Located between the Puget Sound, the rainy seaport city of Seattle is one of Washington State’s most visited cities. Tourists can experience the city’s rich coffee culture, local music scene, and iconic sights like the Space Needle as they explore. Figure out what to do in Seattle with this helpful travel guide to show you the way!
Considered to be one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and a must see spot in Seattle, travelers shouldn’t miss out on a trip to the Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the iconic landmark architecture was Seattle’s take on the event’s theme of “The Age of Space”. Standing 605ft tall above the city, visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Check out the exciting glass floor experience, which gives you peek into the thrilling downward view of the building.
A foodie’s haven in the city, Pike Place Market is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Seattle. The city’s historic tourist attraction is one of the oldest public farmers’ markets in the United States. From a hot bowl of clam chowder, to smoked salmon, to sweet maple bacon doughnuts, Pike Place Market has a variety of cuisine and dishes available for you to taste. Visitors can also enjoy watching talented street performers or photograph the landmark’s scenic view of Elliot Bay while they roam around.
Home to the impressive and stunning glass artworks of Dale Chihuly, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum to consider when building your trip’s itinerary. Enjoy a closer look at the talented artist’s drawings, signature glass series, and large architectural installations as you roam the museum’s three sections. Enjoy glass blowing demonstrations and behind the scene films at the museum theater. Make sure to stop by the Glass House to see the 100ft long hanging glass artwork, Chihuly’s largest suspended sculpture.
From iconic films to the secrets of music to indie video games, Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture takes visitors through a journey in discovering the magic of contemporary pop culture. Commonly known as MoPOP, the museum is home to impressive interactive exhibits, props, and memorabilia from your favorite pop culture trends. During your visit, get a chance to learn the secrets of fantasy and science fiction films or sing your heart out at the museum’s recording studio. This is one Seattle tourist attraction you wouldn’t want to miss!
Host to many of Seattle’s cultural, educational, sports, and entertainment events and organizations, Seattle Center is the city’s main community events complex. Spanning 74-acres locals and tourists can enjoy roaming the children’s museum, blooming gardens, and shops during their visit. Situated as well in the heart of the complex is the iconic Space Needle landmark, where visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city from the observation deck. Cap off your visit at the Armory, the attractions’s spot for delicious eats and restaurants.
Located in Downtown Seattle, The Olympic Sculpture Park is the city’s popular public park filled with impressive modern art and contemporary sculptures. Managed by the Seattle Art Museum, the outdoor museum allows all visitors to appreciate stunning artworks with the beauty of the city as its backdrop. Situated near the waterfront, the 9-acre park enjoys an unforgettable view of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, free of charge!
One of Seattle’s unique local landmarks, travelers can head to an alley in Pike Place Market to see the Market Theater Gum Wall. The intriguing 50ft long brick wall is covered in used chewing gum, some sections even several inches thick! Made in the 90’s when audience members were waiting in line for an improv show, the attraction has grown over time and expanded down the alleyway. Though an off smell may reach your nose during your visit, its odd concept makes it an unexpectedly must see spot in Seattle.
The Seattle Art Museum is home to an extensive collection of art and temporary installations from all across the world. Visitors are able to get a chance for a closer look at special exhibits, featuring artists like Picasso, Andrew Wyeth, Yayoi Kusama, and more. The museum is also host to many collections that showcase the beauty of the world’s cultures, some of which were impressive Native American and Indigenous Australian art. Located in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum is the main museum out of three managed by the organization.
With all the exciting things to do in Seattle, families should have the Woodland Park Zoo on their list! The 92-acre zoo is home to over 300 kinds of animals, from penguins, snow leopards, grizzly bears, and more! Learn more about each species and how they are taken care with the informative variety of animal exhibits available to explore. The Zoo is also a host to many fun events like concerts and seasonal celebrations, don’t forget to check out what’s on the calendar during your trip.
Discover the magic and wonders of the underwater world and sea life with a visit to Seattle Aquarium. Spot all kinds of marine animals like jellyfish, otters, salmons, octopuses and more while exploring the aquarium’s different exhibits. Look up in awe at the colorful fish swimming above you at the impressive onsite Underwater Dome. The popular Seattle tourist attraction is located on Pier 59, nearby the Elliot Bay waterfront.
Considered to be Washington State’s largest city, Seattle is a popular destination for travelers exploring the West Coast. The seaport city is known for its local music scene, craft breweries, and rich coffee culture, making it easy for tourists to always find something to do while in Seattle.
Despite its rainy weather all year-round, travelers often flock to Seattle during the May to September season for the city’s major annual events. Plan your itinerary around popular celebrations like the Seattle International Film Festival in May, Seafair Summer Festival in July and Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival in September.
Its close distance to most of Seattle’s famous sights like Elliot Bay, Pike Place Market and Central Waterfront, Downtown Seattle is a popular location for tourists to set up their stay when visiting the city. If a more laid back atmosphere and delicious nearby eateries is what you’re after, Capitol Hill is the best place to search for accommodations.