15 Best Places to Visit in Seattle

Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest and is located on the west coast of the United States in the state of Washington. The exciting city is known for its large aerospace industry, coffee, and nearby natural attractions, and it contains a variety of diverse neighbourhoods. Indeed, Seattle's lush landscapes and abundance of greenery have earned it the moniker "Emerald City." Seattle has something for everyone, with a plethora of cool landmarks, museums, parks, shopping outlets, and sporting grounds.

Seattle has a reputation for being a rainy and wet city. Travellers may be put off by the prospect of overcast skies and drizzle.

While Seattle does get a lot of rain, there are plenty of sunny days when you can get out and about without getting wet. In addition, there are a plethora of fantastic indoor attractions that are ideal for days when the weather refuses to cooperate. Our dedicated travel writing team has researched the best places to visit in Seattle, including both indoor and outdoor highlights. There's no need to be concerned about the weather when you're armed with our brilliant suggestions!

Make the most of your time in Seattle by visiting these best places to visit, but be warned: some will astound you!

1.Pike Place Market

Why it's fantastic: Pike Place Market, one of Seattle's most well-known landmarks, is one of the country's oldest continuously operating farmers' markets. It has been in operation for more than a century, having been founded in 1907 by a group of local farmers. Today, it sells more than just fresh produce; there are shops and stalls selling a wide range of goods. It's not only one of the best places in Seattle for shopping, but it's also a great place for entertainment, thanks to the lively atmosphere, animated buskers, and people-watching opportunities. There are numerous photo opportunities, and the variety of dining options makes it one of the best places to eat in Seattle.

What you should do there: Spend at least a couple of hours exploring the bustling Pike Place Market. Explore the 500-plus shops, stalls, eateries, and bars and browse the vast array of goods. There's plenty to tempt you to part with your money, from boutique clothing, crafts, hand-made soaps, and gorgeous ceramics to exquisite flower arrangements, vintage goods, curios, books, and souvenirs.

Explore the farmers' and fish markets, watch street performers, listen to cool covers and originals performed by energetic buskers, and take a photo of the historic sign. Relax with a drink in one of the funky bars after treating your taste buds at one of the restaurants or food stands. Visit one of the first Starbucks locations to see the original Mermaid logo of the world's most famous coffee company. Don't forget to take a photo with Rachel the Piggy Bank—you can also drop some change into the massive bronze money box to support local initiatives.

If there are a lot of people around Rachel, stop by Billie the Pig, who is located at the Market Front. Take a break and admire the views at the tranquil Pike Place Urban Garden, which is hidden away on the roof of the LaSalle Building.

Why it's fantastic: The iconic Space Needle is one of Seattle's most well-known landmarks. It is part of the much larger Seattle Center complex (see below). It was built in the early 1960s for the 1962 World's Fair and has become a prominent feature of the Seattle skyline. The soaring tower is 184 metres (605 feet) tall, and the observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch far into the distance. The wine bar is especially popular with couples looking for a romantic setting for a drink. The striking structure has appeared in numerous films and television shows, and it serves as the focal point for the city's annual New Year's Eve fireworks displays.

What to do there: Admire the soaring tower from afar, noting its UFO-like shape. Travel to the top of the structure in the fast elevators (the trip takes only 41 seconds under normal conditions) and take in the breathtaking views through the full-length glass walls on the upper level. Other points of interest in Seattle's downtown and further afield include Mount Rainier, Elliot Bay, islands, and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains.

Take a seat on the skyriser benches and be blown away by the views through the transparent seating—it almost feels like you're suspended high above the city. Go down to the lower level and stride out onto the rotating glass floor for even more thrills. Spend more time lingering over a drink in a café or bar.

3. Alki Beach

Why it's fantastic: Alki Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It's a great place to take a scenic walk on a sunny day and a great place to relax and unwind in the sun. There are sandy beaches and rocky stretches to explore, as well as tide pools teeming with sea creatures and, of course, the sea itself. Visitors will find a good selection of places to eat and drink near the beach, as well as all the amenities and facilities needed for a fun day at the beach. bar.

A variety of attractions and activities appeal to people of all ages, and it is one of the best places to visit in Seattle for families with children. Furthermore, Alki Beach was where the first white settlers in Seattle arrived, and a monument commemorates this historically significant event. The Denny Party arrived in Seattle in 1851, which is commemorated by the Birthplace of Seattle.

