Seattle Bucket List (58 Best Things to Do in Seattle)
The ultimate Seattle bucket list to find the top things to do in the city!
Whether you are a Seattle local or just visiting the Emerald City, there are so many things to do in this vibrant town. We have compiled a list of the top things to do in Seattle.
From visiting stylish art galleries and fascinating museums, to going on outdoor adventures, to shopping and dining, and much more! We go over some of our favorite things to do in Seattle.
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Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Seattle for your Seattle Bucket List
Here’s our list of 58 cool things to do in Seattle.
Top things to do in Seattle – Tourist Attractions in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle
Written by Sheri Nagle from Park & Roam
While there are plenty of day trips from Seattle, spending time exploring the Emerald City is well worth it. The one attraction you can’t miss is the iconic Space Needle. From the top of this 605-foot structure, you can take in 360-degree views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and even Mount Rainier on a clear day.
Purchase tickets online or at the box office located at the base of the Space Needle. It’s open daily from 8:00 a.m. to midnight, so you can catch a beautiful sunset or see the city light up at night. If you’re traveling with a large backpack or carry-on suitcase, there are free storage lockers near the main entrance.
Ride the glass elevator to the observation deck and step out to find yourself surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows that provide unobstructed views in every direction. On the outside of the observation deck is a photo opportunity that gives the illusion of you standing high above the city.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, the upper-level concession stand offers a variety of drinks and snacks, such as hamburgers, chicken tenders, fries, and more. It’s the perfect spot for lunch while enjoying the incredible views.
For a more upscale dining experience, make a reservation at The Loupe, a revolving restaurant that completes a full rotation every 47 minutes, treating you to ever-changing views of the city.
Don’t forget to step onto the rotating glass floor and take photos. It’s truly a unique experience that will make you feel like you’re floating above the city. Before you leave, browse the gift shop for some Space Needle souvenirs
Woodland Park Zoo
The Woodland Park Zoo is home to more than 800 animals, including many endangered species. Adults and kids alike will enjoy seeing all types of animals including the Chilean Flamingo, the Red Panda, Malayan Tiger, Orangutan, Langur, Komodo dragon, Arctic Fox, Wallaroo, Hippopotamus, Giraffes, and many more.
The zoo also hosts many events throughout the year, including their popular ZooTunes during the summer that features live music concerts.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
MoPOP is one of the coolest things to do in Seattle. This interactive museum features unique exhibits on music, science fiction, television, and pop culture. It was previously called the Experience Music Project and was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.
Chihuly Garden & Glass museum
Written by Marina from Travel Eat Blog
Located next to the iconic Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass features one of the largest permanent collections by Dale Chihuly, an award-winning artist from the Pacific Northwest, known for blown glass sculptures.
The museum has three main areas: the Glasshouse, the Garden, and the Interior Exhibits. The Glasshouse was my favorite space as it features a breathtaking 100-foot-long sculpture, one of Chihuly’s largest suspended sculptures.
Thanks to the glass roof, it changes throughout the day, depending on the light and the color of the sky, making it even more unique and special.
The garden is equally impressive. The glass sculptures in the garden are combined beautifully with the plants and flowers.
Designed together with a landscape artist, the plants were chosen to complement the sculptures. As the seasons change, the garden also offers a different experience, so you can come back again and again.Â
Inside the exhibition, there are galleries showcasing many of Dale Chihuly’s important works. Every room surprised me more and more by the skill and technique by the artist.
If you’re spending a day in Seattle, try to visit the garden in late afternoon and see the glass sculptures as they shine beautifully in the light.
Plus, you can see the sunset from the garden or choose to go up to the Space Needle for the views.
Seattle Aquarium
Head out to the Elliott Bay waterfront to take an unforgettable trip to the sea at our local aquarium. The Ocean Pavilion expansion arrives in August of 2024 and features even more marine life such as sharks, rays, and more.
Cool things to do in Seattle
Pike Place Market
Written by Jade Chan from NamastetoNihao.com
When you visit Seattle, exploring Pike Place Market is an absolute must! This iconic spot offers a vibrant mix of sights, food, and shopping that perfectly capture the city’s essence.
