Welcome to our guide on the best attractions and things to do in Seattle, the bustling and vibrant city that’s perched on the coast of the Pacific Northwest. Seattle has a little something for everyone, from the iconic Space Needle that towers over the skyline to the bustling Pike Place Market that’s filled with fresh seafood, artisanal crafts, and street performers. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, Seattle has plenty to offer. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best destinations and activities to help you plan your perfect trip to Seattle. So, let’s get started!

The 16 Best Crazy Things to Do in Seattle

1. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour
2. Viator Exclusive Early Access Food Tour of Pike Place Market
3. Seattle Shore Excursion Private City Tour
4. Plant Based Food Tour
5. Private 2 5 Hour Snoqualmie Falls Tour
6. Seattle Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Ticket
7. 9 Day Seattle Citypass
8. Seattle Underground Walking Tour
9. Seattle Space Needle Ticket
10. Full Day Mount Saint Helens Experience
11. 1 Day Snoqualmie Falls Leavenworth Tour Seattle Departure Sl1
12. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour
13. Seattle City Tour
14. Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle
15. Quality Checked from Seattle Ferry Day Trip from Seattle
16. Lonely Planet Experience Seattle Private Walking Tour Best of Pacific Northwest

The 16 Best Crazy Things to Do in Seattle

1. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour

Find out why Seattle is a must-visit destination on this half-day tour. First, we will visit the 268-foot (82-meter) Snoqualmie Falls to take in its natural beauty. Then, we will explore the vibrant interior of the city with stops at Pioneer Square, Fremont Troll, and Kerry Park for a top city vantage point view. All while sitting comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan. Bottled water and a light snack will be provided. Your local guide will ensure that you have ample time at each stop, so you can soak in all of the sights. Join us at the Pike Place Market Information Booth, located on the SW corner of 1st and Pike Street, no later than 9:45 AM to begin this unforgettable experience.

2. Viator Exclusive Early Access Food Tour of Pike Place Market

Experience the diverse tastes and culture of Seattle’s Pike Place Market on this guided tasting tour. Sample smoked salmon, fresh produce, locally-made chocolate, and much more on this behind-the-scenes food tour. This Viator Exclusive tour provides early access to the market, avoiding long lines and allowing for interactions with local vendors before the crowds arrive. With a small group of just 12 people, enjoy a personalized experience as you savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of this historic landmark. As a bonus, participants receive a VIP discount at select partners for a return visit. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience. Join the tour at indi chocolate, located at 1901 Western Ave D, Seattle.

3. Seattle Shore Excursion Private City Tour

See Seattle like a local on a private shore excursion that takes in all the highlights of this famous Northwest city. This 3-hour tour includes must-see locales such as the Chinatown-International District, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, the Ballard Locks, Queen Anne Hill, and more. Hop out to explore by foot and enjoy jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound from the top of the Space Needle (own expense). Your expert local guide provides commentary on Seattle’s history, culture, and architecture. This private tour is the perfect way to cover the best of Seattle with personalized attention from your guide. Don’t miss the chance to explore diverse neighborhoods such as Belltown, Chinatown, and Queen Anne Hill while enjoying stops to explore Seattle’s food, shopping, and entertainment.

4. Plant Based Food Tour

Discover the vibrant world of plant-based food at Seattle’s Pike Place Market with this curated vegan tasting tour. Explore 10 different market stops and sample a delicious vegan tasting menu consisting of 12 unique tastings. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insider insight on this historic site and the stories of the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let a plant-based diet get in the way of enjoying the diverse foods available at Pike Place Market. This tour is open to anyone, vegan or not. Please alert the guide ahead of time to any food allergies or mobility concerns. Lunch is included. The meeting point is at 1928 Pike Pl, Seattle, and the tour ends at 1529 Pike Pl, Seattle. Meet your guide at the north end of Pike Place Market, look for the sign for Taxi Dogs. Discover the best of Seattle’s attractions and things to do, and add this tour to your itinerary.

5. Private 2 5 Hour Snoqualmie Falls Tour

Experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with a private 2.5-hour tour of Snoqualmie Falls. Your transport will be a comfortable 6-passenger Chevrolet Suburban LTZ, providing door-to-door service from your Seattle area hotel. Enjoy lunch and stay connected with onboard WiFi while taking in the stunning scenery. The tour includes stops at the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge and Lake Washington, along with other picturesque locations. Please note that pickup is not available from the airport and luggage is not included. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

6. Seattle Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Ticket

Experience the beauty of Seattle from a whole new perspective with the Seattle Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass ticket. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Seattle, the Puget Sound and mountains as you soar to the height of 520 feet in the Space Needle’s elevator. Then, step into the imaginative world of Dale Chihuly’s colorful glass creations with admission to Chihuly Garden and Glass. Learn more about the exhibition with an audio guide and dive deeper into the art. With just one ticket, visit two iconic Seattle Center attractions in one day. The ticket includes admission to the Space Needle (next available entry after arrival), admission ticket to Chihuly Garden and Glass and hotel pickup and drop-off. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Seattle in just one day.

