With more than 20 culturally unique neighborhoods, a vibrant arts community and quick access to some of the most picturesque hiking and boating adventures in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle will flat out spoil you when it comes to exciting and unique activities. While there are truly too many things to do in Seattle in just one visit, Clipper’s team of Pacific Northwest travel experts have curated this great list of 150 things to do in Seattle to give you a place to start. Get inspired and book your trip!

*= Add on one of these Seattle tours while booking

Special for Canadians!

A scenic ride from Victoria, Seattle is a quick and easy escape in your own backyard. Add an overnight stay at one of our personally-vetted hotels and spend the weekend exploring the Emerald City!

Learn More

Iconic Seattle

1
Space Needle *

There’s a reason why the Space Needle is at the top of our list. In addition to being an iconic feature along Seattle’s skyline, the Needle offers the best views of Queen Anne, downtown and Puget Sound.

2
Chihuly Garden and Glass *

Located directly under the Space Needle, the Garden and Glass is an exhibit showcasing the awe-inspiring studio glass of Dale Chihuly. The centerpiece is the 40-foot-tall Glasshouse, which is home to an expansive 100-foot-long sculpture.

The stunning Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum brims with amazing sculptures.

3
Fremont Troll

Hiding under Fremont’s gigantic Aurora Bridge, this concrete monster stands guard, Volkswagen Beetle in hand. A walk around the neighborhood will turn up other oddities, such as a rocket ship and a 16-foot bronze sculpture of Vladimir Lenin.

4
Hammering Man

Standing tall in front of the Seattle Art Museum, this 48-foot statue is part of a series of sculptures located around the world. They were erected as a celebration of hardworking individuals from coal miners to computer operators.

5
Pacific Science Center

Spend a whole day at the Science Center! – With a tropical butterfly house, a planetarium and hundreds of hands-on science exhibits, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Come nightfall, two IMAX theaters and one of the world’s largest Laser Dome theaters illuminate the Center.

Explore a number of exhibits at the Seattle Science Center.

6
The Original Starbucks

While you’re strolling through Pike Place Market, be sure to stop by the 1st & Pike Starbucks store, also known as Seattle’s original Starbucks. You can’t visit the city of coffee without a stop here!

7
Gum Wall

Just underneath Pike Place Market in Post Alley, the gum wall is just as it sounds – one huge brick wall covered entirely in gum. You know the drill, if you visit, you have to leave your own!

8
Seattle Great Wheel

Take a ride on the iconic Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57 and see the city of Seattle and the waterfront like never before.

Seattle's Great Wheel offers stunning views of the city skyline.

9
Pioneer Square Shops & Restaurants

Seattle’s founders settled in Pioneer Square in 1852, and many of the city’s oldest buildings still stand in this charming neighborhood. On a nice day, stroll down 1st Ave and find gifts at a variety of boutiques or grab a bite and a cocktail at Damn the Weather.

10
Take a Water Taxi to West Seattle

Hop on the water taxi across Elliott Bay for a day of shopping and beach-bumming. Three dollars buys a 12-minute cruise, just enough time to grab a coffee and make plans for the day.

11
Seattle Public Library

Wander along 4th Ave in downtown Seattle and it’s hard to miss the geometric, futuristic design of the Seattle Public Library. The real treat is inside though, where colorful hallways and escalators add to the sensory experience.

12
Ride the Monorail Through the Museum of Pop Culture

If you’re looking for the quintessential Seattle experience, look no further than the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop). Hop on the famous Seattle Monorail and ride right through the belly of the Frank O. Gehry designed building, then enjoy an afternoon of experiential exhibits blending music, pop culture and sci-fi.

Cruise past the Space Needle on the Seattle Monorail.

13
Chinatown International District

Dragons march across the 45-foot arch of the historic Chinatown Gate as you enter International District’s core. It’s easy to spend an entire weekend exploring the countless shops, restaurants and numerous courtyards and alleyways in Chinatown.

14
Houseboat Hunting in Eastlake

Although Seattle’s quaint houseboats have seen the Hollywood cameras, the best spots to see them are trickier to find. We suggest heading to Eastlake – with ample parking and easy waterfront access, it’s the best place to drool over the floating homes.

15
Gas Works Park

On a sunny day, head to the hill at Gas Works Park for a breathtaking 360-degree view of downtown Seattle across Lake Union.

Soak an amazing views of downtown Seattle from Gas Works Park.

16
City Sightseeing Seattle *

Offering the chance to explore the Emerald City at your own pace with stops at 14 of the city’s most iconic spots, City Sightseeing Seattle is a truly unique way to experience the sights and sounds of downtown Seattle, as well as the waterfront, the Pioneer Square historic district, the Chinatown-International District and Pike Place Market.

17
Visit the Jimi Hendrix Memorial

The most frequented sites are the bronze statue on Broadway and his memorial at Greenwood Memorial Park. Memorials can also be found at Woodland Park Zoo and Garfield High School library.