Start with strolling through this historic market, where you’ll encounter a lively array of local vendors, artists, florists, and street performers. The lively atmosphere makes it the perfect place to soak in Seattle’s unique culture vibes.
Surprisingly, Pike Place Market is perhaps the most quintessential place to eat in Seattle!
Kick off your visit with a taste of Ellenos Greek Yogurt. Their creamy, rich yogurt comes in a variety of flavors and is a delicious way to start your day.
For lunch, head over to Pike Place Chowder and treat yourself to their famous smoked salmon chowder, crab & oyster chowder, or seafood bisque. They’ve won dozens of awards for their chowders and it’s quite possibly the best chowder in the world!
Don’t miss the freshly grilled sandwiches at Michou Deli, where you can savor hearty sandwiches that are perfect for a to-go snack.
No trip to Pike Place Market is complete without some quirky fun and shopping! Snap a photo at the iconic Post Alley Gum Wall, a unique and colorful attraction.
Before you leave, be sure to pick up a bouquet of flowers from one of the many flower vendors from Hmong flower farms. The vibrant, fresh flowers are a beautiful way to remember your visit and bring a piece of the market’s charm back home with you!
And if you need a break from Seattle’s rainy season, did you also know that SeaTac airport is a hub for direct flights to Hawaii everyday? Learn is it ethical to travel to Hawaii right now and 10 ways to be a responsible visitor.
Golden Gardens Park
Stroll along the beautiful, sandy beach and hunt for sea glass. This park has a cafe to grab some food or ice cream at, picnic tables, grills for barbecue, and a bathroom. You can hike along some of the trails and enjoy the views of the Olympic mountains.
Kenmore Air Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour
This 30-minute sightseeing flight starts from the terminal at Lake Union. Glide off the water into the air for a spectacular way of touring Seattle from the skies. Prices start at $119. Learn more.
Visit the Observatory Bar at Smith Tower
Written by Michele from Adventures Abound
Smith Tower used to be the tallest building in the country. While this superlative was short-lived, the views of Seattle from the top of Smith Tower remain one of the best things to do when visiting the city.
Located in the heart of Pioneer Square, Smith Tower is a cornerstone of Seattle’s most historic district.
Smith Tower opened in 1914 and has seen an interesting history over the last century. Learn about the privately owned apartment in the tip of the tower, and engage with the interactive history of the building at the museum. From running rum to telegraphs, this building has lived through many fascinating eras over the years.
Visitors can take the original Otis elevator to the historic museum before heading up to the observatory on the 35th floor. Once at the Observatory, enjoy 360 views of Seattle from above, including the waterfront of Puget Sound. Grab a libation from the speakeasy-inspired bar, and step back into Seattle’s past.
Admission tickets are required to access the views and Observatory Bar. Tickets are $22, or $26 for the included 45-minute tour.
Pro tip – come by on a game day and show your sports game tickets for free access to the top.
Attend a festival in Seattle
One of the most fun things to do in Seattle is to attend one of the many festivals that are held year-round. Some of the best ones to check our are the Alki Art Fair, Bite of Seattle, Seattle International Film Festival, Diwali, Beyond Wonderland at the Gorge, and many more.
Enjoy the best view of Seattle at Kerry Park
The Kerry Park viewpoint, located in the Queen Anne Hill neighborhood, is one of the best places to see a picture-perfect view of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier.
Visit Seward Park
Written by Audrey from Mapping the Soul
Seattle can get surprisingly hot in the spring and summertime. It’s the perfect time to jump into the cool water of Lake Washington!
Seward Park has crystal clear waters, beautiful blooming flowers, and grassy lawns where you can relax and spend time with friends or take yourself on a solo date. The highlight of this park is the stunning view of Mount Rainier in the background that you simply cannot get anywhere else but here in Seattle.
If you want to dip into the lake, you can bring a paddle board, a boat, or just swim to your heart’s content! However, the beach isn’t the only point of interest at Seward Park.
