Ready to uncover the best of Seattle? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, many of these unforgettable experiences are just steps from downtown hotels. We dare you to check off all 25!
While this isn’t a full list of everything Seattle has to offer, it’s a fantastic starting point for your Emerald City adventure. Let’s dive in!
Just a short walk or a quick ride on the Seattle Center Monorail, the Seattle Center is one of the city’s premier destinations and a key highlight on any list of the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Originally designed for the 1962 World’s Fair, this 74-acre campus serves as both a cultural hub and a vibrant community gathering place.
The area features a diverse mix of experiences including:
The centrally located Armory Food & Event Hall with a variety of local eateries
Landscaped lawns, art installations, and beautifully maintained fountains
The innovative Climate Pledge Arena, the world’s first certified carbon-neutral sports and entertainment venue
Key Attractions at Seattle Center
Start with a visit to the iconic Space Needle, where a 43-second elevator ride takes you 605 feet above the city for panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and surrounding mountains.
Next, explore Chihuly Garden and Glass, where vibrant glass art installations both indoors and outdoors highlight the work of renowned local artist Dale Chihuly. Nearby, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), designed by architect Frank Gehry, brings together exhibits on music, science fiction, fantasy, video games, and Seattle’s own legends like Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix.
Families and science lovers will enjoy the Pacific Science Center, home to a planetarium, Tropical Butterfly House, interactive science exhibits, and more.
Arts and Entertainment
Seattle Center is also a major venue for performing arts. The Pacific Northwest Ballet stages a wide range of classical and contemporary productions at McCaw Hall, which also hosts the acclaimed Seattle Opera.
Among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle, a visit to Pike Place Market is essential. This historic, open-air market has been at the heart of Seattle since 1907 and continues to buzz with local life, flavors, and artistry.
From the iconic Public Market Center red sign and beloved Rachel the Piggy Bank sculpture, to the quirky Gum Wall and the original Starbucks store, there’s something to discover around every corner. Visitors can explore:
Over 225 vendors offering local crafts, handmade goods, and fresh flowers
Dozens of independent restaurants, cafes, and food stalls representing global cuisines
The legendary fish-throwing tradition at the Pike Place Fish Market
A rotating lineup of street performers adding music and personality to every visit
The newly expanded MarketFront plaza offers sweeping views of Elliott Bay, while the recently opened Overlook Walk provides a beautifully landscaped connection between the market, Seattle Aquarium, and the revitalized downtown waterfront.
Whether you’re looking for photo ops, local eats, or Seattle-made treasures, Pike Place Market captures the city’s spirit like no other place can.
A cultural standout among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) offers a rich experience across three distinctive venues.
The main museum, located in downtown Seattle, is easy to spot—just look for the towering 48-foot-tall Hammering Man sculpture at its entrance. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection that spans centuries and continents, from contemporary pieces to classic works from Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Just a mile away, SAM’s Olympic Sculpture Park offers an open-air art experience on the waterfront. This nine-acre park is free to the public and features nearly 20 large-scale installations set against a backdrop of Puget Sound and mountain views.
Art and nature meet again at the Seattle Asian Art Museum, located in Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill. This beautifully restored Art Deco building is home to one of the finest collections of Asian art in the country, with galleries showcasing historical and contemporary works from China, Japan, India, Korea, and beyond.
Whether you’re a casual observer or a dedicated art lover, SAM’s trio of venues offers a powerful look into global creativity and local heritage.
A must-visit among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle, the city’s reimagined waterfront is a stunning mix of natural beauty and modern public spaces. Easily accessible from downtown, this area has been revitalized with landscaped promenades, pedestrian paths, bike lanes, playgrounds, and public art—making it perfect for a casual stroll or a full afternoon of exploration.
In 2024, the Seattle Aquarium unveiled the Ocean Pavilion, a striking new wing focused on the Coral Sea and Indo-Pacific marine life. It complements the main aquarium exhibits, which feature Pacific Northwest marine species including salmon, sea otters, and octopuses.
