Top Things to Do in Seattle

About the City

Seattle, often nicknamed the Emerald City due to its lush evergreen forests, is a vibrant metropolis nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington with the imposing Mount Rainier in the backdrop. It's a playground for both tech enthusiasts and nature lovers, where one can oscillate between sipping artisanal coffee and conquering mountainous trails within the same day. On the bright side, Seattle is renowned for its rich music legacy, grunge aficionados rejoice, and its affinity for fine arts, as well as its delightful seafood scenes – think fresh salmon and plump oysters. It's a city that prides itself on its innovative spirit and a strong cup of joe, being the birthplace of the world-famous Starbucks. Nevertheless, Seattleites often grapple with what's colloquially known as the 'Seattle Freeze,' which may make new friendships as challenging as kayaking during a rainstorm. Speaking of weather, grey skies are a staple, and one must master the art of layering to navigate the cool, damp clime. Moreover, be prepared for steep hills that will challenge calves and vehicles alike, and a cost of living that rises like the Space Needle against the city skyline. Visitors will find a tapestry of experiences, from the futuristic vibes at the Museum of Pop Culture to the aromatic Pike Place Market, ensuring that every day in Seattle is never a bore.

Things to Do in Seattle

Cherry Bomb Pie Dive

Food & Drink

Lock your sights on some seriously good pie - bursting with Washington's own, famously tart cherries. It's a pie ace in the hole!

Paragliding at Tiger Mountain

Outdoors

Take to the skies and soar like an eagle over the stunning landscape. Ready, set, launch!

Ferry Ride Frolics

The Unexpected

Take to the seas—or, well, the Sound! Hop on a ferry, feel that ocean breeze, and snag some stunning skyline snapshots.

Underground History Lesson

The Unexpected

Get down and dirty with a trek through the Seattle Underground—where the city’s past lingers in basements!

Alternative Book Browsing

The Unexpected

Immerse yourself in Seattle’s literary side with a visit to quirky independent bookshops that prove reading is far from dead.

Sailgating Sensation

The Unexpected

Join the unique tradition of sailgating: party on a boat before catching a Huskies game!

Exploring Pike Place Market

Outdoors

Be a market maven and join the hustle and bustle of Pike Place Market. Don't forget to snap a pic with the famous Gum Wall!

Biking the Burke-Gilman Trail

Outdoors

Pedal your heart out along the scenic Burke-Gilman Trail. Go for miles and miles with beautiful views accompanying you all the way!

Zip-Lining at Bellevue

Outdoors

Scream with joy or just scream on an adrenaline-fueled zip through the tree canopy. It's like nature's own roller-coaster ride!

Rock Climbing at the REI Pinnacle

Outdoors

Channel your inner Spider-Man and climb the legendary REI Pinnacle. Look ma, no hands... or maybe not!

Macaron Marathon

Food & Drink

Get your sweet tooth ready for a sprint around Seattle's cutest confectioneries! The city's macarons might just be the most photogenic treats to ever grace your feed.

Fremont Troll Encounter

Sights

Duck under the bridge to meet the one-and-only Fremont Troll. Just don't try to steal his hubcap. It's his favorite!

Pike Place Market Perusing

Sights

Get your fill of fish tossing, fresh produce, and groovy crafts at Pike Place Market. It's the place to catch some local flavor and maybe even a flying fish.

Seattle Art Museum Stroll

Sights

Get cultured with a stroll through the Seattle Art Museum. With exhibits that wow and inspire, you might just feel like a modern-day Michelangelo.

Ballard Locks Boat Ballet

Sights

Watch boats of all shapes and sizes strut their stuff in the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. It's the best free show in town!

Woodland Park Zoo Wander

Sights

Get wild in the city with a visit to Woodland Park Zoo. With creatures from penguins to grizzlies, it's a zoo-tastic day out!

Seattle Dog Snackdown

Food & Drink

Ever had a hot dog with cream cheese? No? Well, grab a napkin because you'll need it when you chomp down on the infamous Seattle Dog. It's a frankfurter turned fab with a schmear!

Grub on Geoduck

Food & Drink

Pronounced 'gooey-duck,' this oversized clam is a true Pacific Northwest delicacy. It might look a bit peculiar, but don't clam up - its sweet, mild flavor is a seafood lover's dream!

Craft Beer Crawl

Food & Drink

Hop on the microbrew train and swig some of Seattle's finest. Whether you're IPA obsessed or stout about stouts, there's a craft beer with your name on it!

Market Madness

The Unexpected

Catch the famous fish throwers at Pike Place, nosh on some samples, and banter with the quirky vendors!