Seattle Skyline
Seattle, the Emerald City, beckons with its stunning waterfront views, vibrant neighborhoods, and lush evergreen forests. This guide is designed to help visitors navigate the city’s highlights, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Get ready to explore a city with a rich cultural scene, delicious food, and breathtaking natural beauty.
The Best Time to Visit Seattle
While Seattle is famous for its rain, the city enjoys pleasant weather for several months of the year. The driest months are typically from May through September, offering the best chance for sunny skies and comfortable temperatures. July and August are particularly popular, with average temperatures in the 70s.
Essential Tips for Visiting Seattle
- Airport Transportation: Save money by taking the Sound Link light rail from the airport to downtown. It’s an efficient, clean, and safe option that costs only $2.75 and takes about 40 minutes, avoiding potential traffic congestion.
- Coffee Culture: Seattle is a coffee lover’s paradise. Skip the big chains and explore the numerous independent coffee shops for a unique and local experience.
- Hills: Be prepared for some serious hills. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
- Evening Temperatures: Even during the summer, temperatures can drop in the evenings, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
Must-See Attractions and Activities in Seattle
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is the heart and soul of Seattle. This bustling public market offers a diverse array of experiences, from fresh produce and flowers to artisan crafts and delicious food. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours.
Pike Place Market Food Highlights:
- Rachel’s Ginger Beer: A Seattle staple known for its refreshing and flavorful ginger beer.
- Beecher’s Handmade Cheese: Sample and purchase award-winning cheeses made on-site.
- Le Panier: Indulge in authentic French pastries and breads.
- Three Girls Bakery: A historic bakery offering a variety of baked goods and sandwiches.
- Piroshky Piroshky: Sample traditional Russian pastries filled with savory or sweet fillings.
- Matt’s at The Market: A renowned restaurant serving Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- The Pink Door: An Italian restaurant with a whimsical atmosphere, burlesque shows, and a terrace with stunning views.
- The “First” Starbucks: Visit the original Starbucks location (though not the first actual store), a popular spot for coffee enthusiasts.
- Pike’s BBQ: Savor delicious barbecue dishes with a Northwest twist.
Don’t forget to explore the food stalls on the street for local treats like fresh sweet corn. Post Alley is another must-see, a charming alleyway filled with unique shops and restaurants.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
A vibrant glass sculpture at Chihuly Garden and Glass, showcasing the unique artistry of Dale Chihuly.
Located next to the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is a breathtaking showcase of Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass art. The centerpiece is a magnificent glass sculpture inspired by Sainte-Chapelle in Paris and the Crystal Palace in London. Tickets cost around $30 per person, and reservations are recommended, especially for morning time slots to avoid crowds. Chihuly is also famous for his glass sculptures in the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas.
The Space Needle
The Space Needle, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, is an iconic symbol of Seattle. Standing at 650 feet tall, it offers panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. While some locals feel it’s better viewed from below, the observation deck provides an unparalleled perspective. Tickets range from $27-$40 and can be booked in conjunction with Chihuly Garden and Glass tickets.
Kerry Park
Panoramic view from Kerry Park, capturing the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier in the distance.
For the best postcard-worthy view of Seattle, head to Kerry Park in the Queen Anne neighborhood. This popular spot offers stunning sunset views and overlooks the Space Needle, downtown skyline, and Mount Rainier on a clear day. Visiting early in the morning can offer a peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls cascading powerfully, showcasing the natural beauty and power of this Washington landmark.
Located about 30 minutes east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a majestic 268-foot waterfall and one of Washington State’s most popular attractions. Two viewing areas offer different perspectives, with a moderately easy 0.8-mile hike leading to the lower falls for a closer view. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
Bainbridge Island
A ferry approaching Bainbridge Island, offering a scenic view of the Seattle skyline.
Escape the city with a day trip to Bainbridge Island. A 25-minute ferry ride from Seattle (approximately $9 roundtrip) transports you to this charming island known for its rustic character and small-town charm. Explore the downtown area with its shops and restaurants, rent bikes or kayaks, hike the waterfront trail, or visit the art museum. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline. You can also take your car on the ferry and visit the Bloedel Reserve, a beautiful garden on the north side of the island.