One of the area’s most iconic experiences awaits at The Seattle Great Wheel, a 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel on Pier 57. Hop into one of its air-conditioned gondolas for unforgettable views of Elliott Bay, downtown Seattle, and distant mountain ranges.
Right next door, Miner’s Landing offers restaurants, novelty shops, and attractions. Don’t miss Wings Over Washington, a state-of-the-art flying theater that simulates a thrilling aerial journey across Washington’s most breathtaking landscapes—from Mount Rainier to the San Juan Islands.
Nearby Pier 62 serves as an open public space with bayfront seating, seasonal fitness classes, and free arts programming. Just south of here, the new Pioneer Square Habitat Beach has restored natural shoreline ecosystems—offering visitors a rare chance to observe shallow-water habitats and riparian plants up close in an urban setting.
Experiencing Seattle from the water is one of the most memorable ways to explore the city—earning it a well-deserved place on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Surrounded by Puget Sound, Lake Union, and Lake Washington, the Emerald City offers countless aquatic adventures for every type of traveler.
For a classic Seattle experience, hop aboard the iconic green-and-white Washington State Ferries from downtown’s Colman Dock. Popular routes take you to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton, offering stunning skyline and mountain views along the way. Another great option is the Seattle Water Taxi, which connects downtown with Alki Beach in West Seattle and scenic Vashon Island.
Looking for a narrated experience? Argosy Cruises offers themed and seasonal tours like the popular Ballard Locks Cruise, harbor tours, and the holiday-favorite Christmas Ship™ Festival, complete with lights and live caroling. Waterways Cruises provides brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises with views of Seattle’s skyline and the Olympic Mountains.
For a more hands-on adventure, set sail on the majestic 85-foot schooner from Seattle’s Tall Ship, a traditional gaff-rigged sailboat. Or get closer to the water with a guided kayak tour around Elliott Bay through Alki Kayak Tours.
In Lake Union, rent a 10-passenger vessel from the Electric Boat Company and enjoy a self-guided cruise past houseboats and city views. For something truly unique, gather friends and unwind on a Hot Tub Boat, complete with a 104-degree soaking tub floating in the heart of the city.
Seattle’s striking skyline, sparkling waterways, and mountain-framed views are even more breathtaking from above—making aerial exploration one of the most unforgettable entries on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle list.
Take off with Kenmore Air on a scenic flightseeing tour. Departing from Lake Union, these floatplane flights offer a bird’s-eye view of Seattle’s cityscape, Puget Sound, and beyond, followed by a smooth water landing right in the heart of the city.
For a more serene and dreamy perspective, consider a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning. Float gently over the surrounding countryside and take in panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade foothills.
Craving a thrill? Book a tandem jump with Skydive Snohomish, one of the nation’s top-rated drop zones. With professional guides and altitudes reaching up to 14,000 feet, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline-pumping experience open to first-time jumpers.
Aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss a visit to the Museum of Flight in South Seattle. As one of the largest air and space museums in the U.S., it houses everything from vintage aircraft to the impressive Space Gallery.
Just north in Mukilteo, explore the Boeing Future of Flight—a must-see for aerospace fans. Take a behind-the-scenes look at Boeing’s massive 777 production line and learn how these engineering marvels come to life.
For sports lovers, catching a live game is one of the most electrifying entries on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. The city is home to championship teams, devoted fans, and world-class stadiums that make game day an experience to remember.
Baseball fans can enjoy America’s pastime at T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners. With a retractable roof, stunning skyline views, and elevated food options, it’s considered one of the most beautiful ballparks in Major League Baseball.
Right next door, Lumen Field hosts multiple powerhouse teams:
The Seattle Seahawks (NFL)
Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
OL Reign (NWSL – Women’s Soccer)
Each brings a unique game-day atmosphere, from roaring crowds to dramatic finishes.