7. 9 Day Seattle Citypass

The 9 Day Seattle CityPASS® is the ultimate way to discover Seattle’s best attractions with significant savings. With your mobile CityPASS® tickets, you’ll have the convenience of instant delivery and the flexibility to space out your visits over 9 consecutive days.

Experience Seattle’s iconic Space Needle with day and night admission, which includes two visits within 24 hours. Dive deep into Seattle’s underwater world and see marine life up close at the Seattle Aquarium.

Additionally, choose three out of four must-visit attractions including Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, the Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP), Woodland Park Zoo, or Chihuly Garden and Glass. Take a narrated harbor cruise tour, explore Seattle’s music culture and history, get up close with exotic animals and plants, or admire beautiful glass art.

With the Seattle CityPASS®, you can save 44% or more on prepaid admission to five top Seattle attractions, making it the perfect way to experience the best of Seattle.

8. Seattle Underground Walking Tour

Discover the fascinating history of Seattle with a guided walking tour through Pioneer Square’s underground passages. Marvel at the stunning 1890’s architecture and explore three underground passageways originally constructed in the late 19th century. Your knowledgeable guide will recount Seattle’s formation and the city’s tragedy, including the infamous Seattle Fire. This tour includes a guide and hotel pickup and drop-off, but not food, drinks, or gratuities. Please note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Join us on this journey back in time and experience the rich history of Seattle’s underground.

9. Seattle Space Needle Ticket

Seattle is a city full of stunning views and important landmarks. Among them, the Space Needle is undoubtedly one of the most famous ones, and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. With this pre-booked ticket, visitors can save time and hop right to the front of the line, avoiding the long queues and waiting times. The voucher provides flexibility to use it for the next available timeslot, allowing for an easy, hassle-free experience. As visitors float up to the top, they will be treated to stunning, panoramic views of Seattle, including the iconic landmarks and unbeatable landscapes. The admission includes the services of a host guide in the elevator, who will provide information and additional insight on the city’s history and attractiveness. To make the trip even more enjoyable, visitors will also receive a variety of delicious snacks and beverages, famous from the Pacific Northwest. Book today and get ready to see the world from a whole new perspective.

10. Full Day Mount Saint Helens Experience

This full-day Mount Saint Helens experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. During the tour, you will visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory and learn about the events that took place during the 1980 eruption. Your naturalist guide will tell you fascinating stories about this volcano and others around the world. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take pictures of the mountain, spot wildlife, and enjoy naturalist guided walks. In the center’s interpretive displays and theater, you’ll learn more about the volcano’s history and geology. This tour is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Seattle who seeks adventure and knowledge.

11. 1 Day Snoqualmie Falls Leavenworth Tour Seattle Departure Sl1

Leave the driving and planning to someone else and make the most out of your Seattle trip. Join this tour that will take you beyond the city limits to discover the best attractions Washington State has to offer. Admire the breathtaking views of Snoqualmie Falls, one of the most-visited waterfalls in the area. As you proceed to Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style village, take in the picturesque northwest scenery. Sightsee independently and immerse yourself in German culture. Shop for souvenirs, sample traditional German food and beers or simply marvel at the charming architecture. Thanks to the round-trip transit from Seattle, logistics is smooth and hassle-free, and you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing. The tour includes transportation, professional driver and guide, and food and beverages. Note that parking is not available at the pick-up point and the cost of transportation to and from the place of departure is not included. Enjoy two top Washington State attractions in one day and make unforgettable memories.

12. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

On this tour, visitors will have the chance to experience the breathtaking views of the Snoqualmie Falls before heading deep into the rolling Cascade foothills to visit two estate-boutique wineries. Along the way, guests will pass by flower farms, horse ranches, and popular Hollywood locations, such as Twin Peaks Northern Exposure and The Vanishing. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected downtown Seattle and airport hotels, as well as the option to purchase a lunch for $15-$20. Gratuities are also included. Please note that cruise pick up is not provided due to traffic issues.

