THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SEATLE.
We were only in Seattle for 3 days in our short getaway. We did not get a chance to see everything. But if you have more time we suggest you select from the following list. Here are the 10 best things to see when visiting Seattle, combining iconic landmarks with local favorites for a well-rounded trip to the Emerald City.
1. Gaze from the Top of the Space Needle
No visit to Seattle is complete without a trip to its most iconic landmark. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, this 605-foot tower offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and on clear days, the majestic Mount Rainier . The recently renovated observation deck features floor-to-ceiling glass walls and the world's first and only rotating glass floor, offering a thrilling new perspective . For the best experience, time your visit for sunset to watch the city lights twinkle on .
2. Immerse Yourself in Art and Light at Chihuly Garden and Glass
Located right next to the Space Needle, this breathtaking museum showcases the incredible studio glass work of local artist Dale Chihuly . The exhibits feature stunning, large-scale sculptures in a riot of colors and shapes. The installation is split between a dark, dramatic indoor gallery and an outdoor garden where the glass pieces seem to grow naturally among the plants . The centerpiece Glasshouse is a spectacular, light-filled space with a view of the Space Needle. Visiting at night is particularly magical, as the sculptures are dramatically lit .
3. Dive into the Hustle and Bustle of Pike Place Market
A true cultural and culinary heart of the city, Pike Place Market is a must-visit. Established in 1907, this historic nine-acre district is a feast for the senses . Watch fishmongers famously toss huge salmon, browse stalls filled with fresh flowers and local produce, and explore the many shops and artisan stalls . Don't forget to grab a photo in front of the original Starbucks store, but be prepared for a line . For a more authentic experience, visit on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds .
4. Explore Pop Culture at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Housed in a striking, architecturally wild building designed by Frank Gehry, MoPOP is an interactive celebration of all things pop culture . Dive deep into the history of Northwest music with exhibits dedicated to legends like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. You can also geek out over extensive collections of sci-fi and fantasy memorabilia or even try your hand at playing instruments in the Sound Lab . It's an engaging experience for music lovers, film buffs, and gamers alike.
5. Ride a Ferry for the Best View of the City
For a true local experience and arguably the best view of the Seattle skyline, hop on a Washington State Ferry . You don't need to go far; simply taking a round-trip as a walk-on passenger to Bainbridge Island is perfect. The 35-minute ride offers stunning, unobstructed views of the city as it recedes into the distance, framed by the Olympic Mountains . Once on the island, you can explore the charming town center, grab a coffee, and catch the next ferry back.
6. Discover Seattle's Oldest Neighborhood in Pioneer Square
Just south of downtown, Pioneer Square is where Seattle began. This historic neighborhood is characterized by its beautiful Romanesque brick architecture and quaint cobblestone streets . It's a great place to browse art galleries, cozy bookstores, and cafes. A must-do here is Bill Speidel's Underground Tour, a fascinating and humorous walk through the subterranean storefronts and passageways that were once the city's main streets before the Great Fire of 1889 . You can also visit Smith Tower, the city's oldest skyscraper, for a drink in its charming observatory bar with stunning 360-degree views .
7. Enjoy Panoramic City Views from Kerry Park
For that postcard-perfect shot of the Seattle skyline with the Space Needle front and center and Mount Rainier looming in the background (weather permitting), head to Kerry Park . This small, hillside park in the Queen Anne neighborhood offers a world-famous view and is a favorite spot for photographers and couples, especially at sunset . It's a quick and easy stop that delivers one of the most iconic images of the city.
8. Stroll Through History and Nature at the Ballard Lounds (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks)
A fascinating feat of engineering, the Ballard Locks connect the saltwater of Puget Sound with the freshwater of Lake Union and Lake Washington . You can spend a relaxing hour or two watching boats of all sizes get raised or lowered between the different water levels. Adjacent to the locks is a beautiful botanical garden and a fish ladder, where you can observe salmon migrating upstream through an underwater viewing window, particularly impressive in late summer .
9. Walk Through a Living Sculpture Garden at Olympic Sculpture Park
This nine-acre green space, a free public extension of the Seattle Art Museum, transforms a former industrial site into a stunning outdoor art experience . Take a stroll along the walking paths and discover monumental contemporary sculptures set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound . It's a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon walk that combines art and nature.
10. See the Quirky Side of Seattle: The Fremont Troll
Seattle has a wonderfully weird side, and it's best embodied by the Fremont Troll . Lurking beneath the north end of the Aurora Bridge, this massive, mixed-media sculpture clutches a real Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. It's a fun, quick photo opportunity and a great starting point for exploring the Fremont neighborhood, known for its eclectic shops, street art, and lively Sunday market .
I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Seattle! Are you interested in any particular neighborhood or type of activity, like the best coffee shops or family-friendly options?
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