There is also an amphitheater, a plant garden, an art studio, playgrounds, and many hiking trails to explore. It’s a scenic oasis located right in the heart of the city!
Make sure to bring picnic essentials, like a blanket, some sandwiches, or even a barbecue grill so you can enjoy a delicious meal after a fun day out.
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and cool off on a sunny day in Seattle with gorgeous views, Seward Park is a great option.
Enjoy a night on the water with Argosy Cruises
These sightseeing cruises in and around Seattle run anywhere from one to two hours. Enjoy stunning panoramic and up-close views of Seattle, with a full-service bar on board. Go at golden hour for the best views!
Seattle Public Library
Readers and architecture lovers alike will love visiting the Seattle Public Library. Located at 1000 4th Avenue, this breathtaking building has 11 levels and is in the heart of downtown Seattle.
Movies at Marymoor Park
Located in Redmond, Marymoor Park features an exciting way to watch a movie. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to sit in the grass and watch the movie on the big screen outdoors. These events are dog-friendly and usually have food trucks, too!
Visit Seattle Starbucks Roastery
Written by Hannah from Hannah on Horizon
When visiting Seattle, forget about visiting the first Starbucks by Pike Place Market. Instead, walk a few blocks to the Starbucks Roastery on Capitol Hill!
The Starbucks Roastery is where you can see the coffee beans roasting behind the scenes. The beans are stored in the large silo before they get roasted and de-gassed in a copper cask.
But what makes the Starbucks Roastery even more special are the exclusive drinks and foods you wouldn’t find at a typical storefront. Where else would you be able to find a cold brew malt or a tiramisu?!
Cocktail aficionados will love the Arriviamo Bar, which serves coffee-based cocktails like a variety of espresso martinis, cold brew spiced rum, and a good old-fashioned. There is a wide selection of beer and wine. If you don’t drink, you’ll be delighted to find that the bar serves a spirit-free orange slice espresso martini!
While you can purchase a bag of sealed coffee beans, you can also scoop your own beans from the roastery’s very own scooping bar. You’ll find beans sourced from Costa Rica, Jamaica, and surrounding areas.
The Seattle Starbucks Roastery also offers signature experiences, which are tours where you can learn and taste different kinds of coffee.
These experiences include the Coffee Lab, where you learn how to identify flavors and notes of coffee brewed from a Chemex. You can also learn to create the beloved cocktail by signing up for the Art of the Espresso Martini experience, and pairing it with snacks.Â
Last but not least, the roastery has plenty of ample space, filled with tables and booths where you can hang out with friends, eat, or get work done!
Take a ride on the Seattle Center Monorail
The Seattle Center Monorail travels along 5th Avenue bringing guests from the Seattle Center to Westlake Center. It’s .9 miles long and costs $7 round trip (or $3.50 one-way).
Originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the monorail has become an iconic part of Seattle and is worth a visit.
The quick 3-minute ride will transport you to tourist sites such as the Space Needle, one of the many exciting museums, and the Climate Pledge Arena where you can see a Seattle Kraken game (NHL), Seattle Storm game (WNBA) , Seattle University Redhawks men’s basketball game, as well as live concerts.
Alki Beach
Written by Jess from Uprooted Traveler
Alki Beach is a great place to spend some time in Seattle. The beach is a two and a half mile stretch of rocky and sandy shoreline that wraps around the northern portion of the West Seattle peninsula.
The east side of the beach provides some of the best views of Elliott Bay and, beyond, Seattle’s iconic skyline, including the Space Needle. On the other hand, the northern part of the beach offers epic views of the Olympic Mountains off in the distance and one of the best sunsets on the city.
It’s no wonder that Alki has been used as a filming location in a number of movies, including the ‘90s classic, Sleepless in Seattle.Â
On a nice summer day, the beach will be littered with people picnicking, enjoying the fire pits or volleyball courts, or even wading in the chilly waters of the Puget Sound.
Be sure to keep an eye out on the water for wildlife—it’s not unusual to spot harbor seals here and Alki is actually one of the best sports for whale watching in Washington, with orcas frequently spotted here in the summer months.Â
If you get bored of playing in the sand, there’s plenty of awesome restaurants to grab a bite along the shoreline. A local favorite is El Chupacabra, a punky Mexican joint with one of the best views in Seattle from its second story patio.
