Discovering the Emerald City: A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Seattle, Washington

Things to Do in Seattle Washington

Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant city located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Famous for its coffee culture, grunge music scene, and the iconic Space Needle, Seattle offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Seattle. In this article, we’ll highlight the top things to do in Seattle Washington to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Explore Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Seattle. This historic market has been around since 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. Here you’ll find a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the famous bronze pig, Rachel, or watch the fishmongers throw the day’s catch at the Pike Place Fish Market.

Visit the Space Needle

The Space Needle is Seattle’s most iconic landmark and offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding area. Standing at 605 feet tall, the Space Needle has an observation deck at 520 feet with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that provide 360-degree views of the city. For an extra thrill, try the SkyCity Restaurant, which rotates 360 degrees every hour.

Take a Ferry Ride

Seattle is surrounded by water, and a ferry ride is an excellent way to take in the stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. You can take a ferry to various destinations, including Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, and Victoria, British Columbia. The Washington State Ferries run daily, and the journey is a scenic delight.

Discover the Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum dedicated to the glass artwork of Dale Chihuly, a Seattle native. The museum features eight galleries, a garden, and a glasshouse filled with vibrant and colorful glass sculptures. The outdoor garden is a stunning sight to behold, with its intricate glass sculptures juxtaposed against the backdrop of the city skyline.

Tour the Boeing Factory

Seattle is home to the Boeing Factory, where you can take a tour and see how commercial airplanes are built. The tour takes you through the assembly lines, where you’ll see airplanes being built from start to finish. You’ll also get a chance to see the world’s largest building by volume, where the assembly takes place.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is located just a few hours from Seattle and is a natural wonderland. The park features stunning mountains, lush rainforests, and scenic beaches. Hiking trails are plentiful, and you can spot wildlife such as elk, black bears, and bald eagles. Don’t forget to visit the Hoh Rainforest, which receives over 140 inches of rain per year and is home to some of the tallest trees in the world.

Learn about the History of Flight at the Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. The museum features  exhibits on the history of aviation, including airplanes, spacecraft, and artifacts from famous pilots. You can also tour the Boeing Field, where you’ll see airplanes taking off and landing from a close distance.

Discover the Underground City

Seattle has a fascinating history, and one of its lesser-known attractions is the underground city. After a massive fire destroyed much of the city in 1889, the streets were rebuilt a full story above the original ground level. Today, you can take a tour of the underground city and see the remnants of the old storefronts and buildings.

Visit the Fremont Troll

The Fremont Troll is a quirky and unique sculpture that has become a beloved icon in Seattle. Located under the Aurora Bridge, the troll is a massive concrete statue that depicts a troll crushing a Volkswagen Beetle. The troll is a fun and lighthearted attraction that’s perfect for taking photos and adding some humor to your trip.

Try Some Local Cuisine

Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, but there’s much more to its culinary scene. You can’t leave Seattle without trying the fresh seafood, including salmon, Dungeness crab, and oysters. Seattle also has a thriving farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients locally. Don’t forget to try the local beer and wine, too.

Take a Tour of the Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum is a world-class museum that showcases art from around the globe. The museum’s collection includes modern and contemporary art, Native American and African art, and European paintings and sculptures. You can also visit the Olympic Sculpture Park, which features outdoor sculptures and stunning views of the Puget Sound.

Explore Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s historic district and is home to many of the city’s oldest buildings. You can take a walking tour of the neighborhood and see the Victorian-style architecture and quaint shops and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Smith Tower, the city’s first skyscraper, and take the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

Attend a Sporting Event

Seattle has a passionate sports fan base, and attending a game is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can catch a game of the Seattle Seahawks (football), Seattle Mariners (baseball), or Seattle Sounders (soccer). The stadiums themselves are impressive, with the CenturyLink Field and T-Mobile Park offering fantastic views of the city skyline.

Visit the Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is a family-friendly destination that’s perfect for animal lovers. The zoo features over 1,000 animals, including tigers, gorillas, and penguins. You can also visit the African Savanna, where you’ll see giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Conclusion

Seattle is a city that has something for everyone. From its iconic landmarks to its outdoor adventures and rich cultural history, Seattle is a destination that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, the city’s diverse attractions and attractions will keep you entertained and engaged.

FAQs

  1. What is the best time of year to visit Seattle?

The best time to visit Seattle is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild, and the city is buzzing with outdoor festivals and events.

  1. What is the cost of visiting Pike Place Market?

There is no admission fee for visiting Pike Place Market, but the cost of food and souvenirs can vary.

  1. How long does it take to tour the Boeing Factory?

The tour of the Boeing Factory takes approximately 90 minutes.

  1. What is the dress code for the Seattle Art Museum?

There is no specific dress code for visiting the Seattle Art Museum, but it is recommended to dress comfortably and wear comfortable walking shoes.

  1. What are some other outdoor activities to do in Seattle?

Seattle has a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking in the nearby mountains, kayaking on Lake Union, and biking along the Burke-Gilman Trail.