Seattle, WA: Top 10 Things to See and Do

Seattle, Washington is a bustling and dynamic city that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and urban sophistication. Known as the “Emerald City” for its lush green forests and parks, Seattle is a hub of creativity and innovation, with a thriving arts scene and a booming tech industry. From its iconic landmarks to its world-famous coffee shops, Seattle is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, music, nature, or food, Seattle is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top attractions and must-dos when you visit Seattle.

1. Space Needle

One of the most iconic landmarks in Seattle, the Space Needle offers visitors stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can ride the elevator to the top of the 605-foot-tall tower and enjoy 360-degree views of Seattle and beyond.

FUN FACT: The iconic Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It was originally designed to be a temporary structure, but it became so popular that it was later made a permanent fixture of the Seattle skyline.

2. Pike Place Market

One of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States, Pike Place Market is a Seattle institution that offers visitors a chance to sample local foods, shop for handmade crafts, and watch street performers. Highlights of the market include the fish toss at the Pike Place Fish Market and the original Starbucks store.

3. Chihuly Garden and Glass

Located near the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum that features the glass art of Dale Chihuly. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and outdoor garden, which are filled with stunning glass sculptures and installations.

4. Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum is a world-class museum that features a wide range of art from around the world, including contemporary art, Native American art, and Asian art. The museum’s collections include works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Jacob Lawrence, and Andy Warhol.

FUN FACT: Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks. The first Starbucks coffee shop opened in the Pike Place Market in 1971, and today, there are over 30,000 Starbucks locations worldwide.

5. Olympic National Park

Located just a few hours’ drive from Seattle, Olympic National Park is a stunning natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Highlights of the park include the Hoh Rainforest, Hurricane Ridge, and the rugged coastline.

6. Seattle Great Wheel

Located on the waterfront near Pike Place Market, the Seattle Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel that offers visitors stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle skyline. The 175-foot-tall wheel features climate-controlled gondolas and is open year-round.

7. Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture, also known as MoPOP, is a museum that celebrates the history and culture of popular music, science fiction, and pop culture. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from famous musicians and movie props from classic films like Star Wars and Blade Runner.

8. Fremont Troll

Located under the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is a giant sculpture of a troll that holds a real Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. The troll is a popular photo spot for visitors and has become a beloved symbol of Seattle’s quirky and creative spirit.

FUN FACT: Seattle is home to more than 100 houseboats, which are floating homes that are moored along the city’s waterways. These unique and colorful homes have become an iconic symbol of Seattle’s waterfront and are a popular tourist attraction. One of the most famous houseboats in Seattle is the one used in the movie “Sleepless in Seattle”, which is located in Lake Union.

9. Coffee Shops

Seattle is known for its coffee culture, and no visit to the city would be complete without sampling some of its famous coffee. Visitors can explore the city’s many independent coffee shops, including the original Starbucks store in Pike Place Market.

10. Kayaking

Seattle is surrounded by water, and kayaking is a popular way to explore the city’s waterways. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore Lake Union, the Ballard Locks, or the Puget Sound.

Seattle, Washington is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and cultural richness. From its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage to its world-class dining and shopping scenes, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this exciting destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Seattle is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So why not start planning your trip today and discover all that this incredible city has to offer? With so much to explore and experience, Seattle is truly a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.