Things To Do
in Seattle

Seattle, known as the Emerald City, is a vibrant metropolis located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Surrounded by water, mountains, and evergreen forests, it boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural scene. The city is famous for its coffee culture, thriving tech industry, and iconic landmarks such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.

With a diverse population and a strong focus on sustainability, Seattle offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Seattle
morning
:

Start your day at Pike Place Market, where you can watch fishmongers throw fish and explore local artisan stalls. Grab a coffee at the original Starbucks and enjoy a pastry from one of the many bakeries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Space Needle for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Mount Rainier. Afterwards, head to the Museum of Pop Culture to explore exhibits on music, film, and gaming.

evening
:

Dine at Canlis for an upscale experience overlooking Lake Union, then take an evening stroll along the waterfront at Seattle's Olympic Sculpture Park.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Neighborhoods
morning
:

Take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for beautiful views of the Seattle skyline and enjoy breakfast at a local café. Explore the quaint shops and galleries on the island.

afternoon
:

Return to Seattle and visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass to see stunning glass artwork, followed by a walk in the Seattle Center.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Pink Door in Pike Place Market, known for its Italian cuisine and live entertainment, then experience the nightlife in Capitol Hill, famous for its bars and music venues.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$4
🍔Burger$12
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🍵Tea$3
🚕Taxi Ride$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural scene with museums, music, and arts.
  • Eclectic food scene with diverse dining options.
  • Frequent rainfall can be a downside for some visitors.
  • Cost of living can be high, especially for accommodations.
  • Traffic congestion can be frustrating, especially during rush hours.

Places to Visit in Seattle

Visit one of these nice places.

Space Needle

Capture breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline and surrounding mountains from this iconic landmark.

Pike Place Market

The vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere provide endless photography opportunities.

Alki Beach

A scenic beach with stunning views of the city across the water, especially beautiful at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Seattle

Seattle's food scene is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, international cuisines, and coffee culture, making it a culinary paradise for food lovers.

Seattle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon

Freshly caught salmon is a staple in Seattle, often grilled or smoked.

Must-Try!

Dungeness Crab

This sweet and tender crab is a local delicacy, typically served steamed.

Seattle-style Hot Dog

A unique twist on the classic hot dog, often topped with cream cheese and grilled onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pike Place Market

A historic market in downtown Seattle known for its fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal foods.

Ballard Farmers Market

Open every Sunday, this market features local produce, crafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Seattle experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) in winter to 75°F (24°C) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, particularly in the fall and winter months, but summer typically sees little precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Seattleites value personal space; standing too close may be perceived as intrusive.

Queue Etiquette

Always respect the line; cutting in is considered rude.

Environmental Awareness

Seattle has a strong culture of sustainability; recycling and composting are encouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Seattle is generally safe, but like any urban area, visitors should remain vigilant. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and there are numerous police stations throughout the city.

Tipping in Seattle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of 15-20% is standard in restaurants and bars; it's also appreciated for taxi services.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, especially during the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival.

Summer

Enjoy warm and dry weather with plenty of outdoor festivals and events; great for hiking and water activities.

Fall

Witness beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for cozying up in local cafés.

Winter

Mild, wet winters with occasional snow; a great time for indoor activities and visiting holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Seattle at Night

Seattle's nightlife is diverse, with a vibrant mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Capitol Hill is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly bars and energetic atmosphere, while Ballard offers a more laid-back vibe with craft breweries and cozy pubs. Live music is prevalent, with venues like The Crocodile and Neumos hosting local and touring acts across various genres.

Hiking in Seattle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Si

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the Snoqualmie Valley from its summit.

Rattlesnake Ledge

A moderate hike that rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Seattle by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Located about 14 miles south of downtown Seattle, SEA is the primary airport serving the city, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Seattle is a very walkable city, particularly in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard. Many attractions are within walking distance, and the city has invested in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. However, some hilly areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tech Industry Professionals

With major companies like Amazon and Microsoft based in the area, Seattle has a thriving tech community.

Art and Music Enthusiasts

Seattle is home to a vibrant arts scene, attracting artists, musicians, and creatives from around the world.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Seattle Sounders FC is the city's major league soccer team, with a passionate fan base and matches at Lumen Field.

Basketball

The Seattle Kraken, the city's NHL team, has quickly gained a following since its establishment in 2021.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Seattle can be heavy, particularly during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM). The city has a public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and ferries, making it easy to navigate without a car. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Seattle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegan menus; check out Plum Bistro for creative plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Seattle has various gluten-free establishments, including Wild Ginger, which offers a gluten-free menu.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Seattle has excellent healthcare facilities, including major hospitals like Swedish Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center. Urgent care clinics are widely available, and many pharmacies offer basic health services. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide