The state of Washington is undeniably a beautiful place. For literature lovers and film enthusiasts, you may probably know the Evergreen State as the setting of the trilogy novel by Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series. Yes, that popular vampire series that took the world by storm several years ago. The setting for this saga is particularly in Forks, Washington. A few hours away from Forks is the city of Seattle. This city plays a minor role in Meyer’s saga, since some of the scenes in the novel happened in Seattle. In this edition on our blog, we’ll tackle the best things to do in Seattle.

Seattle is a natural wonder. It is renowned for its lush greenery, beautiful mountains, scenic lakes, and towering evergreen trees. But aside from these gifts from nature, you know that Seattle is best known for its coffee. So, coffee lovers, you will like this. This Washington city is regarded as the world center for coffee roasting. Beyond those, Seattle is also best known for its music scene and cultural landmarks. We’ll take a look at some of these best things to do in Seattle up next. 

What Are The Best Things To Do In Seattle?

You’ve come here to find out the best things to do in Seattle, since you may probably be traveling to this place. So we will provide you what you are looking for!

1. Enjoy 360-Degree Views Of The City At Space Needle

The first on the list of things to do in Seattle is your visit to the Space Needle. The 605-foot-tall Space Needle is an icon of this Washington city. It was first built for the 1963 World’s Fair, and since then, it has become a symbol of the Pacific Northwest. If you are heading toward Seattle, you should have this in your itinerary. 

At Space Needle, you won’t only find yourself astonished by the stunning views of the city from this tower, but it also features a restaurant. You can relax and enjoy a drink while enjoying all those views. 

Be sure to take a photo with the clear glass floor, but you’ll have to be braver when looking at the views it offers, especially if you have fear of heights. Everybody can enjoy the experience here at Space Needle.

2. Shop Local At Pike Place Market

Shopping and supporting local won’t only provide you with the products you want and need, but this is also a way for you to help local businesses thrive and prosper. A place where you can shop for local produce here in Seattle is at Pike Place Market.

Pike Place Market is also one of Seattle’s most iconic destinations. Since 1907, this bustling market located near the downtown waterfront has been the go-to place for people looking for local produce. The market sells almost everything, from local artworks to vinyl records, and even flowers.  

Plus, you may also explore the streets nearby Pike Place Market abundant with restaurants and coffee shops (of course, you are in Seattle). There are also guided tours and food tours offered for this place.

3. Be Fascinated By The Stunning Design Of Chihuly Garden And Glass

The many things to do in Seattle never stop on evolving through time. Alongside the older landmarks in this city are those that are younger and built recently, such as Chihuly Garden and Glass. This is also a popular attraction among tourists. 

Bursting with artworks that depict the colors of the rainbow, this structure offers guests a look at the creative, glass-blown pieces created by Dale (not Carnegie), but Chihuly, Dale Chihuly, a renowned Pacific Northwest artist. The exhibition only opened last 2012, but has since been well-loved by both locals and tourists. 

Chihuly Garden and Glass is divided into eight galleries and three drawing walls. There’s also the Glasshouse (imagine a greenhouse, but laden with glass-blown flowers), and the Garden that features the artist’s work combined with lush shrubbery. Don’t forget to also visit the theater that screens clips of the artist at work. 

Can’t get enough of the things to do in Seattle? Check out more articles like this on our website. 

4. Explore Seattle – Underground-Style

Touring Seattle the traditional way is great, but wouldn’t it be more exciting when you can explore the city… from underground? You read that right. There are tours being offered here where you can discover Seattle’s original neighborhood, the Pioneer Square, by heading underground. 

Explore the underground pathways constructed in Seattle more than 120 years ago. In this tour, you’ll also be able to learn more about the city’s history and the events that transformed this once-small dwelling place for its indigenous communities into one of the most iconic and thriving cities across the United States. 

5. Spend An Afternoon At Seattle’s Oldest Neighborhood

Looking for things to do in Seattle that can give off those nostalgic vibes? Head over to Pioneer Square. This is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, and spending an afternoon here is truly one-of-a-kind. There are cafés, bookstores, and beautiful architecture to immerse yourself into, just to name a few.

While you are at Pioneer Square, be sure to visit the Klondike Gold Rush museum and Smith Tower. There are also other experiences and things to do in Seattle here, such as the “First Thursday Art Walk” where you can see the city’s art galleries, the Waterfall Garden Park which is an urban oasis that literally has a waterfall, and the King Street Station, an architectural marvel recently renovated to its original glory in 1906, among many others.

6. Embrace Modernity At Museum Of Pop Culture

Most museums around the world will dig as deep as to the oldest histories of art to showcase works from tradition. The more ancient they are, the more exciting they will be for visitors. But what if we reverse this, and take you to an exhibition that features modern, pop culture? This happens at the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, more popularly known as MoPOP. 

