If you’re looking for a great Seattle Travel experience, you’ve come to the right place. Seattle is a vibrant city that offers an abundance of exciting activities and attractions for locals and tourists alike. From outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to gastronomic delights and nightlife, Seattle truly is the Emerald City. Read on to discover the top fun things to do in Seattle.
Visit the Seattle Waterfront
The Seattle Waterfront is a great spot for visiting today’s Seattle. Once home to many of the city’s major ports and industrial sites, the Seattle Waterfront is now a vibrant hub for people watching, restaurants and boat viewing. Spend time visiting the Seattle Aquarium, taking a ferry ride, or explore the piers and parks for unique views.
Explore Pike Place Market
No visit to Seattle would be complete without a trip to Pike Place Market. This historic site has been around since 1907 and is one of the oldest public marketplaces in America. Spend the day getting lost among the stalls of fresh seafood, grocery items, flowers and more. Or, if looking for more entertainment, you’ll find plenty of street performers and great restaurants.
Visit Seattle’s Museums
As the cultural hub of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle has much to offer for art and culture lovers. The city is home to a variety of world-class museums, such as the Seattle Art Museum, The Burke Museum, the Museum of Pop Culture, The Henry Art Gallery and much more. Visit them one at a time or consider purchasing a CityPass to save even more money.
Take a Cruise to the San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are located north of Seattle and provide a great day trip option. Go whale watching or explore the natural landscapes of these remote islands. Rent a kayak and discover hidden coves or get an up close look at the islands on a captained sailing trip. There’s something for everyone on the San Juan Islands.
Visit the Space Needle
Rising over 605 feet, the Space Needle is a Seattle destination that no traveler should miss. Built in conjunction with Seattle’s 1962 World’s Fair, today it serves as a lookout tower with panoramic views of the city and Mount Rainier. Take the elevator to the observation deck and enjoy the view or have a meal at SkyCity, the rotating restaurant located at the top of the Needle.
Spend Some Time on the Streets of Pioneer Square
For those seeking a more historical Seattle travel experience, then head to the cobblestone street of Pioneer Square in downtown. Here you’ll find a mix of shops, cafes, galleries and restaurants. Take a stroll through the many small alleyways, or explore the iron and wood buildings for a bit of the city’s history.
Check Out the Best Coffee Shops
There is no shortage of great coffee shops in Seattle. Spend the morning sipping on a cup of the city’s famous brews while exploring the city. Start off your day at Starbucks Reserve, the slightly more upscale version of the global coffee giant. Another local favorite is Cafe Ladro or you can check out one of the many specialty coffee shops in the city with unique offerings like cold brew ice cream.
Unwind at Green Lake
Take a few hours to relax and soak in the sun at green lake. This 2.8 mile-long urban lake is a great spot for both hikers and bikers alike. Rent a paddleboat, canoe or kayak to traverse the peaceful waters, or watch the sunset from the boardwalk. Families can also enjoy the adjacent park for additional outdoor activities.
Visit Ballard Locks
The Ballard Locks are a great way for travelers to explore Seattle’s nautical roots. Built in 1917, the locks are used today to keep the salt water below it from mixing with the fresh water from the lake above. The locks are a great chance to watch boats transit between the ocean and the lake, and you can also view varieties of fish at the Fish Ladder.
Take a Trip to Seattle’s International District
This diverse part of downtown Seattle is home to Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and Filipino cultures. Take a stroll along Chinatown-International District to explore the unique restaurants, cafes, stores and markets. The area also features the Wing Luke Museum which shares the stories of the city’s pan-Asian American community, as well as the Chinese Reconciliation Park which highlights Seattle’s history of Asian immigration.
Catch A Mariners Baseball Game
Located just south of downtown Seattle, Safeco Field is a must for any baseball lover. Catch a game between the Seattle Mariners, have some classic ballpark food and spend a few hours enjoying America’s favorite pastime.
Fish and chips, local seafood, and even spicy ramen all form part of Seattle’s varied culinary scene. Sink your teeth into some tasty halibut at Ray’s Boathouse or enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen at one of the many ramen restaurants around town. For those looking for something a bit more unique, try some smoked salmon dip, a classic Seattle dish.
Take a Trip to Seattle’s Islands
What better way to explore Seattle’s marine life than by taking a trip to one of its nearby islands? If you have a bit of time to spare then consider taking a ferry, kayak or private boat out to one of the many islands, including Bainbridge Island and the Lopez Island. Here you can do some beachcombing, enjoy a picnic or even find some geological oddities.
Get High in the Sky
If you’re looking for a unique way to get a great view of the city then take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel. Located on Pier 57, the wheel stands at 175 feet, providing visitors with incredible views of the city. For an even more unique perspective, opt for a scenic Segway tour which will take you around areas including Pioneer Square and the Waterfront. Exploring Seattle is a memorable experience for any traveler, and there’s no shortage of activities and attractions to keep you busy. From outdoor adventures to great food, your Seattle travel experience will provide many lasting memories. So add Seattle to your travel plans and start exploring the best the city has to offer.