Seattle is famous for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and quirky local vibes. With an estimated population of approximately 816,600 residents, there’s no doubt how easy it is to fall in love with this city.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant Pacific Northwest city. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Seattle as a tourist. And for those looking to extend their stay in this lively city, consider using SpareRoom to find a comfortable place to live or share a home with others.
The Beauty Of Seattle
Seattle attracts about 40 million visitors annually. If you’re planning to extend your stay in Seattle, need a place to call home while you explore more of the city, or looking for a roommate in Seattle, be sure to check out SpareRoom.
Touristy Things To Do In Seattle
1. Visit the Space Needle
No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle, the city’s most iconic structure. Standing at 605 feet tall, the Space Needle offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, including stunning vistas of the Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Mountains.
Take a ride to the top and enjoy the interactive exhibits or dine at the revolving restaurant for a truly unique experience. Be sure to bring your camera – the views are spectacular!
2. Explore Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market offers up fresh produce, unique crafts, and delicious food. As one of Seattle’s oldest public markets, it’s a must-see for any visitor. Watch the famous fishmongers toss fresh fish, sample local delicacies like clam chowder and smoked salmon, and browse through artisan goods and handmade jewelry.
Don’t forget to stop by the original Starbucks café, just steps from the market’s entrance. For a more tranquil experience, head down to the lower levels of the market to explore quirky shops and beautiful waterfront views.
3. Walk Around Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space, offering over 500 acres of lush forests, meadows, and scenic beaches. Located on the city’s western edge, this urban park is perfect for a peaceful hike or a relaxing afternoon.
The park features several walking trails, including one that leads to the iconic West Point Lighthouse. Whether you’re looking to take in stunning views of Puget Sound, birdwatch, or just enjoy nature, Discovery Park is a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
4. Tour the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
For lovers of music, film, and pop culture, the Museum of Pop Culture is a must-visit. This eye-catching museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry, houses fascinating exhibits on everything from the history of rock ‘n’ roll to sci-fi legends like “Star Trek” and “Star Wars.”
Don’t miss the Marvel exhibit, which features costumes and memorabilia from the iconic superhero franchise. MoPOP offers a fun and immersive experience that both adults and kids will enjoy.
5. Stroll Through the Chihuly Garden and Glass
If you’re captivated by art and nature, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit is a true gem. Located next to the Space Needle, this museum showcases the breathtaking glass sculptures of artist Dale Chihuly.
The colorful glass installations, set against the backdrop of lush gardens and a glasshouse, are nothing short of mesmerizing. Whether you’re a lover of art or a casual visitor, the creativity and beauty of this exhibit are bound to leave a lasting impression.
6. Take a Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
Seattle is a city surrounded by water, and there’s no better way to experience this than by taking a ferry ride across Puget Sound. Head to the downtown waterfront and hop on a ferry to Bainbridge Island, a peaceful retreat just a 35-minute ride away.
Once you arrive, explore charming shops, dine in cozy restaurants, and stroll along the island’s scenic waterfront. The ferry ride itself offers fantastic views of the Seattle skyline and nearby islands, making it a picturesque experience you won’t want to miss.
7. Check Out the Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
For art lovers, the Seattle Art Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, SAM showcases an impressive collection of global art, from African and Asian art to contemporary pieces.
The museum frequently rotates its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see. Don’t forget to visit the outdoor Olympic Sculpture Park, where you can view stunning sculptures set against a beautiful waterfront backdrop.
8. Visit the Seattle Aquarium
If you’re fascinated by marine life, the Seattle Aquarium offers a great opportunity to explore the aquatic creatures of the Pacific Northwest. Situated on the Elliott Bay waterfront, the aquarium features exhibits on local sea life, including sea otters, harbor seals, and various species of fish.
The aquarium’s hands-on exhibits and educational programs make it a great spot for families and visitors of all ages.
9. Wander Through the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder
The Ballard Locks, also known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, are a fascinating engineering marvel and an excellent spot to watch boats and ships pass through the locks. The nearby fish ladder, which allows salmon to migrate between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, is an interesting feature to explore.
Visit during the salmon migration season, and you may even see these incredible fish making their way upstream!
10. Relax at Alki Beach
Seattle may not be known for its beaches, but Alki Beach offers a charming and scenic waterfront escape. Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach features stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains.
It’s a popular spot for locals to sunbathe, picnic, or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. You can also rent bikes or kayaks for a more active adventure.
11. Explore the Underground in Pioneer Square
Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square neighborhood offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Take an underground tour to discover the city’s hidden streets and learn about the early days of Seattle’s development.
The tour is both educational and entertaining, providing a fascinating look at Seattle’s history through the lens of its underground pathways.
12. Visit the Seattle Japanese Garden
Tucked away in the Washington Park Arboretum, the Seattle Japanese Garden is an oasis offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Wander through beautiful landscapes filled with traditional Japanese garden elements like koi ponds, stone bridges, and manicured bonsai trees. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.
13. Take a Food Tour of Capitol Hill
Seattle is known for its food scene, and Capitol Hill is one of the best neighborhoods to explore culinary delights. Whether you’re into food trucks, upscale restaurants, or local cafes, Capitol Hill has something to offer.
Take a food tour to sample the best bites, from Pacific Northwest seafood to artisan pastries and international cuisine. It’s a great way to experience the city’s diverse food culture.
Conclusion
Seattle is a beautiful city. From iconic landmarks like the Space Needle to hidden gems like the Ballard Locks, there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, Seattle is a city that will never fail to impress.
Thanks for stopping by!
Magda
xoxo
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References
- Trumm, D. (2025). Seattle’s Population Blows Past 800,000 in Latest State Estimates. The Urbanist.
- Yaniz, B. (2025). Seattle tourism set records in 2024, faces 2025 dip. The Adept Traveller.