Best Things to do in Seattle

Surrounded by the lush greenery throughout the year, Seattle, Washington State, lives up to its name as the “Emerald City.” But not just the vegetation, Seattle is also famous for its music, the exquisite architecture, and, not to forget, its magnificent glass blowing industry. Especially when you are on vacation with your family or friends in Seattle, there are ample options for high-end as well as pocket-friendly places to visit. So, when you are in the city, don’t forget to check out all the best things to do in Seattle to ensure that you do not overlook anything. 

5 Things to do in Seattle this Weekend

Saturdays and Sundays should be the days when you let yourself loose and enjoy as much as possible. Even if you have got two days, there are plenty of things to do this weekend in Seattle. Whether visiting the iconic Space Needle or checking out the magnificent wooden boats, your weekend can be memorable in this city.

1. Roam Around in Wooden Boats

When you’re coming to Seattle on the weekends, the best advice is to visit The Center for Wooden Boats. Also recognized as the city’s landmark, it is mainly a museum with a collection of traditional wooden boats. Interestingly, they are not just on display but also for tourists to go on a tour. 

3 great things to do this weekend in Seattle’s wooden boat museum are:

• Find an opportunity to ride on the like an old mariner.
• Take a fun workshop to learn how boat repairs are carried out.
• Become a volunteer sailing instructor for a unique experience.

2. Stop by Frye Art Museum

Considering that your itinerary takes you to Terry Ave in Seattle, Frye Art Museum is where you should head to. This art museum is among the most impressive places in Seattle. Sculptures dating back centuries are the main attractions here. 

Not limited to this, see what to do in Seattle this weekend additionally for the best time at this museum:

• 232 paintings by German painters from the private collection of Charles and Emma Frye are worth checking out once.
• Various donations of modern American Art will engage you.
• Several events inclusive of movies and history lectures take place here. Get a chance to attend them on the weekends.

3. Take a Stroll in the Green Lake Park

Green Lake Park features a path as big as nearly 3 miles. The most notable thing about the park is that it is surrounded by people of all ages. You are likely to witness a unique crowd on the weekends. As the place is open all days of the year, it is flocked by people for numerous physical activities. Interestingly, you can find many free things to do in Seattle this weekend at this park.

• There is ample space for your children to run around and enjoy themselves. 

• Biking or roller skating on the path around the lake is a fun and free activity.
• You can find a pool for children. On weekends, visiting this pool can’t be more enjoyable.

4. Visit Seattle’s oldest neighborhood: Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is the oldest neighborhood in Seattle. Coming here should be in your inventory of the best things to do in Seattle this weekend.  The best part of this neighborhood includes Pioneer Park which is open between 6.00 A.M. to 10.00 P.M. Here, you can additionally witness amazing architecture and stop by some incredible cafés. Special events like “Uncovering the History of Seattle’s Central Waterfront” are unmissable.

5. Check out the Iconic Space Needle 

Whenever you see a picture of Seattle, the most prominent feature in most of them would be the iconic Space Needle. The place provides an exceptional panoramic view of the city which makes it worth adding in the fun things to do in Seattle, Washington next weekend. The other attractions include:

• The Puget Sound
• Olympic Mountains
• Cascades
• The newest addition, the Skyriser
• World’s first revolving glass floor, the Loupe 

3 Fun Things to do in Seattle

Seattle is a fun city for the activities it gives you exposure to. Mountain biking is an awesome thing to do in the pleasing climate of the place. Beyond this, you can add exciting elements to your journey. The most fun things to do in Seattle, Washington, take you on rides and tours that you may not find anywhere else.

1. Go for Biking on the Tiger Mountain Trail

An amazing biking destination in the city, Tiger Mountain Trail attracts tourists for the utmost fun. The fresh air through the hundreds of trees helps rejuvenate your mind and refreshes you too. Additionally, you can walk through the trail at your own pace. This is another fun thing to do in Seattle’s famous destination. The total stretch of the place is 15.2 miles and the highest point is at 2500 ft. Thus, the fun gets doubled whether you walk or ride.

2. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

Believe it or not, the Seattle Great Wheel takes you 175 feet above sea level. The view of the city’s skyline that you get to enjoy from the top is simply breathtaking. On weekends, it is more awesome to come here. Should the current one already be occupied, then you can plan fun things to do in Seattle next weekend here. Late evenings on Saturdays and Sundays are the best for your plans.

3. Find Quirky and Bohemian Art at Fremont

It is quite fun to explore Bohemian art with friends. In Seattle, you can find several places that can help you out with such explorations. Among the really fun and best things to do in Seattle, you should go to Fremont. The most popular things that you can enjoy here are:

• Climbing up the Fremont Troll
• Clicking a picture in front of the statue of Lenin
• Taking a look at the place’s sculptures

The joy of the fun things in the city is the maximum when your journey to Seattle is smooth. Speaking of that, you may not have a journey that you expect when your onboarding is not smooth. This can mainly be due to identification issues. When you are flying with carriers like Alaska Airlines, you can easily steer away from such issues. For correct identification, this carrier, in specific, has made  the feature of Alaska Airlines name change on ticket. It lets you correct your name for proper identification and onboarding. Thus, a smooth journey to Seattle gets assured.

Things to do in Seattle with Kids

When you are traveling with children to Seattle, there is no chance for them to get bored. There are lots of things to do with kids in Seattle such as riding a monorail. They can also try learning about marine life at the aquarium. Then enjoying some old-school pinball games is a definite experience your kids should have.

1. Enjoy Rides at Seattle Center Monorail

Seattle Center Monorail is a fun way to commute in the city in Washington. While adults love the ride, kids enjoy it more. Enjoying the view outside and exploring the unique interiors within are the things for kids to do in Seattle’s monorail. Interestingly, there is never an issue of crowding as there is a train available after every 10 minutes. 

2. Catch a Show at Seattle Children’s Theatre 

Most kids might love live shows. Speaking of that, there is nothing better than getting to watch a show at a theatre that’s exclusively designed for them. Seattle Children’s Theatre hosts numerous performances. The main ones take place at the 482-seater Seattle Center and the 275-seater theatre. The camps conducted here also give you ideas about what to do in Seattle with kids at this place.

Note: The place is functional from Monday to Friday. 

3. Fascinate Your Kids at the Unique Pacific Science Center 

The Pacific Science Center is not just like any other museum where you get to see the exhibits but cannot touch them. There is a reason why it’s covered under the unique things to do in Seattle with kids. At this place, you can have hands-on experience with everything that makes the place so unique for children. The biggest attractions of the place are:

• The incredible butterfly exhibits
• Shows at the IMAX theater
• The largest and longest operating laser theater in the world

4. Get Mesmerized at Seattle Aquarium

Included in the best things to do with kids in Seattle, visiting this aquarium is recommended. Seattle Aquarium is something that your kids would love if they enjoy exploring marine life. In addition to that, you can find various mesmerizing events at the aquarium including:

• The amazing Ocean Carrier Series
• A community nature walk
• The Beach Naturalist program

Tip: The events may change from time to time, so it’s advised to stay updated by checking the place’s website. 

5. Go to Seattle Pinball Museum

Nothing could be better than taking your kids to the games you used to play when you were their age. Thus, to find out what to do in Seattle, Washington, with kids, to give them a memorable experience, do check out Seattle Pinball Museum. The various games at this place are:

• Guns N’ Roses 
• Hi-FLY
• King Tut
• Metallica
• Orbitor 1
• Sea Wolf
• Swing Along
• Tri-Zone
• Twilight Zone 

Note: Children below the age of 7 are not allowed at this museum. 

Top 10 things to do in Seattle

Seattle is the perfect example of a place where the urban culture blends perfectly with the natural beauty of the place. When you are visiting it for a vacation with your kids or family, there are some top things to do in Seattle. Whether making an escape from the bustling city at Seward Park or checking out the living computers, the city of Seattle is simply breathtaking. 

1. Visit Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour

By chance, if you had ever wondered about the times when the airplane was discovered, then this is your opportunity to find that out. At the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour. Not just the past, you can get an opportunity to experience the future of the aviation sector at this place. This place undoubtedly tops the list of top ten things to do in Seattle. 

