Things to Do in Seattle

Choose from 50 Fun Things to Do in Seattle

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park covers a huge swath of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, encompassing rugged coastline, towering mountain ranges, temperate rain forests, and wildflower-filled lowland meadows. Home to some of the biggest stretches of old-growth forest remaining in the US, this misty Pacific Northwest park is the ultimate outdoor escape.

The Basics

Olympic National Park sprawls over 1,400 square miles (3,626 square kilometers) of green-soaked Washington wilderness. Hike through the park’s extensive network of trails, backpack along the coastline, or kayak through its many rivers. Adrenaline junkies can head to the Olympic Mountains for mountaineering or venture out on a mountain biking excursion from nearby Port Angeles. For a deeper understanding of the area, stroll through the park with a naturalist guide on a small-group Olympic National Park tour from Seattle. Or leave long lines and traffic behind on an Olympic Mountains Seaplane Tour from Lake Washington, on which you can cruise over Mt. Olympus, Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rain Forest, and the Pacific Ocean.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you plan to hike, wear shoes suitable for rough, wet terrain, and dress for the weather.
Dogs are permitted only on specified trails, and must always be on leash.
Campfires and wood-burning camp stoves are allowed only below 3,500 feet (1,067 meters).
If you plan to stay overnight, make sure to store all food, garbage, and scented items in a secure bear canister.
Many areas of the park—including over eight trails and multiple visitor centers, lookout points, and ranger stations—are accessible to wheelchair users. See the National Park Service website for more details.

How to Get There

By road, Olympic National Park is roughly 20 minutes from Port Angeles, one hour from Olympia, two hours from Tacoma and Port Townsend, and 2.5 hours from Seattle. The nearest airports are William R. Fairchild International Airport (Port Angeles) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

When to Get There

Olympic National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. June through September is the busiest season, when most roads and visitor facilities are open and the mild weather is perfect for outdoor activities. During the winter, the park’s famous Hurricane Ridge is a major draw for snow sports such as snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

Things to Do Near Port Angeles

Located just 20 minutes north of Olympic National Park, Port Angeles is a popular jumping-off point for wilderness activities. Don’t miss Lake Crescent, a deep glacial lake nestled in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains. Nearby, the famous Marymere Falls thunders 90 feet (27 meters) down a mossy, fern-laden ravine. Port Angeles is also the starting point of the Olympic Discovery Trail, a hiking-and-biking pathway that extends 140 miles (225 kilometers) west to La Push on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

600 East Park Ave., Port Angeles, Washington 98362, USA

Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

$10 per person; $25 per vehicle

From $ 70

Original Starbucks

Arguably the world’s most famous coffee chain, Starbucks got its start in 1971 in downtown Seattle—it’s one of the reasons the city is synonymous with coffee. There’s often a line out the door at what’s called the original location, with coffee drinkers eager to say they’ve had a cup of joe at the birthplace of a worldwide phenomenon.

The Basics

Though not actually the first Starbucks location, this is the so-called original, the oldest remaining store of the thousands around the world. Located in famous Pike Place Market, this Starbucks is a tourist draw and has a feel unlike any other. Often you’ll find buskers playing lively music just outside the front door.

Throwback logos are the theme here, and the decor takes a similar bent. The bar is covered in leather sourced from scrap at nearby shoe and automobile manufacturers; the walnut on the doors, tables, and bar top came from a local farm; and the signage on the bar is recycled slate from an area high school. In all, it’s a humble birthplace for a commercial powerhouse.

Things to Know Before You Go

The original Starbucks is often crowded, with a line out the door. It moves quickly, but if you want to avoid it altogether, come first thing in the morning.
The café is a draw for tourists of all stripes, but coffee buffs and Starbucks fans will especially love it.
Pike Place Market and the original Starbucks are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get Here

Located in Pike Place Market, in downtown Seattle, the original Starbucks sits at 102 Pike Street, near the corner of 1st and Pike. It’s easily accessible on foot or by a slew of Seattle city buses running through downtown.

When to Get Here

The café is small and gets crowded quickly. Come in the early morning hours, before the downtown area has truly woken up and filled with tourists, though if you do encounter a line, know that it moves quickly.

About Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a worthwhile diversion if you’re visiting the original Starbucks. Opened in 1907, the sprawling marketplace is one of the country’s oldest continuously operated public farmers markets. In addition to fresh produce, dozens of stalls sell fresh flowers, jams, honey, jerky, pasta, olive oil, and more. Craftspeople offer worthwhile souvenirs, and small, independently owned restaurants and shops make up several levels of the market.