Here, you can portray your favorite rock band while learning about Seattle’s rich rock legacy, or live your nerdy dreams in the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. Some of the current exhibitions here include the visual history of hip hop, a showcase of the hit rock band Nirvana, a showcase of indie games, and a tribute to horror films such as “The Walking Dead” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Every pop culture geek will love this museum. 

Must-Read: Best Cities In Washington State

7. Sip Seattle’s Best-Tasting Coffee 

Seattle is identified as the “coffee capital of the United States.” Furthermore, many of Seattle’s locals are heavy coffee drinkers, and the city is known for its energetic coffee culture and several cafés that serve Seattle’s best-tasting coffee. 

To give you a little historic background about this craze, coffee became popular in the 18th century when tea was too highly taxed (think Boston Tea Party). Also, the weather in Seattle pulls people to grab a cup of coffee.

Some of the best places in Seattle where you can grab a cup of that great-tasting coffee are at Fonté, Seattle Coffee Works, Caffe Ladro, Monorail Espresso, and ETG Cafe & Bakery, among many others. 

8. See Seattle’s Natural Side At Bainbridge Island

Seattle may be known for its skyscrapers, but that does not mean it does not have something for nature lovers. For things to do in Seattle that will let you mingle with nature, head over to Bainbridge Island. 

This nearby island to the city proper comprises 150 acres of gardens, meadows, and ponds. Just as New York City is to the Staten Island Ferry, the Bainbridge Island Ferry is a fantastic way to eyeball Seattle’s natural habitat. 

Before taking the ride back to the city proper, don’t forget to treat yourself at Mora Iced Creamery, one of the finest ice cream parlors on the West Coast. Flavors here include cheesecake with raspberry jam and mojito. Yum!

9. Learn About Seattle’s Nordic Heritage At National Nordic Museum

Seattle and its surrounding areas are home to one of the largest populations of Nordic communities in the United States, and the National Nordic Museum is where you can learn their history. 

Its thought-provoking exhibits are primarily built from archival ephemera, artworks, and textiles brought from Nordic countries across generations that migrated to the United States from 1840 to the present. 

Don’t forget to try the best of Nordic cuisine, such as the savory smørrebrød – or a dark, heavy bread – at Freya, the museum restaurant named after the most renowned goddess in Norse culture.

10. Get Panoramic Views Of The City From The Seattle Great Wheel

If London has the London Eye, Seattle has the Seattle Great Wheel. It is one of the largest of its kind all over North America. It might not be the most thrilling things to do in Seattle, but views from this 175-foot-high Ferris wheel are incredible. 

From here, you can enjoy grand panoramic views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and if possible, the Olympic Mountains. The Seattle Great Wheel first opened in 2012, and it also lights up, providing the city’s skyline with some glitz and glamor.

Thank you for reading this “things to do in Seattle” article! Read more related stories from our website.

Things To Do In Seattle: Essential Travel Tips

Travelers in Seattle cannot afford to experience any mishap throughout the duration of their trip. So to make the most out of the best things to do in Seattle, here are some travel tips to know before you go. 

• If you are headed to Seattle, know that it is also referred to as the “Rain City,” so don’t forget to pack some rain gear. 
• Don’t forget to layer up. Bring your vests, hats, fleeces, gloves, and wool socks. 
• When it snows in Seattle, the city closes down. It is not safe to drive if it is snowing in Seattle. The best thing to do if this happens is to just walk and admire the beauty of the city. 
• Ever heard of the “Seattle Freeze”? It sounds like it refers to its cold weather, but it’s not! It actually pertains to the antisocial and introverted personality of some Seattle residents. They are not the most hospitable crowd as in other parts of the country and the world, but that does not mean they will be rude to you. This personality of theirs is said to root from their Nordic past, which many think is where the “freeze” comes from.
• Seattle is a plastic bag-free city. It banned single-use plastic bags in 2021, so all bags should be reusable or recyclable. Grocery and retail stores provide brown paper bags, but they will charge a small fee for large sizes of these. If you want to avoid getting charged this way, you can bring your own reusable bags with you.
• Seattle is a very walkable city, but the paths tend to be hilly. Like San Francisco, Seattle is a city built on seven hills. So, walks here can be a good workout for your calf. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes if you will opt to walk around.
• Seattle is often voted as the most bike-friendly city in America. It is also great to explore the city riding a bicycle.

Discover Seattle’s Best

Seattle is known for its great-tasting coffees, and also has a rich history to share with the world. The area was first inhabited by indigenous people long before the European settlers arrived. Today, Seattle is one of the most visited cities in the United States. 

The Emerald City offers a captivating tapestry of experiences for both tourists and locals. Whether you find yourself savoring freshly brewed coffee available almost anywhere in Seattle, embarking on a journey through its natural landscape, or wandering through the bustling stalls at Pike Place Market, this city will embrace you with its distinctive allure and charm. So pack your bags, and have fun with the myriad of things to do in Seattle. 

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