Seattle, Washington, known as the Emerald City, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination offering a wide range of attractions and activities. From its stunning natural beauty to its thriving arts scene, Seattle has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Seattle:
Located next to the Space Needle, this magnificent exhibition showcases the breathtaking glass art of Dale Chihuly. Wander through the colorful glass sculptures, explore the stunning garden, and learn about the artistry behind these incredible creations.
This unique museum celebrates popular culture through its exhibits on music, science fiction, video games, and more. Explore interactive displays, see rare artifacts, and immerse yourself in the world of pop culture icons.
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the lively atmosphere, views of the Elliott Bay, and various attractions. Don’t miss the Seattle Great Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city and the water.
This award-winning zoo is a fantastic place to observe and learn about a wide range of animals from around the world. With exhibits featuring lions, giraffes, penguins, and more, it’s an ideal destination for families and animal lovers.
The museum houses an impressive collection of more than 160 aircraft and spacecraft, spanning various eras and types. From historic planes like the original Boeing 747 and the supersonic Concorde to military jets, vintage biplanes, and space capsules, the museum offers a diverse range of aircraft to explore.
The primary draw of Kerry Park is undoubtedly the magnificent views it offers. From the park’s elevated position, visitors are treated to a sweeping vista of downtown Seattle with its iconic Space Needle prominently featured. On clear days, the Olympic Mountains provide a majestic backdrop, creating a picture-perfect setting for memorable photographs.
The arboretum boasts an impressive array of plant collections from around the world. With over 10,000 trees, shrubs, and vines, as well as various gardens and displays, visitors can explore an extensive variety of plants, including rare and exotic species. From vibrant spring blooms to the colorful foliage of fall, there’s always something beautiful to see year-round.
The centerpiece of the park is the beautiful Green Lake itself. The lake spans about 259 acres and is surrounded by a 2.8-mile paved path, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. The calm waters of the lake are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, providing water enthusiasts with a chance to enjoy their favorite activities.
The Seattle Japanese Garden is designed to create a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, offering visitors a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden features meticulously landscaped pathways, serene ponds, stone lanterns, and cascading waterfalls, all harmoniously blended with carefully placed trees, shrubs, and moss-covered rocks.
Gas Works Park is renowned for its industrial heritage. The park preserves and repurposes the remnants of the former Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant, which operated from 1906 to 1956. The towering and visually striking structures, including the iconic Boiler House and the expanse of rusted machinery, serve as a reminder of the area’s industrial past.
The park’s expansive sandy beach is the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the refreshing waters of the Puget Sound. Visitors can swim in the designated swimming area, build sandcastles, or simply stroll along the shoreline. During low tide, the beach becomes an excellent place for beachcombing and exploring the tide pools.
Seward Park is known for its lush greenery, towering trees, and diverse ecosystems. The park features a 2.4-mile paved path, the “Perimeter Trail,” which encircles the park, offering a picturesque walk or bike ride. As you explore the trail, you’ll encounter stunning views of Lake Washington, the Cascade Mountains, and the surrounding parkland.
Carkeek Park features a beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the coastline. During low tide, the beach reveals a fascinating world of tide pools teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore these pools and discover colorful sea stars, crabs, anemones, and other intertidal creatures.
Volunteer Park was designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers landscape architecture firm, known for their work on many iconic parks across the United States. The park reflects the principles of the Olmsted design, featuring sweeping lawns, winding pathways, and carefully curated plantings that create a harmonious and picturesque environment.
The park boasts two sandy beaches, namely Magnuson Beach and Matthews Beach. These beaches provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking by the water’s edge. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Lake Washington, watch sailboats glide by, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
The park features expansive open spaces, lush green fields, and numerous picnic areas equipped with tables and grills. These areas are perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or simply lounging and enjoying the park’s serene ambiance. Visitors can take in the views of Lake Washington and the surrounding landscape while enjoying a meal or playing outdoor games.
Mount Baker Park provides direct access to the beautiful shores of Lake Washington. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the Cascade Mountains while strolling along the waterfront promenade. The park’s sandy beach area is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking in the serene atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit and things to do in Seattle, Washington. The city’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse attractions make it a truly captivating destination for locals and visitors alike.