The “First” Starbucks and Starbucks Reserve Roastery
While not technically the original location, the “First” Starbucks in Pike Place Market is a must-visit for coffee lovers, despite the often long lines. Alternatively, visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in the Capitol Hill neighborhood for a more immersive coffee experience.
The Amazon Spheres
The Amazon Spheres, a unique architectural landmark in Seattle, showcasing the company’s commitment to integrating nature with the workplace.
The Amazon Spheres are a unique architectural landmark in downtown Seattle, designed as a workspace where employees can connect with nature. Public visits are available on the first and third Saturdays of each month, but reservations are required.
Queen Anne Neighborhood
Explore the residential and city vibes of the Queen Anne neighborhood, home to the Space Needle. Drive around the area bordering Kerry Park and admire the beautiful Victorian homes, including the iconic Brian Coleman house.
Breakfast Biscuits
For a unique breakfast experience, try either Biscuit Bitch (known for its edgy atmosphere and decent food, but be prepared for long waits and online ordering) or Honest Biscuit in Pike Place Market (offering delicious biscuits and stunning waterfront views).
Mount Rainier National Park
Majestic Mount Rainier towering over the landscape, a symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
Take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park, home to an active volcano rising 14,000 feet above sea level. The park offers over 260 miles of hiking trails, campsites, and beautiful meadows. Wildflower meadows are particularly stunning during the summer months.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, located a few hours from Seattle, offers diverse landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, and coastline. Consider a one or two-day trip to explore the park’s highlights.
The Gum Wall
The infamous Gum Wall at Pike Place Market, a quirky and colorful landmark covered in chewed gum.
The Gum Wall in Post Alley is a quirky Seattle landmark, although some may find it unappealing. Despite being cleaned in 2015, the wall is once again covered in chewing gum.
Hike Rattlesnake Ledge
For a challenging hike with rewarding views, try Rattlesnake Ledge. The 1.9-mile trail is a constant uphill climb, but the panoramic views of Rattlesnake Lake are well worth the effort. Bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes, and cool off in the lake after your hike.
Sunset Drinks at The Nest
Enjoy stunning city views while sipping cocktails at The Nest, a rooftop bar located in the Thompson Hotel. The Pea Diddy cocktail is a popular choice.
Dinner at The Pink Door
Dine at The Pink Door, an eclectic Italian restaurant in Post Alley known for its burlesque shows, circus theme, and delicious food.
Walk Around Capitol Hill
Explore the Capitol Hill neighborhood, known for its hip bars, eateries, and unique shops.
Capitol Hill Highlights:
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery
- Glasswing Shop
- Scotch & Soda
- Terra Plata
Grab an Ice Cream Sundae at Molly Moon’s
Indulge in a delicious ice cream sundae at Molly Moon’s, a local favorite with multiple locations in Seattle. The company sources 90% of its products from the Pacific Northwest, supporting the local community.
Catch a Mariners Game at T-Mobile Park
If you’re visiting during baseball season, experience the energetic atmosphere of a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park. The stadium offers a party deck with a DJ and is easily accessible via public transit.
Other Activities to Consider:
- Gas Works Park
- Washington Park Arboretum
- Olympic Sculpture Park
- Golden Gardens Park
- Woodinville Wine Country
- Pacific Science Center
- Seattle Pinball Museum
- Flight Aviation Center
Where to Stay in Seattle
For a first-time visit, staying downtown is recommended due to its proximity to many attractions. The Thompson Seattle is a highly recommended hotel, offering comfortable rooms, excellent service, and stunning views.
Seattle Travel Guide: What to Pack
Regardless of the time of year, it’s wise to pack a rain jacket and umbrella. Other essential items include:
Conclusion
Seattle offers a diverse range of experiences, from iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to breathtaking natural beauty. This guide provides a starting point for exploring the Emerald City, but there’s always more to discover. Enjoy your visit!
