25 Things to Do in Seattle

Seattle, known as the Emerald City, is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning views, diverse attractions, and strong connection to nature. Nestled between the breathtaking Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, Seattle offers an idyllic fusion of urban excitement and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a foodie who wants to explore the city’s coffee culture and seafood scene or an outdoor enthusiast seeking hiking trails and water sports, Seattle has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on an in-depth journey through 25 top things to do in Seattle, from world-renowned attractions like the Space Needle to hidden gems that give the city its unique charm.

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1. Visit the Space Needle

The Space Needle, Seattle’s most recognizable landmark, has symbolized innovation and the future since its debut at the 1962 World’s Fair. Standing 605 feet tall, this iconic structure offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and nearby Mount Rainier. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of walking on the rotating glass floor or leaning into the open-air glass walls for a unique sky-high experience, aptly named Skyrisers.

Best Time to Visit:

For the clearest panoramic views, aim to visit during the summer. Sunset is also a popular time as the cityscape comes alive with twinkling lights set against the orange-pink sky, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

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2. Explore Pike Place Market

No trip to Seattle would be complete without a stop at Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets in the United States. Famous for its flying fish toss, where fishmongers hurl large salmon across the stalls, Pike Place is also a foodie paradise. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and locally grown produce to artisan crafts and flowers.

Be sure to visit the original Starbucks, where coffee culture cemented its place in Seattle’s history. The market is also home to hidden gems like the Gum Wall, one of the most peculiar—and sticky—attractions you’ll encounter.

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3. Wander Through Chihuly Garden and Glass

For art lovers, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum offers an intimate look at the work of Dale Chihuly, a world-renowned glass artist from Tacoma. The museum features dramatic glass sculptures that blend vibrant colors and organic forms, including the centerpiece—an enormous 40-foot-tall glasshouse installation.

What to See:

Besides the stunning indoor exhibits, don’t miss the outdoor garden where colorful glass sculptures seamlessly blend with the natural flora, creating a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.

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4. Take a Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island

A quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, the ferry ride from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island provides stunning views of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountains. Once you’ve arrived, the island offers a relaxing escape from the city with its wineries, charming shops, and scenic hiking trails.

Things to Do:

Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the island’s many locally-sourced restaurants or simply indulge in some retail therapy in its boutique shops. Alternatively, hit the hiking trails for a serene day immersed in nature.

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5. Discover the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) bursts with vibrant exhibits that celebrate the icons and influencers of modern pop culture. Dedicated to music, science fiction, and gaming, MoPOP’s expansive collections include everything from a tribute to Seattle’s own Jimi Hendrix to an entire gallery on indie video games.

Fun Fact:

The building’s striking architecture, designed by Frank Gehry, resembles a smashed guitar. Fittingly, the interior is also home to memorabilia and artifacts from rock legends such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam.

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6. Walk Around Discovery Park

For those seeking outdoor activities within city limits, Discovery Park offers over 500 acres of green space, cliffs, beaches, and woodland—perfect for an afternoon hike. Located on Magnolia Bluff overlooking Puget Sound, this is Seattle’s largest park and is home to various wildlife species.

Don’t Miss:

Be sure to check out the West Point Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering scenic views. The park’s expansive network of trails is particularly popular with nature lovers, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

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7. Visit the Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium, located on the waterfront, offers countless exhibits showcasing marine wildlife from the Pacific Northwest. From playful sea otters to majestic seals, the aquarium is a family-friendly attraction that’s as educational as it is fun.

Highlights:

Interactive tide pools allow both children and adults the opportunity to learn first-hand about the diverse range of species that inhabit the region’s waters. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a feeding presentation at the underwater dome.

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8. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

Towering over Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel is a modern-day Seattle icon. Hop aboard one of the enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas for a leisurely ride that provides sweeping views of Elliott Bay, the city skyline, and the Olympic Mountains.

When to Go:

Thanks to its enclosed gondolas, the wheel operates year-round, rain or shine, making it a reliable option regardless of Seattle’s unpredictable weather. Sunset is an especially picturesque time to enjoy this 20-minute ride.

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9. Tour Pioneer Square Historic District

Take a trip back in time with a visit to the Pioneer Square Historic District, Seattle’s oldest neighborhood. Characterized by its Victorian-style architecture, this area offers a mix of history, art galleries, and charming coffee shops.

Notable Landmarks:

The Smith Tower, once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, offers panoramic views from its observation deck. You can also visit the Klondike Gold Rush Museum to learn about Seattle’s prominent role during the Gold Rush era.

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10. Kerry Park Views

For many, Kerry Park is Seattle’s quintessential skyline viewpoint. Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, this small park offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Seattle, including the Space Needle, with Mount Rainier majestically looming in the background.

Photography Tip:

Visit at sunset or during the golden hour when the city is bathed in perfect golden hues. At night, the skyline sparkles, making it an ideal spot for photography.

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11. Experience the Underground Tour in Pioneer Square

Seattle’s Underground Tour takes you beneath the surface, literally, to explore passageways and remnants left over from the Great Fire of 1889. This unique experience provides insight into the city’s history and its reconstruction efforts after much of Seattle burned down.

What to Expect:

Guided tours will lead you through these subterranean areas while narrating stories about the city’s early beginnings, offering both historical context and amusing anecdotes.

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12. Kayak on Lake Union

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and meander through the calm waters of Lake Union, where you can take in views of Seattle from a new perspective. Paddleboard past charming houseboats, including the famous one featured in Sleepless in Seattle, and watch as seaplanes take off and land.

What’s Nearby:

The lake is surrounded by parks and cafes, making it easy to turn a quick paddle into a full-day adventure. Lake Union Park is a great place to end the day and watch the sunset over the water.

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13. Hike Mount Rainier National Park

A day trip to Mount Rainier National Park is a must for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Seattle. This active stratovolcano, towering at 14,411 feet, forms a stunning backdrop to the city skyline and offers a variety of hiking options for all levels of experience.

Popular Trails:

For those seeking a more leisurely outing, the Reflection Lake trail offers postcard-perfect views of Mount Rainier mirrored in the still waters. More adventurous hikers can tackle the Skyline Trail, a challenging but rewarding journey leading to panoramic views and glacial terrains.

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14. Explore Gas Works Park

Set along Lake Union, Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s more unusual—and perhaps most surprisingly beautiful—city parks. Built on the site of a former gasification plant, the park’s industrial relics have been transformed into public art installations, which pair seamlessly with wide open grassy areas perfect for picnics or kite flying.

Best for:

Families and picnickers love this park for its blend of urban and natural landscapes. The sweeping views of downtown Seattle from here are also an added bonus.

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15. Visit Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo spans over 90 acres and is home to more than 1,000 animals representing 300 different species. From African lions to Malayan tigers, the zoo offers both entertainment and education on wildlife conservation.

Conservation Efforts:

The zoo plays an active role in animal conservation with its innovative programs aimed at protecting habitats and endangered species. Families will especially love the zoo’s interactive exhibits and learning stations designed for kids.

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16. Take a Stroll at Washington Park Arboretum

For a peaceful escape into nature, visit the Washington Park Arboretum. This 230-acre botanical wonderland is home to an impressive variety of trees, plants, and flowers, from native species to exotic collections.

Highlights:

Visitors can wander through Azalea Way, a path lined with vibrant blossoms, or spend time in the Japanese Garden, which offers a tranquil space for reflection with its koi ponds and traditional tea houses.

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17. Go Whale Watching in Puget Sound

One of the most memorable experiences you can have in Seattle is going whale watching. Tours typically run seasonally and offer the chance to spot orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, and more as they traverse the waters of Puget Sound and beyond.

Best Season:

Though whales can be spotted year-round, the prime times for orca sightings are from May to October. Several tour companies operate out of downtown Seattle, and they often offer guides knowledgeable about the local marine wildlife.

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18. Visit Ballard Locks & Fish Ladder

In Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, you’ll find one of the city’s most fascinating engineering feats—the Ballard Locks. The locks allow boats to pass between Puget Sound and Lake Washington but also offer a glimpse of the migrating salmon as they use a fish ladder to safely make their way upstream.

Wildlife Viewing:

The best time to visit is during salmon migration seasons — typically from June through September — when you can watch these impressive fish make their journey.

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19. Tour Theo Chocolate Factory

If you’re a fan of chocolate, don’t miss Theo Chocolate Factory, located in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood. This ethical, fair-trade chocolatier offers guided tours where you can learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar—and sample plenty of sweet treats along the way.

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20. Explore Volunteer Park Conservatory

In the heart of the trendy Capitol Hill neighborhood, you’ll find the Volunteer Park Conservatory, a Victorian-style greenhouse housing a collection of tropical and desert plants, including rare orchids and cacti.

Fun Fact:

This conservatory, built in 1912, provides an excellent botanical escape in the heart of the city, and its surrounding parklands make for ideal picnic spots.

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21. Walk or Bike Along Burke-Gilman Trail

For an active and scenic day, head to the Burke-Gilman Trail, a 19-mile multi-use trail that connects several of Seattle’s vibrant neighborhoods. Stretching from Ballard down to the University District and further along Lake Washington, this path is beloved by bikers, runners, and walkers alike.

What to See:

Along the trail, you’ll pass incredible scenic spots, including Green Lake and the serene views of Lake Washington.

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22. Visit Fremont Troll

One of Seattle’s quirkiest attractions, the Fremont Troll, lurks beneath the Aurora Bridge in the creatively inclined Fremont neighborhood. The troll, an enormous public art sculpture made of concrete and junk, firmly grasps a real Volkswagen Beetle in its hand.

Fun for All Ages:

Whether you’re taking a selfie with the troll or climbing onto its large hand, this towering creature offers a bit of lighthearted fun for visitors of all ages.

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23. Take a Water Taxi to Alki Beach Park

Seattle’s Alki Beach Park offers a laid-back alternative to urban sightseeing. Take a water taxi from downtown to West Seattle, where you’ll find expansive sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Pro Tip:

Catch the water taxi back to the city after sunset for one of the best views of Seattle’s illuminated skyline reflected on the water.

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24. Explore Olympic Sculpture Park

For art with a view, visit the free outdoor Olympic Sculpture Park, a 9-acre green space filled with striking, larger-than-life sculptures set against the backdrop of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.

Outdoor Art:

Highlights include monumental pieces from artists such as Alexander Calder and Louise Bourgeois, with plenty of seating areas perfect for soaking in both the art and the scenery.

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25. Spend a Day at Seattle Art Museum (SAM)

Cultural buffs should dedicate time to exploring the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), which houses a diverse collection of art spanning centuries and cultures. From ancient Mediterranean artifacts to contemporary installations, the museum is a visual feast for art lovers.

Nearby Attractions:

SAM is located just a short walk from the bustling Pike Place Market, as well as the serene Olympic Sculpture Park, making it a prime location for a day of Seattle sightseeing.

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FAQs

1. What is Seattle best known for?
Seattle is famed for its innovative tech industry, home to giants like Amazon and Microsoft. It’s also renowned for landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, as well as its strong coffee culture.

2. How many days do you need in Seattle?
A minimum of three days is recommended to fully explore major highlights like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and MoPOP, along with some outdoor activities like visiting Discovery Park or taking a day trip to Bainbridge Island.

3. What is there to do in Seattle for free?
Several notable activities in Seattle are free, such as visiting parks like Gas Works Park and Kerry Park, strolling through Olympic Sculpture Park, and exploring Pike Place Market.

4. What food is Seattle famous for?
Seattle excels in its seafood offerings, particularly fresh salmon, oysters, and clam chowder. Don’t miss the famous fish toss at Pike Place Market or try out a local coffee shop for a classic Seattle espresso.

5. When is the best time to visit Seattle?
The summer months from June to September are the best time to visit, as they offer sunshine and fewer rainy days—perfect for outdoor exploration.

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Conclusion

Seattle is a city that offers a little bit of everything. From iconic urban landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market to outdoor adventures just outside the city at Mount Rainier or Lake Union, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a nature lover, or just someone looking to sample some world-class coffee, the Emerald City provides a wide array of experiences. With these 25 things to do in Seattle, you’ll be able to enjoy all this Pacific Northwest gem has to offer—whether for a weekend or a longer stay.