What to do: Take a walk along the paved beach trail and take in the views of the city and Puget Sound. If you're feeling more active, the path is also a great place for roller skating and jogging. At Alki Beach Park, see the mini replica of the Statue of Liberty and the still-operational 193 Alki Point Lighthouse.

Spread out your towel and relax on the sands, build a sand castle, play beach volleyball, explore the tide pools, go beachcombing, and enjoy a picnic. Take your supplies and prepare an al fresco meal at one of the fire pits. Stay late into the evening to watch the sun set while sitting around your fire.

4. Seattle Center

Why it's fantastic: The large Seattle Center was built for the 1962 World's Fair and is a popular tourist attraction in Seattle. The complex is home to the famous Space Needle, as well as many other attractions and activities—you could easily spend a full day here without getting bored. A must-see in Seattle for anyone interested in the arts, performing arts, sports, education, culture, history, architecture, and entertainment. There are numerous cool statues, sculptures, and other features, as well as plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop. The centre hosts a number of festivals, including the annual PrideFest.

What to do: Visit the Seattle Center's various museums to learn more about a variety of topics. Chihuly Garden and Glass is a treasured Seattle hotspot that proudly displays Dale Chihuly's artistic works. MoPOP has a rock 'n' roll background, having been inspired by Jimi Hendrix, and it covers everything related to modern popular culture.

Bring the kids to the Children's Museum to play with the interactive exhibits, and then to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center and the Pacific Science Center to learn more about the world. Allow children to let loose and unleash their inner creatives at the Artists at Play playground, view eye-catching installations in the Poetry Garden, stroll along the Sculpture Walk, visit art-filled galleries, photograph the soaring John T. Williams Totem Pole and the Kobe Bell, and admire the large International Fountain, complete with music and choreographed displays.

.For performing arts and other events, check out the Cornish Playhouse, KEXP, the Seattle Rep, the Seattle Opera, the Vera Project, Seattle Shakespeare, the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, and the Pacific Northwest Ballet, and take younger members of the family to Seattle Children’s Theatre. Sporting fans should head to the KeyArena and Memorial Stadium. Grab tasty treats at the Seattle Center Armory, where you can also see a piece of the Berlin Wall and watch various cultural events.

5. St. James Cathedral

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Why it's fantastic: The beautiful St. James Cathedral, built in the early 1900s, is one of Seattle's major religious attractions. More than 5,000 people attended the cornerstone laying ceremony, and it is still a popular active place of worship today. From the outside, the structure is impressive; inside, there is a large collection of artwork (including rare pieces) and religious items, and the atmosphere is spiritual and serene

What you should do there: Admire the building's graceful façade, which includes two soaring dome-topped towers flanking the main church building, and then step inside to take in the peaceful atmosphere and see more beauty. See the stunning 1456 altarpiece, which was created by an Italian artist and depicts the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus, surrounded by several saints. The works of German sculptor Ulrich Henn in the cathedral are just a few of those found throughout the United States. Don't forget to check out Charles Connick's stained glass collection.

6. Fremont

Why it's fantastic: Fremont, which boldly proclaims itself to be the Center of the Universe, is one of Seattle's most interesting neighbourhoods. It's a quirky part of town known for its countercultures, attracting techies, creative souls, artists, foodies, shopaholics, and more. Fremont has a little bit of everything because it is relatively small and easy to explore on foot. The streets are adorned with public art, and there are numerous landmarks, attractions, unusual spots, eateries, bars, and shops. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the neighbourhood hosts a number of cool festivals throughout the year.

What you should do there: One of the most unusual things to do in Seattle is to look under the Aurora Bridge; you'll see a massive troll! The concrete monstrosity, which stands nearly 5.5 metres (18 feet) tall and was built in 1990, certainly attracts attention. Climb to the top of the hill in the unusual Gas Works Park for spectacular views of downtown and the waterfront, as well as to see the old structures left over from the area's time as a gas works.

See the looming bronze Statue of Lenin, the Fremont Center of the Universe Sign, the Fremont Rocket, the Space Building, Dreamer of World Peace, and the cool Waiting for the Interurban installation, among other interesting Fremont street art. Visit the Northwest Tower to see Rapunzel in neon. Take a walk along the Burke Gilman Trail, take a canal boat ride, shop, dine on global fare, and stop by one of the microbreweries or bars for a drink. Stop by the bustling Fremont Sunday Market if you're in town on a Sunday.