18
Volunteer Park Conservatory

While wandering through Volunteer Park, be sure to stop in at the Conservatory, a 100-year-old greenhouse made up of 3,426 glass panes (but who’s counting?). Inside, you’ll find a cactus room and hundreds of tropical plants, some as old as the building itself!

19
University of Washington Quad

Whatever the season, the Quad at the University of Washington is a hub for outdoor activities, from snowball fights in the winter to blooming cherry blossoms in spring or frisbee and soccer come summertime.
Cherry blossoms fill the University of Washington Quad each spring.

20
Shopping and Nightlife on Capitol Hill

For a day of shopping, there’s no better place to be than Capitol Hill, with its fashion boutiques, sneaker shops, eco-friendly retailers and thrift stores. Once night falls, stop by speakeasy establishments like Knee High Stocking Co., distilleries like Sun Liquor and all-out parties at Unicorn.

21
Find Neighborhood Gems

From the city’s countless coffee shops, like Milstead & Co. in Fremont, to distilleries like Copperworks in Pioneer Square, to the best Cuban sandwiches in town at Paseo, Seattle’s chock-full of secret spots waiting to be discovered.

12
Ride the Monorail Through the Museum of Pop Culture

If you’re looking for the quintessential Seattle experience, look no further than the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop). Hop on the famous Seattle Monorail and ride right through the belly of the Frank O. Gehry designed building, then enjoy an afternoon of experiential exhibits blending music, pop culture and sci-fi.

Cruise past the Space Needle on the Seattle Monorail.

13
Chinatown International District

Dragons march across the 45-foot arch of the historic Chinatown Gate as you enter International District’s core. It’s easy to spend an entire weekend exploring the countless shops, restaurants and numerous courtyards and alleyways in Chinatown.

14
Houseboat Hunting in Eastlake

Although Seattle’s quaint houseboats have seen the Hollywood cameras, the best spots to see them are trickier to find. We suggest heading to Eastlake – with ample parking and easy waterfront access, it’s the best place to drool over the floating homes.

15
Gas Works Park

On a sunny day, head to the hill at Gas Works Park for a breathtaking 360-degree view of downtown Seattle across Lake Union.

Soak an amazing views of downtown Seattle from Gas Works Park.

16
City Sightseeing Seattle *

Offering the chance to explore the Emerald City at your own pace with stops at 14 of the city’s most iconic spots, City Sightseeing Seattle is a truly unique way to experience the sights and sounds of downtown Seattle, as well as the waterfront, the Pioneer Square historic district, the Chinatown-International District and Pike Place Market.

17
Visit the Jimi Hendrix Memorial

The most frequented sites are the bronze statue on Broadway and his memorial at Greenwood Memorial Park. Memorials can also be found at Woodland Park Zoo and Garfield High School library.

18
Volunteer Park Conservatory

While wandering through Volunteer Park, be sure to stop in at the Conservatory, a 100-year-old greenhouse made up of 3,426 glass panes (but who’s counting?). Inside, you’ll find a cactus room and hundreds of tropical plants, some as old as the building itself!

19
University of Washington Quad

Whatever the season, the Quad at the University of Washington is a hub for outdoor activities, from snowball fights in the winter to blooming cherry blossoms in spring or frisbee and soccer come summertime.
Cherry blossoms fill the University of Washington Quad each spring.

20
Shopping and Nightlife on Capitol Hill

For a day of shopping, there’s no better place to be than Capitol Hill, with its fashion boutiques, sneaker shops, eco-friendly retailers and thrift stores. Once night falls, stop by speakeasy establishments like Knee High Stocking Co., distilleries like Sun Liquor and all-out parties at Unicorn.

21
Find Neighborhood Gems

From the city’s countless coffee shops, like Milstead & Co. in Fremont, to distilleries like Copperworks in Pioneer Square, to the best Cuban sandwiches in town at Paseo, Seattle’s chock-full of secret spots waiting to be discovered.

Popular Tours & Attractions

22
Savor Seattle Pike Place Market Tour

Get a taste of the Emerald City with Savor Seattle’s food tours, which specialize in guided walking food tours of some of Seattle’s tastiest neighborhoods. Where better to nosh on delicious eats than at the city’s source for local and fresh food, Pike Place Market.

Pick up some of the freshest produce around at the iconic Pike Place Market.

23
Market Ghost Tour

The Pike Place Market is the number one tourist destination in Washington, though very few visitors see it at night. Check out the spooky side of the Market with a tour of the remnants of several graveyards, a former brothel and the nation’s first Mortuary, all found inside its halls.

24
International Fountain

Wander around the city’s expansive Seattle Center and you’ll come across the International Fountain. In the summer, 20 spouts cycle through coordinated water patterns, accompanied by recorded world music that changes twice a month to coincide with event programming at the Center.

25
T-Mobile Park

The stomping grounds for the Seattle Mariners, T-Mobile Park features a retractable roof (for that rare Seattle sunshine) and is nestled among plenty of pre-game and post-game bar spots such as Hatback Bar & Grille and Gantry Public House.