1912 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA, USA

From $ 66

Myrtle Edwards Park

Not far from the bustle of Seattle’s Space Needle, there is a public park on the bay where the focus is on wildlife and nature. The 4.8-acre Myrtle Edwards Park stretches along Elliott Bay and is known for its 1.25-mile paved walking and cycling path, and for the many opportunities to see eagles, herons and other wildlife.

The park was originally called Elliott Bay Park, but was renamed in 1976 for Myrtle Edwards. Edwards had been a prominent member of Seattle’s city council, where she fought for the preservation of the city’s natural spaces. Located between the park and the Space Needle is the Olympic Sculpture Park, a nine-acre park of outdoor art installations that opened in 2007.

Practical Info

Myrtle Edwards Park is open 24 hours a day. From the Space Needle, walk along Broad Street until you reach the water and the park.

3130 Alaskan Way, Seattle, Washington 98121, USA

Daily

From $ 66

Leavenworth

Longing for some Bavarian food, drink and entertainment, but can't make it all the way to Germany? Head to Leavenworth, Washington, instead.

Leavenworth is a city known for its downtown area that is designed like a Bavarian village in southern Germany. Stroll down the streets bordered by wooden beam-framed buildings with frescoes painted on the side just like you might see in an authentic Germany village.

Leavenworth has restaurants serving up Bavarian cuisine such as schnitzel and German beer. Traditional German folk entertainment that incorporates music and dance can also often be found along the streets of Leavenworth. Check before you choose your dates for visiting if there will be a festival or performance while you're there so you don't miss out on this fun form of entertainment.

Wine tasting is also a popular past time in Leavenworth. The city is home to several tasting rooms serving up vintages from the wineries and vineyards of the nearby Leavenworth Valley Wine Country. You can do tasting tours in the city or ones that will drive you around to the different wineries in the valley.

Practical Info

Leavenworth is located in central Washington, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Seattle and is easily accessible by car. Accommodations range from motor home parks to B&Bs to luxury resorts.

Leavenworth, Washington, USA

From $ 83

Seattle Art Museum

A world-class institution, the Seattle Art Museum is a must-see on a visit to Seattle. It’s mega amount of gallery space displays its eclectic collections in a unique, cohesive way rather than being, as it used to call itself, “a collection of collections.”

Upon entering the Seattle Art Museum, you’ll feel a palpable sense of excitement in the air. Above the ticket counter hangs Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang's Inopportune: Stage One, a series of white cars exploding with neon. (Yes, actual cars. It's a big room.) Deeper inside, one of the nation’s premier collections of Northwest Coast Indian at and artifacts unfolds. You could spend a few hours exploring this collection. Other highlights include its European and American art collections and its Northwestern contemporary art collection.

Between the two museum entrances (one in the old building and one in the new) is now the “art ladder,” a free space with various installations cascading down a wide stepped hallway.

Practical Info

The Seattle Art Museum is in downtown Seattle, just a few blocks up from Waterfront Park. The museum has both a restaurant and café that make for cool breaks during a visit. The SAM shop sells interesting jewelry, toys, arts, and gifts from Seattle designers as well as designers from around the world. The bus or streetcar will take you there.

1300 First Avenue, Seattle 98101, USA

Open Wednesday through Sunday; closed Monday and Tuesday

From $ 75

Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens’ infamous eruption on the morning of May 18, 1980, punched a 1,300-foot (396-meter) hole in the volcano and sent fire and ash raining down the mountainside. Visitors today can view the mountain’s crater, spot wildlife, see the country’s youngest glacier, and witness the surrounding forest’s recovery.

The Basics

Mount St. Helens is protected as a National Monument, preserving its forests, meadows, glacier, and crater. Visitors can pick from among numerous hiking trails ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging, including an option to climb the mountain and peer into its crater. The drive toward the crater is breathtaking, and visitor centers along the way educate you about the blast and the area’s recovery.

Visit independently or join a group or private tour from Seattle that includes round-trip transportation. Most full-day excursions include a visit to the blast site, the Johnston Ridge Observatory, a walk along Eruption Trail, and a gourmet picnic.

Things to Know Before You Go

Visiting Mount St. Helens will enthrall a range of travelers, including families with young children, serious hikers, photographers, and geology buffs.
Wear layered clothing, as alpine weather can change quickly. The Pacific Northwest is often rainy, so a raincoat is advisable.
Mount St. Helens’ visitor centers are easily accessible by car. Visitor centers have restrooms, helpful staff, and gift shops.

How to Get There

Mount St. Helens is located 96 miles (154 kilometers) south of Seattle and 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of Portland. To access the Monument Visitor Centers and Johnston Ridge, take I-5 to Castle Rock, exiting onto Highway 504, which dead-ends at the Johnston Ridge Observatory.

