15 Best Things to Do in Seattle (Our Top Picks for 2024)

In 2024, Seattle continues to thrive as a hub of diverse attractions and activities.

Space Needle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to capture Seattle's skyline. Similarly, the Pioneer Square's Underground Tour provides a unique glimpse into the city's rich history, taking visitors through the old, hidden corridors beneath the streets.

At Pike Place Market, visitors can enjoy a vibrant culinary experience with fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. It's not just a place to eat; it's a place to connect with local culture and history. The Seattle Museum of Visual Arts plays a pivotal role in the cultural scene, offering diverse exhibitions that reflect both local and international perspectives.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, Discovery Park is a sanctuary within the city. It offers vast green spaces, hiking trails, and stunning views of Puget Sound, ideal for a relaxing day out. The whimsical Fremont Troll, a large sculptural piece located under the Aurora Bridge, adds a touch of local folklore and artistry to the area.

Sports enthusiasts should not miss the chance to catch a baseball game at T-Mobile Park, where the energy and spirit of Seattle come alive.

Each of these locations tells its own story, contributing to the rich tapestry that makes Seattle a fascinating city to explore. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, Seattle in 2024 has something exciting to offer.

Iconic Landmarks

Explore Seattle's Must-See Landmarks

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, Seattle's landmarks like the Space Needle and the Seattle Great Wheel are essential for a full city experience.

My first visit to the Space Needle was unforgettable, with its stunning 360-degree views. From the bustling city below to the calming waters of Puget Sound and the impressive Olympic Mountains, the scenery is diverse and vibrant. The Space Needle isn't just a tall structure; it's a place where you can feel the pulse of Seattle.

Just a short distance away, the Seattle Great Wheel dominates the waterfront scene. Riding in one of the climate-controlled gondolas, especially at night, offers a distinct view of the city. The brightly lit skyline against the night backdrop creates a memorable visual. The Great Wheel is more than just a ride; it's a way to see Seattle from a different angle.

Both the Space Needle and the Seattle Great Wheel aren't merely attractions; they're experiences that reflect the spirit and energy of Seattle. Whether you're looking for stunning photos or just want to soak in the city's atmosphere, these landmarks should definitely be on your itinerary.

Historical Tours and Museums

Seattle's history is as intriguing as its iconic skyline, especially when explored through its museums and historical tours.

One unique experience is Bill Speidel's Underground Tour. Here, you literally step beneath the streets of Pioneer Square into a network of hidden corridors that were bustling with businesses in the early 20th century. This underground maze offers a firsthand look at Seattle's ability to overcome past adversities and transform itself.

Another remarkable stop is the Wing Luke Museum, which dives deep into the Asian American experience. The exhibits here are put together with the help of local community members, showcasing the essential roles that Asian Pacific Americans have played in shaping the Pacific Northwest. This museum doesn't just display artifacts; it tells moving stories of diversity and resilience.

Both of these experiences provide more than just a look back in time—they highlight the ongoing stories of community and innovation that define Seattle today.

Whether you're a history buff or looking for a deeper connection to the city, these tours are insightful and enriching. They remind us of the diverse cultural threads that weave together to create the fabric of Seattle's community.

Markets and Culinary Experiences

Discover the Vibrant Heart of Seattle at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market in Seattle isn't just a market; it's a vibrant hub of culinary delights that caters to your taste buds. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local food culture and experience the freshness of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a dedicated food lover or just exploring, Pike Place Market offers a variety of experiences that cater to everyone.

1. Fresh Seafood Stalls: Pike Place Market is renowned for its seafood, freshly brought in from nearby waters. Make sure you check out the energetic fish vendors, famous for tossing fish to each other—a fun spectacle not to be missed!

2. Specialty Food Shops: As you wander through the market, explore the numerous specialty food shops. These shops offer everything from exotic spices and handmade cheeses to gourmet chocolates. Each store provides a unique glimpse into the diverse culinary offerings of Seattle.

3. Guided Culinary Tours: To truly appreciate the history and the variety of foods at Pike Place Market, consider joining a guided culinary tour. These tours provide insightful stories about the market's past and present while allowing you to sample a wide range of dishes that highlight Seattle's rich food landscape.

