19 Best Things to Do in Seattle

Seattle is often referred to as the Emerald City, and it’s certainly the crowned jewel of the Pacific Northwest. Almost 40 million tourists visit each year to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, jaw-dropping nature, and enticing food and drink scene.

There’s so much to do in Seattle that you’ll have no trouble filling your days with exciting activities. In fact, the only challenge you may have is narrowing down your options. Luckily, we’re here to help you with that. Here are the 19 best things to do in Seattle.

1. Set Sail in Seattle

Seattle is located between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and just under half of the city is made up of water, so no trip is complete without spending time off-land. There are several ways to take to the waterways — here are two of our favorites:

• Cruise on a Washington State Ferry. This nautical mode of public transport runs year-round. It’s a cost-effective way to see Puget Sound or reach nearby communities like Bainbridge Island and Bremerton.
• Hire a boat at South Lake Union. There are boats available to charter at The Center for Wooden Boats. Public sails are also available, or you can rent kayaks and paddleboards nearby if you prefer.

2. Find Seattle’s Trolls

In 2023, five huge wooden trolls appeared in Seattle. Three are in the suburbs of Issaquah, Vashon Island, and Bainbridge Island and require some effort to find, but the other two are much easier to discover. Head to Ballard’s National Nordic Museum to meet Frankie Feetsplinters and to Colman Pool in West Seattle to see Bruun Idun.

3. Catch Some Rays on Alki Beach

If you’re lucky enough to visit Seattle while the sun is shining, Alki Beach is the best place in the city to sunbathe and swim. This pristine strip of sand runs to Duwamish Head on Elliott Bay, and there are jogging paths, picnic tables, and volleyball courts to enjoy.

The water temperature can reach 56 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the season, and lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer months, so it’s safe for swimmers to take a dip.

4. Enjoy Panoramic City Views

The Seattle skyline is one of the most famous in the US, and there are plenty of popular vantage points from which to enjoy it. Take your pick of the following:

• Space Needle: The most recognizable skyscraper in the Seattle skyline. Enjoy the view from the enclosed view level or from the open deck if you are brave enough.
• Seattle Great Wheel: Perched on the end of Pier 57. See the city, water, and mountains from the air-conditioned gondolas. Each ride takes you on three revolutions.
• Smith Tower: Seattle’s first skyscraper was built in 1914. Ride the manually operated elevator to the 35th floor for 360-degree views from the observation deck.
• Kerry Park: Head to this Queen Anne spot to see the Seattle skyline from the north. It’s possible to see all the way to Mount Rainier on a clear day.

5. Take to the Skies in a Seaplane

For a unique vantage point and an unforgettable experience, book a place on Kenmore Air’s Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour. You’ll take a flight from Lake Union and spend 30 minutes marveling at the magnificent sights of the Emerald City below.

Tip: If you happen to be an aviation buff, don’t miss the Museum of Flight. Here, you’ll see iconic flying machines, including an Air Force One, and experience a NASA flight simulator.

6. Fly a Kite in Gas Works Park

You may recognize Gas Works Park from the 1990s movie Ten Things I Have Abou You, but it’s still worth visiting this steampunk-esque green space even if you don’t. This 19-acre park was once a gas plant, and its industrial structures remain to this day. Head up to enjoy sweeping city views or try your hand at flying a kite — a popular tradition among locals.

While you’re in the area, be sure to call in at one of Fremont’s breweries — we recommend Fremont Brewing’s Urban Beer Garden for a few al fresco brews.

7. Feast on the Best Brunch in Downtown Seattle

Foodies will instantly fall in love with the high-quality cuisine on offer in Seattle. From international dishes originating from every corner of the world to local seafood served in every imaginable way, you won’t go hungry here. Brunch is a popular weekend pursuit for locals, and there’s a fabulous array of restaurants and cafes to try during your visit. Check out one of the following top spots in Downtown Seattle:

• Lola is a Tom Douglas restaurant serving Mediterranean plates. Try the Greek scramble for a fresh take on a classic brunch dish.
• The 5 Point Cafe is a legendary dive bar and diner serving juicy breakfast sandwiches. Open 24/7 for whenever you have a craving for eggs.
• Tilikum Place Cafe. Try a Dutch baby, a pancake baked in the oven instead of fried.

8. Ride the Seattle Center Monorail

This World’s Fair relic is a great way to navigate the city and is also fun to take a joyride on. The one-mile route transports riders from Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle, to Westlake Center in the downtown area. This historic landmark can reach a maximum speed of 72 miles per hour, and it’s thrilling to zip between the city’s most impressive skyscrapers.

9. See a Pacific Northwest Ballet Show

Pacific Northwest Ballet is one of the top American dance companies, and seeing the dancers perform in Seattle Center’s McCaw Hall is an experience you won’t forget. Check the website for the schedule while you’re in town, and if possible, book tickets in advance, as performances often sell out.

10. Immerse Yourself in Seattle’s History

Seattle was founded in 1851 by members of the Denny party who first landed on Alki Beach. The city boasts a rich history which visitors can learn about in museums and out on the streets. Get your history fix here:

• Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI): Permanent and temporary exhibits cover Seattle’s maritime history and its more modern technological innovations.
• Pioneer Square is the original downtown area. Wander among old Romanesque buildings or take an underground walking tour to discover the city’s first buildings.

11. Watch the Boat Elevator on Ballard Locks

This charming feature of Lake Washington’s Ship Canal acts as a boat elevator for kayaks and sailboats passing between the city’s freshwater lakes and Puget Sound. The fish ladder — a contraption that helps endangered salmon and other fish pass — is another innovation worth checking out at the Ballard Locks, and the on-site botanical garden is a peaceful place to take a load off.

12. Explore Seattle’s Best Museums

You may have heard about Seattle’s occasional rainy day, but thankfully, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy if you aren’t lucky with the weather. The following museums are great for adults and kids alike:

• Pacific Science Center: A family-friendly museum exploring all things science. Discover galaxies in the planetarium, meet the residents of the tropical butterfly house, and see if you can move a two-ton granite ball.
• Museum of Pop Culture: A perfect day out for music, gaming, and cinema fans. See exhibits on topics such as indie video games, horror films, and Nirvana.
• Seattle Aquarium: An underwater museum on Pier 59. Meet sea otters, see sharks swimming overhead from the underwater dome, and learn about Seattle’s native sea life.

13. Catch a Game of Baseball

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in America, and cheering on the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park is an exciting experience. The park itself is one of the prettiest in the country, and there’s some great gourmet food on offer, too.

T Mobile Park also hosts big-name acts like the Foo Fighters and Green Day, so check the website to see what’s scheduled while you’re in town.

14. Sample a Seattle Dog

Eating a Seattle-style hotdog is a rite of passage for any visitor, but be sure to bring your appetite, as they can be pretty filling! Traditionally, a Seattle Dog is a hot dog bun slathered in cream cheese and then loaded up with a juicy sausage and all the usual toppings. If reading this has got your mouth watering, here’s where to find the best dogs in town:

• Al’s Gourmet Sausage: Find Al’s outside CenturyLink Field and Safeco Field. Locals love Al, and with good reason!
• Nola Dogs: There are two branches in Westlake and Capitol Hill, and both are excellent.
• Pike Summit: This beer bar has a wide range of dogs including veggie options and experimental Asian and European fusion flavors.

15. Take a Day Trip to Snoqualmie Falls

This dramatic 82-meter waterfall is one of Washington State’s best tourist attractions and is within easy reach of Seattle. It’s just a short walk to the Snoqualmie Falls base, and it’s free to park and visit. In 2023, a visitor center was added so guests could learn about the Snoqualmie Tribe that belongs to this ancient land.

16. Wander Seattle’s International District

The elaborate Chinatown gate lets you know you have arrived in Seattle’s vibrant International District. As well as being home to some of the most authentic Asian cuisine in the city, there’s also lots to see and do here. Our favorite spots include:

• Wing Luke Museum: This is the only pan-Asian history and art museum in America. Learn the stories and histories of Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Native Hawaiians.
• Seattle Pinball Museum: Test your pinball skills on dozens of vintage machines dating back to the 1960s. Play is unlimited once visitors have paid the admission fee.
• Uwajimaya supermarket: pick up Asian specialty snacks and gifts.

17. Drink Coffee at the Original Starbucks

Pike Place Market just south of Belltown is a must-see while in Seattle, and fuelling up on caffeine at the original Starbucks location here is a bucket list activity for fans of the world’s most famous coffee shops.

18. Find Your Zen in Seattle Japanese Garden

Spend an afternoon at Seattle Japanese Garden for a moment of peace in the heart of the city. This 3.5-acre space features picturesque lanterns, charming bridges, and year-round flora that changes seasonally.

If you’re in the mood for a spot of park hopping, Volunteer Park is just a 30-minute walk away.

19. See Seattle’s Most Beautiful Artwork

The joy of Seattle’s art scene is in its variety. Whether you’re into modern art, classic works, or 3D mediums, you’re sure to find a gallery to satisfy your creative cravings. Here are two of our favorite spots:

• Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum is dedicated to the work of world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly. Don’t miss the huge red, orange, and yellow sculpture that hangs from the ceiling.
• The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a contemporary gallery and a must-see for art lovers. Don’t miss the Olympic Sculpture Park — an immersive outdoor extension of the museum.

Don’t Miss These Best Things to Do in Seattle

If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, don’t sleep on Seattle and all there is to experience in this vibrant and historic city. Which of these best 19 things to do will you add to your itinerary when you next visit Seattle?