2. Head to the Wing Luke museum

An amazing mix of the Asian Pacific American culture has been showcased at the Wing Luke Museum through their art and history. Inclusive of several top things to do in Seattle, Washington, this place is an amazing choice for the art aficionado. The main attractions comprise:

• The folk art and oral history
• Amazing neighborhood walking tours
• Exhibits on Bruce Lee 

3. Pay a Visit to the Pike Place market

Whether you are in the city for a day or for a long vacation, visiting the Pike Place Market is one of the top things to do in Seattle, WA. This place is operational between 9.00 A.M. to 6.00 P.M. all seven days of the week. However, there are some restaurants that remain functional till midnight or even later. The places you can try in the market are:

• Sweetie’s Candy
• Golden Age Collectibles
• Pike Place Express Farmers Market
• Artisan and Prepared Food Program

4. Check out the Seattle Art Museum

Seattle art Museum, or SAM, as popularly known among the locals, is among the unmissable things when in the city. Included in the top and best things to do in Seattle, this place has some incredible collections of art. There are more than 24000 pieces of art in three facilities. Some of the popular exhibits are:

• Native American and Pacific northwest artwork
• The Wright collection
• Arts and sculptures on abstract expressionism and minimalism

5. Dine-in at the Tom Douglas Restaurants

The restaurants by Tom Douglas are a must-visit when you are in the city. While you are making your enumeration about the top 10 things to do in Seattle, Washington, this name should not be missed. Tom Douglas owns six restaurants and three additional properties in the city of Seattle. Some of the highlights of these places comprise:

• Finger-licking thin-crust pizzas made from the wood fire at the Serious Pie
• Delicious triple coconut cream pie at the Dahlia Lounge
• Greek-influenced dishes at Lola

6. Visit the Labyrinthine waterways

The majestic labyrinthine waterway mentioned here is the Ballard Locks that links the Puget Sound with Lake Washington. The Ship Canals here are among the most popular tourist destinations and are included in the top 10 things to do in Seattle, Washington. This is the perfect place for a lazy afternoon stroll along the waterway. You can also just sit on the swinging walkways and enjoy boats coming and leaving along the Ballard Locks. 

7. Escape to the Lap of Nature at the Seward Park

When you are tired from the hustle and bustle of the city and craving for a peaceful escape, then Seward Park is your best bet. Among the top ten things to do in Seattle, this place gives a completely different experience. The 300-acre area covered in lush greenery makes this the perfect place for spending a quiet and relaxing day. The top things that you can enjoy here are:

• Boating
• Playing tennis 
• Going for hiking 
• Laying down lazily or having some fun with your kids at the beaches 

8. Indulge in Hawaiian-Korean Fusion Food

One of the most amazing Hawaiian-Korean fusion foods in Seattle was born out of a food truck. This restaurant holds a place in the top things to do in Seattle Washington for a reason. Now known by the name Marination Ma Kai, it not only serves great food but also has an amazing patio to catch some amazing views of the city’s skyline. Make sure to try the pork katsu sandwich paired with kimchi while you indulge in local beers from the tap. 

9. Have Fun at the Seattle Bouldering Project

Among the top things to do in Seattle WA, tourists are going to love the Seattle Bouldering Project. This is a great spot for kids to have fun but adults too are welcome. Also, if you stay in the city, then the best option for you is to take any of the four memberships offered here for a fun time as and when you want.

10. Check out Living Computers Museum

Nowadays, almost everyone owns a laptop or a desktop. Also, it is quite evident owning smartphones by most adults across the globe. But one should always know about the predecessor of these gadgets used on a daily basis. To tell you what to do in Seattle’s Living Computers Museum, here are some top suggestions to consider:

• Numerous vintage computers can amaze you.
• Among the exhibits, there are self-driving cars, robots doing some work, ARs, microcomputers, etc., that you should see. 

While you’re coming to Seattle and Alaska Airlines is your chosen career, ensure that you pick the best flight that helps you reach the city on time. This will make more room for the top explorations. On the off chance that you are not satisfied with your booking, Alaska Airlines flight change policy is available for aid. This time, switch to a booking that goes well with your plans.