A stunning sunset at T-Mobile Park.

26
Lumen Field

The home field for both the Seattle Seahawks and the Seattle Sounders, this is the best spot in town to catch a game and skyline views of the city in a 67,000-seat arena.

27
Seattle City Tour

Visit and learn about downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, the Seattle Waterfront, Pioneer Square, Chinatown/International District and witness some outstanding views of the city on an exciting minibus tour.

28
Argosy Locks Cruise *

Enjoy a 2 ½ hour cruise through Elliott Bay, Shilshole Bay, the Hiram Chittenden Locks and Lake Union, all with live narration of Seattle’s history.

Boats cruise through the Ballard Locks.

29
Seattle Flightseeing Tour

Tour the Emerald City from the air aboard a scenic Kenmore Air Flightseeing Tour. Enjoy aerial views of Lake Union’s houseboat communities, the University of Washington campus and the dramatic downtown skyline.

30
Seattle Coffee Culture Tour

Explore the coffee capital of the United States on a 2-hour walking and tasting tour of Seattle’s Capitol Hill Neighborhood.

 

31
Climate Pledge Arena

A multipurpose arena hosting some of the biggest names in entertainment and home to the Seattle Kraken, catch a game or a show. Committed to the urgent need for climate action, Climate Pledge Arena will be the world’s first net zero carbon arena by 2040. Be sure to check out the “living wall” made from recycled plastic while you’re there!

32
Beneath the Streets Tour *

Experience a side of the city you never knew existed with a trek through the Emerald City’s catacomb-like passageways on the Beneath the Streets Tour. Explore three city blocks underneath the historic Pioneer Square and gain insight into the history of Seattle.

33
Nordic Museum

Situated along the Ballard waterfront, the all-new Nordic Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving and educating on the legacy of immigrants from the five Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.

34
Museum of Flight Tour

The largest independent air and space museum in the world, the Museum boasts more than 175 aircraft from every era and exhibits from flight simulators to airport towers. Test out your flying skills in The Pilot Experience or take in an epic movie at their 3D Movie Theater.

35
Boeing Future of Flight Tour

Tour both the Future of Flight Aviation Center and the Boeing Factory on this exciting interactive experience. Walk through the largest building in the world by volume as you view airplanes in various stages of assembly, manufacture and flight test. 

Boeing jet being constructed at the Museum of Flight.

Step Off the Beaten Path

36
Gigantic Hat n’ Boots at Oxbow Park

Another quintessentially Seattle attraction, “Hat ‘n’ Boots” was built in 1954 as part of a Western-themed gas station, and is billed as the largest hat and cowboy boots in America.

37
Rapunzel and the Fremont Bridge

One of the control towers in the Fremont Bridge is home to a neon Rapunzel whose electric hair trails down the side of the wall. Walk to the other side and another neon creation illustrates a fable of an elephant and a crocodile by Rudyard Kipling.

38
Seattle Pinball Museum

Take yourself back to your childhood days of arcades, lights and pinball flippers at this classic pinball emporium.

39
Urban Refuge at Freeway Park

Built into the concrete overpass above I-5, the aptly named Freeway Park is a quiet retreat with five acres of cascading stairs and grassy areas bordered by lofty walls.

40
Magnuson Park Fin Art

While walking the park’s four miles of trails, it’s hard to miss the Fin Art installation – an assortment of decommissioned submarine wings that resemble a pod of orcas.

41
Kubota Gardens

Hidden in South Seattle, Kubota Garden blends Japanese garden concepts with native Northwest plants. Stroll over bridges, among waterfalls and beside ponds as you make your way through the grounds.

42
Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

Open since 1899, Ye Olde Curiosity Shop has been home to cool and unusual collectables, specimens and gifts for over 100 years.

43
Edmonds Underwater Park

Located alongside the Edmonds ferry terminal, the underwater park is a great example of what the Northwest landscape has to offer (albeit wetsuits are fairly mandatory!). Find a bench and watch as divers explore this submarine wonderland.

44
NOAA Sound Garden

Located on a hill overlooking Lake Washington, these giant pipe-like structures whistle and howl in the wind. Visiting is free, but be sure to bring your photo ID along to get a day pass, and prepare to hike a half mile to get to the installations.

45
Central Cinema

One of the first in the area to add drinking and dining to your movie, Central Cinema is a proper theater-turned-dinner. Order bites from your wait staff, and choose from draft beer, cocktails or wines to wash it down. 

The Great Outdoors

46
Walk to Marsh Island

From the Arboretum trailhead on E Foster Island Road, walk across open forest and under Hwy 520, through a tunnel of vegetation and onto Foster and Marsh Island. Bring your hiking shoes, as this area can get boggy!

47
Bellevue Botanical Gardens

From rock gardens to meadow trails, summer concerts to holiday light festivities, the Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a year-round treat for the senses. Be sure to visit the Ravine Experience, a 150-foot suspension bridge allowing unique views of native understory and wildlife.