13. Seattle City Tour

Experience the best of Seattle with this small-group minibus tour in and around the Emerald City. Travel through downtown Seattle, Pioneer Square, Chinatown, International District, and Seattle Center with the iconic Space Needle. Hop off at three points during the tour for photo opportunities and more. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included from downtown Seattle hotels. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation with a 14 passenger limit and guided narration by a professional local guide. Gratuities are also included. Food and drinks are not included. Pickup options are available or you can head directly to the meeting point located at 1620 4th Ave, Seattle WA 98101. The meeting point is located in front of the Wells Fargo Bank on the West side entrance of Westlake Mall between Pine St & Olive Way. Join this tour for a great way to uncover Seattle’s highlights in style.

14. Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle

Visit Seattle’s world-renowned zoological park and enjoy the experience of discovering 300 animal species in natural habitats from around the world. The Woodland Park Zoo has been sparking delight, discovery, and unforgettable memories for more than 120 years while teaching people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to understand and protect wildlife.

Explore the lush setting and see animals from around the globe in various habitats. Take a hike through the Living Northwest Trail and see area residents like the brown bear, elk, gray wolves, and river otters. Walk in Australasia to see emus, wallaroos, wallabies, and snow leopards. Visit the Trail of Vines and see resident orangutans, python, tapirs, and greater one-horned rhinos. Witness grazing gazelles, zebras, and graceful giraffes roam the terrain while majestic lions rule their domain in the African Savanna.

Enjoy the parkland setting with a thrilling play area and have fun while exploring the various habitats of the 900 animals in Woodland Park Zoo.

15. Quality Checked from Seattle Ferry Day Trip from Seattle

Board a high-speed catamaran from Seattle to Victoria and experience the vibrant walkable city of Victoria on this day tour. Enjoy a short scenic ferry ride through the Salish Sea to downtown Victoria and explore the best Victoria has to offer from historic buildings to beautiful gardens. You can plan the perfect day trip with scenic views of the Pacific Northwest on the way. Relax on your trip to Victoria from Seattle as your transportation is sorted. The tour includes roundtrip ferry between Seattle WA and Victoria BC aboard the Victoria Clipper fast ferry, taxes port fees and fuel surcharges, as well as the checked luggage fee. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful cities in the Pacific Northwest in a fun and convenient way!

16. Lonely Planet Experience Seattle Private Walking Tour Best of Pacific Northwest

Experience the best of Seattle with a private guide on the Lonely Planet Experience Seattle Private Walking Tour, showcasing the top sights and hidden gems. Start off at the beautiful waterfront off Elliott Bay where you’ll explore the Pike Place Market and visit the world’s first Starbucks. Then, catch the monorail – a legacy from the 1964 World’s Fair – to Seattle Center. Enjoy expansive views from the top of the Space Needle and discover magnificent glass art at Chihuly Gardens and Glass. The combined ticket for the Seattle Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass, a professional and friendly tour guide for your own private group, and the optional gratuities are all included. Take plenty of time to capture photos of your favorite places and enjoy the views. Food and drink are not included, but your guide will be happy to recommend some great spots. Join the Lonely Planet Experience Seattle Private Walking Tour and uncover Seattle’s best attractions in a personalized and immersive way.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions about Seattle by Tourists

If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, it’s likely that you have some questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city of Seattle.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Seattle?

Seattle is known for its rainy weather, but it is a beautiful city to visit during any season. The best time to visit Seattle is from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also the most popular tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this period. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, visit Seattle during the off-season, from October to May, when the weather is cooler and wetter.

2. What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Seattle?

Seattle is a city full of amazing sights and attractions. Some of the top tourist attractions in Seattle include:

• The Space Needle – a must-visit attraction, the Space Needle offers stunning views of Seattle from its observation deck.
• Pike Place Market – a popular spot that includes local vendors selling fresh fish, flowers, crafts, and souvenirs.
• The Museum of Pop Culture – a fascinating museum showcasing popular culture, from music to sci-fi.
• The Chihuly Garden and Glass – a stunning glass art museum that features intricate glass sculptures and a garden.

3. What is the Public Transportation System Like in Seattle?

Seattle has a great public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and light rail. The most popular form of public transportation is the bus system, which is operated by King County Metro. The buses run throughout the city and have a reliable schedule. The light rail system, operated by Sound Transit, connects downtown Seattle with the airport and other parts of the city.

4. How Do I Get Around Seattle as a Tourist?

Aside from public transportation, there are several ways to get around Seattle. Walking is a great way to explore the city, as many of the top attractions are within walking distance of each other. Biking is another popular option, and there are several bike rental shops throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available.