When to Get There

Mount St. Helens and the surrounding area see significant snowfall in winter; summer is the best time to visit. The visitor centers close seasonally during winter and reopen during late spring. The area is busiest on weekends in July and August; to avoid crowds, visit on a weekday.

Best Hikes Around Mount St. Helens

To view the blast zone, walk the Hummocks Trail, a flat 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) round-trip hike. For a longer stroll with crater views, trek the 8-mile (13-kilometer) Harry’s Ridge trail near Johnston Ridge Observatory. Duck into Ape Caves, eerie lava tubes on the mountain’s southern flank. A 10-mile (16-kilometer) adventure, requiring knowledge of alpine environments and snow travel, brings you to the peak. Obtain a permit through the Forest Learning Center located off Highway 504.

USA

From $ 263

Safeco Field

Safeco Field is the home of the Mariners baseball team, and the stadium is located just south of the city center in Seattle. The Seattle Mariners’ original home, the Kingdome, was replaced in the 1990s by Safeco Field, which hosted its first Major League Baseball game in 1999. The stadium holds more than 47,000 spectators for baseball games, and features a retractable roof.

Among the attractions at Safeco Field - besides the baseball games themselves - are the Mariners Hall of Fame, the Baseball Museum of the Pacific Northwest, and the many baseball-related pieces of artwork on display throughout the stadium.

Practical Info

Safeco Field is in what’s known as the “SoDo” neighborhood - South of Downtown - and is easily reached via public transportation. One-hour tours of the stadium are available April-October at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm (except on game days); and November-March at 12:30pm and 2:30pm Tuesday-Sunday. Admission for the tour is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $8 for children ages 3-12.

1250 1st Avenue South, Seattle, Washington 98134, USA

Tours April-Oct 10:30am, 12:30, 2:30pm (except on game days); Nov-March 12:30pm, 2:30pm Tuesday-Sunday

Tours $10 for Adults, $9 for Seniors & $8 for Children 3-12

From $ 70

Pike Place Market

Every day from dawn to dusk, Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market buzzes with locals and tourists alike, who come to browse the 150 stalls of fresh seafood, produce, flowers, artisanal products, and local art, plus see the numerous street performers wandering throughout.

The Basics

The best way to experience Seattle’s top gastronomic attraction is by sampling your way through it. Guided tasting tours, cooking classes, and cultural walking tours of the market are all excellent ways to take in the sights and sounds while trying a little bit of everything that’s on offer. It’s even possible to book an early-access tour to avoid the crowds or take a chef-guided food tour for professional guidance. On a Pike Place Market tour, you can taste original foods crafted by local artisans, see the famous fish throwers toss around ultra-fresh fish, and even find some hidden gems you might not discover on your own.

Things to Know Before You Go

The main and north arcades are the most popular areas at Pike Place Market.
Save some pocket change for Rachel, the bronze charity piggy bank that serves as Pike Place Market’s unofficial mascot. Look for her under the Public Market Center sign.
For a little respite or a picnic lunch, head over to Victor Steinbrueck Park, at the north end of the market at the intersection of Pike Place, Virginia Street, and Western Avenue. (Look for the two towering totem poles.) Other nearby nearby attractions include the Seattle Art Museum, Waterfront Park, and the Seattle Aquarium.

How to Get There

Pike Place Market is located in downtown Seattle on the waterfront, at First Avenue between Pike and Pine streets. The market is accessible via bus and streetcar. An information booth is located below the Pike Place Market sign, where you can pick up a free guide and market map.

When to Get There

Because the majority of the action at Pike Place Market takes place indoors, it’s a great place to visit all year-round. The market is open from dawn to dusk and is always bustling, but you can often avoid the crowds by visiting on weekday mornings.

Classic Fish Throwing at Pike Place

One of the most entertaining spectacles are the seafood stalls, where fishmongers throw salmon and other fish to each other rather than passing them by hand. When a customer places an order, an employee at the ice-covered fish table picks up the fish and theatrically hurls it over the countertop so it goes flying through the air to another employee who catches it and preps it for sale. Vendors can pack fish for travel and can ship throughout the US.

Between Western Avenue, 1st Avenue, and Pike Street, Downtown, Seattle 98101, USA

From $ 15

Seattle Aquarium

The cold, dark waters around Seattle hide an abundance of marine life, from orca whales to giant Pacific octopus to otters and salmon. The Seattle Aquarium helps visitors access this rich underwater world without getting wet. The experience involves touch tanks, daily dive shows, and plenty of exhibits showing off the area’s sea life.

The Basics

Visitors to the Seattle Aquarium can view exhibits showing off animals like jellyfish, sea otters, octopus, puffins, seals, and an array of fish. You might plan your visit around a daily-occurring activity, such as octopus feeding, diver shows, children’s story time, and talks on various ocean science topics.

Visitors must purchase a ticket to enter, with discounts available for children, seniors, active military, and disabled visitors. A CityPASS card—a 5-attraction ticket that includes the aquarium, plus skip-the-lines entry—is also available. Or, see the aquarium along with other highlights in a short city tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Seattle Aquarium appeals to many types of travelers, including families with kids and ocean science buffs.
The Seattle Aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and there are ASL interpreters and sighted tour guides for deaf, blind, and visually impaired groups.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture your unforgettable memories here.

How to Get There

The Seattle Aquarium is located at 1483 Alaskan Way, on Pier 59, just below Pike Place Market. If you drive, there’s 4-hour metered parking along Alaskan Way, and numerous parking garages a short walk away. King County Metro bus 99 stops on Alaskan Way in front of the aquarium.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Seattle Aquarium is weekdays and weekends after 2pm. Summers tend to be the busiest time to visit, with fewer visitors on winter weekdays.

Other Attractions Nearby

Nearby Pike Place Market’s historic collection of shops and restaurants can help fill a day in Downtown Seattle. The ferry terminals along the waterfront, a short walk from the Seattle Aquarium, whisk passengers to Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, and West Seattle.

1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, Washington 98101, USA

Varies

From $ 89

Pacific Science Center

Situated under the iconic Space Needle, Seattle’s Pacific Science Center is a museum of delight, wonder, and mystery. Visitors can explore the diversity of life in a tropical butterfly house, gaze at the stars in the planetarium, test their puzzle-solving skills in the Puzzle Palooza, and explore hundreds of hands-on exhibits.

The Basics

The Pacific Science Center’s mission is to inspire a lifelong interest in math, science, and technology. Occupying approximately seven acres of the north side of Seattle’s famed Seattle Center, the museum was designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the architect behind the World Trade Center in New York City. Be sure to catch a movie at IMAX or one of the largest laser shows in the country at the Laser Dome.

Things to Know Before You Go

While not aimed only at children, the Pacific Science Center is a great fit for families.
Pair a trip with a ride to the top of the Space Needle, which stands nearby.
Buy your tickets online and skip the line.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

The Pacific Science Center is located at 200 2nd Avenue North. Claypool Garage, the center’s parking lot, is at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and Denny Way. Public transportation options include the Seattle Center Monorail from Westlake Center and Seattle Metro buses 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 13, 24, and D Line.

When to Get There

Weekdays are typically quieter than weekdays at the Pacific Science Center, though it sees a fair number of school groups visiting during the week. Mornings are the best time to beat the crowds.

Other Seattle Center Attractions

The Pacific Science Center stands on the sprawling Seattle Center Campus. The area has many other attractions to explore, including the Space Needle, Museum of Popular Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Seattle Repertory Theater.

200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA

Varies

From $ 24

Olympic Sculpture Park

On a dramatic expanse facing Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, the Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle features massive works of art by influential modern artists such as Ellsworth Kelly, Beverly Pepper, Tony Smith, and Richard Serra. In addition to the art, visitors enjoy walking and biking paths, a pocket beach, and picnic areas.

The Basics

Olympic Sculpture Park comprises Seattle’s largest green space, covering nine acres of waterfront close to downtown. The park includes permanent works by some of the most influential artists of the past half-century and in summer hosts temporary exhibits.

More than just an art exhibit, Olympic Sculpture Park attracts locals and visitors who come for a stroll, to ride a bike, take in the view, or to attend the festivals, activities, and public performances held here year-round. The park sits on a former industrial site, and extensive rehabilitation efforts include salmon habitat restoration, beach restoration, native flora planting, and rainwater catchment.

Things to Know Before You Go

Olympic Sculpture Park is open 365 days a year and is free to enter.
The park offers free, 60-minute tours throughout the year.
The park is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Olympic Sculpture Park is located in 2901 Western Avenue, in the Belltown neighborhood of Seattle. Visitors can access the park via bike, by car, or by Seattle city bus numbers 2, 3, 8, and 14.

When to Get There

Olympic Sculpture Park opens daily 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset. It’s at its most beautiful as the sun sets, but that can bring crowds, too. Quieter times are generally in the mornings and midday on weekdays.

Olympic Sculpture Park Events

Summer brings a raft of events to the park. These include artist shows, Saturday yoga and zumba sessions, and Thursday nights with live music and food trucks.

2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA, USA

From $ 70

Queen Anne Hill

Built atop one of Seattle’s steepest hills, this neighborhood is named for its abundance of Queen Anne–style architecture—charming, well-maintained homes with manicured gardens. In this inviting area you’ll discover leafy staircases, viewpoints, and quaint parks, and at its very top perch restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.

The Basics

Queen Anne Hill contains several neighborhoods in one. At the base, Lower Queen Anne sits under the famous Space Needle and near several major Seattle attractions, including the Museum of Pop Culture and the Key Arena. West, East, and North Queen Anne are quiet residential areas with stately homes and tucked-away parks. At the neighborhood’s heart is a thriving dining and café scene.

On clear days, the view from Kerry Park is one of the best in the city. Photography enthusiasts gather here at sunset for a classic view of the Seattle skyline frequently seen on postcards, with the Space Needle prominently in the foreground. On cloud-free days, Mount Rainier’s glacier-capped summit looms eerily behind the city, turning pink as the sun sinks. Queen Anne Hill is a popular stop on city tours, including those specially designed for cruise ship passengers embarking in Seattle.

Things to Know Before You Go

Be prepared for a lot of walking, as the neighborhood’s many charms are best experienced on foot.
Queen Anne has many steep streets and sidewalks, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Photography buffs will find plenty to photograph, from viewpoints to landscaping to unique architecture.

How to Get There

Queen Anne Hill is north of Seattle Center and south of Fremont and encompasses four smaller neighborhoods: North, West, and East Queen Anne on the hill, as well as Lower Queen Anne, which is adjoining downtown. It’s serviced by city bus numbers 2, 13, and 29.

When to Get There

Queen Anne is lovely any time of year, in any weather. But if it’s views you’re after, come on a clear day. The neighborhood can be surrounded by bumper-to-bumper traffic on weekdays during evening rush hour, so that’s worth working around.

Where to Eat in Queen Anne

Queen Anne’s dining scene has several neighborhood gems. Find upscale Italian at How to Cook a Wolf, or skew toward clean eating and organic cuisine at Bounty Kitchen, where farm-fresh fare and juices make up the menu. Date night is best at Eden Hill, with its cozy dining room and multicourse menus.

Seattle, Washington, USA

From $ 65

Seattle Center

Spread across 74 acres (30 hectares) in the heart of the city, Seattle Center was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and today houses many of the city’s top attractions. This is where you’ll find the Space Needle, International Fountain, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Pacific Science Center, Museum of Pop Culture, and Seattle Children’s Museum.

The Basics

So much is happening in Seattle Center that it would be almost impossible to miss on a trip to the city. Just about every Seattle sightseeing tour stops at the iconic Space Needle (once the tallest building west of the Mississippi), along with other notable attractions and features such as Pike Place Market, Elliott Bay, and Pioneer Square. Admission to many Seattle Center attractions—the Space Needle and Pacific Science Center among them—is included with the Seattle CityPass.

Things to Know Before You Go

Seattle Center is a must-visit for all first-time visitors.
Pick out what you want to see before you go; there’s a ton to do here, and some attractions are far apart.
Most facilities within Seattle Center are wheelchair accessible.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the center.

How to Get There

Located in Seattle’s Uptown neighborhood, just north of Belltown, the Seattle Center is easily accessible by public transportation: 15 different metro bus routes lead here, and the Seattle Center Monorail runs from downtown. For drivers, there are three nearby parking garages.

When to Get There

There’s not really a bad time to visit Seattle Center, though it’s a good idea to visit both during the day and after dark to get a comprehensive feel for this hub of activity. Over Labor Day weekend, the Seattle Center hosts the huge and internationally popular Bumbershoot festival, featuring thousands of performers and artists. There’s almost always something going on at Seattle Center, so check the event calendar before your trip.

Seattle Space Needle

The Space Needle easily ranks as Seattle’s most famous landmark and the most visited attraction within Seattle Center. While it’s visible from throughout the city, you haven’t really seen this landmark until you’ve visited the observation deck 520 feet (158 meters) above Emerald City. From the top, the 360-degree view takes in the Elliott Bay waterfront, the lights of downtown, and even majestic Mount Rainier in the background.

305 Harrison St., Seattle, Washington 98109, USA

From $ 15

Mt. Rainier National Park

One of the oldest national parks in the United States, Mt. Rainier National Park was established in 1899 to preserve the wilderness surrounding Mount Rainier, an active volcano standing 14,410 feet (4,392 meters) above sea level. Encompassing 369 square miles (956 square kilometers) of old-growth forests and other protected land, it’s a must-do for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park draws locals from Seattle and visitors from around the globe who come to hike among wildflowers meadows, take in the glacial scenery of the Pacific Northwest, and spot wildlife such as elk, black bears, and mountain goats.

The Basics

The park is often visited on a day trip from Seattle; it’s about two hours by road each way. Private, group, and small-group tours typically include trips to the park visitor center, scenic lookouts for viewing attractions such as Christine Falls, and additional locations for photo ops of Mount Rainier and other sights. Camping and lodging can be found inside and outside the park for those who want stay overnight. The entrance fee is charged per vehicle, unless you walk or bike in, in which case the charge is per person.

Things to Know Before You Go

Day trips from Seattle typically last about 10 hours, so prepare for a long day.
The Longmire, Sunrise, and Paradise areas of the park offer visitor information, special permits, gift shops, dining, and other services.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; even if you’re not planning to hike, you’ll likely take short walks to reach viewpoints.
Pets are allowed in limited areas but must be on a leash.
Helmets are required when biking.
There is no gas available in the park, but gas stations can be found in nearby towns.

How to Get There

The park is located in southwest Washington, less than 100 miles (161 kilometers) from Seattle. Of the four entrances (Carbon River, Nisqually, Stevens Canyon, and White River), Nisqually is the most popular with the easiest access to facilities and trailheads.

When to Get There

The park is open year-round, but some areas close in October or November for winter and spring, including Sunrise, White River, Ohanapecosh, Stevens Canyon Road, and State Routes 410 and 123. July and August are the busiest months, when wildflowers bloom, waterfalls flow, and the hiking trails are the most accessible.

Exploring Longmire

If you only have the time or desire to visit one area of the park, make it Longmire, accessed from the Nisqually entrance. A national historic district, it’s home to the Longmire Museum, the Wilderness Information Center, and the National Park Inn. Scenic attractions accessible from Longmire include Christine Falls, Glacier Bridge, Narada Falls Trail, and Ricksecker Point Road, which offers views of Mount Rainier.

55210 238th Avenue East, Ashford 98304, USA

Daily

$25 per vehicle or $10 per individual

From $ 22

Seattle Cruise Port

A city with many identities – from coffee to technology to nature to seafood – Seattle is a great place to start or end a cruise. Shore excursions that go outside the city can fill all kinds of desires; take a wine-tasting tour, explore Bainbridge Island or visit Olympic National Park.

If you’re in a more urban mood, get to know the city itself at top attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, as well as one of its many walkable neighborhoods like Lower Queen Anne.

How to Get to Seattle
You’ll be docked at either the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 or the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91. If you’re at Bell Street, you’re only a 10- to 20-minute walk from Pike Place Market and downtown Seattle. Pier 91, however, is 2.5 miles (4 km) north of the Bell Street terminal and requires a cab to get downtown.

One Day in Seattle
Start your day in port in Pioneer Square, a historic neighborhood on the southern edge of downtown where the city was settled in the 1850s. Browse the art galleries and bookstores, and then walk less than a mile north on 1st Avenue to Pike Place Market.

After snapping the requisite picture of the market’s iconic red sign, head inside to catch a glimpse of the fish-counter employees throwing salmon back and forth. Then go deeper into the market, getting lost in the maze of flower stands, food stalls and merchants selling jewelry, art and souvenirs.

Grab some lunch at the market before walking over to the Westlake Center on 5th Avenue to catch the monorail to Seattle Center. The park and entertainment center, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, is home to the Space Needle. Head up the 605-foot-tall (185-meter) tower for amazing views of the city, Puget Sound and Mt Rainier.

Port Information

The currency is the US dollar; major credit cards are widely accepted, and there are ATMs throughout the city. Luggage storage is available at the cruise terminal; store your bags if your cruise ends in Seattle and you want to see the city before going to the airport. Rental car services are also available.

Pier 66, Seattle, WA, USA

From $ 50

Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square, where Seattle’s founders first settled in 1852, is a bustling district in the southwest corner of downtown Seattle. The shop- and nightlife-laden neighborhood takes its name from the small, triangular cobblestone plaza known as Pioneer Square Park, and features a bust of Chief Seattle, an ornate pergola, and a totem pole.

The Basics

Its streets lined with trees and restored Victorian buildings, Pioneer Square is listed on the Nation Register of Historic Places. During the day, the area buzzes with locals and visitors alike perusing the antique shops and art galleries. When you’re not shopping or marveling at cutting-edge art, visit the Seattle Underground, a network of underground passageways and basements that are remnants of the original buildings here, many of which were destroyed in the Great Seattle Fire in 1889. Come evening, Pioneer Square’s restaurant, bar, and nightclub scene takes over, making this one of Seattle’s hottest night spots.

Most Seattle walking and other sightseeing tours include a stop at Pioneer Square in combination with other nearby highlights such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chinatown, and the Smith Tower. The Seattle Underground tour takes you through the interconnected tunnels of the neighborhood.

Things to Know Before You Go

Walking tours are the best way to get to know the neighborhood’s history and cultural offerings.
Pioneer Square deserves two visits: one to patronize the local boutiques galleries during daylight hours, and one to sample the bustling nightlife.
Parking around Pioneer Square can be tough. Plan to join a guided tour with transportation or arrive via public transportation.

How to Get There

Pioneer Square, like the rest of downtown Seattle, is easily accessible by bus and streetcar. The neighborhood lacks definitive borders, but is bounded roughly by Alaskan Way South on the west, South King Street on the south, 5th Avenue South on the east, and between one and two blocks north of Yesler Way. Nearby are the International District, Waterfront Park, and Union Station.

When to Get There

Pioneer Square offers different pleasures at different times of day: boutiques and historical landmarks during the day, and a buzzy nightlife scene after dark. Most locals would recommend visiting Seattle from June to September; the city lives up to its rainy reputation for the remainder of the year.

Klondike Gold Rush History

During the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897 to ’98, Pioneer Square was a hot spot for “stampeders” heading up to Alaska. Their stopover business is part of what made the neighborhood prosperous. Now the area is host to part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park; the other part of the park is located in Skagway, Alaska.

Cherry Street and 1st Avenue South, Seattle, USA

Free

From $ 19

Lake Union

Just north of downtown Seattle, the glacially carved freshwater Lake Union is ringed with houseboats—including the one made famous by the movie Sleepless in Seattle—and home to numerous recreational opportunities. The lake is a true urban gem, contributing to Seattle’s high standard of living.

The Basics

Visitors can experience Lake Union in several ways. For those who want to be in the water, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular activities. The Northwest Outdoor Center and the Agua Verde Paddle Club rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, while the Center for Wooden Boats hosts free Sunday public sailing tours and rents canoes.

If you’d rather stay dry, the lake’s shores offer many scenic parks to explore, such as Fairview Park, South Lake Union Park, North Passage Point Park, Gas Works Park, and Terry Pettus Park. The Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), on the lake’s southern end, is another draw, with a permanent collection of over 100,000 objects including Seattle artifacts, local inventions, maritime pieces, local artwork, and historical textiles. The museum also has rotating exhibits, historical workshops and lectures, and public tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

Activities on and around Lake Union are great for families and active travelers.
The weather can change rapidly in Seattle, so bring warm and waterproof layers.
You’ll experience lots of sun exposure on clear days, so wear sunscreen.

How to Get There

Lake Union is roughly north of downtown and south of the Fremont and Wallingford neighborhoods. It’s accessible by public transit from several areas around Seattle. The South Lake Union line of the Seattle Streetcar and buses 40 and 62 service the neighborhood.

When to Get There

Lake Union is busiest on sunny summer weekend afternoons, and warm days are the best ones to visit. You can avoid crowds by visiting during the week, before 5pm.

Lake Union Restaurants

Several restaurants nearby offer views of Lake Union. Try fish-and-chips with a pint of beer on the waterfront patio of The 100 Pound Clam. Sister restaurant White Swan Public House has excellent Northwest fare. Across the lake, boats can tie up to Westward, where oysters, Mediterranean fare, and cocktails are the draw.

860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA

From $ 37

Museum of Flight

Seattle has a long history of aviation innovation. It’s here that the first Boeing aircraft was assembled and the company headquartered for decades. At the Museum of Flight, aircraft enthusiasts can trace the history of aviation from the Wright brothers through modern space exploration and air travel.

The Basics

A visit to Seattle's Museum of Flight, at Boeing Field, takes you through decades of flight history as you view more than 150 planes, helicopters, satellites, rockets, space station parts, and lunar module mock-ups.

Visitors might glimpse the original Air Force One, which transported presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon, along with a supersonic Concorde jet, and a stealth M-21 Blackbird reconnaissance plane.

Save time at the museum by prebooking admission tickets and skipping the line upon arrival.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Museum of Flight is appropriate for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and families.
The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the museum’s exhibits.

How to Get There

The Museum of Flight sits just 7 miles (11 kilometers) south of Downtown Seattle, at Boeing Field close to the international airport. It’s easily accessible by car, as there’s a large parking lot available to visitors. It’s also reachable by Metro bus no. 124, which stops in front of the museum.

When to Get There

The Museum of Flight is open seven days a week, from 10am to 5pm. The museum draws most of its visitors on weekends, but it’s never crowded or hard to get into. Check the museum’s official website for information on special tours and events offered during your visit.

Other Attractions Nearby

The Museum of Flight is situated in vibrant south Seattle. It’s easy to fill a day combining a trip to the museum with a visit to the Kubota Garden, a 20-acre (8-hectare) Japanese-style garden. Restaurants and bars in the nearby Georgetown neighborhood offer plenty of entertainment before or after your visit.

9404 East Marginal Way South, Seattle, Washington 98108, USA

Varies

From $ 22

Lake Washington

More than just the second-largest lake in all of Washington State, Lake Washington defines Seattle as a city intimately tied to the water. Residents and visitors alike come to Lake Washington to connect with the natural beauty of the landscape, which includes views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Mountains.