At Seattle Center, the cutting-edge Climate Pledge Arena is home to two of the city’s most dynamic teams:
The Seattle Kraken (NHL), Seattle’s beloved professional hockey franchise
The Seattle Storm (WNBA), a four-time championship-winning women’s basketball team
For rugby fans, head to the Starfire Sports Complex in nearby Tukwila to cheer on the Seattle Seawolves, two-time champions in Major League Rugby.
Whether you’re courtside, rink-side, or in the bleachers, Seattle’s sports scene offers nonstop action and a true sense of community pride.
Seattle is a photographer’s dream, and capturing its skyline, waterfront, and natural beauty is one of the most popular experiences among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a seasoned content creator, these photo-worthy locations offer unforgettable views and perfect backdrops.
Start with the iconic Kerry Park in Queen Anne. From this elevated viewpoint, you’ll get a postcard-worthy shot of the Space Needle, downtown skyscrapers, Elliott Bay, and—on clear days—the majestic Mount Rainier in the distance.
In West Seattle, Seacrest Park provides another spectacular view across the bay, offering a full skyline panorama, especially stunning at sunset. On the opposite side of the city, Volunteer Park in Capitol Hill features the famous Black Sun sculpture by Isamu Noguchi, which artistically frames the skyline through its circular center.
For a bird’s-eye view of the city, take the elevator to the Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center—Seattle’s tallest building. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and both the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or DSLR, these scenic spots are perfect for capturing Seattle’s essence in a single frame.
Among the most atmospheric places to explore in the city, Pioneer Square ranks high on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. As the city’s original downtown, this neighborhood is packed with Romanesque Revival architecture, ivy-covered façades, and a growing collection of cafes, galleries, and shops that blend old-world charm with modern creativity.
Spend an afternoon wandering through historic blocks filled with character. Hidden within the district, you’ll find Waterfall Garden Park—a peaceful pocket of greenery and flowing water nestled between brick walls.
History buffs should stop by the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where exhibits dive into Seattle’s role as a launch point for prospectors chasing dreams of gold in the Yukon during the 1890s.
Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Smith Tower, Seattle’s first skyscraper, completed in 1914. Ride the manually operated elevator to the 35th-floor observatory for panoramic views and enjoy a craft cocktail at the Prohibition-style Temperance Bar.
For a look beneath the surface—literally—book a guided adventure with the Seattle Underground Tour, which takes you through the hidden subterranean passageways left behind after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. Alternatively, Beneath the Streets offers engaging walking tours that spotlight the area’s more risqué history, including tales of the Red Light District and LGBTQIA+ culture in early Seattle.
From cobblestone alleys to secret underground stories, Pioneer Square is where the city’s layered past comes vividly to life.
A vibrant fusion of culture, cuisine, and history, Seattle’s Chinatown–International District is a top destination for anyone exploring the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Located just south of downtown, this neighborhood represents a dynamic blend of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and other Asian cultures.
Begin your journey beneath the colorful Chinatown Gate, a striking 45-foot-tall landmark adorned with over 8,000 imported tiles that marks the entrance to this historic district. The area is renowned for its food—where you can enjoy steaming bowls of pho, freshly rolled sushi, Taiwanese bubble tea, or handmade soup dumplings all within a few blocks.
After your meal, relax at Hing Hay Park, a public plaza that hosts community events and performances, surrounded by traditional architecture and modern murals.
Step into deeper storytelling at the Wing Luke Museum, a Smithsonian-affiliated cultural institution focused on the Asian Pacific American experience. Through rotating exhibitions and guided neighborhood tours, the museum highlights the lives, struggles, and achievements of Seattle’s Asian communities.
Continue your exploration with a nostalgic twist at the Seattle Pinball Museum, where you can play dozens of vintage and modern machines—all set to free play. Before heading out, browse the aisles of Uwajimaya, the city’s largest Asian grocery and gift store, packed with imported snacks, kitchenware, and specialty items.