48
Washington Park Arboretum

A true hidden gem, the Arboretum showcases 230 acres of diverse plant life, some found nowhere else in the Northwest. Wind your way around its scenic trails, or find a bench and soak up the landscape. Our favorite seasons to visit are during spring and summer, although fall adds its own unique variety of colors to the mix.

Paddle through the Washington Park Arboretum.

49
Seward Park

Boasting 300 acres of forested land, waterfront and beaches, it’s easy to spend an entire day at Seward Park! Explore a native plant garden, miles of hiking and biking trails, feed the ducks and discover a hidden amphitheater.

50
Myrtle Edwards Park

Just minutes north of the Clipper terminal along the waterfront, Myrtle Edwards Park is the perfect spot to catch the sun slip behind the Olympic Mountains. Facing west across Puget Sound, you’ll catch unobstructed views of ships, marine wildlife, West Seattle and Bainbridge Island.

51
Waterfall Garden Park

This secluded retreat is Seattle’s best-kept secret! A 22-foot waterfall in the heart of Pioneer Square, tucked behind Occidental Square Park on 2nd Ave. It’s the perfect spot to have lunch, read a book or relax to the sound of moving water.

52
Carkeek Park

From wetlands and creeks to a restored forest and a fruit orchard, Carkeek Park is a surprisingly diverse waterfront wonder offering views across the sound of Whidbey Island and the Kitsap Peninsula.

53
Lincoln Park

If you’re looking for a spot to picnic, West Seattle’s Lincoln Park is our go-to. Five picnic shelters, a heated saltwater pool and plenty of open meadows and playfields make it a great weekend destination for visitors of all ages.

54
Walk Around Green Lake

One of Seattle’s most beloved parks, Green Lake offers a newly reconstructed path around its perimeter, perfect for walking, biking or rollerblading. In the summertime, cool off with a dip at the beach, then wander the surrounding neighborhood shops.

55
Lake Union Park

After a wander through Seattle’s bustling downtown corridor, the centrally located Lake Union Park may seem like an urban oasis. Take a stroll along the waterfront or grab a bite and glass of wine at The White Swan Public House.

Sailboats glide through Lake Union.

56
Alki Beach

On a perfect sunny day, Alki Beach is Seattle’s Santa Monica. Beach volleyball, long boarding and roller skating are activities of choice here, all set to a gorgeous backdrop of downtown Seattle across the water.

57
Ravenna Park

Spanning a half mile wooded ravine, Ravenna Park is a popular spot for hiking, jogging and picnics. Park features include a play area for children, a ballfield, trails and tennis courts.

58
Go Kayaking at the UW Waterfront

A popular summertime activity in the U-District, head to the UW Waterfront Activities Center and rent a kayak or canoe for the day! After exploring the area’s waterways, head to Agua Verde café for the best Baja-style burritos and margaritas you’ve ever had.

59
Walk Seattle’s Waterfront

30 minutes Pier 50-Pier 70 – Take a right as you leave the Clipper terminal and enjoy 30 minutes of waterfront views as you wander along toward the Seattle Great Wheel, Seattle Aquarium and Ivar’s seafood.

 Stroll along Seattle's scenic waterfont.

60
Bike Along Lake Washington Blvd

A winding waterfront road offering scenic lakeside vistas sounds like the perfect spot for an afternoon bike ride to us! Pedal over on scheduled Sundays during the summer months and enjoy riding along a portion closed to motorized vehicles.

61
Walk or Bike the Burke-Gilman Trail

Beginning in Ballard and following the Lake Washington Ship Canal east and then north along the shoreline to Redmond, the 27-mile Burke-Gilman Trail is the largest of its kind in the city. The trail offers visitors a tour of the region’s varying landscapes, from suburbs to city, lakes to forests.

62
Kerry Park

Seattle’s most popular viewpoint, Kerry Park aligns the Space Needle nicely along the downtown Seattle skyline, making for a scenic vista day or night.

Queen Anne's Kerry Park offers a great view of downtown Seattle.

63
Dr. Jose Rizal Park

Just up the hill from Dr. Jose Rizal Bridge, the park overlooks Seattle from the south, with the sun setting slowly over Puget Sound, if you time it right.

64
Water Tower at Volunteer Park

After a stroll through the park and a visit to the conservatory, climb the 107 stairs to the top of the water tower and soak in the views from the highest point on Capitol Hill.

65
Magnolia Boulevard

In Seattle there’s no shortage of sweeping cityscape vistas, but one of our favorites has to be the Magnolia Boulevard Viewpoints. On a clear summer day, feel a cool breeze wafting up from the Sound as you gaze over the Emerald City.

66
Golden Gardens Park

If you love sandy beaches, seaside sunsets and barbeque pits (who doesn’t?) this spot has got all boxes ticked. Head to the beach and join a spirited game of volleyball, or wander to the northern nature preserve and try to spot the local turtles.

67
West Point Light

Aside from grassy knolls and wooded hiking trails, Discovery Park offers easy beach access and wraparound waterfront vistas at its most western point. Come sunset, there aren’t many places with a better view of Puget Sound.

Check out the iconic lighthouse in Discovery Park.

68
Shilshole Marina

Located along “Seaview Ave,” this scenic Northwest Seattle viewpoint lives up to the name, providing an exquisite backdrop of the Olympic Mountains as the sun sets behind bobbing masts.  

69
Newcastle Golf Club

Summit the Newcastle Golf Club near sundown and you’ll be rewarded with views of downtown Bellevue, Lake Washington, Seattle and the Olympic Mountains rising up behind it all. Bring a camera along, you’ll thank us later!

70
Lake Washington Ship Canal

Connecting the fresh water of Lake Washington with the salt water of Puget Sound, the Ship Canal passes through Lake Union, Portage Bay and Union Bay. Stop by the Ballard Locks and watch ships pass through, or walk across Montlake Bridge and gaze down at kayakers passing by.

71
Olympic Sculpture Park

Find Seattle’s urban slice of Zen just north of the Clipper terminal. The Olympic Sculpture Park features modern art and classic vistas of the Seattle waterfront and Belltown.

Alexander Calder's Eagle at Sculpture Park.

72
Columbia Tower

The tallest building in Seattle, Columbia Center is home to the impressive Sky View Observatory, offering the highest views of the city at nearly 1,000 feet, and a full 360-degrees of jaw-dropping scenery.

Emerald City Culture and Attractions

73
Teatro ZinZanni Dinner & Show

Part circus, part dinner theatre and always magical, Teatro ZinZanni is a three-hour whirlwind of international cirque, comedy and cabaret artists served up with a multi-course feast and generous libations.

Aeralists fly through the air at Teatro ZinZannie Dinner & Show.

74
Benaroya Hall

Home to classical performances from renowned musicians, as well as performing arts, Benaroya Hall features two auditoria and occupies an entire city block. Dress up in your swankiest attire and enjoy a night of music and entertainment.

75
5th Avenue Theater

The 5th Avenue Theater is a historical landmark of Seattle, and has served to produce and present live musical theater for the cultural enrichment of the Northwest community since 1926. Known as being a “testing ground” for new musicals before making their Broadway debut, the Theater launched hits such as Jekyll & Hyde, Hairspray and The Wedding Singer.

76
Pacific Northwest Ballet

Watch professionally trained bodies bending, leaping and twirling at the venerable Pacific Northwest Ballet. Tickets normally run $25 to $150, but if you time your visit right you can score tickets on the little-known $10 preview days. 

77
Paramount Theater

Originally opened in 1928 as the Seattle Theater, the Paramount is an impressive architectural feat, with a lavish interior, sweeping balconies and lofty ceilings. You can still catch performance arts shows today, from Broadway theater to dance, comedy and jazz.

78
Seattle Symphony

Head downtown for an evening of internationally acclaimed symphony performances. Winning two Grammy Awards and two Emmy Awards, the Seattle Symphony is known for their dynamic and impactful score.

79
Catch a Show

Though Seattle’s grunge days might be over, the city is still breaking new ground in the music scene. Catch shows from both local and international artists at Belltown’s Crocodile, Capitol Hill’s Neumos or Tractor Tavern in Ballard.

80
Center for Wooden Boats (CWB)

Located on the beautiful South Lake Union waterfront, the CWB offers public sailings, boat rentals, classes and even boat making workshops.

81
Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Head next door to the Museum of History & Industry, to spend a full day uncovering iconic artifacts and diverse collections spotlighting Seattle’s history.

82
Seattle Art Museum

Home to numerous rotating and permanent exhibits from around the globe, if it’s art you’re after, there’s no better place to find it than at the Seattle Art Museum. Swing by on the first Thursday of each month to enjoy half-off tickets but expect a crowd!

Explore a variety of art at the Seattle Art Museum.

83
Wing Luke Museum

The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience is a Smithsonian-affiliated institution dedicated to the culture, art and history of Asian Pacific Americans. It is the only pan-Asian Pacific American community-based museum in America.

84
Henry Art Gallery

If you like your art to be bold, challenging, and push boundaries, the Henry Art Gallery should be your first stop. Located on the University of Washington campus, admission is a $0-20 suggested donation.

85
The Original Selfie Museum

Step into this photography studio and art space while navigating your way through various themed rooms for the perfect selfie.

86
Seattle Asian Art Museum

Tucked away in Volunteer Park, the Seattle Asian Art Museum occupies a historic art deco building, and is home to art pieces from across Asia as well as works produced by local artists.

87
Living Computer Museum

Discover how robots work, experience cutting-edge virtual and augmented reality, investigate the world of artificial intelligence and interact with the computers that started it all.