Free things to do in Seattle

Everything that you enjoy in the city does not have to cost you every time. There are plenty of things to do in Seattle for free. You can watch a performance at a ladies club or take a tour of a museum absolutely free of cost. The best part about these things is that they are not things that can be enjoyed only by adults. Even the kids would love them. 

1. Pay a Visit to the Olympic Sculpture Park

Olympic Sculpture Park is under the supervision of the Seattle Art Museum. The numerous exhibits installed at this place make the park worth your time when you are in the city. If you are just visiting it only on Saturday and Sunday, then you can find a number of free things to do in Seattle this weekend like: 

• Bunyon’s Chess
• Eye Benches
• Schubert Sonata
• Wandering Rocks
• Love and Loss
• The Eagle 

2. A Hike at the Discovery Park

A part of the free things to do in Seattle, Washington is a hike along the various terrains at Discovery Park. It is something that you can enjoy with your kids as well. If you are too tired from the hubbub of the city, then it’s time to make an escape. Located near the Magnolia neighborhood, this is the place for a family day out. You can get to choose the different terrains to hike on for free.

3. Engage in Classical Music at Ladies Musical Club

For the classical music aficionados, the Ladies Musical Club is a great choice offering free things to do in Seattle, WA. The various events conducted by this club include Pieces by Brahms, Mozart, and Liszt as well as Frances Walton Competition on Brass, Marimba, Piano, Recorder, String, Voice, and woodwind. 

Note: The Ladies Musical Club is functional between 9.00 A.M. to 9.00 P.M. every seven days of the week. 

4 Romantic Things to do in Seattle

Just like there is no season for romance, in the same way, you can enjoy plenty of romantic things to do in Seattle, Washington, with your special one. You can enjoy a dreamy sequence while walking together amidst hundreds of roses. You can also have a peaceful boat ride together. With more such things for couples, Seattle becomes an ideal city for romance.

1. Boating on Green Lake

Going for a romantic boat ride at Green Lake with your better half is more like a tradition ever since. This is among the best couple things to do in Seattle when you also want to spend some peaceful time with each other away from the hustle and bustle of daily lives. At Green Lake, there is a boathouse from which you can rent out a boat. Choices of watercraft are also available.

2. Parsons Gardens for the Utmost Romance

Said to be among the best-kept secrets, visiting the Parsons Garden gives you the opportunity to explore many romantic things to do in Seattle. As you walk here, you will find several things to discover with your loved one. One of these is walking among the flowers. Couples also choose this garden for small picnics in its lawn area.

Note: You can come here between 6.00 A.M. to 10.00 P. M. all seven days of the week. 

3. Delve in the Beauty of Seattle Rose Garden

One cannot argue that there is anything as romantic as strolling around in a place with the love of your life, especially when it is surrounded by hundreds of roses. The Seattle Rose garden is one such place. Ensuring the best things to do in Seattle for couples, here you can find a bed of nearly 3000 roses. Among these, you can see at least 200 varieties of roses.

4. Enjoy the City’s View from a Hot Air Balloon

Just imagine how amazing the Emerald City would look from a bird’s view. But you just don’t need to satisfy yourself with your imagination. You can actually enjoy this view. Soar the skies with your partner in the exciting hot air balloon rides. While planning various things for couples to do in Seattle, if you include this one, then you can view the following from the top:

• Downtown Seattle 
• Lake Tapps
• Auburn 
• Cascade Mountain ranges
• Mt. Rainier

What to do in Seattle Washington at Night?

Seattle is not just for amazing day tours. The nightlife in the city is equally breathtaking. You can get to enjoy some spooky haunted tours of the city. Indulging in an exquisite dinner on a cruise late in the evening is truly a delight. More things to do in Seattle at night such as comedy shows can further make your night plans great.

