Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the unique side of Seattle? This city isn’t just about rain and coffee; it’s a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. This is our insider scoop on the 15 best things to do in Seattle!
We’ve visited this cool city several times (as we live kind of close by in Whistler) so we’ve tried out pretty much everything there is to do in Seattle for tourists and we’ve included all those below as well as some hidden gems spots – which are actually our favorite parts of the city.
Yup, Seattle offers a whole load of unique experiences beyond the typical tourist attractions. We love the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the quirky Fremont Troll, a giant whimsical sculpture lurking beneath the Aurora Bridge. While if you’re a fan of the great outdoors don’t miss the chance to kayak on Lake Union, where you can paddle among houseboats and enjoy views of the city skyline.
In the guide below you’ll still read about insanely popular attractions like the Seattle Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Both of which attract millions of visitors every year – but they’re popular for a reason. And correct me if I’m wrong but I think it’s worth it to see a city’s most popular sights to get a true feel for it. Am I making sense? I hope so!
Trust us, you’re going to love every bit of Seattle (the popular and less-visited attractions)!
1. Reach for the sky at the Space Needle
First up on our list of the best things to do in Seattle is the iconic and hard-to-miss Space Needle (which is a whopping 605 feet tall!)
Ever wondered what it’s like to be on top of the world? The Space Needle has got you covered. With jaw-dropping views of the Puget Sound and the downtown area and a glass floor that’ll make your heart skip a beat, it’s like floating above the city. Early birds catch the best, crowd-free vistas! So be sure to get here as soon as it opens (usually at 9 am) to beat the crowds.
The all-glass floor I mentioned above is on The Loupe, which is the first and only rotating glass floor in the world! Seattle city is literally underneath your feet!
This top-rated 3-hour Seattle city tour is super-popular as it visits the best attractions in the city like the Space Needle, Pike Place, and Pioneer Square. It’s led by a knowledgeable local guide who will teach you so much about this vibrant city. It includes transport in an air-conditioned minivan and because it’s a small group tour you’re guaranteed a personalized experience. It costs from $75 USD per person.
Insiders Tip – You can visit the Space Needle on the CityPass which gives you access to 5 of Seattle’s top sights including Seattle Aquarium, the Museum of Pop Culture, Woodland Park Zoo, Chihuly Gardens and Glass, and Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour all for a discounted price. The CityPass costs from $127 USD per adult.
2. Dive into the buzz of Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is the soul of Seattle. Wander through the aisles, get hypnotized by flying fish (yes, they literally throw fish!), and nibble on some of the freshest treats around. Don’t miss the “gum wall” outside on Post Alley – it’s oddly fascinating! Back inside the market itself (which is a bit of a maze) make sure to stop by the local craft stalls for unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Seattle.
Pike Place Market is epic to wander around with a local and, this Taste of Pike Place tour is perfect as it lets you sample the very best of this world-famous market including with a local guide. Your guide will tell you all about the colorful characters who work here, some have been here since it first opened in 1971. The tour is 2 hours in length and costs from just $66 USD per person!
Another awesome tour option is this 2-hour tour that’s led by a Chef and costs only $69 USD!
Related Read: Learn more about Pike Place Market in my guide to spending 3 days in Seattle here!
3. Breathe deep in Discovery Park
Need a nature fix? Discovery Park is your oasis in the city. It’s got beaches, trails, and postcard-perfect lighthouse views.
Would ya believe this is the city’s largest green space, sprawling over 534 acres? I called it an “urban oasis” when I first visited here and I think that’s a very apt description! As I said, the park boasts a diverse range of natural habitats, including forests, meadows, and beaches. If you’re a hiker (I am only sometimes, I have to be honest) then you’re in luck as there are over 11 miles of trails here.
One of its standout features is the West Point Lighthouse, situated along the park’s scenic coastline, offering panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
My top tip: Pack a picnic and watch the sunset. It’s magical. The park’s diverse landscape also offers bird-watching opportunities – a haven for nature enthusiasts.