Visiting Pike Place Market is more than just eating and shopping; it's a chance to engage with the local community and dive deep into Seattle's culinary scene. Every corner offers something new and exciting, making it a key destination for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Seattle.

Art and Culture

Seattle is a hub for cultural expression, with a collection of museums and cultural venues that showcase its diverse artistic roots. The Seattle Art Museum is a key highlight, where you can see art from across the globe. Walking through its exhibits, you directly experience how art bridges cultures.

The city is also known for its vibrant cultural festivals. The Seattle International Film Festival is a notable example, turning the city into an active hub of film and storytelling. Each festival, be it about film, music, or crafts, enriches Seattle's cultural landscape and offers something special for art lovers.

Attending these festivals or visiting museums like the Seattle Art Museum not only supports the local art scene but also deepens your understanding of different cultures and artistic expressions. These events are essential for maintaining the city's cultural vitality and ensuring it remains a welcoming space for artists and creators from all over the world.

Parks and Recreational Areas

Seattle's vibrant city life is spectacular, but its parks and recreational areas provide peaceful retreats where nature meets relaxation. Here are my top recommendations for anyone eager to explore Seattle's natural landscapes:

1. Discovery Park: This is Seattle's largest park, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. The Loop Trail offers stunning views and well-kept paths, making it a popular choice. Make sure to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic near the lighthouse, where you can take in the ocean's beauty.
2. Gas Works Park: Known for its rich history and excellent city skyline views, Gas Works Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. Bring a kite and enjoy the open space on the hill, or just lay back and watch the clouds go by.
3. Ballard Locks: At the Ballard Locks, not only can you see boats navigating the waterways, but you can also explore the beautiful botanical gardens. It's a great place to learn about Seattle's maritime history while enjoying the outdoors.

Each of these parks offers a unique experience that showcases the natural beauty and history of Seattle. Whether you're hiking, picnicking, or just enjoying the views, there's something for everyone in these urban oases.

Unique Attractions

Seattle offers several off-the-beaten-path attractions that capture the city's inventive spirit.

The Fremont Troll, for example, isn't just any sculpture. This massive artwork grips a real Volkswagen Beetle, showcasing the creative flair of Fremont. It's a unique piece that combines art with a touch of whimsy, reflecting the area's vibrant culture.

Nearby, the Gum Wall presents a different kind of creativity. Visitors stick their chewed gum onto a wall, creating a mosaic of colors and textures. While it might sound unconventional, the Gum Wall has become a testament to the collective creativity of its visitors, continuously growing and changing day by day.

For those interested in interactive experiences, the Seattle Pinball Museum is a must-visit. Here, you can play on more than 50 vintage pinball machines. This isn't just about fun and games; it's a chance to dive into the history of pinball and its role in American pop culture. Each machine has its own story, offering a hands-on way to experience history.

These attractions are more than just places to visit; they're experiences that offer insights into Seattle's cultural and historical landscape.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring these sites provides a deeper understanding of the city's character and creativity.

Theatrical and Performance Venues

Seattle's cultural scene is vibrant, especially in the realm of theater and live performances. If you're keen on exploring the rich history and diverse creative expressions in theater, here are some top venues to check out:

1. Paramount Theatre: Opened in 1928, Paramount Theatre began as a home for silent films and vaudeville acts. Today, it's a key spot for Broadway shows and concerts. Its blend of historic ambiance with contemporary shows makes it a unique cultural landmark in Seattle.
2. 5th Avenue Theatre: This venue is renowned for its commitment to live musical theater. Its design is heavily influenced by Chinese architecture, setting a stunning backdrop for the musicals it stages. Notably, it's a launch pad for shows destined for Broadway, marking it as a crucial player in the American theater landscape.
3. On the Boards: For those who appreciate daring and innovative performances, On the Boards is the go-to venue. It focuses on presenting works from around the world that push the boundaries of traditional theater, offering audiences a taste of cutting-edge artistic expression.

Each of these venues contributes significantly to Seattle's reputation as a hub for artistic innovation and historical preservation in the performing arts.

Whether you're drawn to the classic charm of the Paramount, the architectural beauty and influential productions of 5th Avenue, or the avant-garde offerings at On the Boards, Seattle's theater scene has something to captivate every theater enthusiast.

Sports Venues

Seattle is a hub for sports fans, and visiting the T-Mobile Park is a fantastic way to dive into the local baseball culture. This stadium, where the Mariners play, is known for its vibrant energy, especially during the summer games. You can feel the excitement in the air as fans cheer on their team.

Just a short distance away, Lumen Field stands as the proud home of the Seattle Seahawks and Sounders FC. Here, the intense crowd support and smart gameplay make each match memorable. It's not just about watching the game; it's about feeling part of a community that comes alive on match day.

Both venues are more than just places for sports; they're a part of Seattle's cultural fabric. Attending games at these stadiums offers a firsthand look at the city's passion for sports and provides an opportunity to engage with local traditions.

Whether you're catching a game of baseball or football, these venues guarantee a real taste of Seattle's sports scene. They're perfect for anyone looking to experience the genuine excitement of American sports.

Zoos and Aquariums

Visiting the Woodland Park Zoo offers a unique opportunity to see over 1,000 animals from diverse regions worldwide. This zoo is dedicated to animal conservation, crafting habitats that mirror the animals' natural environments. This approach not only protects the creatures but also educates visitors about the importance of conservation through interactive and engaging exhibits.

Key Exhibits to Explore:

1. Tropical Rainforest – This exhibit is a vibrant hub of exotic species. During your visit, you can watch live animal feeding sessions, providing a direct view of how these animals interact within their food chain.
2. Northern Trail – Experience the life of animals from colder regions and understand how climate change is altering their natural habitats. This exhibit highlights the urgent need for environmental conservation efforts.
3. Bug World – Perfect for both kids and adults, this exhibit demonstrates the crucial role insects play in our ecosystems. Through hands-on activities, visitors can learn about insect life cycles and their impact on our environment.

Each zone at the Woodland Park Zoo is thoughtfully designed to not only entertain but also educate visitors about the vital roles these animals and environments play in our world.

Whether you're observing the feeding habits in the Tropical Rainforest or discovering the effects of climate change in the Northern Trail, there's always something new to learn. This engaging approach to wildlife conservation makes the Woodland Park Zoo a leader in both animal care and visitor education.

Scenic Views and Nature

Explore the stunning landscapes and nature in Seattle, starting at Discovery Park. As the largest park in the city, Discovery Park offers expansive views of the Olympic Mountains. This is a top spot for photography fans, especially with the dynamic lighting that enhances the scenery throughout the day. The park has numerous trails, making it perfect for both serious hikers and those looking for a leisurely walk.

For a deeper dive into nature, consider visiting Mount Rainier National Park. The highlight here is undoubtedly Mount Rainier itself, rising prominently above the surrounding forests. Each trail and viewpoint in the park provides unique scenes that showcase the rich environment of the Pacific Northwest. This park is a fantastic destination for anyone eager to experience the outdoors and take stunning photographs.

Both of these locations not only offer physical beauty but also serve as great opportunities for personal relaxation and photography. Whether you're looking to explore extensive trails or enjoy a quiet day surrounded by nature, these parks provide ample space and variety to meet your needs.

Amazon and Urban Innovation

Seattle isn't only famous for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also stands as a leader in urban innovation, notably highlighted by the Amazon Spheres. These architectural marvels are more than just eye-catching; they play a significant role in advancing sustainable urban development. Here's a closer look at why the Amazon Spheres are worth visiting:

1. Biophilic Design: At the heart of the Spheres is a concept that brings the outdoors inside. By integrating a variety of plants within the workspace, the design aims to spark creativity and lower stress among employees. This approach is grounded in the idea that natural elements can significantly enhance workplace well-being and productivity.
2. Sustainability Features: The Spheres are a prime example of environmentally conscious construction. They feature energy-saving technologies and water recycling mechanisms that help reduce the ecological footprint of the building. This commitment to sustainability sets a benchmark for future constructions aiming to be green.
3. Public Access and Tours: While the Spheres primarily serve as office space for Amazon employees, they're also open to the public through scheduled tours. This accessibility allows visitors to explore the unique integration of nature with modern architecture, providing a firsthand experience of this innovative space.

Each of these aspects of the Amazon Spheres not only demonstrates Amazon's commitment to innovative and sustainable design but also offers a glimpse into the future of urban architecture. Whether you're interested in sustainable building practices or the role of nature in modern workplaces, a visit to the Spheres is both educational and inspiring.

Historic Sites and Memorials

Seattle is home to numerous historic sites and memorials, each offering a unique window into the city's rich history. A key highlight is the Jimi Hendrix Memorial located at Greenwood Memorial Park. This memorial is particularly striking, featuring a 30-foot granite dome supported by columns made of pearl. It stands as a powerful symbol of Jimi Hendrix's lasting influence on music and culture.

Visiting these sites provides more than just a historical overview; it's an educational experience that connects visitors with Seattle's cultural heritage. For example, the Hendrix Memorial not only commemorates the legendary musician but also serves as a place for fans to gather and reflect on his impact on music and beyond.

Why is this important? These sites do more than commemorate the past; they foster an understanding of how Seattle's history has shaped the present. They're educational resources that help people of all ages connect with the city's past, promoting a deeper appreciation of its cultural landscape.

In exploring these locales, you'll find that each site tells a story, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Seattle's historical and cultural landscape. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, these memorials and historic sites offer insightful and meaningful experiences that are both informative and inspiring.

Botanical Gardens and Natural Spaces

Discovering the botanical gardens and natural spaces in Seattle is a refreshing way to connect with nature and appreciate the city's dedication to environmentally friendly gardening. Seattle's green spaces aren't only beautiful but also educational, focusing on sustainability and biodiversity.

Here are three top spots you should check out:

Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens

Located at the Ballard Locks, this garden uniquely blends traditional English garden aesthetics with a diverse collection of global plant species. It's a perfect spot for those who enjoy a mixture of classic and international flora.

Kubota Garden

This 20-acre garden is a beautiful example of how Japanese garden techniques can harmonize with the native plants of the Northwest. It's an ideal place for peaceful walks and experiencing the art of Japanese landscaping.

Washington Park Arboretum

Covering 230 acres, this arboretum is more than just a collection of trees and plants. It offers a year-round showcase of changing colors and is a vital resource for learning about plant conservation and the ecosystem.

Each of these locations offers a unique look at the role of botanic gardens in urban settings, promoting ecological awareness and conservation through their design and educational programs.

Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a serene place to unwind, these gardens provide valuable insights and a peaceful retreat from the city hustle.

Community and Cultural Centers

Explore the vibrant heart of Seattle through its key community and cultural centers, where the city's creativity and community spirit come to life. These centers aren't just meeting places but are vital to fostering community ties and celebrating Seattle's diverse cultures through various events and festivals.

Seattle Central Library stands out not only for its distinctive glass and steel architecture but also as a vibrant hub for community interaction and learning. It offers more than just books; it's a place where people gather for cultural events throughout the year, making it a cornerstone of community life in Seattle.

Just a short distance away, the Wing Luke Museum offers a deep dive into the Asian Pacific American experience. It combines art, history, and community-led activities to educate and connect people. Through its exhibitions and programs, the museum plays a crucial role in promoting understanding and appreciation of this vibrant community in Seattle.

These centers are essential because they do more than educate; they create spaces where people from all walks of life can come together and feel a part of the city's broader community. They help maintain the social fabric of Seattle by celebrating its cultural diversity.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you're planning a family trip to Seattle, don't miss the Seattle Children's Museum! It's a fantastic place where kids can dive into a world of fun and learning. The museum is renowned for its interactive exhibits that blend play with education, making it a top choice for a family outing.

Hands-On Learning: The museum features a variety of exhibits that allow children to touch, play, and learn. These exhibits cover topics from science to art, making learning accessible and engaging for kids of all ages.

Dynamic Activities: The museum also hosts a range of workshops and events that are perfect for keeping the kids engaged on multiple visits. These programs are designed to complement the exhibits and provide additional learning opportunities.

Engaging Education: Each exhibit at the museum is crafted to stimulate young minds. Children are encouraged to solve problems and think creatively as they play, which enhances their learning experience.

Visiting the Seattle Children's Museum is more than just a day out; it's a chance to enhance your child's education in a fun and interactive environment.

Whether your child is interested in exploring a mock village or conducting simple science experiments, there's something here to ignite their curiosity and love for learning.