Seattle, often known as the “Emerald City” due to its lush, evergreen surroundings, is a vibrant urban center between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. For those considering things to do in Seattle, ascending the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city’s skyline, mountains, and waters, and exploring Pike Place Market, a bustling historic marketplace offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and the original Starbucks, are top activities.
The city’s Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases the mesmerizing glass artworks of Dale Chihuly. At the same time, the Museum of Pop Culture delves into the world of music, science fiction, and popular culture. Nearby, the Fremont Troll, an iconic public sculpture, adds a touch of whimsy to the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Beyond its urban attractions, Seattle is a gateway to the stunning Pacific Northwest, with its mountains, forests, and islands. Seattle’s blend of innovative spirit, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty makes it a standout destination for those seeking the best places to visit in the USA.
Attractions & Things to Do in Seattle, United States
1. Space Needle
One of the most iconic structures in the United States, the Space Needle stands tall at 605 feet and offers panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and distant mountain ranges. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it has since become a symbol of the city and a must-visit for travelers.
Location: Situated in Seattle Center, easily accessible by monorail, car, and public transport.
Scenic Spot: Offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience or late evening for sunset and city lights.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all; an exciting experience for kids and adults alike.
Price: General admission starts at approximately $35 for adults and $26 for children.
Travel Tip: For a more serene experience and to catch a stunning sunset or sunrise, consider visiting during the early morning or late evening hours.
2. Pike Place Market
Overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront in Seattle, Pike Place Market is a bustling historic district known for its fresh produce, artisanal products, and famous fish-tossing vendors. Since 1907, the market has been a central place for locals and tourists to shop, dine, and explore.
Location: Overlooking Elliott Bay in downtown Seattle, easily walkable and well-connected by public transport.
Scenic Spot: Vibrant market atmosphere with fresh produce, artisan shops, and waterfront views.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all; great for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit; cost depends on shopping and dining choices.
Travel Tip: Weekdays, especially in the morning, are less crowded, providing a more leisurely shopping experience.
3. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Dedicated to the art of Dale Chihuly, this museum showcases a mesmerizing array of glass sculptures, from vibrant chandeliers to intricate garden installations. The exhibits here are colorful and imaginative and offer a one-of-a-kind visual treat.
Location: Adjacent to the Space Needle in Seattle Center, accessible by public transport and car.
Scenic Spot: Stunning glass sculptures in vibrant colors, with a spectacular illuminated garden at night.
Best Time to Visit: Evening visits provide a unique illuminated perspective.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, though younger children may find it less engaging.
Price: General admission starts at approximately $30 for adults and $19 for children.
Travel Tip: To see the sculptures in a different light, visit in the evening when the garden is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.
4. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Formerly known as the EMP Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture is an homage to contemporary popular culture, from music and film to science fiction and video games. The architectural marvel, designed by Frank O. Gehry, is as much a spectacle as the exhibits inside.
Location: Located in Seattle Center, easily accessible via public transport, monorail, or car.
Scenic Spot: Eye-catching architecture and fascinating exhibits on music, films, and gaming culture.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds, particularly in the morning.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for older children, teens, and adults interested in pop culture.
Price: Admission starts at approximately $27 for adults and $18 for children.
Travel Tip: If visiting with family, check out their rotating exhibits, as they often feature fun interactive sections for all ages.
5. Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
SAM boasts an impressive collection of art pieces ranging from ancient to modern. It’s home to diverse artworks from around the globe, including African, Mesoamerican, Native American, European, and Asian art.
Location: Downtown Seattle, within walking distance of many hotels and public transport stops.
Scenic Spot: A diverse collection of art, from ancient to modern masterpieces.
Best Time to Visit: First Thursdays of the month offer free entry; mornings are quieter.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, with interactive exhibits for kids.
Price: General admission starts at approximately $22 for adults and free for children under 14.
Travel Tip: The museum offers free entry on the first Thursday of every month, so plan accordingly if you want to save on admission.
6. Seattle Aquarium
Located on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium offers visitors a glimpse into the marine life of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. From playful sea otters to vibrant coral displays, there’s something for everyone here.
Location: Located on Pier 59 along the waterfront, accessible by foot, car, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Home to sea otters, octopuses, and local marine life, with a great view of Elliott Bay.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings for fewer crowds and better viewing of marine life.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families with young children and marine life enthusiasts.
Price: Admission starts at approximately $36 for adults and $26 for children.
Travel Tip: The daily diver shows, where divers feed and interact with marine life in the Window on Washington Waters exhibit, are particularly captivating.
7. Fremont Troll
Hidden beneath the Aurora Bridge in the quirky Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is a massive public sculpture clutching an actual Volkswagen Beetle. This whimsical artwork has become a favorite quirky landmark among locals and visitors.
Location: Under the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood, accessible by bus or car.
Scenic Spot: A giant, quirky troll sculpture clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime for clear photos, but the nighttime adds an eerie touch.
Suitable for All Ages: Fun for all ages, especially kids who love climbing on sculptures.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visiting during the daytime ensures a better photo opportunity, but it can also be exciting and eerie at night.
8. The Underground Tour
Delve deep into Seattle’s past with this tour that explores the underground pathways of Pioneer Square, remnants of the city’s original streets before the Great Fire of 1889. Learn about the history, legends, and reconstruction efforts of the area.
Location: Starts in Pioneer Square, easily accessible by light rail and public transport.
Scenic Spot: An eerie and educational walk through Seattle’s hidden underground streets.
Best Time to Visit: Midday tours offer the best balance of light and atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for older children and adults due to historical content and uneven terrain.
Price: Tickets start at approximately $25 for adults and $15 for children.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s quite a bit of walking and uneven terrain.
9. Gas Works Park
Once a gasification plant, this area has become a unique public park overlooking Lake Union. It offers a great blend of industrial architecture and green spaces, perfect for picnics and kite flying.
Location: North of Lake Union, easily accessible by car, bike, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: A blend of industrial remnants and green spaces with a stunning view of the Seattle skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views over the lake.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The park is an excellent vantage point for the 4th of July fireworks if you happen to be in Seattle during the summer.
10. Olympic Sculpture Park
Sprawled over nine acres, the Olympic Sculpture Park is an outdoor extension of the Seattle Art Museum. It showcases large-scale sculptures against the backdrop of the Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the city skyline.
Location: Along Seattle’s waterfront, within walking distance from downtown.
Scenic Spot: Open-air sculptures with a beautiful backdrop of Puget Sound and the mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and fewer visitors.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, with plenty of space for kids to run around.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The park is free to enter and is open year-round. Take the zigzag path down to the waterfront from the city to experience all the artwork.
11. Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks)
The Ballard Locks serve as a waterway gateway between the freshwater lakes and the saltwater of Puget Sound. They’re vital for maritime traffic and feature a fish ladder where visitors can watch salmon migrate.
Location: In the Ballard neighborhood, accessible by car and bus.
Scenic Spot: Watch boats pass through the locks and salmon migrate via the fish ladder.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer to see salmon migration.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, with gardens and interactive exhibits for kids.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Spring and summer are the best times to observe the salmon migration. Also, don’t miss the beautiful Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden adjacent to the locks.
12. Pacific Science Center
The Pacific Science Center is a hub for scientific exploration and discovery located at the Seattle Center. It caters to both kids and adults with interactive exhibits, a butterfly house, a planetarium, and IMAX theaters.
Location: Located in Seattle Center, near the Space Needle, accessible by public transit and monorail.
Scenic Spot: Features interactive science exhibits, a butterfly house, and an IMAX theater.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings for a more interactive experience before crowds arrive.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for children and science enthusiasts.
Price: Admission starts at approximately $25 for adults and $17 for children.
Travel Tip: Consider purchasing a CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple attractions in Seattle, as it can provide discounted entry to the Pacific Science Center and other significant sites.
13. Discovery Park
The city’s largest public park, Discovery Park, offers 534 acres of diverse environment, from tidal beaches to forested areas. It’s a haven for nature lovers, providing breathtaking views of the Cascade and the Olympic Mountain ranges.
Location: In the Magnolia neighborhood, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: Expansive park with forests, beaches, and mountain views.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for wildflowers and clear views.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for hiking, birdwatching, and family picnics.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The park has a free shuttle that runs on weekends, making it easier to explore its vast expanse.
14. Seattle Central Library
An architectural marvel in the heart of downtown Seattle, the Seattle Central Library is known for its distinctive glass and steel design. It’s a modern and spacious facility with vast collections and incredible views from its higher floors.
Location: Downtown Seattle, easily accessible by foot, bus, or light rail.
Scenic Spot: A modern glass-and-steel architectural masterpiece.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoons for a peaceful atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Join one of the free public tours to learn more about the building’s unique architecture and design.
15. The Museum of Flight
Housing one of the most extensive air and space collections in the U.S., the Museum of Flight offers an in-depth look into aviation. The exhibits span over a century of flight history, from vintage aircraft to modern space vehicles.
Location: South of downtown Seattle, accessible by car and bus.
Scenic Spot: Home to historic aircraft, including a retired Air Force One.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Fascinating for kids and aviation enthusiasts.
Price: General admission starts at approximately $25 for adults and $17 for children.
Travel Tip: Check out the personal courage wing, highlighting stories of heroism in both World Wars.
16. Washington Park Arboretum
A beautiful and tranquil space, the Washington Park Arboretum spans 230 acres and showcases various plants worldwide. It’s adorable when the cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom in the spring.
Location: Between Capitol Hill and Madison Park, accessible by car and bus.
Scenic Spot: A tranquil space filled with gardens, trails, and rare plants.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and fall for colorful foliage.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, nature lovers, and photographers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Japanese Garden at the nursery’s southern end; it’s a serene setting perfect for reflection.
17. Smith Tower
One of Seattle’s oldest skyscrapers, Smith Tower, offers panoramic city views from its observation deck. Built in 1914, the tower retains its original charm, with a historic elevator and Prohibition-era themed bar.
Location: Pioneer Square, within walking distance of downtown.
Scenic Spot: Historic observation deck with stunning city views.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden-hour lighting.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for history buffs and those who enjoy vintage architecture.
Price: Admission starts at approximately $20 for adults and $15 for children.
Travel Tip: After taking in the views, enjoy a cocktail at the Temperance cafe and bar on the 35th floor, relishing the tower’s rich history.
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Seattle, United States: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Seattle: 8/10 – Seattle offers numerous family-friendly attractions such as the Seattle Aquarium, the Pacific Science Center, and the Museum of Pop Culture. The city’s parks, including Discovery Park and the Woodland Park Zoo, provide ample outdoor space for children to explore and play. The Space Needle and the Seattle Great Wheel are also great for family outings.
Nightlife in Seattle: 8/10 – Seattle has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Areas like Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Pioneer Square are known for their lively night scenes. The city offers everything from craft breweries and rooftop bars to dance clubs and live music, catering to diverse tastes and providing a lively evening atmosphere.
Sport in Seattle: 8/10 – Seattle is a hub for sports enthusiasts, home to major sports teams such as the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Seattle Mariners (MLB), and Seattle Sounders FC (MLS). The city provides facilities for a wide range of sports and outdoor activities, including kayaking on Lake Union, hiking in nearby mountains, and cycling on the Burke-Gilman Trail.
Culture and Attractions in Seattle: 9/10 – Seattle is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the iconic Space Needle, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes numerous theaters, art galleries, and museums such as the Seattle Art Museum, reflecting its diverse heritage and dynamic arts community.
Gastronomy in Seattle: 9/10 – The culinary scene in Seattle is diverse and innovative, featuring a wide range of international cuisines and fresh, local seafood. The city offers numerous dining options, from high-end restaurants to food trucks and casual eateries, providing a rich and varied culinary experience. Pike Place Market is a must-visit for food lovers.
Shopping in Seattle: 8/10 – Shopping in Seattle includes high-end malls like Pacific Place and Westlake Center, as well as unique boutiques in neighborhoods such as Ballard and Capitol Hill. The city offers a variety of products, from fashion and electronics to local crafts and artisanal goods, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
Prices in Seattle: 6/10 – Seattle is known for its high cost of living, with expensive accommodation, dining, and shopping. While there are more affordable options available, particularly for budget-conscious travelers, the overall cost of visiting can be higher compared to other cities in the United States.
Average price for a hotel night: $180
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $15
Price of a beer: $6
Price of a coffee: $4
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Seattle, United States
For those looking to explore beyond the urban vibrance of Seattle, top day trips near Seattle provide a gateway to the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders. The majestic Mount Rainier, the lush landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, and the tranquil beauty of the San Juan Islands are all within reach, offering diverse experiences from hiking to whale watching.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Seattle accommodations offer a variety, from luxurious downtown hotels with sweeping city views to cozy, eco-friendly lodges near outdoor adventures, catering to both urban explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.
FAQ About Things to Do in Seattle, United States
What is the most iconic landmark in Seattle?
The Space Needle is Seattle’s most iconic landmark. Its observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains.
Are there any historical sites to visit in Seattle?
Yes, Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the U.S. The Underground Tour offers a unique perspective on Seattle’s history, taking visitors beneath the streets to explore the city’s original storefronts.
I’m a fan of music. What can I explore in Seattle related to music history?
Seattle is the birthplace of grunge music. You can visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) to explore exhibits of famous Seattle musicians like Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix.
Are there any natural attractions or parks in Seattle?
Absolutely! Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest city park, offering trails, beaches, and beautiful views. The Washington Park Arboretum is another serene spot, especially during cherry blossom season.
I’ve heard about Seattle’s coffee culture. Where can I experience it?
Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks, and you can visit its original store at Pike Place Market. Additionally, the city is home to numerous independent coffee shops and roasters that offer unique blends and brewing methods.
Is there a place to learn about Seattle’s maritime history?
Yes, the Center for Wooden Boats and the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) offer insights into Seattle’s rich maritime history.
I’m interested in art. Are there any art museums or galleries in Seattle?
The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse art collection worldwide. The Olympic Sculpture Park, managed by SAM, is an outdoor museum featuring large-scale sculptures along the waterfront.
What unique neighborhoods can I explore in Seattle?
Seattle has several vibrant neighborhoods, each with its character. Ballard is known for its Scandinavian heritage and historic Ballard Locks. Fremont is quirky and artsy, often called the “Center of the Universe.” Capitol Hill is the city’s LGBTQ+ hub and is filled with trendy bars, eateries, and boutiques.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seattle
https://www.getyourguide.com/seattle-l198/
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