7. Dr. Jose Rizal Park

Why it's fantastic: Dr. Jose Rizal Park, named after a Filipino national hero, is one of Seattle's lesser-known attractions. The park is 9.6 acres in size and is located on the slopes of Beacon Hill (3.9 hectares). It's a great place to get away from the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet outdoors, and it also has some of the best views of the city. There is a dog-friendly area as well as plenty of open space for kids to run and play.

What you should do there: Take a walk through the wooded area to spot various flora and fauna, sunbathe on the grass, perch on a bench and bury your nose in a good book, and let the kids play outside. Pack a picnic for a relaxing lunch outside. Don't be concerned if the weather suddenly changes—the park has shelters as well.

8. Seattle Pinball Museum

Why it's fantastic: A visit to the Seattle Pinball Museum is high on the list of unusual things to do in Seattle, and is sure to appeal to retro gamers and anyone looking for something out of the ordinary. The quirky museum, located in Chinatown, began as a couple's private collection of pinball machines. Some of the machines date back to the early 1960s and are of varying ages. All are operational and playable—this is a museum where you can jump right in and have fun! While there is an admission fee to enter the museum, once inside, visitors are free to play as much as they want.

What to do there? Of course, play pinball! With over 50 machines, you're sure to have a great time. Examine the various retro gaming machines, choose your favorite(s), and possibly challenge your friends to a playoff. May the best player win! The machines cover a wide range of topics and are made by various manufacturers. Captain Fantastic, Revenge from Mars, The Addams Family, Blackhole, Fun House, King Tut, Dr Who, Sea Wolf, The Lord of the Rings, Quick Draw, Wizard, and Terminator 2 are among the games available. If you get hungry or thirsty, you can buy snacks and drinks.

9.  Woodland Park Zoo

Why it's fantastic: The award-winning Woodland Park Zoo, one of the best places to visit in Seattle for families, is also a great day out for groups of friends, couples, and solo travellers. The zoo began in the late 1800s as a small private menagerie, but it has since expanded and grown to cover approximately 92 acres (37 hectares) of land. Aside from the 300-odd animal species from all over the world (some of which are rare or endangered), the zoo is also home to a wide variety of plants, trees, shrubs, and herbs.

What you should do there: See rhinos, tigers, sloths, tortoises, pythons, langurs, orang-utans, and otters in the Tropical Asia zone. The Tropical Rainforest section transports you to the jungles of South America and Africa, where you can see gorillas, tamarins, jaguars, lemurs, snakes, and poison dart frogs.

Observe animals such as wallabies, snow leopards, parrots, and emus in the Australasia zone, elephants, lions, monkeys, birds, giraffes, zebras, and more in the African Savanna, penguins on land and in the water in the Temperate Forest, and various insects in the Temperate Forest.

See bears, wolves, otters, and other animals on the Northern Trail, which was inspired by Alaska's Denali National Park; enjoy the colours in the butterfly garden; relax among botanical species in the sensory garden; be in awe of massive Komodo dragons; and watch majestic birds of prey, among other things. Bring your kids to Zoomazium to burn off some energy; there's a cool solar-powered carousel as well as other play equipment.

10. Pioneer Square

Why it's fantastic: Pioneer Square, one of Seattle's most historic neighbourhoods, has a distinct vibe and plenty to see and do. It was once the heart of the city, and it was here that the founders of Seattle settled in the early 1850s, following a brief stay at Alki Beach. The original structures were made of wood, but the majority of them were destroyed in a large fire in 1889.

The Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, a modern monument, honours the brave firefighters who died while attempting to save the city. Subsequent structures were constructed with stone and brick, the majority in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. The neighbourhood has undergone numerous changes and developments over the years, and it is now known for its buildings, cafes, art galleries, and nightlife.

What to do: Take a stroll through Pioneer Square and Pioneer Place Park. See the Tlingit totem pole, the Victorian-style wrought-iron pergola, the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, the looming Smith Tower, and Chief Seattle's bust. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a must-see.

Step into one of the area's art galleries to admire diverse works, learn about the area's history at the Last Resort Fire Department Museum (only open on Thursdays), relax in the urban Occidental Square Park, shop until you drop in the diverse stores, and take in the views from the Smith Tower's 35th-floor observation platform. After a delicious meal, prepare to paint the town red in one of the many bars and clubs.

11. Washington Park

Why it's fantastic: The lovely Washington Park, one of Seattle's most scenic points of interest, was established in the year 1920. The university-run Washington Park Arboretum, which has many flowers and plants, many of which are in a wild and wooded setting, is a major feature. There is a visitor centre with information about the various species, wetlands that attract a variety of wildlife, walking trails, and playing fields. There is no fee to visit the arboretum.

