Top 10 things to do in Seattle Washington
Attractions, activities and events abound in Seattle, Washington. It is unfortunate to meet many tourists who avoid traveling to Seattle because they have been misinformed about the rain. Yes, it rains more than an average city, and yes, it is important to visit during the summer months to fully appreciate all that we have to offer. But if you decide to visit our great city and you only have vacation time during spring, winter or fall … do it!
Professional sports, sightseeing, ethnic food, street performers, and art are just a few of the things Seattle has to offer. If you have a particular liking for something, Seattle probably does. And if you’re staying in one of the downtown hotels, most of the sites are accessible on foot. But, before you make your travel plans, do yourself a favor and get a map to collect as much information as possible, so you don’t miss a thing.
1. Seattle Center / Space Needle – Built in the 1960s, the Space Needle was built for the opening of the World’s Fair in 1962. One of the most identifiable buildings in the world; it is impossible to get lost. Take time to eat something and get a panoramic view of the city at the revolving restaurant located at the top. After your meal, get some fresh air on the observation deck. The Seattle Center surrounding The Space Needle is an event in itself. The Seattle Center is a fairground packed with concession stands, attractions, art, a water feature exhibit, and the home of the Paul Allen’s Experience Music Project. Seattle Center hosts many outdoor events during the summer months. Schedule at least a day or two to see all of these, at a minimum.
2. Pike Place – The fish toss, quaint restaurants, and street performers are the heart and soul of Pike Place Market. Almost 100 years old, Pike Market is a collection of small vendors selling everything from fruit, antiques, fresh produce, and of course fish. Pike Place is a Seattle staple and a must see while in Seattle.
3. Ballard Locks: The Hiram Chittenden Locks, known to locals as the “Ballard Locks,” help ships pass from Puget Sound to Lake Washington by raising and lowering the water level. Another great attraction is the fish ladder in the viewing room that allows visitors to watch salmon swimming upstream in Lake Washington. The immaculate landscaped grounds around Ballard Locks allow visitors a place to eat or just watch the squirrels.
4. Seattle Pacific Science Center: The Pacific Science Center is one of the major tourist attractions, located south of the Seattle Center, and it is not your typical museum. There’s no shortage of things to do: IMAX Theater, Tropical Butterfly House, and Planetarium. The Pacific Science Center has also hosted numerous traveling exhibits, such as the Titanic Artifact Exhibit, just a few years ago. If you’re accompanied by kids during this vacation, the Pacific Science Center is a no-brainer.
5. Safeco Field / Quest Field – The Kingdome collapsed years ago, giving way to Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners baseball, and Quest Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks football. These state-of-the-art stadiums are loaded with additional features and excellent design for stunning views of the fields. Views of the city, the Puget Sound, and food options that go way beyond hot dogs and fries are standard here.
6. Pioneer Square – Pioneer Square refers to an area / neighborhood. The historical significance of Pioneer Square dates back more than 100 years. Today, it is the main place in the city to party. Internet cafes, nightclubs, restaurants, bookstores, and art galleries dominate this place. If you are looking to have a good time, take off your walking shoes as you will not need a car.
7. Boeing Tours – Ever wonder how airplanes are made? The Boeing Everett plant, located approximately 30 miles north of Seattle on I-5, is home to the largest freestanding building in the world. Boeing offers daily walkway tours that allow you to see the making of some of the largest airplanes ever built. Be sure to check the schedules and the age and height requirements for the children. Also visit the Museum of Flight located south of Seattle, another must-see.
8. Seattle Aquarium – The Seattle Aquarium is located on Pier 59 in downtown Seattle. Starfish and plant life are some of the things that both children and adults will enjoy during their stay. Be sure to visit the many seafood restaurants in the area as well, they have amazing meals.
9. Washington Ferries – Nothing screams the Pacific Northwest like our ferries. Walk or drive, then relax. Sea lions, seagulls and other wild animals are part of the experience. And depending on where you plan to visit, a ferry trip might be your only option. I recommend standing in the front to let the wind blow on your face. Ferry times are often, especially in the city center.
10. Bill Gates Residence – How does the richest man in the world live? Who knows, but it has to be good. And no, I’m pretty sure Bill Gates doesn’t offer tours of his crib. But if you get the chance, wouldn’t it be cool to say that you stopped by his house with the slightest chance of seeing Bill Gates looking for the newspaper? For directions, ask any resident of Medina, Washington, where you can find the mansion owned by the richest man in the world.