88
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center

Walk through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center to get a sense of how the world’s largest private philanthropy works in Seattle and abroad. After a visit, you might even get inspired to help change the world yourself!

89
Burke Museum of History & Culture

Located at the University of Washington, the Burke is the oldest public museum in Washington state. With extensive historic and local ethnographic collections, it’s a great educational activity for all ages.

90
Frye Art Museum

Located in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood, the Frye is home to a vast collection of 19th and 20th century American, German and French paintings.

91
Art Galleries in Pioneer Square

Dozens of galleries await exploration in Pioneer Square, all of them offering unique art made by local artists. On First Thursday, wander the city’s oldest art walk and mingle with other artsy folks at over 30 openings and events. Don’t miss out on free entry into the Henry Art Gallery and the Seattle Art Museum these days as well!

92
Second Thursday Art Walks

On the second Thursday of every month, the place to be is Capitol Hill, home to dozens of cafes and shops whose doors fly open for a night of free access to local art on display.

93
Dig Some Crates

Seattle has no shortage of record shops. If you’re in Ballard, Bop Street is the place to be, with over half a million records! Easy Street in West Seattle is another favorite, also doubling as a diner café. Vinyl and hash browns, is there anything better?

94
“Henry” Murals

Ryan “Henry” Ward is a Seattle based muralist, and with over 200 murals in Seattle and around the world, he’s the region’s most prolific. Wander the city and you’ll certainly stumble across of few of his works, usually featuring colorful animals.

95
Smith Tower

Once the tallest building in Seattle, the Smith Tower now boasts a newly redesigned Observatory featuring a prohibition-style bar, in addition to its historic interior (and original brass elevators!).

96
King Street Station

Opened in 1906, Seattle’s King Street Station is an impressive architectural feat, still in use today. Inside, you’ll find swaths of marble, gold accents and soaring ceilings.

97
Bloedel Reserve

Experience “forest therapy” at this Bainbridge Island greenspace. The Reserve features 12 gardens ranging from colorful formal arrangements to mossy trails to a Japanese garden home to a 170-year-old maple.

Sips and Bites

98
Explore the Craft Brew Scene

Experience the best beer in town with visits to local breweries such as Reuben’s Brews, Bad Jimmy’s Brewing Co., Lagunitas and more!

A lineup of Seattle suds.

99
Cozy up with a Cocktail

Make your way to Capitol Hill’s intimate Canon, which has won the title o the World’s Best Spirit Selection, for a curated cocktail. Or stop by the speakeasy-style Bathtub Gin in Belltown for cocktails on the hush-hush.

100
Eat at Ivar’s

Ivar Haglund founded Ivar’s to feed guests at his waterfront aquarium using classic seafood recipes. Fast forward 80 years and his restaurants are a staple of any Northwest local’s dining repertoire.

101
Dick’s Drive-In

Call it Seattle’s version of In-N-Out, the Dick’s burger is just as famous in the Northwest, and it’s still the best deal in town. Sniff out a drive-up location and enjoy a timeless meal (seriously, they haven’t changed their menu since ’82).

102
Salty’s on Alki Beach

No trip to Alki Beach is complete without dinner at Salty’s. Located right on the water and offering unbeatable views of downtown Seattle, it’s the perfect spot for a dinner date.

103
Sample Seattle’s Brews

It’s no secret that Seattle is home to an abundance of local breweries serving up some delicious pints. Local favorites include Elysian Brewery on Capitol Hill and Pike Brewing Company in Pike Place Market. Capitol Cider also offers a plethora of libations of the apple variety.

Sip on a variety of frothy suds.

104
Theo Chocolate

Did someone say chocolate? Just walking near the Fremont factory it’s easy to grab whiffs of sweet cocoa. Get a taste hot off the chocolate line with a factory tour.

105
Grab Brunch

Is it an early lunch? Late breakfast? We don’t care as long as pancakes are involved. Grab the best bites in the city at Oddfellows in Capitol Hill, Lola in Pioneer Square, or Portage Bay Café, with multiple locations around town.

106
Diverse Dining in Columbia City

Columbia City boasts one of America’s most diverse zip codes, and as a result also offers an impressive variety of dining options. Stroll along its Rainier Ave. core and you’ll spot Caribbean, Mediterranean, Ethiopian, Italian, Thai and Asian fusion in the span of a few blocks!

107
Grab Dessert

Stop by Hot Cakes in Ballard or Capitol Hill for a warming molten chocolate cake, made fresh to-order. Come summertime, cool off with Molly Moons or Full Tilt ice cream, with multiple locations around the city.

Shopping

108
SoDo’s Filson Store

Originally founded to outfit gold prospectors in the 19th century, Filson’s newly updated headquarters offer quality garments made in-house.

109
Westlake Center

Indulge in a little retail therapy at your favorite shops at the Westlake Center. Afterward, grab a bite at the gigantic food court upstairs, then hitch a ride on the monorail.

