Ahh… Seattle! It is the largest city in the state of Washington, and one of the fastest growing major cities in the United States. Folks from all over the country are moving to Seattle to enjoy life at the Pacific Northwest. Much like everywhere else in the PNW, Seattle offers tons of hiking trails, biking, mountains, beaches, trees- a nature lover’s dream. If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, keep reading because we’ve got the 10 must see attractions and must do activities!
1. Picnic with a view at Kerry Park.
Kerry Park is a jaw dropping viewpoint and public park on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Washington. This park offers unparalleled views of downtown Seattle, the Space Needle, ferries crossing Elliot Bay, and beautiful Mount Rainier. Bring some snacks or a bottle of wine, and enjoy one of Seattle’s best views.
2. Indulge all your senses at Elliot’s Oyster House.
Elliot’s Oyster House serves arguably the best oysters in the Northwest! Complete with stunning waterfront views and a refreshing outdoor seating space, you’ll want to spend the whole day there. Don’t even get me started on the quality and freshness of Elliot’s food…it is truly stellar. The Oysters Rockefeller is a must try, and pairs perfectly with warm fresh potato bread and butter. Enjoy your oysters with a glass of wine or a delicious brew. Visit Elliot’s during happy hour, from 3-6 pm Monday through Friday.
3. Take the ferry across Puget Sound
You can’t visit Seattle and not take a ferry ride. It’ll be one of the most memorable experiences of the trip, for sure. The Victoria Clipper is a passenger-only ferry, and was originally named for its trips to Victoria BC. Today you can board the Victoria Clipper in Seattle and take a day trip to Victoria. The trip by ferry takes 3 hours, and you are provided with 5 hours to explore Victoria. During the trip across Puget Sound, you’ll see the incredible Seattle skyline and maybe even some sea creatures.
If you’re looking for a ferry trip somewhere a little closer, you can take the ferry to Bainbridge Island. Bainbridge Island is only about 35 minutes away by ferry, and once you arrive there’s plenty to do. Grab a bite to eat on the waterfront at Harbour Public House, or lace up your hiking boots and explore one of the many hiking trails Bainbridge Island has to offer.
4. Visit the new Space Needle Observation Deck
The Seattle Space Needle just went through a multi-million dollar renovation. If you haven’t been to the Space Needle, you’ve never seen views like these. The Loupe, “the world’s first and only rotating glass floor” and the floor to ceiling windows will leave you in awe of the city’s beauty and architecture. Atmos Cafe and Atmos Wine Bar are located on the upper observation level, and require no reservations to dine. Explore all 5 floors of the new and improved Space Needle!
5. Explore the famous Pike Place Market
Seattle’s Pike Place Market is one of the best and most famous farmer’s markets in the United States, competing right up there with Los Angeles and New York. If you’re looking for produce, Pike Place Market won’t disappoint. You can find tons of specialty foods such as fresh fish, meat, dairy, pasta, wine, cured meats, and chocolate. Highstalls offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms year round.
For those that are hungry and need a meal right on the go, Pike Place Market features amazing international cuisine with anything from Korean Fusion, to Turkish Delight, Indian, Thai, and French foods. Piroshky-Piroshky opened its doors in 1992 featuring delectable traditional Eastern European baked goods, both savory and sweet.
When you’re done eating, shop around Pike Place Market, which offers apparel, books, music, art, fresh floral bouquets, and much much more!
6. Take a ride on the Great Wheel
Climb aboard Seattle’s Great Wheel at Pier 57, and take a 20 minute ride overlooking Puget Sound. Soaring 175 feet in the air, taking a ride on the Great Wheel is an exhilarating experience you’ll never forget. Get a private cabin with your significant other with the purchase of a VIP ticket. You can even enjoy an alcoholic beverage inside the cabin so long as everyone is 21 and older. The VIP ticket will get you a drink, t shirts, and photos!
7. Unwind at a Seattle rooftop bar
With gorgeous views of the water and ferris wheel, and refreshing beverages, lounging at the Nest rooftop bar in Seattle is a great way to end your adventurous day with some friends. The Nest has a live DJ on the rooftop deck, along with a delicious menu and stunning views. It also doubles as a hotel in case you need a place to stay for the night. Stay for the breakfast buffet and sunrise in the morning.
8. Relax on the sands at Alki Beach
Not many people think of sandy beaches when they think of a huge city like Seattle. But Seattle has an awesome secret, and it’s called Alki Beach. Spend a perfect summer day at Alki Beach sunbathing along the beach strip. Or jog along the water at any time of the year.
9. Take a scenic tour on a Seaplane
From $99 per person, tour Seattle from the sky. With sweeping views of the city, Mt. Rainier, and Puget Sound, a tour on Seaplanes will be a memory of a lifetime. The best part? Everyone gets a window seat!
10. Take a kayak out on Puget Sound
At Alki Kayak Tours, you can reserve a guided kayak tour or kayaking lessons out on Puget Sound. If you’re more into doing things on your own, you and your friends are more into learning things yourselves you can rent kayaks or paddle boards and cruise on the water with an incredible view of the Seattle skyline.