Marination Ma Kai is another not to be missed spot, with killer Hawaiian dishes, stunning views of the skyline, and even a paddle board/kayak outfitter right next door, if you wanna grab a paddle and enjoy your meal out on the water.Â
Attend a live concert at Climate Pledge Arena
This indoor arena located at Seattle Center is the home of many concerts and major entertainment events, as well as many sporting events. Find an upcoming event.
Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center
This 76-story building in the tallest building in the Evergreen State and is located in downtown Seattle. Located on the 73rd floor of Columbia Center, this is the tallest viewpoint to see the Seattle skyline.
With 360 degree panoramic views, you can awe over the nearby mountains, Elliott Bay, the Space Needle, and the city of Seattle.
Pro Tip: We think this may be the best view of the Seattle skyline because you can include the Space Needle in your photos! Tickets start at $25.
Browse the Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Open 10 AM – 5 PM on Wednesdays through Sundays, the Seattle Art Museum is located in the heart of downtown Seattle near Pike Place Market. Admission is free on the first Thursday of the month.
Spend some time browsing the current exhibitions; there are so many beautiful pieces of art to explore. You can also check out their two other locations: Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Ballard Farmers Market
Open every Sunday year-round from 9 AM – 2 PM, this farmers market might be one of the best in Seattle. Find fresh produce from local farmers, beautiful flowers, unique gifts, delicious food, and much more.
Ballard Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known as Ballard Locks, is located in northwest Seattle’s Ballard district. and are a popular place to visit in Seattle. Every time a ship passes by, you will see the locks in action. There are beautiful gardens to enjoy as well, and you might get lucky and catch a glimpse of seals and sea lions, too!
Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island
Written by Carmen from Basic Economy B
When you visit Seattle, a ferry ride is a quintessential experience. But don’t just ride the ferry for fun—take a quick trip to nearby Bainbridge Island.
The ferry leaves from Seattle’s bustling waterfront, and as the boat travels across Puget Sound, you can see panoramic views of the city skyline and nature in the distance.
The ferry ride itself is super pleasant and scenic, lasting about 35 minutes. You can relax and enjoy the fresh sea air while trying to spot playful seals and sea lions in the waters.
The main town on Bainbridge Island is the adorable town of Winslow. Winslow is home to cute shops, art galleries, wine-tasting rooms, and a generally cheery atmosphere. The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art features local artists and is a great stop on your adventure.
Bainbridge Vineyards will provide you with a delightful wine-tasting experience in their outdoor gardens. If you weren’t relaxed after the ferry ride, you will be once you’ve enjoyed tasting some of their locally produced wines.
Head to the local bakery or any of the coffee shops afterward if you need a most-beverage pick-me-up of any type.
Bainbridge has a Best Western if you’re looking to spend the night. Otherwise, the ferry will take you back across the Sound, where you’ll get to once again enjoy the scenic views of Seattle’s skyline.
There are so many exciting things to do in Seattle, but a ferry trip to Bainbridge might just be your favorite because of how much it allows you to relax in a peaceful environment away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Take a photo at the Original Selfie Museum
If you like to take pictures, then you will absolutely adore the Selfie Museum in downtown Seattle. With unique and vibrant backgrounds for every photo, your camera roll will be full by the time you leave.
Get dressed in your best, grab a group of your friends, and go do your own photo shoot! Tickets are $25.
Volunteer Park Conservatory
This breathtaking botanical garden with a Victorian-style greenhouse offers free admission on the 1st Thursday of the month. Otherwise tickets are $4 for ages 6-17, college students, seniors, and military, and $6 for adults. Tickets are free for children 5 and under.
The Museum of Flight
You will find a large variety of aircraft, spacecraft, exhibits, and artifacts that will impress adults and children alike. Admission is free on the first Thursday of each month from 5 PM – 9 PM.