To one end, the charming Japanese Gardens are a must-see in Seattle for couples. It is said to be one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in the United States, as well as one of the country's oldest.

What to do: Walk hand in hand with your love along the trails, admiring the diverse flora and fauna as you pass through wetlands, gardens, woods, and other natural landscapes. While there is plenty to see all year, if you visit in the spring, you can stroll along the picturesque and colourful Azalea Way, a popular location for photographers, artists, and romantics.

Explore the Japanese Garden with that special someone by following the winding pathways, sitting on a bench and admiring the pond, and seeing beautiful features such as stone lanterns, waterfalls, hills, stone gardens, and more. You can also unwind in the tea room and partake in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony to round out your visit to the park.

12. Lake View Cemetery

Why it's fantastic: Lake View Cemetery is located on Capitol Hill in Seattle. The cemetery was founded in 1872, just a few years after the Civil War ended, and it serves as a reminder of Seattle's early settlers and their lives, complete with challenges, triumphs, and developments. It is a part of our country's history. Over the years, a number of notable people have been buried here, including Brandon Lee, his son Bruce Lee (both martial arts experts), Cordelia Wilson (an eminent artist), and Denise Levertov (a poet). The views are breathtaking, and the atmosphere is peaceful.

What to do: Walk around the peaceful cemetery and soak up the sense of history as you reflect on people from the past. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Washington, Lake Union, and the undulating Olympic Mountains. View the various gravestones and memorials, some of which are quite ornate, and reflect on those who have died.

13. Frye Art Museum

Why it's fantastic: With free admission and tours, the Frye Art Museum is an excellent addition to any budget traveler's itinerary in Seattle. It was Seattle's first free art museum, having opened in 1952. It began as a display of a private painting collection and focuses on art from the nineteenth century to the present day. (The museum was named after the original collector.)

Surprisingly, the founder stipulated in his will that his collection should always be available for public viewing. Many of the pieces have darker elements and dramatic themes, and there's plenty to catch your eye and make you think.

What to do: Enter the art museum and spend some time contemplating the various works. Many pieces were created with the intention of provoking people to question, evaluate, and think. Paintings, sculptures, sketches, prints, and other types of art are on display at the museum. Works by Tim Lowly, Franz Stuck, Felix Ziem, and Hermann Corrodi are among those on display. You can also browse the library's extensive book collection. The library's primary focus is on 19th and 20th century German and American art.

14. Mount Rainier

I hope this one does not mislead you. We promised you a lot of Seattle, but there are a few places nearby that are worth a day trip out of town.

Why it's fantastic: Mount Rainier, an active volcano within easy reach of Seattle, towers over the landscapes at an impressive 4,392 metres (14,411 feet). It is Washington's tallest mountain and is regarded as one of the world's most dangerous volcanoes. There is a lot of wildlife in the surrounding parkland, so there are plenty of opportunities to see interesting creatures. It's one of the best natural attractions in the Seattle area, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

What to do: Spend a day (or longer) at Mount Rainier to enjoy the great outdoors, fresh air, and picture-perfect views. The larger park area is vast, with numerous scenic roads and lookout points to explore. Hiking through the varied terrains is an option for more active travellers, and climbing is an option for those looking for an even bigger thrill.

There are also ranger-led programmes where you can learn more about the landscapes, history, dangers, and local wildlife. You can spend nights under the stars in the camp areas, swim in sparkling lakes, take breathtaking photographs, and much more. Before venturing into the mountains, pay attention to any safety warnings and ensure that you are properly prepared.

15. Waterfall Garden Park 

Why it's fantastic: The pretty Waterfall Garden Park, hidden away from sight and unknown to many, is one of Seattle's top hotspots for anyone looking to get away from the tourist crowds for a while and spend some time in a peaceful and scenic setting. You don't even have to go far from the hustle and bustle to find a tranquil spot! The park's main attraction, as the name suggests, is a 6.7-metre-tall (22-foot-tall) waterfall that cascades over the grey rocks.

What to do: Feel as if you've discovered a valuable hidden gem and relax in the tranquil atmosphere of the atmospheric Waterfall Garden Park. In addition to the beautiful cascade and the lush foliage that surrounds the water, there are benches and picnic tables.

Take a book and spend some quiet time in blissful solitude, visit with that special someone for a romantic interlude, sit for a while in quiet contemplation while listening to the soothing sounds of tinkling water, snap some photos, or enjoy lunch in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Muhammad Saghir

msaghir1392@gmail.com