4. The city is a coffee lover’s paradise
In the land of Starbucks, exploring local coffee gems is a must. Hit up places like Caffè Umbria for that perfect espresso shot. It has various locations throughout the city but my favorite is the one at Pioneer Square! And, oh boy, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is like Disneyland for coffee lovers! Don’t miss the chance to try some unique Seattle blends – they’re a coffee aficionado’s dream.
If you’re interested in coffee history then a visit to the very first Starbucks store will be right up your street. It’s located at 1912 Pike Place. And it’s been open for over 50 years and is surprisingly small at just 1,000 square feet. Honest fact though, the first Starbucks was actually located nearby but they moved to this location a few years after opening. The ‘real first Starbucks store’ is no longer in existence hence why this store is given the name of the first store!
Related Read: I look at the other best coffee spots in Seattle in this two day Seattle guide!
5. Set sail on Puget Sound
Hop on a ferry and let the sea breeze mess up your hair. The views are stunning, and the vibe? Pure bliss.
Bainbridge Island is a quaint spot for a quick escape as it’s just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown. On your ferry ride, keep an eye out for marine life – sightings of seals or even whales can be a delightful surprise!
On the island, I love spending time in Winslow the island’s main village It’s filled with cozy bookstores, Cafes, and boutiques. We also like Blakely Harbor Park, a 40-acre park built on the site of an old mill, which was one of the biggest sawmills in the world in the late 1800s. The park is popular for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
If you’d prefer a guided tour, this one-hour cruise takes you through Puget Sound and is the perfect tour for photography lovers because you can photograph the city skyline and the Space Needle from the boat. Even better, on a clear day can spy on the Olympic Mountains and Cascade Mountains and perhaps even Mount Rainier. This cruise leaves from Pier 55 on the Seattle Waterfront, and it costs just $45 USD per adult.
6. Get artsy at the Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum is a kaleidoscope of creativity. From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, it’s a visual feast. The outdoor installations? Absolutely Instagram-worthy! The museum’s rotating exhibits mean there’s always something new to see.
In short, there’s something for every type of art-lover here from ancient sculptures and classical European paintings to contemporary installations and Native American art.
7. Rock out at MoPOP
The Museum of Pop Culture is a wild ride through music, sci-fi, and all things pop culture. The architecture alone is worth the trip, and their exhibits? Mind-blowing! Whether you’re a grunge fan or a sci-fi geek, MoPOP has something to ignite your passions.
P.S. You can visit MoPop on the CityPass, which gives you access to 5 of Seattle’s top sights, including Seattle Aquarium, the Space Needle, Woodland Park Zoo, Chihuly Gardens and Glass, and Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, all for a discounted price. The CityPass costs from $127 USD per adult.
8. Stroll through Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square is like stepping into a time machine – historic, artsy, and full of stories. The underground city tour? It’s a hidden gem that’s both eerie and fascinating. The tour lasts for an hour and costs under $30 USD, what’s great too is that it’s a small-group tour led by a local guide who will tell you heaps about these underground pathways that were constructed over 120 years ago.
Also, the neighborhood’s First Thursday of the month art walk is a cultural must-do, showcasing local artists and galleries.
9. Paddle away on Lake Union
Grab a kayak or a paddleboard and glide over Lake Union. The city views from the water are a whole new level of awesome. Don’t forget to wave at the houseboats! Look out for the quirky Sleepless in Seattle houseboat – a nod to the city’s cinematic fame.
10. Pamper yourself at a nail salon
In the midst of all the exploring, why not take a moment to pamper yourself? Seattle has an array of nail salons where you can relax and get a stylish manicure or pedicure. Though we can’t pick just one to recommend, you can easily find the perfect spot for some self-care through local directories or by asking around.
11. Feast your way through Seattle
Seattle’s food scene? It’s a melting pot of flavors. Fresh seafood, innovative dishes, and those cozy little eateries – every bite is a journey. For an unforgettable dining experience, try the local oysters at Hama Hama Oyster Saloon – they’re a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.