1. Enjoy the Spectacular Skyline from Smith Tower

Among some of the most remarkable architectures in Seattle, the Smith Tower is definitely a name. A significant reason behind its popularity is that it is the city’s first skyscraper. But there’s more to it why it holds a position in the things to do at night in Seattle. The things that attract tourists to this place the most are:

• Great souvenir shops on the ground floor
• Incredible historical exhibits
• A mesmerizing view of the city’s skyline from the open-air observatory deck
• An amazing speakeasy-style bar

2. Laugh Your Heart out at a Comedy Show

When you are in the city and wondering what to do in Seattle at night, our best advice is to catch great comedy shows. The city in WA boasts of hosting some of the best comedy shows in the state. You should not overlook one when you are here. Some of the places where you can watch these shows are:

• Club Comedy Seattle
• CSz Seattle
• Laughs Comedy Club 

3. Head to an Exquisite Dinner Cruise

Dig into the deliciousness of Seattle’s food in a luxury yacht. The best things to do in Seattle at night are to be explored on this peaceful ride. The trip begins from Chandler’s Cave, where the yacht takes you and your family for a 2.5-hour journey around the incredible Lake Washington and Lake Union. 

Note: Kids below the age of 13 are not allowed on the cruise for safety reasons. So, make sure that you plan accordingly.

4. Explore Secrets with the Haunted Seattle Ghost Tour

Nothing could be more thrilling among the things to do in Seattle tonight than learning the spooky details of the city. No matter how beautiful the city looks during the day, the haunted Seattle Ghost Tour is surely going to send chills down your spine. Multiple walking tours are organized by local guides who can take you to the most haunted places in Seattle. With immense stories about the dark past of the city, this is going to be a one-of-a-kind experience. 

5. Amazing Booze at a Microbrewery 

When you are on the lookout for the finest things to do in Seattle at night, indulge in some great beer. Fremont Brewing is a great place to head to with your friends and family. The specialization of the Fremont Brewery lies in that they manufacture small batches of artisan beer which makes its taste perfect and unique. 

Tip: This place has even got a “Friendly Tasting Room”. This is a kid-friendly zone. 

4 Things to do in Downtown Seattle 

Downtown Seattle is quite interesting when compared to other cities in the States. It was founded when the Gold Rush happened during the nineteenth century. But irrespective of this fact, this does not make the place any less when compared to the older ones. There are plenty of things to do in Seattle Downtown. You may want to dig into some exquisite Japanese cuisine or visit the original Starbucks. There cannot be a lack of options when you are in the Emerald City’s Downtown region. 

1. Relish Seafood at the Crab Pot

Downtown Seattle is a nice place to grab amazing seafood. If you are not sure about what to do in Downtown Seattle, then consider paying a visit to the amazing Crab Pot. This restaurant is so amazing that it even got featured on TV in the Man vs. Food program. Here is when you can go to Crab Pot Seattle in Downtown:

• Monday to Thursday: 11:30 A.M. to 8:30 P. M. 
• Friday and Saturday: 11:30 A.M. to 9.00 P.M. 
• Sunday: 11:30 A.M. to 8:30 P.M.

2. Don’t forget to Visit the Enormous Spheres

Many of you may have heard about huge glass spheres in Seattle. Now is the opportunity to witness one. Going to these glass spheres installed in front of the Amazon Headquarters is also among the unique things to do in Seattle Downtown. Then there is the Understory where you can learn all about them. The amazing part about the spheres is that you can find here more than 40000 plants from over 30 countries. Students also get the opportunity to tour the Amazon Greenhouse.

3. Starbucks Reserve and Roastery 

You all may have been to Starbucks usually but the one on Pike Street is special. Visiting the Starbucks Reserve and Roastery is included in the best things to do in Seattle Downtown when you want an exciting yet soothing time. 

At this special spot, learn all about the coffee-making process. How the beans are roasted to the final product that is served is also worth exploring. The best part about this place in Downtown is that there is a Starbucks master roaster too. This roaster will explain to you the entire process of roasting the beans. 

Note: Starbucks Reserve and Roastery is found functional all throughout the week. Between 7.00 A.M. to 11.00 P.M, you can manage the time to come here.

4. Catch an Event at Lumen Field

Lumen Field in Downtown Seattle is a stadium that is used for multiple purposes. It has a remarkable capacity of accommodating more than 68000 people. Out of these, 1400 seats are reserved for people with special needs. Due to the enormous accommodation of Lumen Field, there are numerous events taking place here. It will be best if you can find some events here. To find more cool things to do in Downtown Seattle, do check the place’s website.