The Chinatown–International District offers an immersive, walkable experience that blends the past and present through food, art, and culture.
A unique blend of coastal charm, heritage, and local flavor, Ballard stands out as one of the most distinctive neighborhoods on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle list. Once a bustling fishing village and a major hub for Scandinavian immigrants, Ballard today is a lively mix of old-world tradition and modern creativity.
Start your visit at the National Nordic Museum, a sleek and thoughtfully designed institution that chronicles the stories, art, and traditions of Nordic peoples in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Through interactive exhibits and cultural programming, the museum highlights Ballard’s deep Scandinavian roots while connecting them to global narratives.
Just a short walk away lies the neighborhood’s active maritime district along the Lake Washington Ship Canal. Here, you can visit the century-old Ballard Locks—also known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks—which function as a “boat elevator,” raising and lowering vessels between saltwater Puget Sound and the freshwater systems of Lake Union and Lake Washington.
Peer through underwater viewing windows to watch migrating salmon climb the fish ladder during peak season. Then stroll through the adjacent Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden, a peaceful haven featuring winding paths shaded by fan palms, rhododendrons, and fragrant roses.
Back in central Ballard, explore a variety of independently owned shops, craft breweries, and neighborhood eateries—making this neighborhood a perfect blend of heritage and hip.
Just northeast of downtown, South Lake Union is one of Seattle’s most vibrant and fast-evolving neighborhoods—earning it a well-deserved place on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. With seaplanes overhead, floating homes dotting the shoreline, and parks filled with locals and visitors alike, this lakeside district offers an engaging mix of history, recreation, and scenic charm.
At the heart of the neighborhood lies Lake Union Park, a 12-acre green space perfect for waterfront strolls and family-friendly activities. It’s home to the acclaimed Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), a 50,000-square-foot museum offering interactive exhibits on Seattle’s innovation, industry, and civic life.
Adjacent to MOHAI, the Center for Wooden Boats invites visitors to get hands-on with maritime heritage. Rent a classic wooden rowboat, explore nautical exhibits, or join a guided tour of Lake Union’s floating community—including the iconic houseboat featured in Sleepless in Seattle.
Other park highlights include:
A model boat pond
Public art installations
Water features and serene gardens
A pedestrian footbridge that leads to Goose Beach, a quiet waterfront spot ideal for relaxing or skipping stones
As you explore the area, enjoy a bite at one of the district’s lakefront cafes, food trucks, or international restaurants—many of which showcase Seattle’s culinary diversity and casual charm.
With its balance of history, recreation, and innovation, South Lake Union is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy city life by the water.
Seattle is more than scenic views and coffee culture—it’s also a global center for innovation, and exploring this side of the city is a must for anyone diving into the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.
Start your discovery in South Lake Union, where the city’s legacy of invention is on display at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI). Inside, interactive exhibits showcase Seattle’s transformation from frontier town to tech capital, with stories of pioneering entrepreneurs and breakthrough innovations.
Just a few blocks away, step into the future at the Seattle Spheres, a trio of striking glass domes filled with more than 40,000 plants from over 30 countries. Part of Amazon’s headquarters campus, the Spheres serve as a biophilic workspace and symbol of Seattle’s forward-thinking spirit.
Continue your innovation tour with a visit to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center at Seattle Center. This sleek, interactive space highlights real-world solutions to global health, education, and economic challenges, inviting visitors to reflect on questions like “What skills can you use to change the world?”
For a deeper taste of Seattle’s homegrown innovation, explore the evolution of its most iconic brand—Starbucks. While the Original Starbucks is located in Pike Place Market, the real coffee innovation happens at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill. This immersive space features experimental brews, coffee-infused cocktails at the mixology bar, a library of beans, and freshly baked bites. You’ll find another Starbucks Reserve in SoDo, on the ground floor of the company’s elegant global headquarters.
From breakthrough ideas to transformative brands, Seattle’s innovation story is alive, evolving, and ready to be explored.
Recognized by UNESCO as a City of Literature, Seattle has long celebrated the written word—and few places embody that spirit more than the iconic Seattle Central Library. A must-visit for bibliophiles and architecture enthusiasts alike, this futuristic structure is a standout among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.
Designed by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas, the 11-story glass-and-steel building is both functional and inspiring, featuring enough glass to span more than five football fields. Visitors can take a self-guided audio tour by dialing 206.686.8564 to explore its unique design, services, and public art.
Don’t miss the serene 10th-floor Reading Room, where natural light pours in through angled windows and peekaboo views of Elliott Bay make it a perfect place to unwind with a good book.
Beyond the Central Library, Seattle’s literary scene thrives in its neighborhoods. From Pike Place Market—where you’ll find charming book vendors tucked between flower stalls—to the indie-filled streets of Capitol Hill, Ballard, and the University District, Seattle is home to a wide array of independent bookstores. Many focus on niche genres, including poetry, cookbooks, graphic novels, and global literature.
Whether you’re a devoted reader or simply seeking quiet inspiration, Seattle’s book culture offers plenty of places to get lost in a great story.
Nicknamed the Emerald City for good reason, Seattle boasts nearly 500 municipal parks, offering residents and visitors countless ways to connect with nature—making this a clear highlight among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.
Start with Gas Works Park, a uniquely designed 19-acre green space on the north shore of Lake Union. Built around remnants of a former gasification plant, the park’s industrial structures now serve as visual landmarks, while its grassy hills offer panoramic views of the downtown skyline.
To the west, Discovery Park offers a more immersive natural escape. Spanning 534 acres, it features forest trails, meadows, and beach access along Elliott Bay, with the picturesque West Point Lighthouse capping the experience.
In West Seattle, two waterfront parks provide easygoing escapes. Alki Beach Park is great for beach walks, volleyball, and sunset watching, while Lincoln Park offers shaded trails, rocky beaches, and tide pools perfect for family outings.
Green Lake Park is another local favorite. Rent paddle boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards to cruise the calm lake, or circle the shoreline on a scenic 2.8-mile walking and biking trail.
For birdwatching, swimming, and boating with peaceful forest backdrops, visit Seward Park, located on a forested peninsula extending into Lake Washington.
And don’t miss Volunteer Park, a 48-acre oasis in Capitol Hill filled with flower gardens, walking paths, and ornamental trees. It’s also home to the Volunteer Park Conservatory, featuring tropical plants and exotic blooms in a Victorian-style greenhouse.
For even more scenic escapes, check out the Seattle Parks and Recreation guide for ideas on how to explore the city’s stunning outdoor spaces.
Seattle’s rich performing arts scene shines brightest in its Historic Theatre District, where a collection of beautifully preserved early 20th-century venues deliver top-tier entertainment year-round—making it a standout on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.
The city’s oldest performance venue, the Moore Theatre, opened in 1907 and still hosts concerts, comedy shows, and special events. On the second Saturday of each month, visitors can enjoy a free, behind-the-scenes tour of this iconic space and its storied past.
Nearby, the grand Paramount Theatre, dating back to 1928, dazzles with ornate chandeliers and lavish detailing. It regularly features Broadway tours, dance performances, jazz concerts, stand-up comedy, and other major live acts.
For modern drama and bold new storytelling, head to ACT Contemporary Theatre, which operates from a multi-stage complex inside the historic Eagles Auditorium Building. Known for championing new works by local playwrights and hosting engaging seasonal lineups, ACT continues to push artistic boundaries while fostering community dialogue.
No visit to Seattle’s theater scene is complete without stepping inside the opulent 5th Avenue Theatre. Opened in 1926 and inspired by Chinese imperial architecture—including the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven—this musical theater gem has premiered several Broadway-bound productions and continues to deliver unforgettable shows in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Finally, Town Hall Seattle offers something for everyone. Set in a restored 1916 Roman Revival church, complete with a central dome and decorative oculus, this venue hosts author talks, chamber music, public forums, and intimate candlelight concerts—all focused on community connection and civic curiosity.
From glitzy musicals to thought-provoking dramas, Seattle’s Historic Theatre District proves the city is just as inspiring onstage as it is off.
For a truly unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience, whale watching ranks high on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. The waters of Puget Sound are home to some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring creatures, including gray whales, humpbacks, and the region’s iconic Orcas, also known as killer whales.
While lucky observers may occasionally spot whales from shore, your best chance for close-up sightings is by joining a dedicated whale watching tour. Numerous reputable tour companies depart from Seattle and nearby harbors, offering half-day and full-day cruises led by experienced naturalists.
These expert crews track whale movements in real-time and maintain a safe and respectful distance, allowing you to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Depending on the season, you might spot resident pods of Orcas, migrating gray whales, or breaching humpbacks.
Along the way, you’re also likely to encounter other marine life, such as:
Harbor seals and sea lions basking on rocky outcrops
Porpoises darting through the water
A variety of seabirds, including common murres, rhinoceros auklets, and double-crested cormorants
Some of the most popular operators include:
Puget Sound Express (departing from Edmonds and Port Townsend)
San Juan Safaris (day trips from Seattle to the San Juan Islands)
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique outdoor adventure, watching whales glide through the waters of Puget Sound is a deeply moving and distinctly Seattle experience.
Seattle’s love for craft beer runs deep—and sampling what the city brews is one of the most enjoyable entries on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. With more than 70 local breweries and a rich supply of fresh water, locally grown hops, and a passion for innovation, Seattle has become a top-tier beer destination.
Across neighborhoods like Ballard, Fremont, SoDo, and Capitol Hill, you’ll find an abundance of brewpubs, taprooms, and beer halls—many with open-air patios, family-friendly atmospheres, and pet-welcoming policies. These aren’t just places to grab a pint—they’re neighborhood hubs, often featuring live music, rotating food trucks, arcade games, trivia nights, and more.
Some local favorites include:
Fremont Brewing – Known for its Urban Beer Garden and sustainability practices
Reuben’s Brews in Ballard – A top-rated spot offering a huge variety of beer styles
Ghostfish Brewing – A gluten-free brewery in SoDo with award-winning ales
Optimism Brewing – A welcoming Capitol Hill space with no tipping and a strong community focus
In addition to breweries, countless Seattle bars and restaurants offer thoughtfully curated tap lists that spotlight Pacific Northwest brewers, including seasonal releases and experimental small batches.
Whether you’re a fan of crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, or dark stouts, Seattle’s ever-evolving craft beer scene offers something for every palate—and a warm, communal place to enjoy it.
Seattle’s food culture is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself—earning its spot among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. While exploring top-rated restaurants is always a good idea, one of the most immersive ways to experience the city’s culinary delights is by joining an expert-led food tour.
These guided adventures give you a flavorful overview of Seattle’s rich culinary landscape, combining bites, beverages, and local storytelling. Some tours dive deep into the heart of Pike Place Market, offering behind-the-scenes access to vendors and tastings of fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, pastries, and more.
Others take a thematic approach, focusing on Seattle’s signature offerings—like:
Handcrafted donuts and baked goods
Fresh-roasted coffee from iconic and indie roasters
Decadent chocolates from local makers
Award-winning Pacific Northwest wines and craft brews
Top-rated tour operators include:
Savor Seattle – Known for their Pike Place Market and Chocolate Indulgence tours
Eat Seattle Tours – Chef-guided experiences through the market and city neighborhoods
Underground Donut Tour – A sweet stroll sampling the city’s best donuts
Whether you’re a foodie or just want to eat like a local, these culinary walking tours are a fun, informative, and satisfying way to explore Seattle—one bite at a time.
