Seattle, WA: Fish‑Tossing & Murals Meet Sky‑High Needle Views
Planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest? Seattle, the Emerald City, packs in a wild mix of iconic sights and low-key local hangouts. You get everything from the Space Needle’s skyline views to neighborhoods buzzing with personality. Top picks? Pike Place Market, Seattle Center, and a walk along the revamped waterfront.
Dive into Seattle’s culture at world-class museums or try something different—maybe a spin on the Seattle Great Wheel by the bay. Outdoorsy types can hit the city’s parks or explore the waters nearby for some fresh air and adventure. Whether you’re into art, history, or just want to eat your fill of seafood, Seattle’s got plenty to keep you busy.
Top Places to Stay in Seattle, WA
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| The Captain’s Cottage in Ballard 954 Northwest 60th Street, Seattle, WA 98107, United States of America | 100 |
| U-District Warmth 8 mins walk to UW 5256 17th Avenue Northeast Unit 1, Seattle, WA 98105, United States of America | 106 |
| Lofty Studio Prime Cap Hill Area Mins to Downtown 741 Harvard Avenue East, Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA 98102, United States of America | 132 |
| Seattle Gaslight Inn 1727 15th Ave, Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA 98122, United States of America | 421 |
| The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, Tapestry Collection 2120 4th Avenue , Belltown, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 397 |
| Mae's sweet suite - Micro Studio - 91Walkscore 1458 Northwest 67th Street, Seattle, WA 98117, United States of America | 110 |
| Isla's sweet suite - Micro Studio - 91Walkscore 1458 Northwest 67th Street, Seattle, WA 98117, United States of America | 109 |
| Cecil Bacon Manor 959 Broadway East, Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA 98102, United States of America | 141 |
| Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel, Seattle Center Seattle 300 Roy Street, Queen Anne, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 1,190 |
| Lotte Hotel Seattle 809 5th Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 322 |
| Hillside in Seattle - updated and well appointed. 1801 15th Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98144, United States of America | 173 |
| Element Seattle Sea-Tac Airport 515 Industry Drive, Seattle, WA 98188, United States of America | 207 |
| Hyatt Regency Seattle 808 Howell St, Belltown, Seattle, 98101, United States of America | 1,737 |
| Level Seattle Downtown - South Lake Union 110 Boren Avenue North, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 681 |
| Hotel Ballard 5216 Ballard Avenue North West, Ballard, Seattle, WA 98107, United States of America | 113 |
| Studio in the Heart of Seattle - Fast Wi-Fi & AC 1400 Hubbell Place 614, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 102 |
| Hotel Andra Seattle MGallery Hotel Collection 2000 4th Avenue, Belltown, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 843 |
| Pan Pacific Seattle 2125 Terry Avenue, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 601 |
| Staypineapple, Watertown, University District Seattle 4242 Roosevelt Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, United States of America | 496 |
| Arctic Club Hotel 700 3rd Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 349 |
| Mayflower Park Hotel 405 Olive Way, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 1,867 |
| citizenM Seattle South Lake Union 201 Westlake Avenue North, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 1,837 |
| Embassy Suites By Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square 255 South King Street, Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 760 |
| Hyatt at Olive 8 1635 8th Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 692 |
| Grand Hyatt Seattle 721 Pine Street, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 620 |
| Ace Hotel Seattle 2423 1st Avenue, Belltown, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 599 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle University District 4501 12th Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, United States of America | 123 |
| Silver Cloud Hotel - Seattle Lake Union 1150 Fairview Avenue North, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 1,382 |
| citizenM Seattle Pioneer Square 60 Yesler Way, Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 1,308 |
| Hotel Theodore 1531 7th Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 1,293 |
| Fairmont Olympic Hotel 411 University Street, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 515 |
| Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts 1000 First Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 118 |
| The Mediterranean Inn 425 Queen Anne Avenue North, Queen Anne, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 2,715 |
| Silver Cloud Hotel - Seattle Stadium 1046 1st Avenue South, Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA 98134, United States of America | 1,601 |
| Silver Cloud Hotel - Seattle Broadway 1100 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122, United States of America | 1,018 |
| Sonder at Pivot 1208 Pine Street, Capitol Hill, Seattle, 98122, United States of America | 106 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown Convention Center 1815 Terry Avenue, Belltown, Seattle, WA 98101, United States of America | 938 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown 206 Western Avenue West, Queen Anne, Seattle, WA 98119, United States of America | 905 |
| Silver Cloud Hotel - Seattle University of Washington District 5036 25th Avenue Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, United States of America | 724 |
| Staypineapple, Hotel FIVE, Downtown Seattle 2200 5th Avenue, Belltown, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 640 |
| Staypineapple, University Inn, University District Seattle 4140 Roosevelt Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, United States of America | 574 |
| EVEN Hotel Seattle DTWN Lake Union, an IHG Hotel 527 Fairview Avenue N, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA 98109, United States of America | 554 |
| Staybridge Suites Seattle - Fremont, an IHG Hotel 3926 Aurora Avenue North, Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103, United States of America | 430 |
| The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle 1007 First Avenue, Seattle Central Business District, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 400 |
| Sonder The Boylston 1517 Boylston Avenue, Capitol Hill, Seattle, 98122, United States of America | 332 |
| Hotel Sorrento 900 Madison Street, Seattle, WA 98104, United States of America | 241 |
| The Edgewater, a Noble House Hotel 2411 Alaskan Way, Pier 67, Seattle, WA 98121, United States of America | 235 |
| Quiet, clean and comfortable room 115 Northeast 125th Street, Northgate, Seattle, WA 98125, United States of America | 196 |
Must-See Iconic Landmarks
Landmarks in Seattle aren’t just for the postcard shots—they’re places where you can grab fresh food, ride a giant Ferris wheel over the bay, or just take in the city’s wild mix of city and scenery.
Space Needle Views
The Space Needle—yeah, the one on all the T-shirts—is Seattle’s signature tower. Head up to the observation deck for sweeping views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and, if you’re lucky with the weather, Mount Rainier looming in the distance. The top’s got that classic flying-saucer shape and a 360-degree view you won’t forget.
It’s a no-brainer for photos and sightseeing. If you can, catch sunset for those wild colors, or go early to dodge the crowds. The rotating restaurant is a fun splurge, letting you eat while the city spins slowly by.
Pike Place Market Experience
Pike Place Market has been in business since 1907 and still buzzes with energy. You’ll find fishmongers tossing salmon, local produce stands, and stalls selling handmade crafts. Grab some chowder at Pike Place Chowder, or check out the original Starbucks if you’re into coffee history.
The market’s got street musicians, quirky shops, and a jumble of colors and smells. Don’t skip the flower stalls or the tucked-away art galleries hidden in the market’s maze of hallways.
Seattle Great Wheel Adventure
The Seattle Great Wheel, perched on Pier 57, gives you a mellow ride above Elliott Bay. The glass gondolas keep you dry when it rains (which, let’s be honest, happens a lot), and the nighttime light show is a nice touch.
After the ride, you can wander the waterfront, maybe grab some fries or ice cream, and just watch the ferries come and go. It’s a good spot to slow down for a bit.
Captivating Museums and Art Attractions
Seattle’s art and museum scene is more fun than you might expect. There are places here that’ll surprise you, whether you’re into glass art, music legends, or just want to see something weird and beautiful.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Step into Chihuly Garden and Glass and you’re surrounded by wild, colorful glass sculptures. Dale Chihuly’s work fills the Glasshouse and spills into the garden, with huge pieces that catch the light in crazy ways. The Glasshouse itself is a sunlit space where a massive glass sculpture floats overhead.
Outside, the glass blends with flowers and greenery. It’s honestly a feast for the eyes. Don’t forget your camera—everyone ends up snapping a ton of photos here.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a blast, especially if you love music or movies. You’ll find exhibits dedicated to icons like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. The building’s wild, curvy design stands out at Seattle Center.
Inside, you can mess around with interactive displays about sci-fi, video games, and creative innovation. It’s hands-on, and you’ll probably end up learning something cool without even trying.
Seattle Art Museum Wonders
The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) brings together art from all over, with a special nod to the Pacific Northwest. Besides the main downtown building, you can check out the Asian Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park, where giant sculptures dot the landscape—keep an eye out for the Hammering Man.
Inside, you’ll find everything from modern art to Indigenous pieces. They rotate exhibits a lot, so there’s usually something new if you swing by more than once.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty
Seattle’s outdoors are tough to beat. Parks, beaches, and trails are tucked all over the city. Whether you want to hike, chill by the water, or just take in the mountains, there’s a spot for you.
Discovery Park Exploration
Discovery Park sprawls over 534 acres—forests, meadows, and rugged shoreline. Walking the trails, you can duck into quiet woods or pop out onto open bluffs with water views.
The West Point Lighthouse sits right at the edge of Puget Sound. It’s a favorite spot for photos, with boats passing and the Olympics in the distance.
Along the way, you might spot birds or small critters, so keep your eyes peeled. On a clear day, the views across the Sound are hard to beat.
Kerry Park Scenic Overlook
Kerry Park is tiny but packs a punch. From here, you get that classic Seattle skyline shot—Space Needle, downtown, and if the weather’s right, Mount Rainier looming behind it all.
It’s a prime sunset spot. Bring a snack, hang out, and watch the city light up. Photographers flock here, but it’s just as good for anyone needing a quick escape with a killer view.
Alki Beach & Waterfront Adventures
Alki Beach stretches out along Puget Sound and is great for a walk, bike ride, or just kicking back in the sand. You get views of the Olympic Mountains and the downtown skyline across the water.
There’s a friendly, laid-back vibe. People play volleyball, paddleboard, or kayak. Cafes and restaurants line the strip, so you can grab food and watch the ferries and cargo ships cruise by.
The Alki Trail lets you wander more of the shoreline, and it’s a mellow way to soak up the scenery.
Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
Catching the ferry to Bainbridge Island is an easy way to get out on the water and see the city from a new angle.
The ride takes about 35 minutes and serves up awesome views—Elliott Bay, downtown’s skyline, and, if you’re lucky, Mount Rainier and the Olympics.
Bainbridge itself is quieter, with beaches, parks, and trails. It’s a nice break from city noise and feels like a mini adventure.
Vibrant Seattle Neighborhood Experiences
Seattle’s neighborhoods each have their own thing going. Wander around and you’ll find stories, art, and energy that make the city feel alive—sometimes a little weird, but always interesting.
Pioneer Square & the Underground Tour
Pioneer Square is old-school Seattle—brick buildings, art galleries, and a cozy vibe. You’ll stumble onto cool coffee shops and some offbeat stores.
Don’t miss the Underground Tour. You head below street level to explore tunnels that once formed the city’s original ground floor before the big fire of 1889. It’s quirky, packed with stories, and a little eerie in the best way.
Capitol Hill Culture
Capitol Hill pulses with art and nightlife. By day, you can wander past murals, indie shops, and galleries. At night, it’s all about music, bars, and food—plus a strong LGBTQ+ community presence and some of the city’s most welcoming spaces.
Fremont & the Fremont Troll
Fremont doesn’t take itself too seriously. The Fremont Troll, a massive sculpture under a bridge, is a must-see (and a weird photo op).
Beyond that, you’ll find funky boutiques, vintage shops, and laid-back cafes. Fremont leans into its artsy, offbeat reputation with regular street fairs and markets—it’s a fun place to just wander and see what you find.
Unique Waterfront and Lakefront Attractions
Seattle’s waterfront and lakes are more than just scenery—they’re full of cool spots to meet sea creatures, watch boats, or just hang by the water. Each place has its own thing going on, whether you’re into engineering marvels or just want to paddle around.
Seattle Aquarium & Underwater Dome
At the Seattle Aquarium on Pier 59, you get up close with Pacific Northwest sea life. Inside, there are tanks with colorful fish, playful otters, and tide pools where you can touch sea stars and anemones. The exhibits make it easy to see what’s living just offshore.
The Underwater Dome is a standout—you’re surrounded by fish on all sides, watching them glide past through a huge window. It’s a cool way to get a peek underwater without getting wet.
Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) connect Lake Washington and Lake Union to Puget Sound. Boats of all sizes move through as the water levels shift, and it’s surprisingly fun to watch the process.
The fish ladder is especially interesting in late summer and fall, when salmon swim upstream. You can see them up close through big viewing windows. It’s a mix of nature and human engineering that somehow just works.
Lake Union Activities
Lake Union is always busy. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or little boats and explore at your own pace. Gas Works Park on the north shore is a favorite for picnics, kite flying, and catching views of the city.
Boat tours leave from here, or you can just sit by the water and watch seaplanes take off—kind of a classic Seattle sight. The lake connects to Lake Washington, so there’s room to roam whether you want action or just a quiet spot to chill.
Food, Coffee, and Local Flavor
Seattle’s food scene is as lively as its neighborhoods—strong coffee, fresh seafood, and a love of craft beer. You’ll stumble onto unique dishes and tucked-away spots that show off the city’s taste for good eats and drinks.
Seattle Coffee Scene
Seattle’s coffee culture is legendary, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is something of a spectacle—you’ll see beans roasting before your eyes and get to sample small-batch brews you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re after something less mainstream, wander through neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and you’ll stumble into all kinds of independent coffee shops, each with its own vibe.
Coffee’s not just a beverage here; it’s woven into the city’s personality. Try a cup at Stumptown or Victrola if you’re after that classic Seattle flavor. Whether you like it black, sweet, or somewhere in between, there’s a spot that’ll make your morning (or afternoon) feel a bit more special.
Signature Eats: Pike Place Chowder & Seattle Dog
Hungry? Pike Place Market is where you want to be. Pike Place Chowder serves up creamy seafood soups bursting with local flavor—clam chowder’s the star. It really hits the spot, especially after you’ve been exploring the market’s maze of stalls.
Then there’s the Seattle Dog: a hot dog with cream cheese and grilled onions. Sounds odd, tastes amazing. You’ll catch these being sold from carts all over town, especially when the sun goes down. It’s one of those late-night snacks locals swear by.
Craving something different? Pho Bac does a mean bowl of Vietnamese pho—a total lifesaver on a rainy or chilly day.
Breweries and Craft Beer
Seattle’s craft beer scene? It’s buzzing. Breweries like Stoup Brewing serve up inventive flavors in a laid-back setting. A lot of these places use fresh, local ingredients, so the beers really have their own character.
Beyond Stoup, you’ll find taprooms pouring everything from punchy IPAs to mellow stouts. If sampling new brews is your thing, you’ll feel right at home. Many spots have food trucks or bites nearby, making it easy to settle in for a good time.
Day Trips and Seasonal Highlights
Seattle makes it easy to get out and explore the Pacific Northwest. You can chase mountain views, wander peaceful gardens, catch cherry blossoms in bloom, or geek out over aviation history—all just a short drive or ride away. There’s always something a little unexpected waiting.
Mount Rainier Excursion
Mount Rainier National Park sits about 2.5 to 3 hours from Seattle, so it’s doable in a day. Here you’ll see one of America’s tallest volcanoes, decked out in glaciers and wildflower meadows.
Try hiking the Skyline Loop or check out the Sunrise or Paradise areas for jaw-dropping scenery. Summer and fall are prime time, but you’ll want to check if you need a permit for certain spots. In winter, some roads shut down, so watch the weather. If you prefer fewer people, Mowich Lake is a quieter pick.
Japanese Garden & Washington Park Arboretum
Need a breather from city noise? The Japanese Garden tucked inside Washington Park Arboretum is a peaceful escape. You’ll find classic Japanese landscaping—ponds, stone lanterns, little bridges—inviting you to slow down.
The Arboretum itself stretches out with all kinds of plant collections, perfect for a walk or snapping some photos. Spring brings out the blooms, but honestly, it’s lovely any time. Both places are family-friendly, and you don’t need to go far to feel like you’ve left the city behind.
University of Washington Cherry Blossoms
Come spring, the University of Washington campus turns into a pink dream when the cherry blossoms pop. It’s a big deal here, usually peaking late March or early April.
Stroll around Rainier Vista or by Drumheller Fountain for the best views. The blossoms don’t stick around long, so you’ll want to time it right. The campus is easy to get to and makes for great photos—or just a quiet moment soaking it all in.
The Museum of Flight Adventure
If the weather’s not playing nice, the Museum of Flight is a solid indoor pick. Just south of the city, it’s packed with aviation history—think early biplanes, modern jets, and even spacecraft.
You can wander real aircraft in the hangars and check out exhibits on space travel and military planes. Families, plane buffs, or anyone even a little curious about flight will find something to like. There are flight simulators too, if you’re up for a bit of virtual adventure. It’s an easy way to spend a few hours learning and having fun.
Best Places to Stay in Seattle
Seattle’s got a good mix of places to stay, whether you’re splurging or saving. You’ll find swanky hotels downtown near all the action, or you can pick somewhere with more character if you want a local touch.
Top-Rated Hotels
Looking for comfort and a central location? Hotel Theodore downtown has stylish rooms with a local twist, just steps from Pike Place Market and the waterfront—super walkable.
For something a bit fancier, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel offers classic luxury and several dining options. Near the Space Needle, the Mediterranean Inn features cozy rooms and killer skyline views.
The Kimpton Palladian Hotel in Belltown mixes historic charm with a modern edge, right by nightlife and good eats. Or try 1 Hotel Seattle in South Lake Union for lake views and a fresh, airy vibe.
Unique Accommodations
If you want your stay to feel different, Seattle’s got you covered. In Capitol Hill, the Seattle Gaslight Inn brings Victorian flair and a heated pool for unwinding.
Hotel Ballard offers a boutique feel, with local art and easy access to the Ballard Brewery District—perfect for beer lovers who want to walk from taproom to taproom.
Staybridge Suites in Fremont gives you all-suite rooms with kitchens and a rooftop deck, which creative types seem to love. And if you’re curious about the city’s past, the historic Panama Hotel near the International District lets you step right into Seattle’s immigrant history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seattle’s packed with iconic sights, knockout views, and quirky places to explore. You’ll find plenty of culture, outdoor fun, and local flavors to keep you busy.
What are the top attractions to visit in Seattle?
Definitely hit the Space Needle for those classic city views. Seattle Center has museums and parks worth checking out. Pike Place Market’s a must for shopping and catching the famous flying fish. Art and music fans should swing by the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
Where can I find the best views of the Seattle skyline?
Kerry Park is a favorite for Space Needle and skyline shots. The Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of Columbia Center gives you a sweeping look at the city. Volunteer Park and Seacrest Park also serve up great views of downtown and Elliott Bay.
Can you recommend some fun activities for families in Seattle?
The Pacific Science Center keeps kids busy with hands-on exhibits and a butterfly house. The Seattle Aquarium has cool displays about local sea life. For something different, hop on the Seattle Great Wheel for a family-friendly spin and waterfront views.
Are there unique Seattle experiences I shouldn’t miss?
Take a Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge or another nearby island for a scenic escape. The Seattle Underground Tour is a quirky way to dig into the city’s past. Feeling adventurous? Book a floatplane ride with Kenmore Air or paddle a boat on Lake Union.
What are the must-visit parks and outdoor spaces in Seattle?
Gas Works Park blends green space with old industrial vibes right on Lake Union. Olympic Sculpture Park puts big art pieces next to the bay. Volunteer Park is a go-to for leafy walks and the Asian Art Museum.
Where can I enjoy the best local food and coffee in Seattle?
Pike Place Market dishes up all sorts of fresh seafood and local bites—honestly, it’s hard not to find something tempting there. Oh, and the original Starbucks café? It’s right in the heart of it all, if you’re curious about that sort of thing. But don’t just stick to the obvious spots. Wandering through neighborhoods like the Chinatown–International District will open up a whole world of Asian flavors you might not expect. Seattle’s food scene is full of surprises if you’re willing to explore a bit.