110
Browse the Ave

University Way Northeast, known locally as The Ave, is an eclectic mix of shopping, dining and historic architecture neighboring the University of Washington. Be sure to stop by the Henry Art Gallery and Burke Museum, bike the Burke-Gilman trail or wander the tree-lined lane known as Greek Row.

111
Seattle Antiques Market

It’s easy to overlook this tucked away gem, as it’s located on the opposite side of the waterfront from the Seattle Great Wheel. Look under the Alaskan Way Viaduct however and you’ll find a sprawling showroom of antique furniture, art and knickknacks.

112
University Village

Located just north of downtown Seattle in the University District, the city’s only open-air shopping center offers a unique combination of distinct restaurants and locally-owned boutiques.

113
Fremont Vintage Mall

Frequented by collectors, antique enthusiasts and local rapper, Macklemore, the Fremont Vintage Mall is the best spot in the city to score some deals on furniture, accessories, clothing and more.

114
Elliot Bay Bookstore

Located on the ultra-hip 10th Avenue block of Capitol Hill, the Elliot Bay Book Company is where you’ll not only find endless books, magazines and gifts but also Little Oddfellows, a newly opened café known for their pastries and small bites.

115
Fremont Sunday Market

On Sundays, Seattle’s proclaimed “center of the universe” really lives up to its name. Join in on the hustle and bustle as you browse offerings from Fremont’s local crafters, chefs and collectors. Count on spending a few hours, the options are endless!

116
Georgetown Trailer Park Mall

Walk along Airport Way near Fran’s Chocolates and you’ll spot the Trailer Park Mall, a collection of retrofitted walk-in trailers offering everything from vintage goods to art to jewelry.

Family Fun

117
Wings Over Washington

Take a ride in the state-of-the-art “flying theater” that will transport you on an aerial adventure high above Washington. 5K Cameras and Mushroom VR make for an immersive and lifelike experience as you soar over the state’s most scenic landmarks.

118
Seattle Aquarium

Just 10 piers south of the Clipper terminal, the beloved waterfront aquarium is home to everything from Pacific coral reef to marine mammals like otters and seals to the Giant Pacific Octopus!

Watch otters splash and play at the Seattle Aquarium.

119
Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

Let the kids pan for gold in this small Pioneer Square Museum that features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight Seattle’s role in the Klondike gold rush of the 1890s.

120
Seattle Children’s Museum

Located in the heart of the Seattle Center Armory, the Children’s Museum features interactive exhibits for kids of all ages, ranging from the Global Village, to the Mountain, to a kid-sized Sound Transit train track.

121
Woodland Park Zoo

The perfect activity for the kiddos (and adults, too!), Woodland Park Zoo includes 92 acres of exhibits featuring over 1,000 animals. After a day of critter-watching, head to nearby Greenwood Ave for dinner.

122
Theo Chocolate Factory Tour

Taste your way through an hour-long interactive experience of sweet treats. Discover the origins of cocoa and see how chocolate is made from scratch!

 

123
Watch the Stars Under the Stars

Take advantage of that perfect Northwest summer weather and enjoy an outdoor flick with friends. Locations include Westlake Park on Fridays, Movies at the Mural (Seattle Center) on Saturdays in August and Magnuson Park on Thursdays.

Beyond Seattle

124
Hike Nearby Cougar Mountain

Across the pond (Lake Washington for the uninitiated), Cougar Mountain is a refuge among a sprawling urban backdrop. Pack a lunch and explore over 35 miles of well-marked and maintained trails, along which several relics related to the area’s mining history still lie.

125
Rattlesnake Ridge

You’ve probably seen photos take from the Ledge at the summit of Rattlesnake. Gaining 2,240 feet above the lake, the views are spectacular. Best to get an early start if visiting on a hot day, and as a reward the lake is a refreshing end to a day of hiking.

Take in spectacular views of Rattlesnake Lake from the top of the ledge.

126
Climb Mount Si

For delightful temperate woodland escape, head to Little Si’s summit, which supplies phenomenal portraits of the valley and surrounding peaks. For a more challenging (and rewarding) hike, Mount Si is an eight-mile forested trail offering even more impressive views.

127
Mt. Pilchuck

Located near Granite Falls, this is a moderate to difficult hike, but rewards with a rocky peak topped with an enclosed viewing hut and 360-degrees of Northwest landscape.

Fabulous views stretch out for miles from the top of Mt. Pilchuck.

128
Summit Tiger Mountain

Located just east of Seattle in the western foothills of the Cascades, Tiger Mountain is one of the most popular metropolitan area hikes in the state. The West Tiger 3 Trail is a three-mile hike offering unobstructed views of Lake Washington, Tacoma, Seattle and Cougar Mountain.

129
Wallace Falls

Love waterfalls? Don’t miss Wallace Falls State Park, which boasts three tremendous waterfalls, including the highlight of the park – the 367-foot Wallace Falls, along the 5.6-mile trail.

130
Mt. St. Helens National Monument Tour *

Enjoy a day of adventure at the Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. See the mountain up-close and learn about the 1980’s infamous eruption with this guided tour for all ages.

131
Olympic National Park Day Tour *

Experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest on a naturalist-guided tour that transports you across Puget Sound to the stunning Olympic Peninsula.

132
Mt. Rainier Tour *

Breathtaking vistas of glacier-carved Mt. Rainier, waterfalls and alpine meadows await you on this day trip. Spend the day in old-growth forests, wildflower-filled meadows and waterfalls as well as visit the interpretive center at Paradise or Sunrise to learn more about the mountain. 

133
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Seattle

Taste your way through an hour-long interactive experience of sweet treats. Discover the origins of cocoa and see how chocolate is made from scratch!

 

134
Northwest Trek

Have an authentic encounter with the wildlife of the Pacific Northwest aboard a narrated tram ride through over 700 acres of free-range park.

135
Take a Trip on a Kenmore Air Float Plane! *

Offering destinations in the San Juan Islands, Vancouver Island as well as sightseeing trips all across the Northwest, Kenmore Air gives you the chance to see the region’s varying landscapes from above. Be sure to bring a camera along!

Soar above Seattle on a float plane

136
Woodinville

Visiting Woodinville is like taking a trip to one big farmer’s market. With countless breweries, distilleries, produce stands, flower farms and specialty lavender and honey artisans, you’ll return home with a car bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors.

137
Fall City

From cherry blossoms in spring to turning leaves in autumn, Fall City is known for its small, rustic crossroads and densely forested back country. Be sure to stop by the Roadhouse for lunch!

138
Issaquah

For the best root beer in the state, head to Triple XXX Rootbeer in Issaquah. For more dining and shopping, visit the historic Gilman Village. Be sure to also swing by Front Street to get a glimpse of Issaquah as it was back in the day offers a trip down memory lane.

139
Snohomish

If you’re into antiques, spend a whole day (or two) in Snohomish. The rural town is bursting with hip cafes, boutiques and antique malls, set to a beautiful Northwest forest backdrop.

140
Skagit Valley

Flowers, pumpkins, corn mazes? – Pick a season, Skagit Valley is guaranteed to be bursting with color! From the Tulip Festival in the spring to pumpkin patches and corn mazes in the fall, it’s the perfect destination for a family weekend adventure.

141
Bremerton

Accessible from Seattle by driving or via ferry, Bremerton is home to sweeping waterfront views, forested back country and green spaces like Illahee State Park, the Elandan Gardens and Harborside Fountain Park.

142
Kirkland

Across the pond on the Eastside of Lake Washington, Kirkland’s waterfront is a bustling mecca for boutique shopping, dining, outdoor recreation and art.

143
San Juan Islands

For the true PNW experience, head to the San Juan Islands for expansive oceanfront views and wide-open green spaces. Explore the quaint towns of Lopez Island, Orcas, Shaw Island and Friday Harbor.

144
Vashon Island

The largest island in Puget Sound south of Admiralty Inlet, Vashon offers a bounty of pristine land to explore. From farmer’s markets to wineries, farms to seaside cliffs, Vashon is a little piece of rural paradise.

145
Bainbridge Island

Catch the ferry right from downtown Seattle and enjoy 40 minutes of Northwest scenery en route to Bainbridge Island. Once ashore, head downtown and enjoy shopping and dining, before exploring Port Blakely, Fort Ward and the rest of the island’s attractions.

146
Museum of Glass

A noteworthy feature on the Tacoma skyline for its looks alone, the stainless-steel cone serves as a beacon to a stunning contemporary art museum, home to irreplaceable works by Dale Chihuly, as well as live glass blowing!

147
Point Defiance Park

Located on a peninsula northwest of downtown Tacoma, Point Defiance is home to the area’s largest green space, as well as a zoo and aquarium. Enjoy walking through gardens, trails and waterfront access at this pristine park.

148
America’s Car Museum

Whether you’re a collector, an automotive enthusiast or just a fan of cars, the jaw-dropping collection at the LeMay Museum will keep you entertained with hundreds of exquisitely preserved automotive relics.

149
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Travel the world with a trip to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium! From the arctic tundra to Asian forests, sharks of the South Pacific to beloved sea otters from right here at home, the exhibits bring creatures from all corners of the globe together under one roof.

150
Tacoma Art Museum

Browse extensive collections of unique portraits, sculptures, Chihuly glass and Japanese prints at the Tacoma Art Museum, a dynamic cultural hub in the center of downtown Tacoma.

Traveler Specials

FRS Clipper trips to Victoria and Seattle and whale watching are discounted for active and retired US or Canadian military personnel, and children.

Traveler Specials

Gift Cards

Surprise a loved one with a FRS Clipper gift card for travel to Victoria, Seattle, Vancouver or Portland!

Learn More

Brand Ambassador Program

Love the Pacific Northwest? Media, travel writer or social media influencer? Let’s work together!

Learn More