One of our favorite neighborhoods to eat out in is Capitol Hill – we’ve eaten at Nue a couple of times. It’s a cool eatery that offers street-food-style food. Their menu changes regularly, and it’s very popular.
We also love dining out in Pioneer Square, which I touched on above. Here, we like Nirmal’s, one of the best Indian restaurants in the state, and 84 Yesler, a modern upscale eatery that specializes in Italian and Japanese fusion.
12. Marvel at Chihuly Garden and Glass
Dale Chihuly’s glass artwork will leave you speechless. The way the art and gardens blend together? Wandering the Chiluly Garden and Glass is like walking through a dream. The brilliantly colored glass sculptures, set against the natural backdrop, create an enchanting atmosphere that’s both serene and spectacular.
If you’re planning to visit the Space Needle (which is right next door) as well, then this 3-hour combo tour is a great idea as it includes access to both sites and costs just $62 USD – which is a great deal!
13. Experience the magic of the Paramount Theatre
Catch a show at the Paramount Theatre and get swept away by its charm. It’s like time-traveling to the glam 1920s – so chic and so lively! From Broadway shows to stand-up comedy, the theatre’s diverse lineup promises a memorable evening out.
14. Take off at the Boeing Factory
Aviation buffs, this is your mecca. The Boeing Factory tour is fascinating – it’s not every day you get to see planes being born!
Interestingly, this is known as the largest building in the world by volume, it spans over 98 acres and serves as the primary assembly site for Boeing’s wide-body aircraft, including the iconic 747, 767, 777, and the 787 Dreamliner.
The Future of Flight exhibit gives a peek into the advancements in aviation technology, thrilling both young and old.
15. Have drinks in the Ballard Neighborhood
Last on this list of the best things to do in Seattle is the hipster-filled Ballard neighborhood!
Ballard is the cool kid on the block. From hip eateries to craft breweries, it’s buzzing with energy. The Ballard Locks and the Nordic Museum are must-visits here. If you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Ballard Farmers Market for some local flavor.
Where to Stay in Seattle
Fairmont Olympic Seattle – a 5-star hotel on University Avenue, in fact, the building itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Rooms offer city views with French-inspired furnishings. There are numerous on-site restaurants. Rooms cost from $250 per night.
The Arctic Club Seattle – is a Hilton DoubleTree 4-star hotel on 3rd Avenue. The hotel has a lot of dark-wood and moody lighting all adding to the overall cozy feel. It’s just a 5 minute walk from here to Pike Place. Rooms costs from $300 per night.
Seattle Marriott Waterfront – this waterfront hotel, located in Eliott Bay is just a 5 minute walk from the Seattle Aquarium. Many of the rooms here have a balcony with either ocean or mountain views. One of the biggest pluses for this hotel in the indoor/outdoor connecting swimming pool. Rooms here cost from $132 per night.
Inn at the Market – the only hotel located inside the famous Pike Place Market, the rooms are bright and spacious and some have water views. My top tip for this hotel is to gave a drink at the rooftop bar for fabulous views of the city and sea. Rooms here cost from $240 per night.
Green Tortoise Hostel – a great budget-friendly option, this hostel is located on Pike Street, just opposite Pike Place. It has a fully-equipped kitchen games room and offers private rooms up to 8-bed dorms. Prices start from $34 per night.
Thanks for Reading!
So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to exploring Seattle. Each spot we’ve shared is a personal favorite and comes with its own unique vibe and story. Whether you’re sipping coffee, soaking up art, or just basking in the stunning views, Seattle is a city that embraces you with open arms. Get ready to fall in love with every corner of this dynamic city. Safe travels and happy exploring!
If you enjoyed this blog post, I also have lots of other blog posts on some of my favorite places in North America including the best towns near San Francisco, best things to do in Whistler and the drive from Whistler to Banff.
Last Updated on January 19, 2025 by snaphappytravel