King County, located in Washington state, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the vibrant city of Seattle to immersing yourself in nature, there's something for everyone in this diverse county. Here are 20 of the best things to do in King County:
Visit the iconic Space Needle: Head to Seattle Center and ascend the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains. Don't forget to explore the newly renovated observation deck and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
Explore Pike Place Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States. Wander through the stalls, watch fishmongers toss fish, sample local produce, and indulge in delicious food and beverages.
Take a ferry to Vashon Island: Hop on a ferry from downtown Seattle and escape to the rural charm of Vashon Island. Explore the island's picturesque beaches, visit art galleries, and enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.
Discover the beauty of Snoqualmie Falls: Located east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts visitors from near and far. Admire the powerful waterfall, hike the surrounding trails, and learn about the history and cultural significance of the area.
Explore the Museum of Flight: Located in Seattle, the Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world. Discover a vast collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and aviation artifacts, and learn about the history of flight through interactive exhibits and displays.
Hike in the Cascade Mountains: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning trails in the Cascade Mountains. From the popular Rattlesnake Ledge to the challenging Mount Si, there are hikes for all skill levels that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Tour the Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery: Located in Woodinville, Chateau Ste. Michelle is one of Washington's oldest and most renowned wineries. Take a tour of the winery, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings of their award-winning wines.
Visit the Bellevue Botanical Garden: Stroll through the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden and admire the diverse plant collections, including a stunning Japanese Garden, a rock garden, and a vibrant dahlia display. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and attend seasonal events and exhibits.
Explore the Bellevue Arts Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art and craft at the Bellevue Arts Museum. Discover rotating exhibitions showcasing a wide range of mediums and attend workshops and events that celebrate creativity and innovation.
Take a scenic drive on the Lake Washington Boulevard: Enjoy a leisurely drive or bike ride along the picturesque Lake Washington Boulevard. Admire the views of the lake, pass through charming neighborhoods, and make stops at parks and viewpoints along the way.
Visit the Cougar Mountain Zoo: Located in Issaquah, the Cougar Mountain Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including cougars, lemurs, macaws, and more. Explore the zoo's exhibits, attend educational presentations, and even have the opportunity to meet some of the animals up close.
Enjoy outdoor activities at Marymoor Park: Located in Redmond, Marymoor Park is the largest park in King County and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. Walk or bike along the trails, have a picnic, visit the climbing wall, or catch a concert at the outdoor amphitheater.
Explore the Seattle Art Museum: Located in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Explore the museum's vast collection of artworks from around the world, including contemporary, modern, and indigenous art.
Attend a live performance at the Paramount Theatre: Experience the magic of live theater, concerts, and other performances at the historic Paramount Theatre in downtown Seattle. Enjoy world-class shows in a stunning and intimate venue.
Discover the cultural heritage at the Wing Luke Museum: Located in Seattle's Chinatown-International District, the Wing Luke Museum celebrates the history, art, and culture of Asian Pacific American communities. Explore the exhibits, take guided tours, and participate in cultural programs and events.
Take a scenic drive to Mount Rainier National Park: Embark on a road trip from King County to Mount Rainier National Park and marvel at the beauty of this iconic peak. Explore the park's trails, enjoy wildflower meadows, and take in the stunning vistas of the mountain and its surrounding landscapes.
Enjoy water activities on Lake Union: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or even a boat and explore the waters of Lake Union in Seattle. Take in the city skyline, cruise past floating homes, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this urban lake.
Visit the Washington Park Arboretum: Located in Seattle, the Washington Park Arboretum is a haven of nature and tranquility. Wander through the beautiful gardens, explore the extensive trail system, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this urban oasis.
Indulge in a food tour in Seattle: Seattle is known for its vibrant food scene, from fresh seafood to international cuisine and artisanal delights. Embark on a food tour and sample the city's culinary offerings, visit local markets, and learn about the flavors that make Seattle unique.
Attend a sporting event: King County is home to several professional sports teams, including the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Seattle Mariners (MLB), and Seattle Sounders FC (MLS). Catch a game and immerse yourself in the excitement of the local sports culture.
King County offers a wealth of activities and attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant urban experiences. Whether you're exploring museums and gardens, hiking in the mountains, or indulging in culinary delights, there's always something new and exciting to discover in this diverse county of Washington state.