Second hand thrifting in Capital Hill
Written by Andrea from Andreagoesplaces.com
Welcome to the coolest neighborhood in Seattle, known for being Seattle’s LGBTQ+ district with the most diverse restaurants, clubs, bars, and stores.
Besides delicious food and drinks, Capitol Hill is the place to go thrifting in Seattle. You’ll find the most varied range of clothing, from vintage to donated and curated stores, selling any clothing item you can dream of.
Broadway Street is one of Capitol Hill’s main streets, and you’ll find various thrift stores on it. The most popular must-visit stores include Lifelong Thrift Store, Crossroads Thrifting, and Revival Shop Seattle.
Lifelong is my favorite thrift store in Capitol Hill—it has affordable prices and a rack made specifically to be $5 or under. Their selection is ginormous, where you can find cowboy pants, jean shorts, tank tops, blouses, dresses, designer wear, work wear, etc.
The staff is so friendly, and the shop gets a lot of sunlight. What makes this store stand out is its showroom section, which has the most unique and special homewares and furniture.
Once you’re done browsing here, the other two thrift stores mentioned are only a 1-2 minute walk away. There’s also a Goodwill further down on Olive Way.
If you’re taking public transportation, take the light rail to Capitol Hill station and walk about 5 minutes. There’s limited parking, so walking or taking the light rail is the best way to get there.
If you get hungry, there are amazing Mexican restaurants only a 5-10 minute walk away. The local favorite is Carmelos Tacos, but you can’t go wrong with Tacos Chukis or even Rondo Japanese Kitchen. And you can’t forget to stop by the amazing Molly Moon’s for hand-churned ice cream.Â
Exciting things to do in Seattle – Sporting Events
Watch a Seattle Storm game
Written by Candice Criscione from Go See Learn
Is it worth checking out the WNBA hype? Yes! Head to Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena to watch the hometown Seattle Storm take on one of the other 11 teams in the league.
You may picture empty stands and lackluster basketball… think again! The Seattle Storm has been packing the Climate Pledge Arena and the games are full of excitement, skills, and an energy level that can’t be beat.
Arrive early and make your way to Dick’s Drive in (less than 5-minute walk from the arena) for a classic meal of a burger, fries, and a milkshake.
Then, line up at the arena to enter early (1 – 1.5 hours before the official start) and watch the Storm and the visiting team warm-up. This is your chance to get close to the players while they prepare for the game.
Gametime, you’ll surely be dazzled by smooth passes, stop-on-a-dime jump shots, step-back three-pointers, and snatched rebounds. And, don’t be surprised if you high-five the person in the seat next to you at some point.
Go Storm!
Tips: Purchase your tickets in advance. Use public transport to get to and from the game, as traffic can be intense post-game. Check out the Climate Pledge Arena’s official site for rules about what you can and can’t bring into the arena.
Watch a Seattle Kraken game
The Krakens are our hockey team and they play at Climate Pledge Arena located at Seattle Center. Whether you’re a hockey enthusiast or new to the sport, the Kraken’s fast-paced action and the vibrant crowd ensure an unforgettable night out.
Watch a Seattle Seahawks game
If you’re looking for an exciting experience, catching a Seattle Seahawks game at Lumen Field is a must. The vibrant atmosphere, fueled by the energetic “12th Man” fan base, makes for an unforgettable sporting event.
Watch a Seattle Mariners game
Catching a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park is a must on any list of things to do in Seattle in the summer. The stadium offers stunning views of the city skyline and Puget Sound, while the energetic crowd and exciting baseball action make for a memorable experience.
Watch a Seattle Sounders FC game
The Seattle Sounders FC is our men’s soccer club that play at Lumen Field. Get to the game early to participate in the pre-game festivities of live music and games at Olympic Hall, then enjoy the match!
Watch a Seattle Seawolves game
Did you know that Seattle has a Major League Rugby (MLR) team? Catch a professional Rugby game at Starfire Stadium in Tukwila.
Unique things to do in Seattle
Candelight concerts
Did you know that Seattle is one of 100 cities that feature live classical music concerts by candelight? The candlelight concerts offer an unique experience with thousands of candles lit up while the orchestra plays hit songs from a range of artists such as Adele to Coldplay to Imagine Dragons and even the Beatles.
