Seattle is a vibrant city filled with endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned local or new to the area, there’s always something new to discover. From iconic landmarks to stunning outdoor activities, this guide will take you through the top 10 things to do in Seattle.
Looking for an unforgettable and exciting experience? We’ve got you covered. This Seattle travel guide highlights the city’s must-see places, attractions, and points of interest, so you can make the most of your visit. Whether you’re into sightseeing, outdoor activities, or city tours, Seattle has something for everyone. So grab your camera and let’s dive into the top 10 things to do in Seattle, the Emerald City.
1. Visit the Space Needle
When visiting Seattle, a trip to the Space Needle is a must. As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, it offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains.
The Space Needle was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair, and at the time, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. Take a ride up to the observation deck where you can enjoy the 360-degree views of Seattle, as well as the beauty of Mount Rainier and the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
For coffee lovers, the observation deck also features a Starbucks coffee shop so that you can take your time up there and enjoy the views while sipping a cup of coffee.
Space Needle Information
| Address: | 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Admission: | General admission starts at $32 per adult |
“The views from the Space Needle were spectacular. Being able to see the entire city of Seattle and the surrounding mountains was an unforgettable experience.”
2. Explore Pike Place Market
One of the most famous Seattle landmarks is the Pike Place Market, a lively spot that should be at the top of your list of Seattle attractions. The market offers an unforgettable sensory exploration of fresh seafood, baked goods, fruits and vegetables, antiques, and other artisan goods.
| What to See | What to Do | Where to Eat |
|---|---|---|
| The Original Starbucks – the first Starbucks store opened in 1971 | Watch the Fish Throwing – vendors throw fish for customers, a quintessential Seattle experience. | Le Panier – a beloved French bakery with mouthwatering pastries and bread. |
| Rachel the Piggy Bank – a prominent bronze sculpture named after a beloved market pig | Explore the Market Magic Shop – a fascinating shop filled with tricks, illusions, and puzzles. | Piroshky, Piroshky Bakery – an iconic Russian bakery, famous for their fresh and savory meat or vegetarian pastries. |
Make sure you don’t miss the chance to witness the famous fish throwing at the Pike Place Fish Market. The vendors shout, joke and catch the fish before throwing it to each other, an experience fit for showcasing on your social media.
3. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island
Hop on a ferry for a scenic ride to beautiful Bainbridge Island. This idyllic island is just a short ferry ride away from Seattle and offers numerous outdoor activities to explore, making it a great day trip destination. Once you arrive, head to the charming downtown area, filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Take a relaxing stroll along the Waterfront Trail or hike through the picturesque landscapes of Bainbridge Island’s Grand Forest. For incredible views of the Seattle skyline, we highly recommend visiting the Bloedel Reserve, a stunning public garden showcasing a variety of flora and fauna.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the island’s unique history by visiting the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum. Learn about the island’s rich Native American history, Japanese American community, and more. Bainbridge Island is the perfect destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the city.
4. Discover the Chihuly Garden and Glass
One of the top Seattle attractions that you cannot miss is the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Here, you’ll be transported to a mesmerizing world of glass art created by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The glass sculptures and installations are displayed throughout indoor and outdoor galleries, showcasing the wonder and beauty of the medium.
When visiting the Chihuly Garden and Glass, make sure to check out the Glasshouse, where a 100-foot-long suspended sculpture made of more than 1,000 colorful glass pieces dazzles in the natural light. Don’t miss the Garden either, where you can wander through a lush landscape decorated with stunning glass flowers, vines, and other botanical-inspired art pieces.
Featuring unique and awe-inspiring exhibits, the Chihuly Garden and Glass is one of the must-see Seattle landmarks. Make sure you add it to your Seattle travel guide.
5. Experience the Museum of Pop Culture
Looking for a unique experience that celebrates music, science fiction, and video games in the city? The Museum of Pop Culture is a must-see attraction that will transport you to the world of popular culture.
The Museum of Pop Culture, also known as MoPOP, features interactive exhibits and engaging displays that bring music and science fiction to life. Explore the Sound Lab, where you can record your own music and jam out to popular instruments. Check out the Guitar Gallery, featuring rare and famous guitars from popular bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Master of Puppets.
If you’re a fan of science fiction, don’t miss the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame exhibit, which showcases artifacts from some of the most beloved science fiction films, TV shows, and books. Additionally, you can also dive into the world of video games with the Indie Game Revolution exhibit, where you can play the latest indie games.
Explore the rich and vibrant history of music, science fiction, and video games at the Museum of Pop Culture. Don’t miss out on this one of a kind attraction in Seattle!
6. Walk through the Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum is a must-see attraction for art enthusiasts. This renowned museum features an extensive and diverse collection of artwork from around the world, offering visitors a glimpse into different cultures and time periods. From classical to contemporary, the museum showcases a broad range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more.
Some of the notable highlights of the Seattle Art Museum include the extensive Native American art gallery, the impressive collection of European paintings, and the stunning outdoor sculpture garden. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and special events throughout the year, providing visitors with new and exciting experiences each visit.
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply appreciate the beauty of masterpieces, the Seattle Art Museum is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Book your visit to this iconic attraction today, and prepare to be amazed by the stunning artwork on display.
7. Enjoy Nature at Discovery Park
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at Discovery Park. Located on Magnolia Bluff, this stunning park offers over 500 acres of beaches, forests, and meadows to explore. With breathtaking panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, Discovery Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Discovery Park is home to over 11 miles of trails, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and discover the wide variety of plants and animals that inhabit the area. With ecological restoration programs in place, the park is committed to preserving the natural environment.
Whether you’re hiking, bird watching, or having a picnic, Discovery Park is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this park that offers a serene retreat from the city.
8. Take a Ride on the Seattle Great Wheel
Take a break from busy city life and marvel at the beauty of Seattle from the iconic Seattle Great Wheel. This waterfront Ferris wheel provides spectacular views of the bustling city and Elliot Bay.
Standing at a height of 175 feet, the Seattle Great Wheel is open throughout the year, with enclosed gondolas to protect against the elements. Take a leisurely ride and make sure to soak in the breathtakingly beautiful views of Seattle landmarks such as the Space Needle and Mount Rainier.
Whether you’re seeking a serene escape or adventure, the Seattle Great Wheel offers an unparalleled experience, with unparalleled photo opportunities. So, don’t miss the chance to experience Seattle’s splendid skyline from a unique perspective.
9. Explore the Underground Tunnels in Pioneer Square
Step back in time and discover the hidden history of Seattle by exploring the Underground Tunnels in Pioneer Square. As you wander through the intriguing subterranean passages, you’ll learn about the city’s origins and its colorful past. This unique and unforgettable experience is not to be missed.
Led by entertaining and knowledgeable tour guides, you’ll travel back to the late 19th century and experience what life was like in Seattle’s early years. The tunnels were once used for storage and transportation before the streets were raised and rebuilt. Today, they are a fascinating reminder of the city’s past and an iconic Seattle attraction.
Not only do the Underground Tunnels offer a glimpse into Seattle’s past, but they also house several unique shops and restaurants. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the city’s oldest bars, explore a quirky antique store, or find the perfect souvenir to take home.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the twisting passageways and be prepared to go underground to experience a side of Seattle’s history that is not to be missed. The Underground Tunnels in Pioneer Square are a true Seattle landmark and one of the city’s most intriguing attractions.
Conclusion
Seattle boasts a variety of attractions, landmarks, and outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination. From iconic landmarks like the Space Needle to charming local markets like Pike Place, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, make sure to add these top 10 things to do to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore Seattle’s rich art and cultural scene at the Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle Art Museum, and Museum of Pop Culture. If you’re a nature lover, make sure to check out Discovery Park for stunning views of Puget Sound and miles of trails to explore.
If you’re looking for a unique perspective of the city, take a ride on the iconic Seattle Great Wheel or explore the underground tunnels in Pioneer Square. No matter what you choose to do, visiting these Seattle must-see places will make your trip a memorable one.
So go ahead and plan your Seattle travel guide itinerary today, and get ready to experience the best of Seattle attractions and tourist spots!
