Things to Do in Seattle

Choose from 50 Fun Things to Do in Seattle

Space Needle

Seattle’s Space Needle, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinctive icons, rises 605 feet (184 meters) above the city. What was the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River at the time of its construction—built for the 1962 World’s Fair—the tower features a rotating restaurant and an observation deck at 520 feet (158 meters) with 360-degree panoramic views over Seattle and its surroundings.

The Basics

The Space Needle is a must-do for first-time visitors to Seattle. Book Space Needle observation deck admission to ascend to the flying saucer–esque top in the high-speed elevator, which zips to the sky-high viewing area in just 43 seconds. The sweeping view includes downtown Seattle, and on clear days, it’s possible to look out to Lake Union, Mt. Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains all the way across the Puget Sound. A visit to this Seattle staple is included on many city sightseeing tours, some of which also head to Pike Place Market. For a real treat, reserve a table for dinner at the SkyCity at the Needle restaurant, which revolves over downtown Seattle, completing one full rotation per hour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Be sure to book admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long ticket lines.
At the observation deck, check out the interpretive displays, which identify more than 60 activities in the Seattle area.
Dinner at SkyCity includes admission to the observation deck.
All bags are suggest to search prior to entry.

How to Get There

The Space Needle is located in the Seattle Center cultural and entertainment park, just northwest of downtown. The complex also houses Chihuly Garden and Glass, Experience Music Project (EMP), the Science Fiction Museum, the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Children’s Museum, and the Seattle Children’s Theatre. You can get to the Space Needle by bus or monorail, and the site offers valet parking.

When to Get There

The Space Needle is open year-round and daily from 10am to 8pm. The site is most crowded on weekends and around sunset, when visitors are afforded prime lighting for the panoramic skyline views. The skiest tend to be clearest during spring and summer.

The Wheedle on the Needle

The 1974 children’s book “Wheedle on the Needle” tells the tale of a large, round, furry creature called the Wheedle who lived in Washington state. Bothered by the whistling of workers first settling the city of Seattle, the grumpy Wheedle moved to Mt. Rainier to escape the noise (though it eventually followed him there). In an effort to silence the noise, the Wheedle gathered clouds in a large sack, returned to Seattle, climbed up the Space Needle, and threw them into the sky to make it rain. The Wheedle has since become a Seattle fixture, even acting as the mascot to the Seattle SuperSonics NBA team before they moved to Oklahoma City.

400 Broad Street, Seattle 98109, USA

Mon-Sun: 10am-8pm

Adults: US $26

From $ 15

Snoqualmie Falls

Fans of Twin Peaks will recognize Washington state’s iconic Snoqualmie Falls, an epic cataract that drops 270 feet (82 meters) in one single, massive rush. Travelers can hike down to the base of the falls, take in the views from the side of the falls, or walk a winding boardwalk along Snoqualmie River for a look from the bottom.

The Basics

Visiting the falls is free, whether you stop by just for the photo op or clamber down to the base. The upper falls overlooks offer easily accessible views of the falls, as well as picnic tables, benches, and the nearby restaurant at the Salish Lodge, a historic hotel perched at the top of the falls. Those interested in hiking to see the waterfall from the bottom can descend a steep, 0.7-mile (1.1-kilometer) trail through a temperate rain forest, with interpretive signage describing local flora and fauna and detailing the falls’ historic and cultural contributions.

The site is a popular day-trip destination from Seattle, with many travelers opting to pair a Snoqualmie visit with stops at Seattle–area wineries or other nearby nature spots. It's also possible to combine a Seattle city sightseeing tour with a stop at Snoqualmie Falls on a half-day tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Hikers should be prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as the Snoqualmie Falls trail is often wet.
A visit to Snoqualmie is perfect for families and groups with a range of interests and ability levels, with some wheelchair-accessible spots.
Visit during spring to see the falls at its maximum output.
The park area features a visitor center, gift shop, coffee stand, and bathrooms.

How to Get There

Snoqualmie Falls sits just outside the town of Snoqualmie, about a 30-minute drive east of Seattle. To get there, take I-90 east to exit 27. The photo-worthy waterfall is easily accessible from the site's two parking lots, one of which is paid and the other free.

When to Get There

Snoqualmie Falls draws some 1.5 million visitors a year, with most visiting on summer weekends. To avoid the crowds, opt for a rainy day or a weekday. The park is open from dawn to dusk daily. The waterfall flows year-round, hitting its peak during the late spring and early summer snowmelt.