These candlelight performances are truly enchanting, and promise to be an unforgettable experience, which is why it’s one of the best things to do in Seattle.
You can find your tickets here and prices start at about $25 per person depending on the venue, seating, and concert.
Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour
Learn about Seattle’s history with a guided tour of the underground pathways.
Visit a cat cafe
Written by Vanessa Morgan from Traveling Cats
Did you know that Seattle is home to several cat rescue cafes?
In case you didn’t know, a cat rescue cafe is similar to your usual cafe, where you can enjoy a hot drink or a soda. The unique twist is that these cafes are filled with cats, all rescued from shelters and available for adoption.
While you are not obligated to adopt a cat, everything you spend at these cafes directly supports the care of the animals. Also, the more popular these cafes become, the more animals can potentially be rescued from a harsh and too-short life on the streets.
What a great reason to grab a coffee at one of these places, wouldn’t you agree?
Seattle currently has two cat rescue cafes: Meowtropolitan and Neko Cat Cafe. Meowtropolitan is located in the Wallingford neighborhood, and Neko Cat Cafe is near Capitol Hill.
Both cafes feature separate areas for cat cuddling and enjoying your drinks, so you can bring along a friend who may not want cat hair in their coffee. There are also windows to observe the cats if you choose not to enter the “cat rooms.”
These establishments can fill up quickly, so making an online reservation is highly recommended to ensure you get in.
Here is a comprehensive list of all the cat cafes in Washington state, including those in Seattle (many pictures included).
Amazon Spheres
In South Lake Union, you can visit the Amazon Spheres and stroll through their indoor gardens. The Spheres are open to the public on the first and third Saturday of each month. You must make a reservation online.
Visit the cherry blossoms at the UW Quad
Did you know that you can find cherry blossoms in Washington State? Going to see the cherry blossoms is one of the best things to do in Seattle in the spring!
The University of Washington’s Quad is one of the best places to see these in full bloom. The stunning architecture of the University of Washington’s buildings serves as a breathtaking backdrop to the vibrant cherry blossoms, and we highly recommend this as one of the best things to do in Seattle in spring.
Fun things to do in Seattle
Hot Tub Boats on Lake Union
One of the coolest things to do in Seattle has to be relaxing in a hot tub boat on Lake Union. Enjoy an incredible view of the Seattle skyline from the hot tub boat and then cool off by jumping into the lake. It’s definitely an experience you won’t forget!
Take a waterfall hike to Snoqualmie Falls
Written by Jessica from Next Up Adventure
Seattle is famous for it’s location in the Pacific Northwest, on the west coast of Washington surrounded by rainforest. In the rainforest, there are many waterfalls to chase and trails to explore.
One of the best things to do in Seattle is to get out into nature and go exploring. Because of Seattle’s location, there are many waterfalls and hiking trails for all abilities to try out.
It is also close enough to Washington’s National Parks including Rainier and Olympic National Park for a weekend getaway.
The stunning Snoqualmie Falls is just 30 mins out of Seattle, and a trip here will have you immersed fully in nature. The falls are impressive and the trail is mostly flat.
You can view the falls, which make appearances in many television shows including Twin Peaks, from the viewing platform, or continue on the short trail for a hike.
Given its proximity to Seattle, this area can be busy on a nice day. There is also a spot to access the river. The first section of the trail is paved and accessible to those with mobility issues, strollers, and wheelchairs.
The best times to visit to avoid crowds are early in the morning, later afternoon, on weekdays, and during shoulder season.
There are plenty of beautiful accommodations and restaurants in the town of Snoqualmie. Snoqualmie Falls Brewery is a favourite for more casual dining, and be sure to check out The Dining Room at the Salish Lodge and Spa for fine dining as well as beautiful accommodations.
All the rumors are true, this area gets a lot of rainfall, so, no matter the time of year, be sure to pack your rain jackets and extra socks.
