Welcome to the Emerald City. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking for fresh inspiration, finding the best things to do in Seattle can be an overwhelming task. From the misty shores of Elliott Bay to the top of the iconic Space Needle, Seattle is a city defined by its contrasts: high-tech innovation and rugged natural beauty; a world-class coffee culture and a gritty grunge history.
In this massive, 10,000-word-style comprehensive resource, we break down every possible activity. We’ve categorized the most powerful things to do in Seattle to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
If you only have 24 hours in the city, these are the non-negotiable things to do in Seattle.
No list of things to do in Seattle is complete without Pike Place Market. Established in 1907, it is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the US.
Watch the Fish Toss: Head to Pike Place Fish Market to see the world-famous fishmongers throw salmon.
Visit the Gum Wall: Located in Post Alley, this "sticky" landmark is a polarizing but essential part of the things to do in Seattle circuit.
The Original Starbucks: Grab a photo (and maybe a latte) at the 1912 Pike Place location.
For the best views of the skyline, the Space Needle remains the champion of things to do in Seattle.
The Loupe: Walk on the world’s first and only revolving glass floor.
Chihuly Garden and Glass: Located right next door, this museum showcases the mind-bending glass art of Dale Chihuly.
Designed by Frank Gehry, this building looks like a smashed guitar. Exploring the Nirvana and Pearl Jam exhibits is one of the most culturally significant things to do in Seattle.
Seattleites live for the outdoors. Even when it drizzles, you'll find locals hiking, biking, and paddling.
As the largest green space in the city, visiting Discovery Park is one of the top things to do in Seattle for hikers. The 2.8-mile Loop Trail takes you through meadows and forests to the West Point Lighthouse.
For a unique perspective of the skyline, rent a kayak at Northwest Outdoor Center. Paddling past the "Sleepless in Seattle" houseboats is one of the most relaxing things to do in Seattle.
Watching the boats transition between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Washington is one of the most fascinating free things to do in Seattle. Don't miss the fish ladder where you can see salmon leaping upstream.
Seattle's culinary scene is a powerhouse of fresh seafood, Teriyaki (the city’s signature dish), and innovative Asian-fusion.
You cannot talk about things to do in Seattle without mentioning coffee.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery (Capitol Hill): A massive "Disney World of Coffee."
Espresso Vivace: Known for perfecting the art of the latte.
Analog Coffee: A local favorite in Capitol Hill for those who prefer a quieter vibe.
Eating fresh oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard or enjoying clam chowder at Ivar's on the waterfront are classic things to do in Seattle.
To truly experience the city, you must leave the downtown core.
Neighborhood
Vibe
Top Things to Do
Ballard
Maritime / Trendy
Ballard Avenue shopping, Breweries, Golden Gardens Park.
Capitol Hill
Nightlife / Artsy
Volunteer Park, Elliott Bay Book Co, LGBTQ+ bars.
Fremont
Quirky / "Center of the Universe"
The Fremont Troll, Sunday Market, Gas Works Park.
Pioneer Square
Historic / Industrial
Underground Tour, Smith Tower, Art Galleries.
Seattle is a hub for thinkers and creators.
The Seattle Art Museum (SAM): From Native American carvings to modern masterpieces.
The Underground Tour: Dive beneath the streets of Pioneer Square to see the original city ruins. This is often cited as one of the most entertaining things to do in Seattle.
The Central Library: Even if you aren't a bookworm, the Rem Koolhaas-designed architecture makes this one of the most visually stunning things to do in Seattle.
Want to avoid the crowds? Try these off-the-beaten-path things to do in Seattle.
Waterfall Garden Park: A tiny "pocket park" in Pioneer Square with a 22-foot waterfall.
The UPS Waterfall Garden: A secret oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle.
Kubota Garden: A stunning 20-acre Japanese garden in South Seattle that many tourists miss.
The Georgetown Steam Plant: A masterpiece of early industrial power, open for tours on specific days.
Traveling with kids? The city has plenty of high-energy activities.
The Seattle Aquarium: Located on Pier 59, it’s a great way to learn about the local marine life of the Salish Sea.
Pacific Science Center: With its planetarium and laser dome, it’s one of the most educational things to do in Seattle.
The Great Wheel: Take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel for a bird's-eye view of Elliott Bay.
This is the "Goldilocks" season. The best things to do in Seattle in summer include Seafair, outdoor concerts at Marymoor Park, and ferry rides to Bainbridge Island.
While it's gray outside, the best things to do in Seattle move indoors. Think cozying up in a Capitol Hill bookstore or visiting the Museum of Flight.
Get a CityPASS: If you plan on doing the top 5 things to do in Seattle, this will save you about 45%.
Skip the Umbrella: Locals use hoods. An umbrella is a dead giveaway that you're a tourist!
Use the Link Light Rail: It’s the cheapest way to get from SEA Airport to downtown and hits many of the major things to do in Seattle.
From the heights of the Columbia Center to the depths of the Underground Tour, the variety of things to do in Seattle ensures that no two trips are the same. It is a city that rewards exploration and appreciates a good cup of rain-drizzled coffee.