Outdoor Things to do in Seattle

The Emerald City of the United States is not just about restaurants and museums. There are numerous outdoor things to do in Seattle, Washington, that you would love to be a part of. Having some time out of the four walls will help you get some fresh air too and make you stress-free. From enjoying the fantastic view of the city with a bird’s eye view to visiting an incredible National Park, you can never run out of choices in the exciting city of the States. 

1. Visit the Majestic Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is among the most beautiful places in Seattle. Included among the fun outdoor things to do in Seattle, WA, it is the second tallest peak in the United States of America. Moreover, it serves as a training region for international climbing associations. When you love trekking or rock climbing, this is the ideal outdoor place for you. During the middle of the year, the area becomes favorable for climbers with all levels of expertise. 

2. Short Airplane Rides for City’s Scenic Beauty

At quite affordable rates, you can enjoy the great scenic beauty of the city in a 20-minute airplane ride. What makes this ride interesting is that its pilot can give you an insightful narrative of Seattle. Listening to this is not the only thing to do. Just in case you want to enjoy the view absolutely from noise, you can put on headsets and sit back in comfort. When you’re going solo, making friends with others is what to do in Seattle’s airplane rides additionally.

Note: Infants who are below the age of 2 can enjoy a lap ride and no extra charges are levied. 

3. Experience the Waterways in Seattle’s Tall Ships

A waterway trip in Seattle’s tall ship is something you can include in the best things to do in Seattle outdoors. More than 80 passengers can be accommodated on such a ship. Lots of outdoor seating areas are especially arranged to allow the passengers to witness the view. Various trips that are available here are:

• Two hours sailing from Seattle Harbor to Puget Sound
• Sunset sailing especially for the patrons
• Brews Cruise on Thursdays mainly for adults above the age of 21

3 Things to do in Seattle during COVID

COVID can make it difficult to think of many things to do in Seattle during COVID that may seem safe. The city still has great options to discover. You may want to have an exciting time in the city in Washington. Or, you may be on the lookout for some peaceful time out of your home. The city knows how to keep you satisfied even when the pandemic prevails.

1. Escape Rooms for Fun with Your Gang

Escape rooms unlock fun activities for you. There are plenty of these rooms that may only let in some groups at a time. With your friends or family members, you can head to such rooms during the pandemic. The top escape rooms in Seattle not only provide you with endless fun but also ensure that your health remains safe from coronavirus. Puzzle Break is one such spot with plenty of fun things to do in Seattle during COVID. Its host can make your time more amazing.

2. Sorrento Hotel’s Fireside Room to Celebrate Literature

The lockdown amidst the pandemic may let some people yearn for outdoor trips. But for those who would like to have some quiet time and yet be out of their homes, Sorrento Hotel should be considered. It comes with the best things to do in Seattle for such people in COVID-19. Specifically, they can visit the Fireside Room. Literary events are often held here that feature silent reading sessions.

3. An Early-morning Walk Tour of the City 

Considering that the COVID-19 pandemic generates some fear of public gatherings, you can still go out in Seattle. Early in the morning, you can self-guide yourself to tour around the city in WA. With all the preventive measures followed, you should head on to roads with the most iconic structures.

See here to further know what is there to do in Seattle in COVID:

• Walking around the statue of Lenin should be included in your tour.
• Do check out Jimi Hendrix Statue and the places nearby.

Undoubtedly, this city has so many things that you can always find yourself engaged. But for that, planning a good journey to the city is suggested. Should you be planning it with United, then see to it that your flight is on time. Amidst the pandemic, delays may be recurring on this airline. Nevertheless, when you do not depart on time, make use of the United Airlines flight delay compensation policy. It will help you seek an alternative and still continue your trip to Seattle to get engaged with these things.

In a Nutshell,
The Emerald City of the United States has so many things to do that you would exhaust all your vacation days, yet you would have left out places to visit. So to avoid such circumstances, the wisest choice is to follow the best things to do in Seattle, which includes all those unmissable activities when you are in the city. Whether you are visiting here with your family, friends, or partner, this reading ensured to consider all the remarkable landmarks, museums, and restaurants without which your vacation would remain incomplete.

Best Things to do in Seattle – FAQs