5. What are some Free Things to Do in Seattle?

Seattle has plenty of free attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Some of the top free things to do in Seattle include:

• Visiting the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder.
• Exploring the Olympic Sculpture Park.
• Hiking in Discovery Park.
• Taking a walk on the Seattle Central Waterfront.
• Visiting the Frye Art Museum.

6. What are the Best Neighborhoods to Visit in Seattle?

Seattle is a city full of unique neighborhoods, each with its own charm and personality. Some of the best neighborhoods to visit in Seattle include:

• Pioneer Square – one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seattle, with cobblestone streets and historic buildings.
• Belltown – a trendy neighborhood with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops.
• Capitol Hill – a vibrant neighborhood known for its music scene and LGBTQ+ community.
• Queen Anne – a picturesque neighborhood with stunning views of the city and the Space Needle.

7. Where Should I Stay in Seattle?

There are many great hotels and accommodations in Seattle, depending on your budget and preferences. Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Seattle include downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, and the International District. You might also consider staying near popular tourist attractions, such as the Space Needle or Pike Place Market.

8. What is the Food Like in Seattle?

Seattle is known for its fresh seafood, coffee, and craft beer. Some of the must-try foods in Seattle include:

• Seattle-style hot dogs.
• Fresh seafood, such as salmon and Dungeness crab.
• Coffee, particularly from local roasters such as Starbucks and Tully’s Coffee.
• Craft beer, from local breweries such as Fremont Brewing and Georgetown Brewing.

9. What Should I Pack for a Trip to Seattle?

When packing for a trip to Seattle, it’s important to consider the weather. Be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures, particularly if you’re visiting during the off-season. Some key items to pack include:

• A waterproof jacket and umbrella.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Layers, such as a sweater or hoodie.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny days.
• A reusable water bottle.

10. What is the Nightlife like in Seattle?

Seattle has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, live music venues, and clubs. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife in Seattle include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Pioneer Square. If you prefer something more low-key, check out a local brewery or wine bar.

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How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Seattle

Seattle is an incredibly vibrant city with a plethora of things to do and see. As a tourist, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do. This guide will provide a detailed itinerary to make the most out of your time in Seattle.

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Seattle

Start your day early by heading to the famous Pike Place Market, which is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. It is a little crowded, but it’s worth it. You can find everything from fresh seafood to handmade arts and crafts. Make sure to check out the original Starbucks, which first opened in 1971. Next, walk down to the waterfront for amazing views of Elliott Bay and the nearby islands. Take a ride on the Great Wheel, which is Seattle’s answer to the London Eye. After lunch, take a stroll along Seattle’s downtown streets and make your way over to the world-famous Space Needle. Take the elevator up to the observation deck, where you can enjoy the incredible views of Seattle and Mount Rainier in the distance. In the evening, head back to Pike Place Market for dinner. There are many excellent seafood and vegetarian restaurants to choose from.

Day 2: Discovering Seattle’s Museums

Seattle has a vibrant and diverse arts scene that is worth exploring. Start your day by visiting the Seattle Art Museum. The museum is home to a collection of over 25,000 art pieces from around the world. The museum is a must-visit for art lovers.Next, head over to the Museum of Pop Culture. The museum focuses on popular culture, music, and science fiction. There are numerous exhibits in the museum, including ones about Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and Seattle’s grunge music scene.In the afternoon, visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass. The museum features the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The museum has a large collection of Chihuly’s work, including an incredible glass garden.In the evening, head over to Capitol Hill, one of Seattle’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Capitol Hill is home to many excellent restaurants and bars.

Day 3: Exploring Seattle’s Outdoors

Seattle is surrounded by beautiful nature, and it is easy to access the great outdoors from the city center. Start your day by taking a ferry to Bainbridge Island. The ferry ride is about 35 minutes, and it offers stunning views of Elliot Bay and downtown Seattle.After arriving on Bainbridge Island, take a hike in the Bloedel Reserve. The reserve is a beautiful forest reserve with many hiking trails and gardens. The reserve is home to many species of animals and plants.In the afternoon, head to Discovery Park, which is the largest public park in Seattle. The park offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Take a hike along one of the many hiking trails, or simply relax on the beach.In the evening, head back to downtown Seattle for dinner. There are many excellent restaurants to choose from in the city center.

Book Your Tour Now

Seattle is a city that has something for everyone, from art lovers and foodies to outdoor enthusiasts. With this itinerary, you can explore some of the most famous landmarks of the city and discover some of its hidden gems too. Follow the itinerary, and you are sure to have a great time in Seattle. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures!