Visiting Seattle? Then you need this list of 30+ things to do in the beautiful city of Seattle from what to see, tours to take, and where to get a drink.
Here’s your travel guide to Seattle, Washington!
What are the must-see sights in Seattle?
Let’s start with the tried and true spots for every travel guide to Seattle. These places may be considered “touristy” but that doesn’t mean they aren’t great spots to see.
Seattle Center & Space Needle
The views from here are iconic, but if you’re afraid of heights you can also just admire the Space Needle from below. And from here you can also make the short walk to see the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
If you do visit the Space Needle, get the discount ticket that also includes the Chihuly Garden. This place is GORGEOUS. If you only have time for one, I would recommend the Chihuly Garden.
Kerry Park
Kerry Park offers beautiful views of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle. You can walk from the Seattle Center to Kerry Park. And then treat yourself to some Molly Moon Ice Cream which is a short walk from Kerry Park.
Seattle’s Famous Pike Place Market
There is so much to see and do in Pike Place Market! If your trip to Seattle falls during the week at all, try to visit during a weekday to avoid the crowds, or get their bright and early on the weekend.
Here’s What to See and Do at Pike Place Market:
- Visit the Gum Wall – add a piece of gum if you dare. I’m personally afraid to even get close to that wall. But it’s worth the short walk to see it in all it’s “beautiful” glory.
- Take a Walking Food Tour – let the pros take you through the market. You’ll be able to sample a variety of dishes and get all the details from a local.
- Get Caffeinated at Starbucks – If you’re a coffee lover, a stop at the Starbucks Roastery is a must.
- Get Refreshed at Rachel’s Ginger Beer – I love ginger beer and Rachel’s Ginger Beer is some of the best. They even offer cocktails.
- Indulge at Beecher’s Cheese – Get the freshly made mac & cheese.
Things to Do Outside in Seattle
Elliott Bay Sea Kayaking Tour
If you love getting out on the water, try a guided sea kayak tour of Elliott Bay. They even offer sunset tours that would be so beautiful during the summer.
Road Trip to Snoqualmie Falls
About 35 minutes outside of the city you can find the incredibly popular Snoqualmie Falls. It’s a 268-foot waterfall to the East of the city and one of the most scenic spots in the area!
Bicycle Tour of Seattle
If you want to see more of the city, try a bicycle tour. There are several with e-bikes that will make the hills much easier on your legs.
Water Taxi Ride
Just like Grey’s Anatomy! Take the Elliot Bay Water Taxi from Pier 50 over to West Seattle. From there you can take a free shuttle to West Seattle Junction or Alki Beach Park. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, I really recommend Alki Beach to enjoy the sand and to catch a beautiful sunset.
Bellevue Botanical Garden
Another spot outside of Seattle’s main tourist attractions, but a visit to Bellevue Botanical Garden is worth the trek if you have the time. Afterwards, explore all that Bellevue has to offer.
Kubota Garden
A 20-acre Japanese garden in the Rainier Beach neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. The garden was started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, a Japanese emigrant.
Seward Park
A Southeast Seattle gem – this park offers many bike and walking trails. If you’re visiting for a longer trip and want to take a leisurely walk or bike ride then this is the spot.
Pioneer Square and Underground Tour
This tour takes you below the streets into the tunnel system under Seattle for a completely unique way to explore the city.
Arts and More in Seattle
Take the free self-guided Fremont Art Walk
Yes, you’ll see the Fremont Troll – as you must!
I personally could have (and did) wander around Fremont for hours – I just really loved the vibes in this neighborhood. Here’s the official guide to the Fremont Walking Art Tour.
Visit the Museum of Pop Culture
For anyone who loves music and pop culture, you ought to spend a few hours at the Museum of Pop Culture. It’s also in Seattle Center so you can drop in after seeing the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden.
Theo Chocolate Factory Tour
A unique experience for chocolate lovers! You can pretend to be Willy Wonka with the Theo Factory Experience at their location in Fremont. You’ll taste your way “from the cocoa farm to the chocolate bar.”
Have Some Fun and Some Drinks in Seattle
Seattle is home to many amazing craft breweries. Some favorites are:
- Pike Brewing Company – a classic spot
- Fremont Brewing’s Urban Garden – what can I say? I really love Fremont. But also love that they have a great outdoor space here.
- Add-A-Ball Arcade Bar – this isn’t a brewery, but had to be included in my recommendations. This Arcade Bar is the perfect spot to relax and rest in-between sightseeing. It’s located in Fremont.
- MBar – a great rooftop bar in South Lake Union. It has sweeping views and an artsy vibe.
- Mr. Darcy’s Wine Bar in Belltown is a cozy craft cocktail spot perfect for catching up with friends or getting to know a date.
- Flatstick Pub in South Lake Union & Pioneer Square is perfect for groups or a fun casual night. They have indoor mini golf plus other games for an entertaining evening.
- Needle and Thread Speakeasy in Capitol Hill offers reservations made up to 7 days in advance and will make you whatever handcrafted cocktail you might be craving.
- Bathtub Gin Co. in Belltown has very limited seating, but it’s worth stopping in to enjoy the cozy, speakeasy vibes. You can sip on local gin and tonics (my fave) or let the bartender make you something creative.
No matter what you do in Seattle, you really can’t go wrong in this beautiful city. I hope you enjoy your visit!
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There are many interesting places in Seattle. Of course, what you said is very interesting. The space needle is a must-see attraction.