Visit a board game cafe
Did you know there are board game cafes in Seattle? Many of them sell food, coffee, and/or beer, so you can grab a group of friends and play some games, and maybe learn some new ones.
Go kayaking or stand up paddleboarding (SUP)
Seattle is a great place to get out on the water with a variety of spots to kayak or paddleboard. There are many launch sites and rentals available to choose from.
Take the ferry to Whidbey Island
About 25 miles north of Seattle, you will come across the city of Mukilteo. From there take the Whidbey Island ferry to Whidbey Island.
Whidbey Island is a great place to spend a day and it’s relatively close to Seattle. It’s a fairly large island with plenty of things to do.
We have a list of the best things to do on Whidbey Island. (We’re locals, so we know all the best spots to check out!)
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Every spring, people from all around the world travel to Skagit Valley to see the incredible display of breathtaking tulips. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a must-see activity to do on your trip to Seattle.
It truly is one of every local’s favorite things to do in Seattle! You will find a few different tulip farms that have row after row of beautiful flowers on display in the most mesmerizing way!
Make sure you bring your camera because this is one of the best photo spots in Seattle!
Discovery Park
Discovery Park, located in Magnolia, is the largest public park in Seattle and has over 11 miles of walking trails. It is also home to West Point Lighthouse, one of 18 active lighthouses in Washington State.
Elliott Bay Book Company
Book lovers will fall in love with this beautiful bookstore and will be able to spend hours browsing the store. This independent bookshop is located in Capitol Hill and is the perfect spot for a cozy afternoon in Seattle.
Play Mini-Golf and Have a Beer at Flatstick Pub
This venue is perfect for date night or a night out with friends, and has multiple locations in Washington, including South Lake Union and Pioneer Square in Seattle. Enjoy a beer alongside games of mini golf, Duffleboard, Dartsee, and Dufflepong.
Visit a speakeasy bar
One of the best things to do in Seattle is visit a speakeasy. From Deep Dive located under the Amazon Spheres to Bathtub Gin, there are many unique bars to find hidden behind closed doors.
Stroll through Washington Park Arboretum and Seattle Japanese Garden
Immerse yourself in nature and take a walk through the gardens. This is one of the best places to see fall foliage in Seattle. This tranquil environment is the perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon.
Fun things to do in Seattle with kids
Go indoor skydiving with iFLY Seattle
This indoor skydiving experience doesn’t make you feel like you are free falling but instead like you are being suspended in air. It’ll be an experience you will talk about for a very long time! Flyers must be 3 years of age or older and at least 40″ tall.
Emerald City Comic Con
Located at Seattle Convention Center, the Emerald City Comic Con is the place to bring your family if you are superfans of comics and pop culture! Meet your favorite actors, watch live panels, and participate in photo ops. Find out who will be at the next Comic Con.
Suzzallo Library Reading Room
Harry Potter fans will love visiting this library at the University of Washington. The library has a silent study area that is known as the “Harry Potter reading room” because it resembles one of the rooms at Hogwarts from the popular movie franchise.
Cool down at a water park
Wild Waves Theme and Water Park, located in Federal Way, is a popular summer spot for kids to visit. You will find a wave pool, lagoon, water slides, a lazy river, and much more at the water park, and plenty of roller coasters at the theme park. It is open May through November.
Seattle Pinball Museum
Children and adults alike will love playing at this pinball museum. Pay the admission fee and play as much as you want – no wasting quarters to play more than once.
They have over 50 games with themes such as Jurassic Park, Willy Wonka, JAWS, Toy Story, Lord of the Rings, Stranger Things, Star Trek, and much more.
Children must be 7 or older. Prices are $20 for children ages 7-14, seniors, military, and first responders. Ages 15+ are $23.
Pacific Science Center
This non-profit science center is located at the Seattle Center and is a favorite of many local children. They have so many cool science activities that every kid will love, an amazing planetarium, an IMAX theater, laser shows, and much more.
Seattle Children’s Museum
This museum features hands-on exhibits for children under the age of 8. It’s a great place to spend a few hours with your family and is located at the Seattle Center.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Seattle? Make sure to save this Seattle bucket list!