With its stunning natural surroundings, Seattle is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable outdoor adventures—making guided excursions one of the top outdoor experiences on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle list.
Professional tour operators can take you from the city’s urban core to the Pacific Northwest’s most breathtaking landscapes, offering transportation, expert narration, and often gear included—so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure.
Explore the region’s three iconic national parks:
Mount Rainier National Park: Home to alpine meadows, glaciers, and Washington’s tallest peak
Olympic National Park: A diverse wonderland of rainforest, coastline, and mountain ranges
North Cascades National Park: Known for rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, and remote wilderness
Many companies, such as EverGreen Escapes and Tours Northwest, offer full-day and multi-day guided trips to these areas, often departing directly from downtown Seattle.
If you’re looking to stay closer to the city, consider:
Rafting on the Skykomish River with Wave Trek
Snowshoeing at Snoqualmie Pass in winter with REI Adventures
Mountain biking through the Cascade foothills
Hiking near North Bend, home of Rattlesnake Ledge and Twin Falls
For a unique mix of scenery and wildlife, explore the San Juan Islands by land or sea with San Juan Safaris or Puget Sound Express, known for their whale watching and island tours.
Whether you’re scaling peaks, paddling rivers, or wandering forests, guided tours let you see Washington’s natural wonders safely, efficiently, and with deeper insight than you might get on your own.
Seattle’s name honors Chief Si’ahl (also spelled Sealth), a respected leader of the Duwamish and Suquamish Tribes—underscoring the deep Indigenous roots that shape the region. Exploring this cultural legacy is a powerful and meaningful addition to the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.
To learn about the traditions, resilience, and contemporary contributions of local Native communities, visit key cultural institutions and events throughout the city.
Start with the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, located on the University of Washington campus. Its Native American galleries highlight both historical artifacts and contemporary works, with rotating exhibits and interactive displays co-curated with Indigenous communities.
For a deeper look into Coast Salish history, art, and activism, visit Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, located in Discovery Park. This community hub features an art gallery, educational programs, and hosts seasonal events—including the Seafair Indian Days Powwow each July, a vibrant celebration of Native music, dance, and culture.
Support Indigenous creators by visiting Native-owned galleries and shops, such as:
Eighth Generation, a Native-owned lifestyle brand featuring wool blankets, jewelry, and art
Yéhaw̓ Indigenous Creative Collective (check for events and exhibitions showcasing Indigenous artists and makers)
You can also find authentic, handcrafted Native designs at special events, cultural festivals, and holiday markets throughout the year.
By attending performances, visiting centers, and supporting Native businesses, you’re helping preserve and elevate the voices and traditions of Seattle’s first peoples.
A cornerstone of Seattle’s family-friendly attractions, the Woodland Park Zoo has connected people with animals and conservation efforts since 1899—earning its spot among the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Spanning 92 acres in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood, the zoo is recognized for its pioneering naturalistic habitats and immersive educational exhibits.
Home to more than 1,000 animals representing over 300 species, the zoo offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Wander through the award-winning Tropical Asia section to see Malayan tigers, sloth bears, orangutans, and Indian rhinos in environments inspired by their native habitats.
Other highlights include:
The expansive African Savanna, where giraffes, zebras, and lions roam
A seasonal Butterfly Garden featuring native pollinators
The Living Northwest Trail, inspired by Denali National Park and featuring grizzly bears, elk, river otters, and eagles
Near the south entrance, stroll through the beautifully maintained Woodland Park Rose Garden, a free 2.5-acre oasis featuring over 3,000 rose plants and seasonal blooms.
Adjacent to the rose garden, the Seattle Sensory Garden offers an inclusive and interactive nature experience with tactile plantings, aromatic herbs, and accessible design elements—ideal for guests of all ages and abilities.
With a focus on global conservation, local education, and immersive environments, Woodland Park Zoo is far more than a traditional zoo—it’s a vibrant ecosystem of learning and connection.
