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Seattle, Washington, is filled with a lot of things to do in Seattle, activities and attractions that make it a great destination for all types of travellers. Also popularly known as the “Emerald City”, it is characterised by beautiful sights, culture, and vibrant markets. It is a city where modern skyscrapers meet with the lush green natural landscape and a bustling urban culture. Whether you’re at the towering Space Needle or Kayaking across Lake Union, the city has its charm that feels both exciting and grounding. This Pacific Northwest gem is perfect for every traveller looking for various must things to do in Seattle.
12 Things To Do In Seattle
This Emerald City is full of the best things to do in Seattle from kayaking and paddle boarding to hiking natural trails. All this will never leave you to wonder what to do in Seattle.
1. Explore The Pike Place Market
Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most notable attractions in Seattle is the Pike Place Market, which is a prime place for tourists and locals in equal measure. There’s a place where you can see fishmongers throwing their catch of the day, fresh produce to taste. If you do come to Seattle, you must see the gum wall, a hidden work of art showcasing unexpected and colourful displays and eat Beecher’s cheese and shop at the many stalls at the Pike Market Place. It is a great place to see the intersection of art and food that defines Seattle.
Location: 85, Pike Street Seattle
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM, 8 AM – 5 PM
2. Visit The Space Needle
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Your trip to Seattle will be left incomplete without visiting the flying saucer-shaped Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, this piece is highly admired for providing fantastic 360 views of Seattle skyline and the mountains & Puget Sound. The glass floor panels in the rotating balcony let the visitors have a unique experience. You can also enjoy some good food and drinks at the Loupe Lounge. It’s a great place for photos and one of the best icons in Seattle.
Location: 400, Broad Street, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
3. Visit Chihuly Garden And Glass
Photo: Atomic Taco / Wikimedia Commons
Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-visit thing to see in Seattle, which is simply a ten-minute walk from the Space Needle. It features numerous exquisite glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly, a popular and influential glass artist in the world. The exhibit is so well made that it is aesthetically pleasing to the eye with its intricate patterns and bright colours. Go for a stroll through the various rooms, ending with a stunning glass garden where sculpted images are similar to natural vegetation. The garden also has various interior exhibits, multi-use theatres, lecture spaces and retail spaces.
Location: 305 Harrison Street, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
4. Visit The Museum Of Pop Culture
Photo: Burley Packwood / Wikimedia Commons
The Museum of Pop Culture is commonly known as MoPOP and is perfect for anyone who has an interest in music, sci-fi or pop culture. The museum building, which is also a sculpture, was designed by architect Frank Gehry. You can view exhibitions on rock stars, science fiction objects, and horror film shows. You can also find the Fantasy Hall of Fame and area focused on gaming. It is an active attraction that honours the history of Seattle’s music, which includes iconic names like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana.
Location: 325 5th Avenue N, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
5. Explore The Seattle Art Museum
Photo: Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons
The Seattle Art Museum which is usually called SAM claims to hold a huge volume of art from various cultures. It includes African art, Native American art and modern art. Well known for its sculpture called “Hammering Man”, SAM is both educational and engaging. SAM is a good place in downtown Seattle for a cultural visit because of its changing exhibitions and standing collection. The museum also has a world-class travelling exhibit that highlights legendary artists like Monet and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Location: 1300, 1st Ave, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
6. Relax At The Alki Beach
Photo: Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking for peaceful relaxation, then Alki Beach located in West Seattle is the place for you. From this beach, a clear view of the Seattle skyline is available, making it a great location for a walk, having a picnic, or even playing some volleyball. The shops and cafes around the vicinity of Alki Beach assist in giving it a chilled feeling. It is perfect for someone wanting the beach vibe without leaving the city. This beach is also featured in the film Sleepless in Seattle.
Location: Alki Ave SW, Seattle
Timings: 4 AM – 11:30 PM
7. Take Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour Of Seattle
Photo: Rennett Stowe / Wikimedia Commons
Seattle has an interesting underground system dating back to the 19th century. The tour will offer you a fascinating view of the city’s history, giving you a glimpse of less-known tunnels and hallowed places under the streets. The tour guide will enhance your knowledge about Seattle’s early settlers and the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. You will be able to witness the remnants of old stone fronts, wooden beams, and glass skylights. This tour begins beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House then strolls in iconic Pioneer Square before starting the exclusive view of the buried city.
Location: 614 1st Avenue, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
8. Ride On The Seattle Great Wheel
Photo: IIP Photo Archive / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you wish to overlook the entire city’s Skyline, the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57 encompasses stunning views up high. The huge Ferris wheel has enclosed cabins, so it is operational throughout the year and offers the best view of Seattle City and Elliot Bay during sunset. It is a perfect activity for the entire family. The gondolas provide you with all three views of the skyscrapers of the city, the water of the sea and the mountains.
Location: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle
Timings: 10 AM -10 PM
9. Visit Woodland Park Zoo
Photo: Ron Clausen / Wikimediaa Commons
Woodland Park Zoo is an attraction that offers a perfect fun destination for families and also works towards animal and nature preservation. It consists of several species such as gorillas, tigers, and penguins, with scenery that is artistically arranged to mimic their natural habitats. Kids will take a particular interest in petting zoo animals and other hands-on activities. This zoo has received more than 65 awards. The zoo has more than 900 animals from a mix of about 250 species. It includes 35 endangered and 5 threatened species.
Location: Seattle, WA 98103
Timings: 9:30 AM – 3 PM
10. Enjoy Ballard Kayaking And Paddle Boarding
Photo: Ron Clausen / Wikimedia Commons
Seattle is a perfect destination for you if you’re a water lover and enjoy water adventures like Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Along with enjoying the spectacular and magnificent view of the city and sea, you can also get a chance to spot a sea lion or whale. It is among one of the best experiences in life that blends breathtaking natural beauty and adventurous activities. It includes services like city tours, group tours, corporate events, evening tours, guided kayaking adventures, paddle board rental, river kayaking, kayak classes and many more.
Location: 7901 Seaview Ave NW, Seattle
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
11. Ride The Monorail
Photo: Cliff / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Trying the Monorail in Seattle provides a unique experience of travelling in the country’s most unique mode of transportation. It will take you to travel along various iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, the International Fountain, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Not only does it provide you with the best view of the city, it also saves you time from the traffic. The monorail reaches a speed of 45 miles per hour at its top speed.
Location: 370 Thomas Street, Seattle
Timings: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
12. Take On A Cruise Ride
Photo: Chait Goli / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you wish to capture a clearer and more picturesque view of the Seattle Skyline, then a cruise ride is an ideal choice. The Argosy Cruises’ Harbour Cruise is one of the most popular cruise ships. These ships will take you on a journey covering points like Elliott Bay, shipping centres, waterfront, and Olympic Mountain. The cruise filled with various bars and snacking options makes it the perfect place to enjoy a chilled drink while enjoying the calm and composed sea view.
Location: 1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55, Seattle (Argosy Cruises)
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Seattle is bursting with unique sights and picturesque places. From popular attractions such as the Space Needle to relatively less well-known places such as Ballard Locks, the city has no shortage of things to do in Seattle for any type of traveller. With a variety of offerings and picturesque views, Seattle is an enjoyable place to visit. For a more seamless experience, plan your trip with TripXL to explore the best deals and travel tips.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
