There are so many fun things to do in Seattle for every type of traveler! I’m sharing my favorite things to do in Seattle to help you plan the perfect trip. If it’s your first time in Seattle and you have a weekend to soak it up, you can’t miss these spots.
Check my Seattle Travel Guide here
Kerry Park
Kerry Park in Queen Anne Hill has one of the most gorgeous views in Seattle. On a clear day, you can see the most iconic view of the city skyline, the Space Needle, Elliot Bay and Mount Rainier. The park is rather small, so you don’t need to allot much time here. Just stay as long as you want to enjoy the views.
I would recommend to go during the day, specially at sunset. As the sun starts to set, you can watch the city building begin to reflect red and orange from the sunset. Take in mind that it’s also when it gets more crowded. At night, it’s a whole new experience with all the city lights sparking.
Chihuly Garden and Glass & Space Needle
In Seattle Center you can find Chihuly Garden and Glass, Space Needle and MoPop. Depending on how much time you have and your interests, you can decide which ones to visit.
I read a lot of people not recommending going to Space Needle as the view doesn’t include one of Seattle’s most iconic items that is Space Needle itself. I decided to go anyways and I must say the views are still beautiful. Chihuly Garden and Glass is a sculpture garden and art exhibition showcasing glass-blown works. Truly beautiful! Tip: Get the ticket that includes both attractions here.
View from the top of Space Needle
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s top attractions. You can come for lunch, do some shopping (like flowers or fresh fruit), or just wander in the market. I would recommend to get here around 8-9 am to avoid crowds and huge lines.
Come hungry! Some of the most popular spots you have to try are:
- Daily Dozen Doughnuts
- Ellenos Greek Yogurt
- Piroshky Piroshky
- Beecher’s Handmade Cheese
- Original Starbucks. Here you can find what it’s considered the “Original Starbucks” The store is tiny and the line is huge. If you don’t want to wait for a coffee, I will recommend to see it from outside and get your coffee somewhere else (or at another Starbucks)
Gum Wall
The famous (and gross) gum wall is located next to Pike Place Market, which makes it a great stop when your are in the area. People come from everywhere to add their gum to this colorful wall.
Capitol Hill
This is one of Seattle’s coolest neighborhoods and a great place to walk around if you are looking for something more local. This vibrant area offers endless activities, from artisanal coffee shops to art galleries and live music venues. A few things you can do here are:
- Volunteer Park: make sure to visit the conservatory.
- Japanese Garden: the perfect place to sit and relax.
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery: this is not like a regular Starbucks, you can watch how the coffee beans are processed.
- Coffee shops: Starbucks is not the only coffee shop here, visit Victrola Coffee instead (411 15th Ave E)
- Bar hoping.
- Shopping: there are a lot of independent stores that are worth stopping by.
Other places and day trips from Seattle
Fremont Troll
Amazon Spheres
Seattle’s Great Wheel in Pier 57
Seattle Public Library
Bainbridge Island (1hr ferry)
Mount Rainier National Park (1hr 45min drive)
North Cascades National Park (2hrs drive
Leavenworth, a Bavarian-styled village (2hrs drive)
San Juan Islands (3hrs 30min drive/ferry)
Amazon Spheres
If you need more help planning your trip to Seattle, read my Seattle Travel Guide for everything you need to know.
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