Other Attractions in Snoqualmie

Nearby Salish Lodge's award-winning spa and hotel offer stunning views with some room balconies overlooking the waterfall, in addition to fine dining opportunities. Snoqualmie's Northwest Railway Museum is another nearby hot spot—it's the perfect diversion for railroad fans and is housed in a restored 1890 railroad depot.

6501 Railroad Avenue Southeast, Snoqualmie 98065, USA

From $ 74

Seattle Waterfront

Definitely make the Seattle Waterfront your first stop on a visit to Seattle, for it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The bustling waterfront not only holds gift shops, candy stores selling fudge and saltwater taffy, sidewalk T-shirt vendors, and restaurants of all kinds, it’s also is the spot for some of city’s top attractions and piers tied with boats waiting to take you out on Puget Sound.

On the Seattle Waterfront, you can touch starfish at the Seattle Aquarium, watch your kids take a virtual kayak ride on Puget Sound at the Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center, or picnic in Waterfront Park, while taking in the breathtaking view across Elliott Bay to Olympic Mountains.

If you want to get out on the water from the Seattle Waterfront, head to Pier 52 for the Washington State Ferries, Pier 55 for harbor cruises and trips to Tillicum Village on Blake Island, or Pier 56 for a boat to Chittenden (Ballard) Locks. If you’re with the kids, head to Pier 57, which has a vintage carousel and a video arcade to keep the kids busy.

Practical Info

The Seattle Waterfront stretches along Alaskan Way from Yesler Way, in the south, to Bay Street, Myrtle Edwards Park, and the Olympic Sculpture Park, in the north. You can access the park by car, bus, streetcar, and even monorail.

Alaskan Way, Seattle 98101, USA

From $ 39

University of Washington

Situated on the shores of Seattle’s Union and Portage Bays, the University of Washington is one of the west coast’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It is particularly well known for its medical school, one of the top in the nation. The public university has more than 50,000 active students each year.

The campus itself is beautiful and well-maintained, surrounded by peaks of the Cascade Range. Cherry blossom trees bloom brightly in the spring, making it a favorite time to visit the campus. Visitors and prospective students can take a guided tour of the campus, or see some of the the highlights including Drumheller Fountain, the Suzzallo Library, Denny Hall, and Mary Gates Hall. The classic architecture of most of the campus buildings is scenic, and the Burke Gilman trail allows for joggers and pedestrians to pass through its many open green spaces. On a clear day it is even possible to see Mount Rainer in the distance.

Practical Info

The University of Washington Seattle campus is located about 20 minutes from Sea-Tac International Airport. The university is nearby to the Gas Works Park, which offers incredible views of the city and the water.

4014 University Way Northeast, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA

From $ 42

Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel is a can’t-miss icon that speaks to the fun-loving nature of the city’s residents. One of the biggest Ferris wheels in the US, the Seattle Great Wheel features enclosed gondolas that afford spectacular coastal views. It stands above 175 feet (53 meters) and weighs in at more than a quarter of a million pounds.

The Basics

Located at 1301 Alaskan Way, at the end of Pier 57 on Seattle’s waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel boasts 42 climate-controlled gondolas, each of which can carry up to eight passengers; a luxe VIP gondola with red leather seats and a glass floor seats four. During the summer, ride times are between 12 and 20 minutes due to the time needed to load and unload larger crowds; during winter, the ride usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes.

While the Ferris wheel offers wonderful views of Seattle, a Puget Sound sailing excursion provides unique views of the Great Wheel itself.

Things to Know Before You Go

Children 2 years old and younger ride for free but still require a ticket.
The ride is wheelchair-accessible; a lift and ramp allow wheelchairs to roll directly into the gondolas.
The wheel will stop operating if winds reach sustained speeds of 55 mph (88.5 kph) or higher, or if there are lightning strikes within 1 mile (1.6 kilometers).

How to Get There

The Seattle Great Wheel is located at the end of Pier 57 on the waterfront, and within short walking distance from most of the city’s main attractions like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Aquarium, and more. From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, it’s about 25 minutes’ drive. The nearest light-rail station, University Street Station-Bay A, is a few blocks away.

When to Get There

The Seattle Great Wheel operates year-round. Open hours are Monday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday 11am to 12am, Saturday 10am to 12am, and Sunday 10am to 10pm. In the fall, the wheel lights up on the evening of any University of Washington or Seattle Seahawks home football game; light shows also take place during other special occasions and holidays.

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium, located on Pier 59 right next to the Seattle Great Wheel, features six major animal exhibits. Window on Washington Waters, for example, includes a 120,000-gallon tank that replicates the coastal waters of Washington state. The museum also has a gift shop and café.

1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, Washington 98101, USA

Varies

From $ 380

Waterfall Garden Park

Seattle is surrounded by plenty of incredible nature vistas and beautiful sceneries, but visitors don’t necessarily need to go much further than Pioneer Square to find a bit of nature in a peaceful garden setting. The Waterfall Garden Park was planned by the Japanese designer Masao Kinoshita to commemorate the birthplace of the United States Parcel Service (the UPS) and is one of Seattle’s best hidden secrets. Tucked away between Main Street and Second Avenue, the small oasis is a modern interpretation of a Japanese garden with lots of granite, brick, steel and potted plants surrounding the 22-foot-high, man-made waterfall splashing over huge rocks.

The roar of the waterfall and the softer tinkle of the surrounding stream drown out all the noise of Seattle’s concrete jungle and form a very compact, albeit effective urban oasis. Many a local can probably attest to the calming effects of the lush foliage covering up skyscrapers and streetscapes and the white noise drowning out the sound of traffic outside. Especially over lunch time, business people come here for a break and two terraces with wrought iron chairs and tables offer plenty of space for picnics or a quiet moment in the midst of the city.

Practical Info

Waterfall Garden Park is tucked into a corner between South Main Street and 2nd Avenue South and can be reached by walking or taking a number of public transport options. The park opens daily from 8am to 5:30pm.

219 2nd Avenue South, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA

From $ 89

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is one of Seattle's most vibrant neighborhoods"”and it's one of contrasts. There's the quiet, leafy streets sporting mansions and well-manicured lawns, and then there's a happening restaurant, bar, and nightclub scene at the neighborhood's center. There's something for everyone here.

The Basics

Capitol Hill's moniker was once aspirational. Its creators thought the geologically prominent neighborhood might one day be the site of the state's capitol building, but government bigwigs had a different idea. (Olympia ended up Washington's capital city.) Still, the neighborhood is a destination for many, where young professionals might mingle with the thriving LGBTQ community, and artists and foodies frequent establishments that Kurt Cobain once played. Niche theaters, music venues, quirky coffee shops, bookstores, and high-end boutiques all feel at home here.

You might build a trip to Capitol Hill around the weekly Broadway Farmers Market, held every Sunday year-round, to buy fresh and seasonal artisanal foods, flowers, and crafts. On sunny days, Volunteer Park is a bustling gathering spot for picnics and a game of Frisbee. Climb the water tower for free, 360-degree views of Seattle, and then visit Volunteer Park Conservatory's glass-encased collection of cacti, pitcher plants, orchids, and ferns. Some Seattle sightseeing tours visit Capitol Hill.

Things to Know Before You Go

Capitol Hill attracts every type of traveler, including young visitors and families.
Capitol Hill is best seen on foot, so be prepared with comfortable walking shoes.
Parking is limited, so it's advisable to use public transportation or a ride-hailing app.

How to Get There

Capitol Hill can be found just east of the downtown business district. While there is street parking and pay lots, these tend to be competitive and pricy. Rather than drive, it's best to take public transportation (using the Seattle Streetcar, Link Light rail, or numerous bus lines). Or, book a tour that includes round-trip transport.

When to Get There

The timing of your visit depends on your ultimate goal. If you're here to party, the nightclubs start heating up around 10pm on weekends. If you're hoping to visit almost any other time, the earlier in the day is better to avoid crowds.

Capitol Hill Restaurants

This neighborhood is one of the most exciting dining destinations in all of Seattle. You'll find James Beard Award-winning restaurants next to up-and-comers and under-the-radar gems. For some of the best Italian food outside of Europe, try the handmade pasta at Spinasse after an aperitivo at next-door Artusi. Increasingly acknowledged on a national stage, the playful Japanese fare at Adana is worth trying. And for impeccable flavors from around Asia, Stateside has you covered for brunch and dinner.

Seattle, Washington, USA

From $ 42

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are among the most popular vacation destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Between the mouth of Puget Sound and Vancouver Island, the archipelago consists of 172 islands, only four of which are inhabited and serviced by ferry: Orcas Island, San Juan Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island.

The Basics

The best way to explore the San Juan Islands is to get out on the water. Aboard whale-watching tours, which depart from Friday Harbor, visitors might spot orcas (aka killer whales), minke whales, humpbacks, and the occasional gray whale. Ten of the islands are protected state marine parks, perfect for sea kayaking, canoeing, or sailing. Back on land, the more developed islands offer biking, hiking, golfing, shopping, and dining.

Things to Know Before You Go

The San Juan Islands are a must-visit for adventure travelers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Bring an extra layer, as it can get chilly on the ferry to the islands.
Many of the attractions and businesses in the San Juan Islands are ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible, including the Washington State Ferries.

How to Get There

While it's possible to fly to the islands from Seattle International Airport, the most popular mode of transportation is the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes"”you can drive your car right aboard.

When to Get There

A mild, maritime climate means there isn't really a bad time to visit the San Juan Islands. July and August are the busiest months (so book your ferry well in advance), while whale watching tends to be at its best between May and October.

Exploring Friday Harbor

The historical seaside town of Friday Harbor serves as the gateway to the rest of the San Juan Islands, and if you're basing yourself here, there's plenty to see and do around town. Spring Street is known for its shopping opportunities, while Brickworks Plaza often hosts outdoor concerts and community gatherings. Those interested in the history and culture of the islands should plan to visit the Whale Museum and the San Juan Historical Museum.

Washington, USA

From $ 104

Tillicum Village

Located in Blake Island State Park, across Puget Sound from Seattle, Tillicum Village is a truly Pacific Northwest Experience. This beautiful spot is essentially a large restaurant and performance hall, which is designed as a traditional Northwest Coast longhouse, complete with totem poles towering out front. A visit here includes a salmon dinner, tribal performances, and more.

Upon visiting the Tillicum Village, which is only accessible by boat, you'll be greeted by villagers dressed in Northwest Coastal Native tribal costume. Outside the longhouse facility, visitors are given a cup of clams and broth. As you enter the longhouse, a cooking display shows whole salmon being cooked on cedar stakes over an alder wood fire in a traditional style of Northwest Coastal Natives. A buffet-style meal includes baked salmon, new red potatoes, warm whole grain bread, wild and long grain rice, and a fresh salad bar.

After your meal, the Tillicum Village dancers provide a performance that incorporates traditional stories, dances, and songs of Northwest Coastal Native groups. Following the performance, you can visit a gallery featuring regional Northwest artwork, watch a totem pole carving demonstration by Native Americans, and walk along the beaches and trails of Blake Island.

Practical Info

Boats to Tillicum Village depart from Pier 55 in downtown Seattle. You can get to the pier by bus or streetcar. Nearby attractions include Waterfront Park and the Seattle Art Museum. You can also take the boat out to Blake Island and skip the meal and dancing, and instead explore the island's beaches and trails.

Pier 55 Walk, Seattle 98101, USA

Open daily

From $ 100

Woodland Park Zoo

In Woodland Park, up the hill from Green Lake Park, the Woodland Park Zoo is one of Seattle's greatest tourist attractions, consistently rated as one of the top 10 zoos in the country. It was one of the first in the nation to free animals from their restrictive cages in favor of ecosystem enclosures, where animals from similar environments share large spaces designed to replicate their natural surroundings.

The Woodland Park Zoo thrills with superb attractions including such exhibits as a tropical rain forest, two gorilla exhibits, and an African savanna. One of the best exhibits is the brown bear enclosure, which realistically resembles an Alaskan stream and hillside. Another highlight is the elephant forest, where the zoo’s pachyderms have plenty of space to rumble around. For kids, there’s the farm-animal area and the interactive Zoomazium, where kids can see what its like to be wild animals.

Practical Info

Woodland Park Zoo is located in North Seattle, about 20 minutes from downtown. To get here by car, take Interstate-5 north to Exit 169, then west to the South Entrance at North 50th Street and Fremont Avenue North. You can also get here from downtown by bus.

Dining options at Woodland Park Zoo include the Rainforest Food Pavilion for fine dining and the Pacific Blue Chowder House for seafood under the sun. If you have time, stop by the Zoo Store to for animal toys and an array of books, jewelry, arts, and crafts.

601 North 59th Street, Seattle 98103, USA

Open daily

From $ 12