Seattle’s shopping scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself, making it a fun and fulfilling entry on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle. Across its walkable neighborhoods, you’ll discover everything from high-end fashion and home decor to indie boutiques and handcrafted local goods.
Start downtown at the iconic Nordstrom Flagship Store, where national brands meet Seattle-based style in a spacious, multi-level environment. Just a few blocks away, Pike Place Market invites you to explore over 225 locally owned shops, selling everything from handmade jewelry and kitchen tools to artisan crafts and books.
In Capitol Hill, one of Seattle’s most vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods, trendy boutiques and lifestyle stores are nestled among beloved cafés, LGBTQIA+-friendly bars, and late-night eateries. Expect shelves filled with both practical home goods and quirky, gift-worthy finds.
Head to Ballard, especially along Ballard Avenue and Market Street, for a stylish mix of clothing stores, art galleries, and carefully curated home decor shops—all set in a neighborhood rich with maritime history and industrial charm.
For an upscale open-air experience, visit University Village, near the University of Washington campus. This beautifully landscaped shopping center features a blend of premium national retailers and local boutiques, ideal for everything from tech and fashion to gifts and gourmet treats.
And for bargain hunters, a short drive north leads to Seattle Premium Outlets, located next to Tulalip Resort & Casino. With over 125 stores, this outlet mall is packed with deals from top brands like Nike, Coach, and The North Face.
Whether you’re shopping for designer pieces, handmade treasures, or everyday essentials, Seattle offers a neighborhood—and a storefront—for every style.
As the birthplace of grunge and a powerhouse in genres from jazz to hip hop, Seattle’s music legacy is world-renowned—making catching a live performance one of the most essential experiences on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle list.
The city has produced musical icons like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Brandi Carlile, Sir Mix-a-Lot, Heart, and Fleet Foxes, and its venues continue to serve as launching pads for new and emerging talent.
You’ll find live shows nearly every night of the week, with options ranging from small, intimate venues to larger stages that attract big-name acts. Some top places to hear Seattle’s vibrant music scene include:
The Crocodile: A legendary club in Belltown that helped launch grunge and now features a range of genres, including rock, pop, indie, and comedy
Neumos: Located in Capitol Hill, this mid-sized venue is known for its strong sound system and eclectic bookings
The Showbox: Just steps from Pike Place Market, it hosts major touring acts and local favorites
Jazz Alley: A beloved spot for live jazz and blues, with a dinner club atmosphere
Tractor Tavern: A Ballard staple for folk, alt-country, bluegrass, and indie musicians
Whether you’re after an acoustic set in a cozy bar or a full-blown rock concert in a packed hall, Seattle’s live music venues offer a soundtrack as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.
As Washington State has emerged as one of the world’s top wine-producing regions, Seattle has embraced its role as a gateway to exceptional wines—making a tasting experience a must-do on the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle list.
In the city, you’ll find a growing number of urban wineries and tasting rooms, many of which are located in the SoDo and Georgetown neighborhoods. These formerly industrial districts now host stylish spaces where winemakers—some local, others from renowned Eastern Washington AVAs like Walla Walla and Red Mountain—offer samples of reds, whites, and blends crafted from the region’s diverse terroirs.
Top urban tasting spots include:
Charles Smith Wines Jet City, located in the heart of SoDo
Just 30 minutes northeast of downtown, Woodinville Wine Country is home to over 130 wineries and tasting rooms, making it the premier wine destination in Western Washington. Visit major names like Chateau Ste. Michelle or explore smaller, boutique producers in cozy clusters like the Hollywood District or Warehouse District.
Several companies, such as Bon Vivant Wine Tours and Seattle Wine Tours, offer guided wine-tasting excursions, whether you’re looking to explore the city’s best sips or spend a day in Woodinville with a curated itinerary.
Whether you’re a casual taster or a seasoned sommelier, Seattle’s wine scene is approachable, flavorful, and full of discovery.