The Basics

Bordered by the towns of Kirkland and Bellevue, Lake Washington is home to Mercer Island. The Lake Washington Ship Canal connects the lake to the Puget Sound. Plenty of shoreline lets visitors take in the lake’s inherent natural beauty through activities such as swimming, picnicking, and hunting for clams and crawfish. Other attractions include the Kurt Cobain bench, a cultural memorial that pays homage both to the Nirvana legend and to downtown Seattle’s vibrant music scene.

Sightseeing tours here often include a Lake Washington cruise (many with live narration from a captain or naturalist guide), views of some of the lake’s opulent waterfront homes, and a visit to the floating bridge. Some tours combine stops at Seattle’s other major water features—Lake Union and the Puget Sound—via boat, ground transportation, or even seaplane. Another option is a dinner harbor cruise, which allows you to enjoy the sunset over the water after spending the day enjoying other activities. The University of Washington operates a boat rental facility in Union Bay, where you can rent a boat and explore under your own steam in a rowboat or canoe.

Things to Know Before You Go

Outdoor enthusiasts, Seattle sightseers, and city slickers looking for an urban escape will love a day at Lake Washington.
Expect summer crowds at the most popular beaches, Madison Park Beach and Denny Blaine Park.
Seward Park, at the south end of Lake Washington, is the nexus for the lake’s perimeter path, perfect for pedestrians and bicyclists.

How to Get There

As Lake Washington defines Seattle’s eastern boundary, it’s hard to miss. There are several access points along the shore, including the Atlantic City Boat Ramp, Seward Park, Stan Sayres Memorial Park, and Warren G. Magnuson Park.

When to Get There

Seattle's rainy reputation is well earned, but the summer months tend to be drier and suitable for beach days or forays on the water. Most sightseeing cruises have covered interior cabins and operate rain or shine.

Floating Bridges

A drive over one of the world’s longest floating bridges—the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, and the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge—is totally worth a brief detour from downtown Seattle. The three floating bridges on Lake Washington connect Seattle, Mercer Island, and Bellevue. Constructed on floating concrete pylons, these engineering marvels came about by necessity, as the bottom of Lake Washington is soft, muddy, silt, which is unsuitable for anchoring a traditional suspension bridge.

USA

From $ 37

Puget Sound

Puget Sound is a complex of inlets, bays, and harbors that includes not only Seattle, but also Tacoma, Olympia, and plenty of charming little towns and unique islands. The region is home to sparkling blue waters, lush green forests, sandy beaches, and a relaxed, slow-paced way of life.

The Basics

Puget Sound stretches approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Deception Pass in the north to Olympia, Washington in the south. Distances between islands aren’t great, but you should still allow at least a day to explore a few of the islands and absorb the amazing views of the Olympic Mountains or the San Juan Islands.

Take a boat tour to Tillicum Village on Blake Island for a traditional Native Pacific Northwest dance performance, or sail to Bainbridge Island for an afternoon picnic. As you explore the sound, you’ll come across old fishing villages turned into yacht havens, and idyllic rural settings ripe for exploration. Wildlife aficionados will love tours focused on the Puget Sound’s endemic flora and fauna. Or spy it all from above on a thrilling seaplane tour. Many Seattle sightseeing tours combine Puget Sound boat tours with visits to city highlights such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and Pioneer Square, as do tours farther afield on the Olympic Peninsula.

Know Before You Go

The Puget Sound is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a little urban escape.
The sound is famous for wet, rainy weather, so be sure to dress appropriately, especially between November and May.
Some Puget Sound tours include stops in British Columbia; these require a valid passport.
Book boat and seaplane tours in advance in the summer, the area's busiest time.

How to Get There

Washington Ferries handle most of the traffic in Puget Sound, and you can get out on the water from the Seattle waterfront. Head to Pier 52 for Washington State Ferries, Pier 55 for harbor cruises and trips to Tillicum Village on Blake Island, or Pier 56 for boats to Chittenden (Ballard) Locks.

When to Get There

Although the Seattle area has a reputation for being rainy, most of that precipitation falls between November and May; the rest of the year can be beautiful. Consequently, summers can bring hordes of travelers and lots of waiting in line. Ideal months for a visit are September and October.

Seaplane Tours and Whale Watching

Puget Sound seaplane tours, which take off from locations such as Lake Union or Friday Harbor, are arguably the best and most unique way to see the sound and its surrounds. These planes, as their name suggests, have the ability to take off and land on water—a special experience for those not accustomed to this mode of transportation. Whale-watching tours, typically held May through November, are another Puget Sound specialty, offering the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas.

USA

Free

From $ 99