how I’m justifying our multiple visits…

Now onto the flavors… With classics like cookie dough as well as unique combinations like honey lavender and Yeti (vanilla bean + caramel + homemade yeti granola + Theo chocolate bits), there is a flavor for everyone. Even the seemingly “boring” flavors, like chocolate, are elevated.

Frankie & Jo’s

This ice cream is vegan and gluten-free but sacrifices nothing when it comes to flavor.

The ice cream base is made from cashew and coconut milk, creating a distinctly creamy canvas for their creative flavor combos.

What to order:  Our favorite flavor is without a doubt “California Cabin” . I mean, listen to this description and tell me you aren’t itching to try it: “ smoked vanilla & pine are infused into our creamy coconut and oat milk base with chewy gluten-free black pepper cardamom shortbread cookie chunks nestled throughout.”  Oh-em-gee. Close second flavor for us was “Chocolate Tahini Supercookie”.

Bonus: Salt & Straw

This one definitely deserves to be in the top 3, but the only reason we’ve listed it as a “bonus” is that it’s a Portland-based chain . Still ahhh-mazing and worth trying, but we wanted to give the spotlight to two true Seattle-based ice cream shops.

23. Go to a secret concert

Are you a fan of live music  and  surprises?

If so, you’re gonna love this one…

Sofar Sounds curates concerts in unique and intimate settings. But here’s the catch: You won’t know  who  the artists are or  where  the show is at until a day before the show.

Here’s what you will know:

• Each Sofar Sounds show features  3 different musicians  of varying genres.
• The show will be in a  cool and intimate secret venue . Think a museum, a distillery, a rooftop, or even a private home.
• The booking page will provide  clues about what you can expect , like if it’s an outdoor show or located at a residential venue.
• When you purchase a ticket,  you’ll know the neighborhood and the date .
• The  location and artists will be revealed 36 hours before the show .

Sound like your idea of fun?  (Personally, we think it’s such a cool idea!)

See the calendar of upcoming events and  purchase tickets here .

24. View Seattle from above

While our personal favorite view of Seattle is totally free (Kerry Park #8 on this list!), there are some really iconic views above the city if you don’t mind paying an admission fee.

• Space Needle

Perhaps the most famous “view above Seattle”, this is also the most expensive viewpoint. If you really want to ride to the top of the Space Needle (check off that bucket list, baby!), we’d recommend getting the Seattle CityPASS or at least pairing your admission with entrance to the Chihuly Garden and Glass to save some money.

Seattle Great Wheel

Riding the famed ferris wheel on Pier 57 will grant you unique views of the city.

Sky View Observatory

Located on the 73rd story of the Columbia Tower, this is the tallest viewpoint you’ll get of Seattle. At $28 for standard admission, it is slightly cheaper than the Space Needle, plus, you’ll actually get to see the Space Needle from above.

Smith Tower Observatory

This is our personal favorite “view from above” for two reasons. First, at $19 for general admission, it’s one of the more affordable options.

Secondly (and most importantly, in our opinion!), there is a cool speakeasy bar in the Smith Observatory, so you can enjoy a cocktail with a view at 35 stories high !

Tip for saving money in Seattle

If this is your first visit to Seattle, and you really want to see all the top attractions, you’ll likely want to get a CityPASS. 

This includes admission to both:

Seattle Aquarium

Plus, you get admission 3 more attractions of your choice:

• Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
• Woodland Park Zoo

Use the CityPASS website to calculate how much money you’ll save versus visiting all of the attractions on their own.

25. Tour the Boeing Factory

As a former engineer, Ben was super excited to see the Boeing Factory in Everett. And his nerdy side was on full display during the tour!

But even for me (a non-engineer!), it was pretty cool to see these massive machines being built section by section.

The tour was pretty informative and at the end there are plenty of hands on displays, like a walk through section of the International Space Station that Boeing built.

This a great family-friendly museum and a fun thing to do in Seattle (just a short drive north of the city center). Get more information about the tour and purchase tickets here .

26. Explore the Seattle waterfront

Seattle’s waterfront is comprised of piers filled with seafood joints, souvenir shops, and some of the popular “touristy attractions”, like the Seattle Aquarium, Olympic Sculpture Park and the Seattle Great Wheel.

Olympic Sculpture Park

This park is located on Seattle’s waterfront and features modern sculptures set against a backdrop of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and of course, the Space Needle.

This is one of 3 facilities operated by the Seattle Art Museum, and admission is totally free !

So grab a cup ‘a Joe and wander the Olympic Sculpture Park to your heart’s content.

Located on the waterfront, this aquarium is a popular place to see marine life from the Puget Sound and the ocean. This is another attraction included in the Seattle CityPASS .

27. Eat fresh seafood

You can’t get much closer to the ocean than Seattle. Whenever we’re close to the source, we use it as an excuse to eat all things seafood! 

Pike Place Market is a good place to see the fresh catch of the day, and here are some of the city’s most loved seafood joints:

• Elliott’s Oyster House
• Salty’s on Alki Beach
• The Crab Pot
• Boat Bar  (formerly Bar Melusine)
• Six Seven Restaurant
• Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar
• Ivar’s Acres of Clams

28. Get your game on at the Seattle Pinball Museum

This is quite possibly the best interactive museum in Seattle (it is full of pinball machines after all!). The founders simply wanted people to know about and play vintage pinball games, and you can choose from their collection of more than 50 pinball games.

Entry is $15 for adults and $12 for kids (7-12 years old) for unlimited play!

29. Walk around Green Lake

Green Lake is a neighborhood in Seattle just north of Fremont and Wallingford, and is centered around the lake after which it was named.

The 2.8-mile trail around the body of water is popular with the locals – runners, bikers and dogs – and makes the perfect way to enjoy a nice day. 

Grab a coffee from one of the many cute cafes around and soak up those Seattle vibes!

30. Chill out at a secret waterfall

Waterfall Garden Park is a little hidden oasis and a nice escape from the concrete jungle that surrounds it. The main draw to this secluded little park is the 22-foot artificial waterfall, which is totally unexpected in the middle of Pioneer Square.

With a handful of chairs, this is a nice place to enjoy lunch or rest your weary feet after a morning of walking. 

Fun fact:  This park is on the site of the original United Parcel Service headquarters, which was built in 1907.

More info:  Directions and hours for the Waterfall Garden Park . 

31. Play in tide pools at Golden Gardens Park

Exploring tide pools is a fun PNW experience, but you probably wouldn’t expect to be able to do this within the Seattle city limit! Located in the Ballard neighborhood,  Golden Gardens Park  has tide pools to explore and a nice beach for relaxing or for sitting around a bonfire (in an approved pit) at night. 

More info:  This website has  current tide information .

32. Toast with a handcrafted cocktail at 35 stories high

We love a good rooftop bar… err, in this case, a skyscraper-top bar!

Nestled on the 35th floor of Smith Tower, there is both an observatory and speakeasy-style bar . 

We’d recommend coming for happy hour (Wednesday-Friday from 3-6pm) for a daily $10 cocktail special and $2 off all beer, wine, and well drinks. There’s also a small menu of light bites, like Brussels sprouts and pork belly bao buns. 

So ride up that elevator and order a Smith Tower Signature Old Fashioned to enjoy with the 360-degree views. Cheers!

33. Visit the Volunteer Park Conservatory

Volunteer Park Conservatory is a lovely escape for one of Seattle’s notoriously rainy days. With all sorts of plants from around the world, this is a perfect place to wander indoors for an hour. (Aka the perfect rainy day activity!)

Interesting Fact: Just a short walk north of the conservatory, you can find Bruce Lee’s grave in Volunteer Park.

Hours:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m., closed Mondays

Tip:  When you’re done exploring the park, head to nearby  Volunteer Park Café & Pantry  – a lovely place to relax in a window seat and enjoy coffee and a quiche or pastry.

34. Walk through an edible forest

Located in Beacon Hill, this is no ordinary park.  Beacon Food Forest  is run by volunteers and supported by the community.

The mission of this “Food Forest” is to encourage members of the community to learn to grow and share food. Everyone is welcome here.

35. Kayak or SUP on Lake Union

With so many nearby bodies of water – we’re lookin’ at you, Lake Washington, Lake Union, Green Lake, and the Puget Sound! – one of the best things to do in Seattle (on a nice day!) is to get on the water.

Our favorite (and most affordable) ways to do this is to rent a kayak or a stand-up paddle board and enjoy being outside in such a beautiful city.

On a clear day, you’ll have a stunning view of Mount Rainier from Lake Union . Can’t beat it!

Psst! Green Lake is also a nice spot for a SUP ride!

36. Tour the Theo Chocolate Factory

Theo Chocolate is a proud Seattle-based company , and you’ll find this brand of chocolate highlighted in ice cream flavors and desserts all over town.

This bean-to-bar company started as just a little operation in 2006, and now makes international sales.

If you’re a chocolate fanatic, or just love getting a the behind-the-scenes glimpse of how things are made, touring the Theo Chocolate Factory will be a treat, literally and figuratively.

This hour-long interactive experience brings you through the origins of cacao to how the raw material is turned into the chocolatey bars you know and love. And yes you’ll get to test the product!

• Tours are offered daily from 11am – 4:30pm 
• Tickets cost $14 per person
• Book your Theo Chocolate Factory Experience

37. Explore the quirky Fremont neighborhood 

Situated on the north shore of Lake Union, Fremont is our favorite neighborhood in Seattle .

A little quirky, packed with cute shops, cafes and breweries, and filled with unique things to do, we’d recommend carving out at least part of a day to exploring this area.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Fremont:

• Find the Fremont Troll – it is a landmark of this neighborhood
• Grab Caribbean sandwiches at Paseo
• Tour the Theo Chocolate Factory
• Shop local at the Fremont Sunday Street Market
• Picnic in Gas Works Park
• Glimpse the houseboats in the marina and imagine what it’s like living there… (we have our “dream houseboats” picked out!). 
• Sample local beer at Fremont Brewing
• Get unique views of the city from the waterfront

38. Hike to Rattlesnake Ledge for an epic view

If you want to escape the city and get your heart pumping, Rattlesnake Ledge hike might be right up your alley. This 5-mile round trip trek has nearly a 1,500 foot elevation gain and offers spectacular views of the lake below.

Just a 40-minute drive from downtown Seattle to the parking lot, this hike can easily be done in half a day. 

Be prepared to share the trail with others, as this is one of the most popular  day hikes near Seattle . 

It’s worth noting that there are a few viewpoints, the first being the most crowded by far. If you continue on to the upper lookout, you have a good chance of finding solitude.

We were there on a very busy Saturday in the summer, and we had the upper viewpoint completely to ourselves for a while. It was definitely worth the extra few minutes of hiking.

Before you go:  Find a complete guide to hiking Rattlesnake Ledge on our sister site for more information.

39. Build a bonfire on the beach

Building a bonfire on the beach is one of our all-time favorite summer traditions. 

Beginning at the end of May through the summer months, Golden Gardens Park is the perfect place to enjoy a proper Pacific Northwest sunset with your own beach bonfire. 

Fire pits are unlocked between 4-5pm daily , and are available on a first come first served basis. You must extinguish your fire by 9:30pm.

Insider Tip: For a great (and convenient) dinner option, head to nearby Sunny Hill and grab a takeaway pizza for your bonfire-slash-sunset viewing pleasure!

40. Walk to the lighthouse at Discovery Park

With nearly 12 miles of walking trails, Discovery Park is the largest park in the city. It’s a great place to feel like you’ve escaped the traffic and buildings without leaving the city limits. 

Discovery Park is a great place for birdwatching and spotting harbor seals and sea lions, but one of the biggest draws is the West Point Lighthouse, which is an excellent spot for sunset.

Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket and enjoy this peaceful setting.

Good to know:  The lighthouse is located 1.5 miles from the parking lot, so be prepared for a bit of a walk!

41. Scope out street art in the city

While not quite as prominent as some other major cities, there is still quite a bit of street art to check out in Seattle.

While you’ll find some here and there without really looking for it, but  this interactive map  will be helpful if you want to intentionally find some artworks.

And for the highest concentration of murals in the city, head to the SODO Track. Standing for “South of Downtown”, this 2-mile section of railroad track has been turned into what people are calling an “urban art gallery”. This project was created by 60 different artists from 20 countries, and is quite a sight to see.

You can view this collection of 50+ works of art two different ways:

• “SODO Busway & S Royal Brougham Way”
• “SODO Busway Acrd & S Spokane”
• According to the SODO website, “The SODO Trail runs from Royal Brougham to S Forest Street on the east side of the SODO Busway.”

Related Reading:  Check out this article if you’re  traveling solo in Seattle !

42. Marvel at the Chihuly Glass exhibit

Celebrated worldwide for his glasswork, Dale Chihuly was born in Tacoma, Washington and this long-term exhibit is a great place to see much of his colorful, awe-inspiring art in the center of Seattle. Adults and children can both appreciate his whimsical style.

For ticket prices, hours and events,  check out the official website .

Money-Saving Tip:  The Seattle CityPASS  includes admission to the Chihuly Garden and Glass as one of the options.

43. Spend the evening at a dueling piano bar

Keys on Main is a dueling piano bar that makes a fun and unique way to spend a night in Seattle!

Open Thursday – Saturday evenings, shows start at 9 pm each night, and reservations are recommended. 

Insider Tip: If it works with your visit, we’d recommend coming on a Thursday because there is no cover charge.

44. Channel your inner nerd at a board game cafe

Any other Settlers of Catan fans? Or what about Ticket to Ride? How about Code Names?

We love playing board games, and have become kind of obsessed with seeking out board game cafes around the world where we can test out new games or polish our skills with our tried-and-true favorites.

Cozying up in a board game cafe with a pint of beer (or a coffee) is the perfect way to spend one of those ubiquitous rainy Seattle days.

With two locations in the city (one in Ballard and the other in Bellevue),  Mox Boarding House  is a local favorite. And if you come hungry, there’s a menu of tasty snacks and drinks to keep you fueled for throughout your gaming! 

45. Get your groove on to some live music

Seattle is known as the birthplace of grunge music, but the music scene has evolved over the last few decades to encompass a much wider range of genres.

From huge acts that sell out KeyArena to little-known artists performing in intimate venues, there’s live music for every taste.

There are tons of live music venues throughout the city, but here are just two of our favorites:

• The Showbox:  This is one of the better venues in town, and many big name performers coming through town. There are two locations, one on 1st Ave and another in SoDo so make sure you know where your show is (we made that mistake). Find out which artists are coming to town soon on the Showbox Schedule . 
• Stone Way Café:  This laidback cafe serves food, coffee and beer, and hosts live music weekly as well as open mic sessions. Every day they have someone new come to play, so make sure to  check out their schedule  on their Facebook. 

46. Catch a cabaret show at The Pink Door

If you like unique dining experiences ,  The Pink Door will tickle your fancy. This intimate venue has a spectacular view of Seattle, is known for excellent Italian-American food and has an eclectic mix of nightly entertainment.

From live music to their famous cabaret & burlesque shows on Saturdays that feature aerial artists,  be sure to make reservations in advance  for the bar area.  

We dined here on our anniversary and everything from the wine selection to the food to the entertainment was fantastic.

Note:  Photography is not allowed during the aerial performances, so we couldn’t get a shot to share with you. She used that pink satin material behind me for her performance, so you can get an idea of where it was.

47. Eat your way around the world

Seattle is home to a vibrant foodie scene, and you’ll be able to taste flavors from around the world.

Here are just a handful of our favorites:

• Tacos Chukis : authentic Mexican fare at  (multiple locations)
• Ba Bar : upscale Vietnamese with a buzzy atmosphere
• Bangrak Market or Pestle Rock : both have excellent Thai fare (order the Khao Soi!)
• Paseo : Caribbean sandwiches in Fremont
• Brouwer’s Cafe : Belgian-style pub grub plus hundreds of beers in a former warehouse
• Ramen DANBO : excellent ramen in Capitol Hill
• Seoul Tofu & Jjim : authentically delicious Korean food

48. Go on an Art Walk

If you’re a fan of the arts, keep reading because an art walk might be the perfect experience to add to your trip to Seattle.

Pioneer Square Art Walk

If you happen to be in Seattle on the first Thursday of the month, don’t miss the Pioneer Square Art Walk, which will introduce you to this city’s art community.

Explore small exhibitions and working artist studios while you mingle with others who also have a heart for art. Check out the  official website for more details  and information about free parking!

Ballard Second Saturday Art Walk

If you’re visiting Seattle on the second Saturday of the month, head to Ballard for a fun way to spend a couple of hours!  Here’s more info .

Really love art? You could also make a visit to the Seattle Art Museum to make your art-loving-heart sing!

49. Feel like a local in Ballard

If you want to ditch the touristy areas and are in search of some excellent (and affordable!) eats, head to the Ballard neighborhood.

With a variety of world cuisines, dive bars, and adorable coffee shops, you can’t go wrong.

Here are some recommendations in the Ballard neighborhood:

• Ballard Coffeeworks :  sweet coffee shop
• Reuben’s Brews :  taproom with local vibes
• Asadero Ballard :  authentic Mexican, reservations recommended
• Pestle Rock :  Thai cuisine
• Hattie’s Hat Restaurant :  local diner, long-loved for their brunch and homey digs

50. Go brewery hopping

If you’re searching for where to have drinks in Seattle and you love craft beer as much as we do, you’ll be one happy lad or lass in the Emerald City! With an abundance of taprooms, you won’t need to walk far for a high-quality pint.

Here are some of our favorite breweries in Seattle:

• Fremont Brewing :  With a cozy fireplace, a nice outdoor area, and free pretzels and local apples to munch on, Fremont Brewing happens to be one of our favorites. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that they have a huge selection of tasty brews that made us never want to leave. Try the nitro porter and the double IPA, or order a flight for a real party!
• Georgetown Brewing Co :  This brewery has one of our all-time favorite IPAs: Bodhizafa. If you’re an IPA fan like we are, definitely give this one a try, You won’t be disappointed!
• Cloudburst Brewing :  Creatively-named tasty beers, walking distance to Pike Place Market and always willing to “down-pour” you a brew.
• Stoup Brewing :  Located in West Woodland and created by scientists, this local brewery has beers that will tickle your taste buds. They have a daily food truck and an outdoor patio as well!
• Reuben’s Brews :  This award winning brewery is a staple in Seattle. They serve delicious beers from their taphouse in West Woodland.

51. Experience Capitol Hill’s nightlife scene

If you’re looking for a fun night out on the town, the Capitol Hill neighborhood is where you’ll want to head.

Often referred to as Seattle’s “coolest neighborhood”, Capitol Hill is known as the city’s LGBTQ epicenter. 

During the day, it offers a mixture of green space, trendy brunch spots, and al the boutiques your shopping-loving heart could desire. 

But if it’s nightlife you’re after, this neighborhood really turns it up on all fronts. Enjoy a slow dinner at one of the many buzzy, atmospheric restaurants, then mosey into any bar that strikes your fancy — you’ll find all types of scenes in this neighborhood!

52. Order a handcrafted cocktail at a speakeasy

For a not so typical night on the town, try out one of Seattle’s “secret bars” – from prohibition-inspired speakeasies that require a password for entry to hidden bars that serve cocktails handcrafted especially for your tastes and mood, check out this list of  Seattle’s coolest secret bars .

We’re big fans of speakeasies, so next time we’re in Seattle you better believe we’re going to check one out. Needle & Thread is the first one on our list!

53. Laugh the night away at a comedy show

For a unique take on nightlife in the city, get your laugh on at one of Seattle’s many comedy clubs. 

Get a hit of dopamine as you enjoy stand-up or improv. From free open-mic nights at local pubs to big national comedians that perform in the hippest clubs, there’s likely a comedy show taking place during your visit that’ll suit your budget and sense of humor. 

Check out  this collective calendar  that displays all upcoming shows at the comedy clubs around Seattle.

54. Play bocce ball in a Beer Hall

If you’re looking for a fun and low key place to spend a night in Seattle, Rhein Haus should be on your radar.

This beer hall seems like it belongs in Germany instead of the PNW, but hey, we’re not complaining. With a bocce ball court, a fire pit, house made sausages and pretzels, as well as a long list of beers to choose from, Rhein Haus is a great place to spend a night in Seattle.

55. Explore Seattle’s underground tunnels

Did you know that Seattle has a network of underground tunnels beneath the city? Yeah, we didn’t know about this until our 4th visit! 

Here’s the (short) story behind the “underground”: 

There was a great fire in 1889 that destroyed much of downtown Seattle , which consisted mostly of wooden buildings on top of a somewhat muddy street that would often flood.

When rebuilding the city, it was decided that all construction would be made of brick or stone, and that they would build the new city one story above the muddy streets.

The “underground” is what remains of old storefronts and sidewalks that were later closed in during this process. If you’re a history buff, this tour sounds like it’ll be right up your alley. 

This tour lasts for 75 minutes and brings you on an informative walk through portions of the “underground” and costs $22 for adults .

56. Get spooked on a ghost tour

If you love all things creepy, you might want to book the Spooked in Seattle Ghost Tour.

While we haven’t personally done it, the rave reviews speak for themselves. Plus, the tour has won national praise, so if you want a good spook, it might be worth checking out! 

The Pioneer Square Ghost Tour is their most popular offering. A guide will bring you through historic streets and share real stories of murder and supposed hauntings throughout the city.

The 90-minute tour concludes with a brief walk in the famed underground (explained above) and costs $18 for adults.

57. Marvel at the architecture at Seattle Central Library

Love the smell of a library? Yeah, me too.

The Seattle Public Library has more than the good ol’ book smell – the architecture here is surprisingly stunning.

Come to take a gander at this 11-story glass and steel marvel , and see how good the books look soaked in all that natural light!

58. Relax in a tiki themed soaking pool

McMenamin’s properties are known for being quirky and fun, and the North Shore Lagoon is no exception.

This former school has been turned into a tiki bar with gourmet pub grub, rum cocktails and a large pool.

It costs $7.50 for adults to enter the pool, and the facility is family friendly. No reservations needed, just show up!

59. Take a hike

With its unique location in the Pacific Northwest, easy access to lots of green spaces, rugged mountain trails and even waterfalls, Seattle is a great base for some epic day hikes. 

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a beginner hiker looking to escape the concrete jungle for a day, you’ll find plenty of great hiking opportunities near Seattle. In fact, we rounded up a list of the best day hikes near Seattle for all experience levels and interests over on our sister site.

60. Catch a perfect Seattle sunset

Being that Seattle is situated on the west coast, this city is full of spectacular sunset viewpoints .

Try to catch at least one (hopefully more!) during your trip to Seattle, because it is a sight you won’t soon forget!

Best places for sunset in Seattle:

• Alki Beach (pictured above) : sweeping views of the bay from a beach, with nearby restaurants
• Discovery Park Lighthouse: feel a world away from the city at the rustic beach here
• Kerry Park: views over the city as the sky changes colors
• Golden Gardens Park: build a bonfire on the beach to enjoy sunset
• Smith Tower: 35th story views with an onsite speakeasy

61. Go whale watching and spot orcas

If you’re a fan of sea creatures, you may want to add whale watching to your Seattle bucket list!

Whale watching has always been a dream of mine, and we finally made it come true in the waters just north of Seattle, near the San Juan Islands.

While San Juan Island is a destination in itself and could be the perfect place to relax for a few days, it is possible to do a  whale watching day tour  in the Puget Sound (leaving directly from Seattle).

62. Cruise Puget Sound

Seattle’s unique location in the Puget Sound makes the perfect opportunity to hop on a boat and see the city from the water. 

There are a variety of different cruise options — from cocktail sailing trips to quick 1-hour harbor cruises that highlight the city’s top landmarks.

Psst! If you get the Seattle CityPASS , the Argosy Harbor Cruise is included in your purchase.

63. Create your own Seattle winery tour

You don’t have to go to Napa Valley to go winery hopping…

Washington is getting a lot more credit recently for the fantastic wines that are coming out of this state, and visiting the vineyards is totally doable as a day trip from Seattle.

In fact, just a quick 25-minute drive northeast of Seattle is Woodinville Wine Country, which boasts more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms , as well as 14 breweries, cideries and distilleries, and 30 restaurants. With so many choices, making your own Seattle winery tour has never been easier!

You’ll feel like you’re a world away from the big city but can return to Seattle in time for dinner reservations!

Do it yourself: The Woodinville Wine Country website will be super helpful in planning your day.

64. Find zen in the Washington Park Arboretum

Situated along the shores of Lake Washington , the Washington Park Arboretum is a 230-acre oasis, featuring native plants, rare trees and even a Japanese garden .

This is a nice place to come for a picnic or to get away from the hustle of downtown.

65. Go skiing (or snowboarding!) near Seattle

We figured we couldn’t share a list of the top things to do in Seattle without including skiing…

If you’re visiting Seattle in the wintertime, you’re in luck because there is some excellent skiing (and snowboarding!) not far from the city center.

There are 3 resorts near Seattle that offer fantastic skiing . They all have slightly different terrain and vibes, so read the descriptions and choose the one that suits your preference (and time frame). 

• The Summit at Snoqualmie :  1 hour away – This resort is just off the highway and is the closest skiing to Seattle.
• Stevens Pass Ski Resort :  90 minutes away – This is our favorite ski resort near Seattle, because it really feels like you’re a world away from the city. (Oh, and we worked there for a winter season, so we’re biased!)
• Crystal Mountain Ski Resort :  2 hours away – Slightly more upscale than the other two resorts, Crystal is the largest ski resort in Washington state.

How does one even begin to sum up places to eat in Seattle — a city with an incredible and ever-changing food scene ?

Answer: You can’t simply sum it up.

This list is far from exhaustive, but it highlights some of our personal favorite spots (as well as some restaurants that are on our own bucket list!).

So if you’re looking for a rec from two cool travel bloggers (wink, wink!), here ya go…

• Bar Harbor : for lobster rolls and chowder on an outdoor deck
• Market House Meats : famously good Reuben
• Oddfellows Cafe & Bar : great brunch spot 
• Volunteer Park Cafe & Pantry : this spot earns the coziest cafe award (in our opinion!)
• Find creative sandwiches at Slab Sandwich (& yummy cookies!) or HoneyHole (casual, dive atmosphere) 
• Off the Rez : Native American fry bread tacos in a trendy setting 

Perfect Seattle itineraries

There are so many things to do in Seattle for every type of traveler. But with so much to do, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to plan your time. 

We decided to give you a little head start and create the  perfect Seattle itinerary for each type of traveler . You’re welcome!

Top Seattle Attractions

If you’re planning your very first trip to Seattle, Washington, these are some of the  top sights to include on your trip.

• Pike Place Public Market
• E-bike tour
• Drink Seattle coffee
• Chihuly Glass exhibit

Foodie Experiences in Seattle

Seattle is consistently ranked as one of the  top food cities in America  and for good reason! Below we’re sharing all of the best things to do in Seattle for foodies (including some can’t-miss drinks to try as well!).

• Sample Seattle’s best ice cream 
• Cabaret Show at The Pink Door
• Authentic Vietnamese food
• Eat your way around Ballard
• Go brewery hopping
• Seattle’s “Secret Bars”
• Eat fresh seafood

Free Things to do in Seattle

If you’re a budget traveler, we’ve got all sorts of  free things to fill your time in Seattle .

• Fremont Troll
• Post Alley Gum Wall
• Best view of Seattle at Kerry Park
• Picnic in Gasworks Park
• Go on a Free Walking Tour
• Scope out street art 

Outdoor Adventures in Seattle

If you’re a  nature lover , these experiences should be top of your list.

• Hike to Rattlesnake Ledge 
• Discovery Park
• Kayak or SUP on Lake Union
• Hot air balloon ride beside Mount Rainier 
• Snoqualmie Falls & Twin Falls
• Tide Pools at Golden Gardens Park
• Bonfire on the beach

Things to do on a rainy day in Seattle

If you happen to be in Seattle on one of the notoriously drizzly days, fret not – there are  plenty of rainy day activities!

• Boeing Factory
• Seattle Pinball Museum
• MUSEUM of Pop Culture (MPOP)
• Board Game Cafe
• Play bocce ball in a Beer Hall
• Comedy Show
• Seattle’s Underground Tunnels

TOP RECOMMENDATIONS: Our Personal Seattle Favorites

If we had to choose  our very favorite things to do in Seattle , this list would be it! Spread them over a few days, and  boom  — you’ve got yourself the perfect weekend in Seattle! 

• Go on a Food Tour 
• Seattle winery tour
• Handcrafted cocktails at Seattle’s “Secret Bars”

Best day trips from Seattle

With the mountains to the east and the ocean to the west, Seattle has the best of both worlds when it comes to adventuring.

There are plenty of opportunities for day-trips (or weekend getaways!) near Seattle. We even have an entire guide to all of the very best day trips from Seattle (packed with all sorts of tips!).

But if you’re looking for a quick list, here are some of our favorites…

Bainbridge Island & Poulsbo

Taking the ferry across Puget Sound between Seattle and Bainbridge Island is a great way to view the city and feel the high energy of the port.

Bainbridge and the surrounding islands have lots of fun things to do and see, and it’s one way to get down to the Olympic Peninsula (see the next tip!). One of our favorite stops in the region is the cute Norwegian themed town of Poulsbo .

Olympic Peninsula

The Olympic Peninsula is a perfect place to escape the city, if even just for a short time! The Olympic Mountains jut up next to rugged sandy shores where the ocean laps wildly. And temperate rainforests dotted with waterfalls, create a lush and infinitely green cocoon for anyone who enters. 

It is a place unlike any we’ve explored, and there are endless adventures to be had. We’ve got an Guide to Olympic National Park  to help plan your visit!

Mount Rainier National Park

This is perhaps our very favorite US National Park. Its proximity to Seattle makes it easy for a day trip, but if you have time, try to spend a few days here – you won’t regret it!

From easily accessible viewpoints to multi-day treks, there are  hikes at Mt Rainier  for everyone in this true gem of a national park. 

North Cascades National Park

Washington is home to North Cascades National Park, one of the least-visited National Parks in the country. With its rugged mountains, breathtaking viewpoints, and epic hiking trails, it’s hard to understand why so few visitors actually make it here.

We’d recommend packing camping equipment and spending a night (or 3!) because there is just so much to see in this area. But if you can’t make much room in your schedule, it’s possible to visit the National Park on a day trip as it’s just 2.5 hours away. 

Use our guide to North Cascades National Park to help you plan your visit.

Rent a Campervan and Explore outside of Seattle

Seattle is the hub for all types of adventure that is waiting for you, either in the mountains or near the sound. And, in our opinion, the best way to get out there is to travel by campervan.

Check out our list of top companies for Seattle campervan rentals or  USA campervan rentals , from budget to bougie. We’ve even included some  exclusive discounts for our readers!

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS:  We’ve partnered with them to give you a  10% off discount when you use our  link !

Where to Stay in Seattle

With a rapidly-growing population, Seattle is a city that is ever-expanding. While the ocean lies to the west and mountains to the east, there are many towns to the north and south that are seemingly connected to Seattle, and you’ll run right into them if you keep driving.

But if you want to stay somewhat close to the city center, these are the neighborhoods we’d recommend. They each have their own unique draws and personality, so read the description and see which neighborhoods sounds like the best fit for you.

Seattle neighborhoods:

Psst! We have a whole article dedicated to helping you choose  where to stay in Seattle !

• Fremont:  This is one of our favorite neighborhoods to explore. It has a quirky, laidback vibe and there are lots of cool cafes, coffee shops, breweries and boutiques that you can walk to.
• Green Lake & Wallingford:  This area has lots of small shops and parks around the lake, and staying here will make you feel like a local. And just a short drive away from downtown, it’s a laidback base for your Seattle trip
• West Seattle:  If you’re looking for a laidback stay near the water, West Seattle might be just the perfect spot. Alki Beach is lined with cute coffee shops and is especially nice during the summertime.
• Capitol Hill:  This is the LGBTQ epicenter and a great place for both partying and brunching, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that Capitol Hill is often referred to as “Seattle’s coolest neighborhood”.
• Ballard:  Hip spot for foodies and hipsters alike. Find quirky boutiques, thrift stores, bookshops, and lots of bars and restaurants to choose from.
• Pioneer Square:  Close to lots of major attractions, this is the birthplace of Seattle and is a good spot to base yourself if you don’t have a car.
• Belltown:  Just north of the center of downtown, this is a lively and well-situated neighborhood that is very close to Pikes Place Market and other major tourist attractions.
• Queen Anne:  This neighborhood has two distinctly different sections; Lower Queen Anne is more lively, with bars and the Seattle Center (where you can find the Space Needle, among other attractions). Upper Queen Anne on the other hand, is quieter and has historic houses and shopping streets with quirky boutiques.

Hotels in Seattle:

High-End/Luxury Hotel:   Fairmont Olympic Hotel  – The best Seattle has to offer. Perfect for the business traveler or a weekend splurge.

Mid-Range/Couple Stay:   11th Avenue Inn Bed and Breakfast  – Lovely B&B in a great location on Capitol Hill.

Budget/Social Hotel:   Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle  – Steps away from Pike Place Market, this hostel has a social atmosphere and a good breakfast.

Airbnbs in Seattle:

Airbnb is also a good choice to save money while staying in Seattle. Check out our list of Airbnbs we’ve either personally stayed in or would book ourselves below. Or, browse all of the  Seattle Airbnb listings  to find one that’s in your budget and in your preferred neighborhood.

Here’s just a small selection of the amazing quality of Airbnbs in Seattle:

Studio Apartment Pioneer Square 201 :  1-bedroom apartment with exposed brick walls and fantastic reviews, sits in a perfect location in Pioneer Square. You’ll be able to walk everywhere! 

Tranquil Secluded Studio Steps from Woodland Park :  This tiny house has a great location just south of Woodland Park. Check yourself in and out and enjoy being in a quiet neighborhood. 

Artsy Charmer in Center of Cap Hill :  Everything you need for a weekend in Seattle. Small space but a great location with a kitchen. (We also stayed here!)

Cozy Private Loft Apt with Balcony :  You’ll get this quirky loft with a balcony all to yourself. It has a great location near Pike and Pine.

Vintage Loft with Historic Features in Vibrant Capitol Hill:  This chic loft is an Airbnb Plus property that can fit 4 guests. It comes with a full kitchen, 2 bed and 2 bathrooms. Located on the edge of Capitol Hill within walking distance to shops, restaurants and bars. 

Bonus!  We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our  Airbnb article .

Seattle has a massive metro area and quite a few neighborhoods to explore. We’re sharing the best ways to get around in Seattle:

If you are flying into SEA, you can pick up a rental car after you land. Seattle Airport has an off-site Rental Car Facility that connects to the airport via a free shuttle. 

We usually reserve cars through  Booking.com (formerly RentalCars.com) because we have used them before and they have the best deals for rental cars. When searching I found deals around $38 per day for a standard sedan, which is all you would need in Seattle.

Warning:  Make sure your hotel or Airbnb has parking (hopefully free parking) because spaces get pretty tight in Seattle. 

Uber or Lyft

If you plan to have a few beverages out in the city, don’t risk driving. Instead, order an Uber or Lyft to get you where you need to go. Downtown Seattle decently sized but you can get to and from most places pretty quickly.

Seattle is very well connected city when it comes to public transportation. They have buses, light rails trains, street cars, and monorails throughout the city.

A typical one-way fare is between $2.25 to $3 depending on how far you go.  There are apps to find a route and time schedules (like the Trip Planner App from King County), but we prefer to use Google Maps to plan out our trips. 

Bicycle Rental

There are actually quite a few bike share programs around the city, so if you feel most comfortable on two wheels, go ahead and give it a spin!

Are you planning a trip to Washington?

We’ve had the privilege of calling Washington state “home” for a while and we have tons of resources to help you plan your trip. Start with our Washington homepage and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!

• You’ll wanna read up on where to stay in Seattle and keep this guide to the best Airbnbs in Seattle handy.
• These day trips from Seattle make for nice retreats from the city. 
• Don’t miss the cutest little town in the state: Leavenworth (we lived there for 8 months and have all the local secrets!).
• Keep this Washington National Parks guide close by. 
• Read this if you’re planning a trip to Olympic National Park !
• Start checking these Mt Rainier hikes off your bucket list. 
• And don’t miss the incredible things to in Washington State (our favorite US state!).

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We want to hear from you!

Of our top things to do in Seattle, which activities are you most excited about? How would you spend a weekend there? It’s your choice, now start planning. Let us know your perfect weekend in Seattle in the comments below!

Comments (49) on “ 65 Crazy Fun Things To Do in Seattle ”

I live in Seattle and have done all of this list. Beautifully done! I would like to add taking an electric boat on Lake Union, docking at Ivars for fish and chips. Don’t worry they are like driving a golf cart. You can see the houseboats up close. French toast at Geraldine’s in Columbia Center with a movie at Ark Lodge. Foot ferry from downtown to West Seattle and Marination Mai Kai and bike or walk to Alki Beach. White Center for FOOD! In season ghe Ice Cream Tour Lake Union!

This is BY FAR the most informative article I’ve seen yet! I’ve been wanting to visit Seattle for a very long time and, I’m finally planning the trip. I couldn’t have asked for a better resource. Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!!!

Thank you for all the great recommendations!! We spent 3 weeks in Seattle and used your guide a lot 🙂 Our favorite places to eat were the Oddfellows Cafe and Ba Bar (we went back twice!). We loved the Whale watching tour (Maya’s Legacy from San Juan is the best!), the Japanese garden, Theo chocolate factory, the Twin Falls hike, the Smith Tower, the Chihuly gardens and the MoPoP! Couple of comments: 1) Would suggest visiting San Juan island and trying the seaplane to get there (Kenmore Air). This was for sure the key highlight of our stay! 2) Another amazing visit is the Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge island. Definitely recommended! 3) Note that you cannot see the Space Needle from the Smith Tower observatory, but it was still a great experience! Also, I would say the Space Needle was amazing with its unique rotating floor – also highly recommended. 4) You can book a tea ceremony at the Japanese Garden (usually only on weekends) and that was also an incredible experience! 5) Unfortunately Theo chocolate factory will close at the end of August 2023 but the retail store will stay and is worth a visit! (They also organize chocolate workshops). 6) Unfortunately the Boeing factory tour is closed since Covid-19 and not sure when it will re-open… 7) A trip to Victoria, Canada, is highly recommended via boat (the Clipper) or plane. Thanks!!

seatle is a gem, didnt know all the listed are found in seatle, certainly a must visit place

wow !!! seatle seems underated interms of places to visit and things to do , this article is such a ahuge eye opener.

This is by far the best travel blog for a city I have ever seen and I travel a TON. THANK YOU!

Great list! Seattle has so many amazing things to see and do.

Thanks for this!!! So very much appreciated. I’m visiting from Maui with my family for a girls trip and we are sooo excited for our visit, we arrive on Monday!!! Keep up the good work, this was super helpful and ignore the negative Nancy’s (Nunyas) 🙂 MAHALO NUI LOA

this amazing

I heard that pandas live their!

This is so stupid. Horrible suggestions. Are you seriously telling people that drinking coffee in the morning is a “Crazy Fun Thing”. Be so fr and give actual fun things. And all these people in the comments saying this is helpful, don’t lie to yourself hun. Nothing about this is helpful. If anything its irritating. If you’re not gonna post real entertainment ideas then don’t post at all. You’re embarrassing yourself.

OMG NUNYA! YOU ARE SO SELF-ABSORBED! I CANT EVEN WITH YOU! THESE PEOPLE WHO HAVE PUT THIS WEBSITE TOGETHER HAVE WORKED SO HARD! BFFR

Thanks PandaGirl for having our back 😉 We appreciate it! We hope your trip planning to Seattle is going well. Please reach out if you have any questions!

Hey Nunya, thanks for your comment. While it might not be the “Crazy Fun Thing” you were expecting, there is a HUGE coffee culture in Seattle, and definitely worth checking into.

As with most comments on our site (and especially ones like yours), we leave them up. You had a choice to write a comment, no one made you. And you chose negativity when most others choose positivity. This is a great reminder to us that there is way more positivity in this world than negativity, so thank you for your comment and we hope you have a great day!

Awesome response!

Who pissed in your cereal Nunya?!?

Great post! The bubble gum one is quite interesting LOL!

Wow…very informative pieces of information you have provided in this blog. Must read blog before visiting in Seattle.

I have been following you for a long time, whatever blog or article you post. I read your post because your post is very useful and effective. I think I will share it with everyone I know. If a person wants to travel by air, whether in the USA or any other country, we will help him book his flight.

Thank you! Used this post as a jumping off point for a Seattle trip in August.

Seattle is a beautiful place recommended to all the people

CRAZY!!! Are their pandas there?

Such an amazing blog! I visited Seattle ones but half of the things on this list I haven’t done so I’m afraid I’ll have to go back :))

I appreciate you both sooooo much……You know how to inform and equip others. Thank you very very very berry much!

Impressive! There are many quirky things that make up beautiful works of art. I really like the color of the gum wall. Because i love chewing gum and playing games about it, there are many on apkdownload. I also want to try the food and drinks here, not sure how great they are

Lovely read I can’t wait for more articles like this.

Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog post. It is well written and informative. I am waiting for your next blog post.

This article was very helpful! We’re from Nebraska and traveling to Washington and Oregon for our first time in August of this year. I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on a good itinerary for about 7-8 days (3-4 in both states). We’re getting a little overwhelmed by the amount of things to do.

Hey Laura, great question! It really depends on where you start and what you’re into. Tons of nature and hiking along with big cities and coastal hot spots. Be sure to check out our itineraries in our Destinations -> USA section for more info!

OMG! Great article. Love the pictures.

Thanks so much! We’re hoping to get back there this summer 🙂

This is a great blog post! I am planning my trip to Seattle for July 4th (fingers crossed we can travel by then!) to visit my daughter. I’ve added several of your ideas to our itinerary! Thanks so much!

Oh, we hope you can make it too! (And glad this article was helpful!) We are hoping to get back up there sometime this summer ourselves. Fingers crossed!

This is such a great post! I went to Seattle last month but missed a lot of these.

There’s always next time, Meghan 😉

What a great list! I’m from Seattle but am travelling right now and this is definitely making me miss my home town. I love Vietnamese food too and didn’t realize how spoiled I was until I left home.

You are definitely spoiled for Vietnamese Food in Seattle. We’re super jealous!

Hey guys, what a comprehensive article! I’ve been to Seattle a couple of months ago for the first time, but definitely wasn’t the last, especially because I didn’ get the chance to explore the surroundings. I live in Portland, Oregon since July, so it’s not far. Best, Stefanie

Living in Portland makes it an easy weekend trip up to Seattle. Let us know if you have any questions, we’d be happy to help!

Wow. So much to see and do. I’m looking forward to hitting Seattle soon, particularly looking forward to sampling some of the food.

There is so much good food in Seattle! I can’t wait to go back!

I went to Washington state last year, but I only spent a short day in Seattle! It looks like I missed out on alot! I really hope I can go back someday.

There are so many things to do in Seattle it can be overwhelming to choose. But hopefully you can narrow it down with this list 🙂

Hey, thanks for all the advice! I’m moving to Tacoma in a few months and Seattle being so close I’m sure I’ll visit a lot. So now I have some ideas!

We’re happy to help, Janice! Hope you have a great move and circle back if you have any questions about things to do in Seattle!

Hi, just FYI, it’s not “Pike’s Place”. It’s Pike Place. ?

Good catch! Thanks for that 🙂 We’ll have to correct it!

Such a nice and informative blog! Visiting Seattle soon. Definitely going to do all the things mentioned 🙂

Hey Shari, have fun visiting Seattle. There are so many great things to do there.

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• Entertainment

12 things to do around the Seattle area this weekend

Welcome to the weekend! From our new guide to Seattle’s Vietnamese cuisine to where to admire spring flowers during May, here’s our latest on local things to do.

Eats and drinks

• Explore Seattle’s vibrant Vietnamese food scene with these Top 10 dishes picked by our food team. You can also check out the city’s buzziest Vietnamese restaurant debut in recent memory or this tried-and-true 25-year-old gem . (For something you may not tasted before, our critic recommends a secret menu item .)
• Head to Bellevue for a delicious (and entertaining) meal. From a blowtorched cheesy beef stew that’s drawing long lines to a freshly griddled Turkish pide, these Eastside spots both play on an open-kitchen concept.
• Be the star of your next picnic or barbecue with this bright, flavorful and quick-to-make corn salad from our recipe writer.

Outdoors and travel

• Try one of these five Seattle-area outings to admire late spring flowers, from rhododendrons to peonies.
• Go on an adventure to find some of the best big trees in Western Washington. Not all of them stand at the end of hiking trails, but these areas are worthy of pilgrimages to see the cedar, spruce, firs and more.

Movies and TV

• Heading to the theaters? Check out what our reviewers thought of Bill Skarsgård’s “Boy Kills World,” the steamy love triangle “Challengers” featuring Zendaya, the bloody horror movie “Abigail” and other recent releases .

Performance arts

• “Fat Ham” at Seattle Rep , running through May 12, is a must-see, our reviewer says. The tragicomic, Pulitzer Prize-winning play isn’t a typical re-imagining of Shakespeare. It’s witty, raunchy — and also opens up some raw, honest truths.
• Two concerts inspired by nature play at Benaroya Hall this week. Northwest Symphony Orchestra teams up with Washington Trails Association to celebrate the state’s landscapes on Friday, while Seattle Symphony performs “Antarctic Symphony” tonight, Saturday and Sunday.
• The new book “Truly, Madly, Deeply” by Alexandria Bellefleur is an enemies-to-lovers story that takes place in Seattle.
• Here are four new cozy mysteries and eerie thrillers to get lost in. They’ll take you trudging around a peculiar forest or second-guessing a trip to an isolated, historic castle.
• Seattle author and illustrator Haley Weaver’s new memoir explores her unlikely friendship with her own anxiety.
• If you haven’t yet explored our guide to Seattle’s books scene, check out local, independent bookstores, book groups and more here .

Most Read Entertainment Stories

• 'The Bachelorette: Season 21,' featuring Jenn Tran, films in Seattle WATCH
• Harvey Weinstein’s rape conviction is overturned by New York's top court VIEW
• HGTV's 'Ugliest House in America' has some thoughts on WA homes
• Photographer alleges he was forced to watch Megan Thee Stallion have sex and was unfairly fired
• From Salvador Dalí to local artists, must-see Seattle exhibits in May

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

3 Days in Seattle: The Ultimate Weekend in Seattle Itinerary

Until you’ve spent a few days in Seattle, it’s hard to grasp the amazing dichotomy of the city, where mountain peaks and city skyscrapers seem to blend effortlessly together, and a laidback outdoorsy culture blends with tech and art–b ut that’s what you’ll find while making your way through this 3 days in Seattle itinerary.

With a metro center that is spectacularly flanked by the peaks of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound on one side and the Cascades and Lake Washington on the other side, plus a looming Mount Rainier to its south, Seattle is an incredibly beautiful place.

This breadth of scenery right next to a major city is part of what draws people to Seattle, and this long weekend in Seattle itinerary will make sure you make the most of your time to explore this booming metropolis. 

To make the most of your 3 days in Seattle, it’s wise to mix the downtown core with neighborhoods on the edges of the city along with a mixture of tourist attractions and live-like-a-local pursuits, and this Seattle travel guide will show you how to do so.

Note: this blog post was written for Our Escape Clause by Seattle local Gina Tarnacki of One Day in a City . Thanks for joining us, Gina!

Table of Contents

Day 1 in Seattle Itinerary: Explore the Heart of the City

Day 2 in seattle itinerary: sea and island life, day 3 in seattle itinerary: the north neighborhoods of seattle, where to stay during a long weekend in seattle, where to eat during 3 days in seattle, getting around during this 3 day seattle itinerary, when to spend 3 days in seattle.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Grab breakfast at a coffee shop.

Seattle’s coffee obsession is famous — after all, the headquarters of Starbucks is located in the city. 

While you’ll find a Starbucks on just about every block in downtown Seattle, to get the true Seattle coffee experience, visit one of the independently owned and operated coffee shops located all around the city to start your 3 days in Seattle itinerary.

You can choose from modern and sleek to cozy and comfortable to hipster-approved, and you’ll no doubt find a perfect brew waiting inside and a delicious pastry to go with it. 

Visit Pike Place Market.

Pike Place Market is a must-see during your long weekend in Seattle and a great place to start your Seattle sightseeing. 

As one of the oldest continuously running marketplaces in the United States, Pike Place Market is a bustling center that will please all your senses as you watch fish being thrown, hear street performers playing music, smell colorful flowers, touch butter-soft leather accessories and other souvenirs for sale, and eat mouth-wateringly delicious seafood. 

When you arrive at Pike Place Market, it’s important to get your bearings. The north part of the marketplace is where you’ll find vendor stalls selling clothing, purses, artwork, and other souvenirs.

As you make your way to the other end, you’ll start to pass by onsite eateries as well as a number of flower stands and fresh produce stands. The southern end of Pike Place Market is where you’ll find the famous fish market that features fish being thrown around.

And for you coffee lovers — Pike Place Market is also home to the very first Starbucks location, which is still serving up coffee each day.

Just be aware the line to get a drink there is usually extremely long, so if you’re on a time crunch, just poke your head inside to look around and take a picture in front of the establishment. 

Have lunch at Pike Place Market.

Pike Place is also a great place to get some lunch.

There are several restaurants located within Pike Place where you can sit at a table with views of the water (many of these establishments are seat-yourself after you order at a counter).

If you’re dining at a place that doesn’t have its own seating section, you can take your food to one of the public seating areas at Pike Place Market.

Go down the stairs right next to the fish-throwing stall and you’ll come to a nice little public area of the market with tables and chairs that are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Pike Place and overlooks Elliott Bay.  

Want to make the most of your time exploring (and eating your way through) Pike Place Market? This popular Pike Place Market food tour is a fantastic option!

Ride the Seattle Great Wheel.

The Seattle Great Wheel is a large Ferris wheel overlooking Elliott Bay that boasts one of the best views of the city.

It is conveniently adjacent to Pike Place Market so do it before lunch if you’re not hungry yet, or after lunch to digest all that delicious food you ate before heading to your next destination.

The Seattle Great Wheel takes you high above the water’s edge in an enclosed gondola (making it a fun activity to do in either sunshine or rainy weather) and provides sprawling views of the water and city skyline. 

Check out the Seattle Central Library.

From an architectural standpoint, Seattle Central Library has to be one of the most impressive libraries in the world. The design is modern and geometrical with a myriad of edges. 

The library is part of the Seattle Public Library System and is free to the public to go in and walk around, making it an easy addition to your long weekend in Seattle.

Central Library consists of multiple levels with an assortment of collections and even an onsite coffee cart with lots of light-filled seating.  

Head to Seattle Center.

Seattle Center is where you’ll find a number of Seattle’s top attractions .

It’s not within walking distance from Pike Place Market so you’ll want to take an Uber or public transportation there.

A really fun way to get between the two is to walk to Westlake Station (less than 10 minutes from Pike Place or Central Library) and take the Seattle Center Monorail from there that goes straight to the Seattle Center. 

So what is the Seattle Center? It’s where you’ll find some of Seattle’s top museums, several restaurants, and the iconic Space Needle, making it a must-see during your 3 days in Seattle.

It also has a massive playground for kids called Artists at Play that is full of rope tunnels and structures that look more like modern art.

In the common areas between the buildings, there are often food stalls and street performers entertaining the crowds. For a peaceful moment, take a seat by the International Fountain. 

To really experience Seattle Center, though, you’ll want to go into some of its attractions. Here are the ones you won’t want to miss: 

Space Needle

After an extensive remodel, the viewing platform atop the Space Needle is recently reopened and better than ever. Views are no longer obstructed by bars and the lower platform features a revolving glass floor. 

When visiting the Space Needle, it’s best to get tickets in advance . You can purchase them online and select your ideal time to head up to the top of the attraction. 

In summer, the sun sets pretty late, but the rest of the year, the Space Needle is a great place to see the sunset (well, if the sun is out), so timing your visit with that can be quite memorable. 

Even if the sun’s not shining, it is pretty to watch the city go from daylight to dusk. You can have a beer and an appetizer while you watch the sun go down and then head into the city for dinner once you come down from the Space Needle.

If you’d rather call it a night and head back to your hotel after your time atop the Space Needle, you can also get dinner there — the revolving restaurant is no more after the remodel, but you can get local eats from the cafe like Beecher Mac and Cheese or fish and chips. 

Chihuly Garden and Glass 

Dale Chihuly is an artist who was born in Tacoma, Washington, and became renowned for his impressive and large-scale glass creations. Many of these creations are housed in the Chihuly Gardens and Glass Museum in the Seattle Center.

The museum expertly combines glass artwork with natural elements for an impressive array of color and presentation that is dazzling to walk around and is one of the most popular things to see when spending 3 days in Seattle.

Other Museums and Science Centers

Seattle Center is also home to the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Children’s Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center.

Your afternoon probably won’t allow for time to go to more than one if you’re also planning on going to the Chihuly Glass Center and making it to Seattle Space Needle for sunset. 

Most places can be explored in a few hours, though the Pacific Science Center is somewhere you could easily spend all day. If that interests you, then leave it for day three (more on that later).

If you’re just there for a few hours, make sure to make a visit to the Tinker Tank, the Science on a Sphere exhibit, and walk through the Tropical Butterfly House. 

Visit the renowned Seattle Aquarium.

The Seattle Aquarium is located right on the harbor, overlooking the glistening Puget Sound. The aquarium features many exhibits about ocean animals, including ones that call the waters off of Washington home. 

As soon as you go around the ticket counter, you’re instantly greeted by marine life at the Seattle Aquarium; you’ll enter a large room with a humongous floor-to-ceiling fish tank making up one of the room’s walls.

From there, you’ll continue your way through the aquarium, seeing both sea and river otters, fur seals, and harbor seals. 

Seattle Aquarium has six main exhibits that together focus on Washington waters and its animals, Pacific coral reefs, birds that live by the shore, and other marine mammals.

You’ll also have the chance to go through an underwater dome and have hands-on experience in the tide pool area where you can touch sea stars and sea urchins while asking the naturalists who work there your questions. 

The Seattle Aquarium has a big focus on conservation for sea animals in the Pacific Northwest. While you go through the aquarium, you’ll learn more about its conservation efforts, which help many different species. 

On the top floor, you can enjoy a snack, sandwich, or coffee while enjoying views of the water. 

Enjoy a whale-watching tour during your weekend in Seattle.

If aquariums don’t excite you, consider learning more about water life in the Puget Sound through a whale-watching expedition.

Whales are often spotted passing through the waters of the Puget Sound and whale-watching tours leave from a north suburb of Seattle called Edmonds, located about 30 minutes north of downtown. 

These whale-watching tours typically last four to five hours and take you out onto the Sound for the chance to view sea mammals both large and small in their natural habitat. 

Book your whale-watching tour in Seattle today!

Head to Bainbridge Island for sightseeing and dinner.

After your morning animal adventures, a great way to spend the rest of the day is to head to Bainbridge Island . 

Located right next to Seattle Aquarium is the ferry terminal that connects downtown Seattle with Bainbridge Island.

It takes less than an hour to cross the harbor to Bainbridge Island and along the way you’ll be privy to striking views of the skyline that are picture-perfect.

Once on the island, you can depart the ferry and walk right into its quaint downtown area.

Do some shopping, walk through art galleries, and head to the shoreline for peaceful views. If you have a car with you (the ferry is a walk-on or car ferry) you can do a drive around the island as well, but a car is not necessary to enjoy the rustic island beauty of Bainbridge. 

Bainbridge is also a great place for dinner, especially during crab season when you can order fresh, locally-caught Dungeness crab on which to feast. 

Ultimately, an afternoon in Bainbridge will give you a taste of just how close Seattle is to sprawling nature and spectacular water sights. 

Alternative Seattle Itinerary Idea: Edmonds

If you did the whale-watching part of the day, you may want to stay in Edmonds and explore this cool suburb.

Its downtown area has a number of art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Edmonds also has one of the few sandy beaches in the area and you can sit on it and wade in the water just a short walk from the Edmonds ferry terminal. 

To wrap up your long weekend in Seattle, head north.

Some of Seattle’s most beloved neighborhoods are here: Ballard, Fremont, and Green Lake. 

In Ballard, you’ll find an assortment of breweries and whiskey bars plus the alluring Ballard Locks.

The Ballard Locks is an intricate system that connects the vast Puget Sound to Lake Union and Lake Washington, making it possible for boats up to 760 feet in length to sail through. It’s a fun place to watch the engineering of the locks come to life. 

Ballard Locks also has a fish ladder, so during the salmon run season (autumn), you can see salmon making their way up the ladder to get back to their place of birth so they can spawn. 

Fremont is a funky, happening neighborhood to the southeast of Ballard.

It is home to the Fremont Troll, a large troll statue that lives under the George Washington Memorial Bridge off of Aurora Avenue North.

In Fremont you’ll also find the tasting room for one of Seattle’s most prominent breweries, aptly called Fremont Brewing Company. 

Green Lake is northeast of Fremont and is a lovely part of Seattle to spend a couple of hours.

You can walk around the small lake on the paved trail, or rent paddle boats to go out onto the water.

The lake is also right next to some adorable craftsman-style houses and the eastern end of the lake is near many restaurants and shops. 

Alternative Ideas for the End of Your 3 Day Seattle Itinerary

Option 1: campus walk.

Visiting Seattle in spring?

Go to the University of Washington campus to walk through its famous cherry blossoms on the Quad part of campus. 

Option 2: Beaches

Love the beach? Head to one of Seattle’s best beaches (and a favorite of locals): Alki Beach.

Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach has a pebbly beach adjacent to a boardwalk that is popular with walkers and joggers.

The boardwalk runs parallel to several seafood eateries and bars that are popular hang-outs on warm, summer days (or go for the clam chowder on blustery winter days). 

Option 3: Museums

Museum buff?

Go back to Seattle Center and check out some more of the museums there.

As mentioned earlier, the Pacific Science Center is easily somewhere you can spend a whole day.

Be sure to get a ticket that includes Planetarium and VR experiences!

Unless you’re planning to spend your evening hours in Ballard or Fremont, it probably makes the most sense to stay in Union Square.

In Union Square, you’ll be close to public transportation stops, Pike Place Market, and a plethora of bars and restaurants to help you easily enjoy Seattle at night .

Here are 3 popular, well-reviewed options for staying in Union Square, depending on your budget for your Seattle weekend trip.

Green Tortoise Hostel — T his highly rated hostel is located just a couple blocks from Like Place Marker and provides a fun, convenient location for travelers on a budget.

Both dorm-style rooms and private rooms are available, making this a good option for couples or groups of friends traveling together. 

Check rates & book your stay at Green Tortoise Hostel today!

The Palihotel — With 96 eclectically decorated rooms, the Palihotel has an intimate vibe while still offering an on-site restaurant, coffee bar, and location right by Seattle’s top sights.  

Check rates & book your stay at Palihotel Seattle today!

Seattle Marriott Waterfront — Enjoy panoramic water views of Elliott Bay when staying at this well-appointed hotel located just a short walk north of Pike Place Market. The luxurious hotel has a bar, restaurant, and alluring pool that stretches from the indoors to the outside. 

Check rates & book your stay at the Marriott Waterfront today!

Seafood in Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is an excellent place to go for seafood.

There is no shortage of entrees featuring fish and oysters and more, but two that stand out are Pike Place Chowder, home to award-winning seafood and clam chowder, and Lowell’s, which spans three levels with views of Elliott Bay. 

Tom Douglas Restaurants 

Tom Douglas is a renowned chef and restaurateur in the Seattle area.

He operates over a dozen eateries of differing vibes, price points, and cuisine, but one thing is consistent: excellent service and high-end ingredients resulting in delicious menu items.

The Carlisle is an especially famous restaurant for high-end dining with an eclectic atmosphere, while those looking for a more laid-back, hip atmosphere will like Serious Pies’ scrumptious pizzas. 

The Walrus and the Carpenter

This is considered to be one of the best seafood restaurants in Seattle and is especially a must-eat for oyster lovers.

Located in Ballard, the Walrus and the Carpenter has a first seating each night, which people line up for outside the door.

The line continues even after that first seating and for those willing to wait, you’ll get your chance to dine after others leave.

The restaurant is bright but narrow, but you’ll likely be focused much more on the many seafood tapas, impressive oyster bar, and cool cocktails you can get than the decor. 

Seattle has an extensive public transit system connecting all parts of the city.

King County Metro Transit lists its schedules and timetables online, making it easy to plan out your day if you are taking a bus from one attraction to the next. 

If you choose to rent a car for your three days in Seattle, you’ll find that there’s plenty of parking in Seattle, but it’s quite expensive.

Your hotel in the city center will likely charge for overnight parking so be sure to add that into your budget.

In Union Square and other areas around downtown Seattle, your best bet for parking is paid parking garages, while you are more likely to run into parking meters in the neighborhoods outside the city center.

If you find a pay-free street, check if there’s an hourly limit since most streets in Seattle have such a parking limit. 

Summer in Seattle and the rest of the Pacific Northwest is generally amazing.

Over the summer, Seattle’s famous rain subsides and most days are filled with sunshine and blue skies.

It’s a great season to spend time on the water, do some hikes or park walks, visit Mount Rainier , or ensure you’ll get some clear photos of the city from atop the Space Needle. 

On the flip side, summer is going to be much more crowded at tourist attractions than other times of the year, and there are other benefits to experiencing a long weekend in Seattle during the non-summer months if perfect weather isn’t a huge concern for you. 

Spring is gorgeous for the cherry blossoms that bloom all around the Seattle metro area, and you might even get some sunshine during your 3 days in Seattle.

Likewise, in Fall, the city is awash in shades of amber and crimson as the leaves change color and sunshine is also still a possibility (though so is a lot of rain).

Fall is also a cool time to visit since you can see the annual salmon run at Ballard Locks as part of your Seattle itinerary. 

As for winter, unless you get incredibly lucky weather-wise, you’re going to have gray and probably very rainy weather if visiting Seattle in the winter.

However, the tourist attractions will be much less crowded — though indoor ones like museums and the aquarium can get busy on the weekends when local families go there to escape the rain. 

No matter when you decide to experience a long weekend getaway in Seattle, with proper planning and an expectation of the weather you’re likely to encounter, you are sure to have a fun-filled and unforgettable 3 days in Seattle.

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The Best Bang for Your Buck Events in Seattle This Weekend: Apr 26–28, 2024

Jump to: Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Multi-Day

Acid Tongue Live at Easy Street Records Remind Like List Fresh off the platformed heels of the release of their fourth album, Acid on the Dancefloor ,glam rock wizards Acid Tongue will take over Easy Street with plenty of guitar licks, sweaty hair flips, drug-inspired lyrics, and, as former Stranger  writer Jas Kemig once wrote, "enough energy to power a small car." If you're unfamiliar with the band, check out the video for the album's title track which is a psychedelic explosion of sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll. AV (Easy Street Records, Junction, free)

Public Mending Fair Remind Like List When I was in college, a boy who lived in my hall once brought a shirt with a missing button to the room I shared with another woman. He asked if we could help him sew it back on. I'm pretty sure he never said two words to us before, or after, this exchange. To avoid being that guy, I recommend bringing up to three articles of clothing that need to be repaired to this recurring public mending fair at Refugee Artisan Initiative's maker space. You'll get to watch and learn as an experienced artisan mends your clothing, from buttons to holes to hemming, as part of a project that reduces waste and develops life skills. SL (RAI Maker's Space, Olympic Hills, free)

REI Presents: S’mores on the Shore Remind Like List There's something about the smell of a campfire that immediately sets me at ease. If you're looking for a cozy way to wind down a Saturday, head to Pier 62 for free s'mores, multiple fire pits, a cozy camping lounge, and giveaways from REI. I won't judge if you forego the chocolate and graham crackers and put the gooey marshmallow straight in your mouth. You can even bring the kids, just be prepared to scrub off the stickiness. SL (Pier 62, Downtown, free)

Scarecrow Academy Presents Election Year: Politics on Film Remind Like List I am choosing not to think about the fact that it's an election year, but if you're jazzed for a showdown between two geriatrics, Scarecrow Academy has the online film conversation series for you ! National Society of Film Critics member and Scarecrow Video "historian-programmer in residence" Robert Horton leads this series of free Zoom sessions, exploring "various approaches that great filmmakers take to the political process...from comedy to tragedy, from satire to fable, with directors ranging from Frank Capra to Spike Lee." LC (Scarecrow Video, University District, free)

Stop Making Sense Remind Like List Calling it now: If you've seen Stop Making Sense , it's probably your favorite concert film. It's jangly and arty and all of the other words one might use to describe Talking Heads's catalog, and David wears the suit . Not feeling the Byrne? Listen, I know watching a concert movie for a band you don't listen to sounds like hell, but this one might be an exception. If you haven't seen it yet, anticipate looking back on the experience with a funny fondness later, like a good birthday party or the first time you smoked weed. Jonathan Demme (yes, the guy who went on to make The Silence of the Lambs ) recorded all of the concert footage over the course of three days at Hollywood's Pantages Theatre in 1983, during the height of the Heads' visionary fame. It's screening in a new restoration, so prep for a "once in a lifetime" experience. LC (SIFF Cinema Egyptian, Capitol Hill, $14.50-$15.50)

21st Annual White Center Cambodian New Year Street Festival Remind Like List White Center is home to one of our state's largest Cambodian communities—each year, they celebrate Cambodian New Year at the end of the harvest season. During this street festival, the day will start with a monk's blessing, guest speakers and poets, and roban, a classical Khmer blessing dance. Stick around for an open dance floor, traditional games, and a bok lahong (green papaya salad) contest. SL (SW 98th St (Between 15th & 16th Ave SW), White Center, free)

FOOD & DRINK

Seattle Boba Fest Remind Like List Alexa, play Chris Fleming's " Boba Manifesto ." The U-District is hosting its third annual Seattle Boba Fest in honor of National Bubble Tea Day. Grab a fat straw and get your fill of slurpable, chewy, tapioca-studded specials at participating businesses across the neighborhood, including Boba Up, Cafe Canuc, Don't Yell at Me, Oasis Tea Zone, Mee Sum Pastry, Oh Bear Cafe & Teahouse, Sip House, Sweet Alchemy Ice Cream, and more. JB (Various locations, free)

Chris Cornell Tribute Remind Like List Seattle musicians including rock quartet Rain Light Fade, grunge tribute group Outshined, and more will honor late grunge frontman and hometown hero Chris Cornell with an evening of covers from his bands Soundgarden, Audioslave, and Temple of the Dog. All proceeds will benefit NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). AV (High Dive, Fremont, $15-$20)

Claire Rousay with Ann Annie Remind Like List On her latest album, sentiment,  Claire Rousay contrasts her diaristic lyrics about loneliness, nostalgia, sentimentality, guilt, and sex with robotic vocal filters and lavish drones. Despite the electronic production, the emotion in Rousay's voice seeps through the effects, spurring a strong sense of desire to connect to the listener. She will support the album alongside the Portland-based ambient project Anne Annie. AV (Fremont Abbey Arts Center, Fremont, $15-$20)

PARTIES & NIGHTLIFE

Taylor’s Version: The Tortured Poets Department Edition Remind Like List All's fair in love and poetry . Join your fellow Swifties as they congregate in honor of Taylor's eleventh album, The Tortured Poets Department, for a listening party that includes drag performances . Given the album's Reputation -esque synth-centric breakup bops, expect to do plenty of cathartic dance-crying at this one, folks. Bonus points if you show up in Clara Bow-style makeup (à la the "Fortnight" visuals ). AV (Neumos, Capitol Hill, $10)

Seattle Independent Bookstore Day 2024 Remind Like List The only way Seattle can possibly keep enjoying a wide variety of excellent, engaged, helpful independent bookstores is to support them, love them, and buy as many books as we possibly can from them—and not Jeff Bezos, even if his company offers convenient delivery. Seattle Independent Bookstore Day gives you a perfect excuse to visit your favorite shops, stock up on new releases and old classics, and maybe even meet some local authors and/or get some sweet swag. (Various locations, free)

Upper Left Comedy Festival 2024 Remind Like List Upper Left Comedy Fest will return for its third year with three days of solid stand-up acts and after-parties for laugh addicts. The buzzy festival showcases some of the best in local and national talent, including side-splitters and audience faves like Monica Nevi, Timmy Booth, Juno Men, and Vanessa Dawn. You'll find gigs at Here-After and the Rendezvous, so head out for guaranteed giggles. LC (Various locations, Individual Tickets $15-25, Passes $75-250, Friday-Saturday)

Solidarity Now! 1968 Poor People’s Campaign Remind Like List An often-overlooked 1968 social justice movement confronted poverty head-on and reimagined American activism, but you've probably never heard of it. The Smithsonian's traveling exhibition Solidarity Now! 1968 Poor People’s Campaign  looks closely at the nearly six-week-long protest, which took place in a constructed "Resurrection City" in DC and drew attention to the impact of poverty on Americans. Everyone from rural Appalachians to residents of Puerto Rico and Native communities showed up for demonstrations and demands for jobs, living wages, access to health care, and more. Organized by Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy, the Poor People's Campaign was the "first large-scale, nationally organized demonstration to take place after King’s death." Head to this exhibition to learn more about it through photographs, oral histories, and political ephemera. LC (Washington State History Museum, Tacoma, $0-$14, Friday-Sunday; closing)

Bruceploitation Bonanza! Remind Like List "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." Local legend Bruce Lee's most entertaining flicks ( The Dragon Lives Again, The Clones of Bruce Lee, and Two on The Road ), also known as Bruceploitation films, will screen at Grand Illusion as part of its Kung Fu Clubhouse series. The theater's Bruceploitation Bonanza celebrates the newly released documentary Enter the Clones of Bruce , which "dives deep into the Bruceploitation craze that exploded in the immediate wake of Bruce Lee’s death." (Not enough Bruce for you? Head to Wing Luke Museum's ongoing exhibition,  Be Water, My Friend: The Teachings of Bruce Lee . ) LC (Grand Illusion, University District, Saturday-Sunday)

Civil War Remind Like List Alex Garland's latest, Civil War, is A24's most expensive in-house production to date, following a group of military-embedded journos headed to DC "before rebel factions descend upon the White House." Honestly, I'm wary of how he'll handle this one, although Garland's work does tend to thrive in dystopian settings. But Kristen Dunst stars as a photojournalist, which is reason enough to watch. Also, Garland may or may not be retiring from directing (" I’m going to take a break for the foreseeable future ," he clarified recently), so if you're a fan of the filmmaker behind Annihilation and Men , you should plan to let his new one marinate.  LC (SIFF Cinema Uptown, Uptown, $14.50 - $15.50, Friday-Sunday)

I Like Movies Remind Like List A socially awkward 17-year-old cinephile who dreams of attending NYU gets a job at a video store in the early aughts. (I'm rooting for him already.) Things get complicated when he forms a friendship with his older female manager.  I Like Movies  is the debut feature film by Chandler Levack , a Canadian writer and filmmaker, and seems like a solid bet if you dug Funny Pages and Lady Bird. LC (Northwest Film Forum, Capitol Hill, $7-$14, Friday-Sunday)

The People's Joker Remind Like List In many ways, the true diva of The People's Joker has been Warner Bros. Discovery. The massive media giant sent a letter that shut down all but the premiere screening of the indie comedy spoof at Toronto International Film Festival in 2022. Those who have seen The People's Joker —co-written and directed by comedian Vera Drew—say it's as much or more a trans coming of age story than a DC Comics-inspired satire, but we must admit the chance to see Maria Bamford as a (nude?) Lex Luthor-like Lorne Michaels, Tim Heidecker as an Alex Jones-adjacent political chaos personality, and Bob Odenkirk as Bob the Goon is certainly a draw. PORTLAND MERCURY ARTS EDITOR SUZETTE SMITH (The Beacon, Columbia City, $12.50, Friday-Sunday)

Creative Works Pop-Up Market + Flatstock 94 Remind Like List Creative Works brings a three-day conference highlighting creativity and community to the Cornish Playhouse, but don't fret if you're not paying the ticket price to attend: they're hosting a curated pop-up market that's free and open to the public. Shop the creations of over 50 designers and makers for handmade clothes, prints, and pins and don't forget to explore Flatstock 94 (I've loved flipping through those bins of concert posters for as long as I can remember). SL (Cornish Playhouse at Seattle Center, Uptown, free, Friday-Saturday)

Native Art Market Remind Like List Every spring, I get antsy to clean and redecorate my living space. If you too feel this way, I vote we choose to forgo CB2 in favor of picking up art from local Native vendors. This market also falls just two weeks before Mother's Day and is the perfect opportunity to check "getting a unique and meaningful gift" off your to-do list. The food trucks for the event have yet to be announced, but I'm hoping for some delicious frybread. SL (Duwamish Longhouse, North Delridge, free, Saturday-Sunday)

12th Annual RARE: Recycled Arts & Resource Expo Remind Like List Allied Arts will celebrate all things artistic reuse at their 12th annual Recycled Arts Resource Expo, which will include an eco-friendly juried art exhibition, on-site art organizations, and creative idea-sharing. Drop by to learn more about how you can live a more sustainable, but still creative, life. Attendees can also pop by Allied Arts's thrift store for recycled supplies. LC (Allied Arts, Central Business District, free, Friday-Saturday)

Dolls of Gratitude: A Community Art Collaboration Remind Like List This community-based project was conceived in collaboration with the Frye Art Museum, local artist Ixtli White Hawk, arts nonprofit Path with Art, and other social service partners. At art-making parties led by White Hawk earlier this year, participants created dolls with repurposed fabrics and recycled materials; the project aimed to "showcase the project’s mission to encourage positive self-reflection and honor the artist within us all." Visitors can view the multimedia dolls at this sweet exhibit. LC (Frye Art Museum, First Hill, free, Friday-Sunday)

I, Chrysalis, Open at the Close: Sebastian Loo Remind Like List LA-based painter Sebastian Loo creates ink and color compositions on rice paper for I, Chrysalis, Open at the Close , which he describes as a "hyper-personal" exhibition. That descriptor makes sense—Loo's work blends a system of symbols with Buddhist and Christian aesthetics to draw parallels between his own life and "the transitional site of the chrysalis." We're talking mortal impermanence here, so get on board! Loo's process includes pointillism, paper cutouts, and collage approaches, and the results are a blast to observe. (I'm partial to Flying or Falling: bb Luci and friends to Daoist canyons, embracing suffering and acknowledging faults for the purpose of growth? ) LC (SOIL, Pioneer Square, free, Friday-Saturday; closing)

Jessica Jackson Hutchins: Wrecked and Righteous Remind Like List If you're already familiar with the Portland art scene, you've likely heard the name "Jessica Jackson Hutchins" float around. Jackson Hutchins's tactile works transform everyday objects into art forms that are both intimately familiar and reverently heightened, and her ambitious, raw, playful style, which runs the gamut from massive sculptural installations to clothing pieces, is easily recognizable. The artist often employs castoff household objects to create her earth-toned, figurative, and vessel-like forms; in 2016, her process expanded to include collage-like window pieces in fused glass, some of which you'll see in Jessica Jackson Hutchins: Wrecked and Righteous. The exhibition surveys the last 30-ish years of her career in a nonchronological presentation of furniture pieces, relief paintings, and more, plus "wearable food vessels" that will be activated during a special performance.  LC (Frye Art Museum, First Hill, free, Friday-Sunday)

Manifestations by June Sekiguchi Remind Like List June Sekiguchi's scroll-cut woodworking method makes her pattern-based sculptures and large-scale installations a very loopy experience . Addressing "cultural identity, cross-cultural exchange, and personal narratives through an interplay of surface pattern and structural form," Sekiguchi's latest show emphasizes her metaphorical approach and honors her source materials. (I'm stoked for her big, glowy hanging bug, Silkpunk Grasshopper Leg Transport .) LC (King Street Station, SoDo, free, Friday-Saturday)

Martine Gutierrez: Monsen Photography Lecture Remind Like List Transdisciplinary artist Martine Gutierrez creates twists on pop culture tropes through elaborate narrative scenes. Using a wide range of mediums connected to mass media, from music videos to billboard campaigns and satirical fashion magazines, Gutierrez explores constructions of self and their own multicultural, first-generation identity as an artist of Indigenous descent. This presentation of Gutierrez's work was organized in conjunction with their upcoming Monsen Photography Lecture, an annual talk that brings key makers and thinkers in photographic practice to the Henry. LC (Henry Art Gallery, University District, $0–20 suggested donation, Friday-Sunday)

Shine On Seattle Remind Like List Light lovers LUSIO and the Downtown Seattle Association have lit up Pioneer Square for Shine On Seattle, a luminous public art installation. From March 1 to April 30, visitors can take a walking tour of “dazzling exhibits that will illuminate window storefronts, parks, and other outdoor spaces” in the area. LC (Pioneer Square, Pioneer Square, free, Friday-Sunday)

Whispers of the Veiled Melody - Nasim Moghadam and Kiana Honarmand Remind Like List Exploring the diversity of SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African)experience, SOIL's latest exhibition showcases video projections, sculptures, and vinyl installations. Whispers of the Veiled Melody features works by Iranian artists Nasim Moghadam and Kiana Honarmand, whose multimedia approaches blend memories and sociocultural influences to reflect on the distinctions of their identities and heritages. (Moghadam's award-winning works focus on "hyphenated identity, as well as the constraints on women, their bodies, and their voices," while Honarmand contemplates "the complexities of her cultural identity, the violation of women's rights in Iran, and the Western perception of the SWANA identity.") LC (SOIL, Pioneer Square, free, Friday-Saturday; closing)

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The Top 50 Free Things To Do In Seattle

Our list of free things to do in Seattle includes options for all ages, seasons, and interests.

Looking for free things to do in Seattle? We got you (and your budget).

If you’re visiting or living in Seattle while on a budget, you’ll want to routinely check out our continuously-growing list of free things to do in Seattle. The best part is that many of these free things can be enjoyed year-round. A few activities are seasonal—such as free summer concerts, outdoor movies, and Christmas light displays—but Seattle’s mild year-round climate allows for lots of free outdoor fun all year long. And on those particularly rainy days, you can opt for one of the many cozy indoor activities on the list.

We’ve split the list into indoor and outdoor options. Read on for the coolest free things to do in Seattle!

1. Visit the stunning Seattle Public Library

The Seattle Public Library system is spread throughout the city with charming libraries situated in every neighborhood, but you can’t miss the Seattle Central Library located downtown . The building itself is an awe-inspiring attraction worth visiting. You can use the computers and free Wi-Fi, try the free Short Story Dispenser, search for hidden murals, and check out the epic Red Floor.

In addition to spending time in the gorgeous library, here are 10 free things you can do with a Seattle library card — including free museum access !

2. Take advantage of free museum admissions

There are a few museums in Seattle that are free to the public every day. These include Frye Art Museum, Klondike Gold Rush Museum, and Olympic Sculpture Park.

You can also gain free admission to museums on free admission days every month —typically the first Thursday of every month. These include Seattle Art Museum, Museum of History and Industry, Museum of Flight, and the National Nordic Museum.

See our full guide to free admission days at Seattle museums .

3. Hang out at the KEXP Gathering Space

The KEXP Gathering Space at Seattle Center is a great place to hang out and not feel pressured to spend money. There are plenty of chairs and tables, free wi-fi, and good music. If you do want to spend a little money there is a coffee shop and a mini record store on-site.

4. See the fish fly at Pike Place Market

You can spend hours strolling through the various levels of Pike Place Market without spending any money since there’s so much to see, from buskers to the many vendor stalls. The fish throwing is classic Seattle entertainment, and it’s free! Be sure to stop by the Gum Wall as well and leave your mark.

5. Feel like Harry Potter at the University of Washington library

Seattle’s University of Washington is well-known for its beautiful campus, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. You can also visit the stunning Suzzallo Library, which is open to the public. When you walk inside the library, you’ll feel like you just stepped into a Harry Potter film.

6. Play a free game at Mox Boarding House

Mox Boarding House in Ballard hosts regular game nights and events, many of which are free to attend. You’re also welcome to borrow from their extensive board game collection and play a round with your friends at no cost. When you beat your friend, you can have them buy you dinner or a drink at the in-store restaurant.

7. Go to a free event at a Seattle bookstore

Elliott Bay Books in Capitol Hill, Couth Buzzard Books in Greenwood, and the three locations of Third Place Books all have free events multiple times a month. You can participate in an open mic, catch some live music, play board games, or attend an author reading.

8. Watch live glass blowing

Seattle Glassblowing Studio in Belltown regularly hosts a free live glassblowing event as part of the monthly Belltown Art Walk. This live demonstration is always really cool to watch.

9. Visit the Volunteer Park Conservatory

On the first Thursday and Saturday of every month, the Volunteer Park Conservatory in Capitol Hill offers free admission. Afterwards, you can walk over to the nearby Volunteer Park Water Tower and climb the steps for 360-degree view. This is also free, but quite a workout!

10. Learn salsa dancing with a group

There is a group in Seattle called La Clave Cubana and they sometimes host dance social nights, some of which are free. Swing by with a partner and have a good time brushing up on your salsa moves in a friendly, welcoming environment.

11. Join a neighborhood art walk

Various Seattle neighborhoods offer free art walks on a monthly basis. It’s a great way to experience the art in your own city and neighborhood without spending any money. Some happen year-round while others are seasonal. See our list of Seattle art walks that you can join for free every month.

12. Go to a free open mic

Hugo House hosts open mics very month. It’s free to participate, and you get the chance to share your writing with a friendly, supportive audience while getting to enjoy free readings in return. Hugo House also holds free writing circles at Seattle libraries.

13. Join a cultural celebration at Seattle Center Festál

Seattle Center hosts regular cultural celebrations as part of its Festál series . It’s free to attend and you get to enjoy performances, music, educational demonstrations and more from a wide variety of cultures.

14. Tour the tropical interior of the Seattle Spheres

Did you know that it’s entirely free to visit the Spheres in Seattle? All you need is to make a prior reservation online; here’s how . Once you’re inside, you’ll be treated to a lush indoor botanical garden. It’s particularly nice in the middle of winter as a warm, green getaway.

15. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

Visit the visitor center in Pioneer Square for free interactive exhibits, displays, and video presentations about the Klondike Gold Rush. Find the hours and more information here .

16. Partake in a free wine tasting

Love wine? You can enjoy a free wine tasting at West Seattle Wine Cellars as well as at McCarthy and Schiering’s two locations in Queen Anne and Ravenna. Just make sure to visit their websites for the specific days and times offered.

17. Join a free class at Fry Art Museum

You can partake in a free drawing experience at Frye Art Museum once a month. Frye also offers free art-making / discussion classes and mindfulness meditation .

18. Go to a free dance party in Capitol Hill

Leave the kiddos at home for this one. Barboza has free dance nights in Capitol Hill every Friday and Saturday starting at 10:30 p.m. No cover charge! This is for ages 21 and up, of course. If you plan on drinking, you can get $5 well drinks until midnight and free champagne on your birthday!

19. Browse a neighborhood market

Rain or shine, it’s always fun to walk around one of the many neighborhood markets in Seattle for some people watching and maybe even some free samples. See our guide to Seattle farmers markets as well as our guide to weekend markets in Seattle (this one gets updated ahead of every weekend, since some weekend markets occur monthly or seasonally).

20. Visit the Washington Park Arboretum

The Washington Park Arboretum is open daily and free to visit year-round. This botanical garden on the shores of Lake Washington has 230 acres full of an incredible variety of plant species. Make sure to visit in the spring to see blooms such as cherry blossoms and in the fall to see some of Seattle’s most vibrant fall foliage .

21. Cool off on hot days with a swim

When Seattle gets toasty (rare, but it does happen!) there are many places where you can cool off with a refreshing swim for free. Golden Gardens in Ballard and West Seattle’s Alki Beach are popular as the two sandy beaches in Seattle . Just brace yourself for the year-round frigid water of Puget Sound. Seattleites also enjoy swimming in Lake Washington and even Green Lake.

22. Go for a hike in or outside Seattle

There are endless options for hiking around the Seattle area if you don’t mind a little driving. See our guide to waterfall hikes near Seattle . Also be sure to check out the free state parks days as well as free national parks days .

No car? No problem! On summer weekends, you can take the Trailhead Direct bus service to get to your hike. It’s not free (unless you’re 18 or younger), but at $2.75 each way it’s a low-cost option for getting out to trailheads at Mount Si, Mount Teneriffe, and Little Si.

And if you prefer not to leave the city at all, there are several mellow hiking trails in Seattle .

23. Ride your bike through the city

For a zero-cost day full of beautiful scenery and physical activity, take your bike out onto Seattle’s famous Burke-Gilman trail . You’ll see so much of the city that way.

24. Watch free outdoor movies under the Space Needle

Every summer, Movies at the Mural presents a lineup of free outdoor movies under the Space Needle. Bring your own blanket and snacks!

25. Take free yoga and dance classes in the park

Another fun summer activity is getting active in the park. You can take free yoga classes at Gas Works Park and free Zumba dance classes in Freeway Park .

26. Run through the fountain at Seattle Center

In the summer, Seattleites of all ages love to gather at Seattle Center and run through the fountain while music plays. Even when it’s too chilly to get splashed, Seattle Center is a beautiful place to walk around and the fountain provides a serene place to sit and people watch. In November, the fountain gets lit up for the holiday season!

27. Visit the Woodland Park Rose Garden

Adjacent to the Woodland Park Zoo, the rose garden is one of Seattle’s best-kept secrets. It’s open daily and completely free to visit. The best time to go is June through July when the roses are in full bloom, but even in the depth of winter it’s a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.

28. Enjoy a picnic with a view in the park

There are so many Seattle parks to choose from for a picnic. Your options range from large, popular parks like Gas Works Park to tiny neighborhood pocket parks like Fremont Peak Park. If you’re hankering for a view, however, you should check out our guide to the Seattle parks with the best views .

29. Explore the tide pools at low tide

Every once in a while, Seattle beaches experience an ultra-low tide that allows you to get up and close with all sorts of fascinating creatures in tide pools. This is a fun, educational activity for all ages. Check out our guide to the best spots in Seattle for tide pool exploring.

30. Get a new book at a Little Free Library

Every Seattle neighborhood is sprinkled with Little Free Libraries. You can check out a map or just keep your eyes peeled while exploring a neighborhood. Chances are you’ll head home with at least one new-to-you book, free of charge. And if you can drop off a book in return, all the better.

31. Acquire new artwork at a Little Free Art Gallery

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You’ve heard of Little Free Libraries, but have you ever seen a Little Free Art Gallery? There is a Little Free Art Gallery in Queen Anne as well as one in Fremont near Rock Creek, and there very well may be more throughout Seattle as the idea catches on. These little stands look like Little Free Libraries except inside, instead of books, you’ll find miniature pieces of original artwork. You can take any artwork home with you for free, and even leave one of your own creations if you feel inspired.

32. Partake in free Summer at SAM activities

Speaking of art, Seattle Art Museum (SAM) hosts a series of free events every summer called Summer at SAM . Every week you can enjoy yoga classes, live music, art lessons, and more in Olympic Sculpture Park—and it’s all free!

33. Embark on a guided meditation in the park

You can visit Freeway Park downtown and embark on a guided meditation walk . All you need is your phone and headphones.

34. Take in some free summer concerts

Between Summer at SAM , Downtown Summer Sounds , and Party in the Parks , Seattle offers a variety of free concert options for people who’d like to enjoy live music without spending any money.

35. Visit all of Fremont’s quirky sculptures

Take yourself on a public art tour through Fremont, Seattle’s quirkiest neighborhood. You can start with the lit-up neon Rapunzel in the Fremont Bridge tower (best viewed at night), followed by the J.P. Patches statue, then the Waiting for the Interurban just across the street, the massive Statue of Lenin a little further into town, and of course the famous Fremont Troll under the bridge. You can also check out the dinosaur hedges next to the Fremont Cut and the piece of the Berlin Wall that is just down the bridge from the Troll.

Also: If you visit the Fremont Arts Council website , you’ll find a list of free annual events that you can enjoy in Fremont .

36. See the best view of the city at Kerry Park

Kerry Park in Queen Anne is tiny but often crowded—and for good reason. It overlooks downtown Seattle, giving viewers a classic Seattle tableau of the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay. It’s a fantastic spot for a date if you don’t mind a crowd.

37. See the Ballard Locks in action

The Hiram M. Chittenden (or the Ballard Locks as they’re commonly known) are a popular free attraction in Seattle. You can go year-round to see the locks open to move boats between saltwater and fresh water, and if you go during the summer you’ll be able to see the salmon spawning. You can also walk through the beautiful Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden while you’re there.

38. Visit the lighthouse and historic houses at Discovery Park

Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest public park. You can easily spend the majority of a day there. There’s lots of trails for easy hiking and a beach where you can look for tide pools. The West Point Lighthouse and the Fort Lawton houses in the park are steeped in history. Make sure to bring a picnic and watch the sunset from atop the bluff.

39. Watch the sunset at Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park is another great picnic spot in Seattle. If you get there around sunset, you can watch the city lights come to life across Lake Union.

40. Tour the Olympic Sculpture Park

This downtown sculpture museum is free and entirely outdoors. It’s right on the waterfront, making it our favorite place to view some art in a stunning natural setting.

41. Find the secret downtown waterfall

Pack up some refreshments and a book, then head to Pioneer Square to find the Waterfall Garden Park in the middle of the city. It’s a peaceful urban oasis to sit and relax with the sound of falling water.

42. Visit the Alki Point Lighthouse

If you head over to West Seattle, you can visit the active Alki Point Lighthouse. It’s only open for tours in the summer, but the views there are stunning year-round. While you’re at Alki Beach, be sure to look for Seattle’s Statue of Liberty.

43. Take a free rowboat rental out on Lake Union

The Center for Wooden Boats offers free rowboat rentals on Lake Union year-round! Reserve your free one-hour rental on their website.

44. Pay homage at the grave of Bruce Lee

You can visit Lake View Cemetery in Capitol Hill to see the grave of Chinese-American film star and martial artist Bruce Lee. People come from far and wide to pay homage and leave their respects as well as flowers and trinkets at his grave. It’s an important historical site in Seattle that you can’t miss if you’re a fan of Bruce Lee.

45. Explore Kubota Garden

This 20-acre Japanese garden in Rainier Beach is free to visit. It’s a well-kept Seattle secret (more people know of the Japanese garden in the Washington Park Arboretum). It is open daily from dawn to dusk.

46. Visit the Kurt Cobain bench

Another iconic celebrity memorial site in Seattle is the bench that acts as an informal memorial for Kurt Cobain. You can find it in Viretta Park, near Cobain’s former house. The bench is covered in messages to Kurt, so you can feel free to add your own.

47. Go to free events on the Seattle waterfront

You can often find free events happening on the waterfront piers in Seattle. You can visit Pier 62 for free daily activities, Zumba classes, live music, cultural performances, and just enjoying the waterfront view.

48. Pay homage to Jimi Hendrix

If you’re a fan of Jimi Hendrix, Seattle is the place to be. First, visit Jimi Hendrix Park in the Central District. The park is free and open daily. You’ll be able to see a chronological timeline of his life and career as well as enjoy a butterfly garden. Then you can also stop by the Jimi Hendrix statue located in Capitol Hill. It’s right next to Cal Anderson Park, so it’s easy to plan a picnic in the park and pass by the statue to pay your respects.

49. Walk through a holiday light display

There are several free holiday light displays in Seattle that you can enjoy during the months of November, December, and even January. These include the Westlake Park Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 25, Magic in the Market at Pike Place Market on November 26, and Winterfest in Seattle Center starting on November 25. For even more, see our full roundup of all the places where you can see holiday light displays in Seattle .

50. Visit the Seattle Chinese Garden

The Seattle Chinese Garden is a hidden gem in West Seattle. Admission is always free although donations are appreciated if you can afford to give. The gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk and the courtyard is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends. Be sure to check out their upcoming events and classes as well.

51. Take your kids to Seattle’s most epic playground

Artists at Play is a free playground located on the grounds of Seattle Center, right outside the Museum of Pop Culture. This is a great free activity to do with kids of all ages in Seattle.

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Top weekend things to do in Seattle April 26-28

Here are the top weekend things to do in Seattle for April 12-14

SEATTLE - Looking for something to do this weekend? The Seattle Mariners are back in town for their third homestand with plenty of giveaways and events . Also, this is the last weekend to check out the Seattle food scene during Seattle Restaurant Week.

If you decide to head out for something, make sure to dress for the occasion and check the latest weather forecast before you leave. 

Seattle Mariners promotions, giveaways, more for 3rd homestand

Julio Rodriguez #44 of the Seattle Mariners poses with a trident in the dugout after hitting a solo home run against the Houston Astros during the second inning at T-Mobile Park on May 7, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)

The Seattle Mariners have an exciting lineup of events and promotions for their upcoming homestand, April 26 to May 1, featuring matchups against the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Atlanta Braves.

The third homestand of the season promises an array of activities for fans of all ages. From themed nights to special ticket offers, there's something for everyone to enjoy at T-Mobile Park .

Friday, April 26 vs. Diamondbacks (6:40 p.m.)

• Mariners Turn Ahead the Clock Jersey Night : The first 15,000 fans through the gates will receive a Mariners Turn Ahead the Clock jersey.
• J-Rod Squad presented by Adidas: Fans can sit in the J-ROD Squad seating section and receive a special Julio-inspired T-shirt.
• College Night: College students can enjoy $10 View Level tickets.
• Taiwanese Heritage Night: Celebrate the Taiwanese community's contributions to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
• National Anthem by Sarah Rose Davis.

Saturday, April 27 vs. Diamondbacks (6:40 p.m.)

• Special '90s Night: The first 10,000 fans will receive a Mariners neon hat.
• Scout Night: Scouts can add a limited-edition Mariners-themed patch to their collection.
• National Anthem by Wanz.

Sunday, April 28 vs. Diamondbacks (1:10 p.m.)

• Little League Day: All kids 14 and under will receive a Cal Raleigh poster postgame.
• Make-A-Wish Day: Celebrate World Wish Month with an exclusive co-branded Mariners and Make-A-Wish T-shirt.
• National Anthem by Eagle Creek Elementary School.

Seattle-born K-Pop star JAY returns home with ENHYPEN for first-ever Tacoma concert

K-Pop group ENHYPEN is coming to Tacoma for a performance. Members will also throw the first pitch for a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park. [Photo courtesy of BELIFT LAB] 

Seattle native and member of world-famous K-pop group ENHYPEN , JAY, is making his return to Washington after nearly 10 years.

ENHYPEN made their debut in 2020 with the album " BORDER : DAY ONE " following their journey on the show "I-LAND", a music survival show that the members competed on to make the final debut lineup.

Last weekend of Seattle Restaurant Week

Seattle Restaurant Week kicked off April 14 and foodies from all around Puget Sound are about to score on some tasty food at a low cost . 

Saturday, April 27 is the last day to explore Seattle’s unique and innovative food scene at one of the 100 participating restaurants offering curated menus priced at $20, $35, $50, and $65.

Check out our Seattle Restaurant Week by neighborhood guide for all the details before you go.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Skagit valley tulip festival underway.

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival kicked off earlier this week and Good Day Seattle is checking out the farms.

The annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival began last month, and it's one of the largest tulip festivals in the U.S.

Hundreds of thousands of people visit the tulip farms each year, and organizers want to make sure visitors make the best of their trip. Check out our Skagit Valley Tulip Festival guide for all the details and need-to-know information before you go.

Harry Potter: Magic at Play

Journey through rooms that plunge you into the heart of the series in " Harry Potter: Magic at Play ." It offers engaging exhibits suitable for all age groups, capped off with a visit to a gift shop. 

The experience is located at The Bravern, 11111 NE 8th St., Bellevue.

Official Seattle Guides for International Travelers

Visit seattle’s international travel guide & official visitors’ guide, our guides provide expert information on what to taste, how to play, and what to see for visitors to seattle and the surrounding region., digital international travel guide.

Explore Seattle’s iconic sites, discover the flavor of the city, find resources on getting around, plan a fun excursion, and so much more. Our digital travel guide has all you need to make the most of your time in the Emerald City, including helpful tips for travel professionals.

Available in multiple languages:

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Official visitors’ guide | winter/spring 2023-24.

Available in English:

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Seattle, 16 April 2024

The Sweet Spot for Saving Around 15% on Flights to Summer’s Trending Destinations is 21 to 60 Days Out  

Spring is in the air, but the clock is ticking for travelers to lock in summer travel plans. According to the Expedia® Summer Travel Outlook, released today, searches for summer trips are up year-over-year for flights and lodging, 1 and the window is open now to save on summer airfare. Top destinations tempting U.S. travelers include major cities like New York and London, as well as beach destinations like Cancun and Honolulu. 

France is also a summer hotspot as Paris and surrounding areas prepare to host a major global sports event in late July. Expedia’s data reveals a massive surge in searches for accommodations during these dates in cities including Yvelines (+520%), Lyon (+310%) and Marseille (+200%). 2  

To help travelers plan for what’s shaping up to be a busy summer travel season, Expedia’s Summer Travel Outlook uncovers crucial tips, including:  

• Book summer flights 21 to 60 days out. Last year, travelers booking during this window saved around 15% for domestic and international travel. 3 That means the window to save on Memorial Day Weekend travel will close by May 2. 
• Depart on a Monday (international flights) or Tuesday (domestic flights). Travelers saved around 15% compared to those that departed on Thursday and Friday. 3  
• Fly during mid-to-late August. It’s less busy and can yield savings of up to $265 on roundtrip tickets compared to the last week of June when average fares peak. 3  
• The Fourth of July is on Thursday, and the week leading up to the holiday is expected to be the busiest time to fly this summer. 3  

“The sweet spot for booking your summer trip is right around the corner, but there’s still a bit of time to figure out your vacation plans and lock in those flights at a great rate,” says Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations. “The cheat sheet is easy this year — book one to two months out and save around 15%, whether you’re taking the family to the beach in Florida or summering in Paris.” 

Read the full Expedia Summer Travel Outlook below, which includes top destinations and tips for saving on airfare and hotels.  

Expedia Summer Travel Outlook  

When to Book Summer Travel 3  

According to Expedia historic flight data, the sweet spot for booking summer flights is between 21 and 60 days ahead of departure, whether you’re headed abroad or staying stateside. That means the clock is already ticking with summer officially kicking off on Memorial Day, currently just over six weeks away.  

• Average Sweet Spot Savings: Up to 15% on airfare 
• Worst Time to Book: Less than a week out for domestic travel or more than 90 days out for international travel (travelers paid 15% more than average during these windows). 

Don’t want to wait? Book when you’re ready and use Expedia’s Price Drop Protection,* which provides an automatic refund if the flight fare decreases on Expedia after booking. Available for purchase and on the app, it’s free for Gold and Platinum One Key members on eligible bookings who will receive any refund in OneKeyCash automatically. 

Destination Insights 1  

Expedia’s search data highlights New York and London as the most popular domestic destinations overall for summer.  

Meanwhile, significant year-over-year surges are also evident in major international cities across Europe and Asia, along with sought-after beach locales in Mexico and the Caribbean. Japan continues its reign as a top year-round destination for U.S. travelers, with Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto appearing on the list of fastest-growing cities for summer. 

Best and Busiest Times to Travel This Summer 3  

Flexibility is critical, and sidestepping the busiest travel days can offer cost and time savings. Based on 2023 flight demand, late June tends to be the busiest time to fly and the most expensive. Meanwhile, August boasts the lightest crowds and cheapest average ticket prices of the season.  

The Fridays and Saturdays before July Fourth and Labor Day are historically among the busiest for air travel during the summer months, as travelers aim to make the most of office closures and paid holidays. July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, so travelers can expect busier roads and airports both the weekend before and the day before the holiday.  

• Busiest Travel Dates: Last week of June; June 29 and July 3 (Saturday and day before July Fourth holiday); August 30 (Friday before Labor Day)  
• Lightest Travel Dates: Last week of August 

Cheapest Day of the Week to Fly 3  

According to Expedia data, Fridays are the busiest day at the airport during the summer months, while Tuesdays are the lightest. Day of the week also matters when it comes to savings; for domestic flights, depart on a Tuesday instead of a Friday to save around 15%, and on Monday instead of Thursday for international flights. 

Make the Most of Summer Holiday Weekends 3  

These are some of the best places to fly for under $500 during summer’s long weekends, based on historical flight data. 

Summer in Paris   

Paris is among the most popular international destinations for U.S. travelers this year, with Paris as one of the top destinations all up. During late July through mid-August, the City of Lights and surrounding areas are attracting even more interest as it prepares to host a major global sports event. Expedia’s data reveals a massive surge in searches for accommodations during these dates in cities including Yvelines (+520%), Lyon (+310%) and Marseille (+200%). 2   

With Paris attracting a surge of summer visitors, accommodation rates have spiked compared to last year. To save on a place to stay, travelers should explore neighboring cities that are still well-connected by train to various competition venues:  

• Best for lower rates compared to Paris City Center: Rueil-Malmaison, Chatou, and Nanterre.  
• Best for stays near the Stade de France: Saint-Denis, Saint-Ouen 

Summer Travel Hacks  

Allow Expedia’s suite of traveler tools to simplify the journey by taking the guesswork out of booking, saving on airfare and streamlining the planning process. 

• Save with flight alerts : Use Price Tracking on the Expedia app to pinpoint the optimal booking window and receive instant notifications when flight prices drop.** 
• Opt for morning flights : According to Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report, morning departures are 50% less prone to cancellations than flights after 3 p.m., highlighting the benefits of seizing the day. 
• Secure a flexible hotel reservation : Use Expedia’s search filters to discover accommodations offering “free cancellation” or “reserve now, pay later” options, and select the refundable room. 
• Bundle and save : Travelers can save by bundling their flight or hotel booking on Expedia, taking advantage of discounted rates. 
• Book once, earn twice: Unlock the benefits of One Key™ membership by earning OneKeyCash™ on eligible Expedia bookings. Input the airline mileage plan details at checkout to earn twice, turning each trip into a more rewarding experience. 

Data Sources:    

1 Based on Expedia.com flight or lodging searches for travel during the weeks of May 20 – September 6, 2024, as of March 4, 2024, compared to the same time period in 2023.   

2 Based on Expedia.com lodging searches for travel during July 26 – August 11, 2024, compared to same dates in 2023.  

3 Based on Expedia flight demand for travel during May, June, July, August and September 2023 compared to the same time frame in 2022.   

* Price Drop Protection is available for a fee on eligible flights. Refund will be the difference if the price of your flight on Expedia drops. Terms apply. See site for details.   

** Price predictions are not a guarantee and are available in the app on select routes.  

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