Sure, no Seattle bucket list is complete without a visit to the Space Needle and Columbia Tower. But there’s plenty more to do than these typical tourist attractions.
I’ve lived in Seattle for about 15 years. Being a transplant means that I didn’t grow up jaded by all the quirky things in the Emerald City, but rather went through the experience of wanting to see it all. I’ve had plenty of time to cross off the touristy things and also find hidden gems only locals would know about.
So whether you’re a local or visitor, here is my ultimate Seattle bucket list with everything worth seeing, doing, and eating in the city.
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The Ultimate Seattle Bucket List
Pin this guide for later, as I’ll keep adding to it as more bucket list-worthy activities become available.
1. Go on a food tour
neighborhoods: Ballard and Fremont | cost: ~$18.50 for both guides, plus whatever you choose to spend on food
You can take an in-person food tour of Seattle, but I suggest taking a self-guided food tour instead so you can experience the city more like a local. Not only will this help you find those hole-in-the-wall spots that can’t accommodate large groups, but it protects the margins of small businesses that rely on tips, full-price payments, and regular customers.
If in-person food tours are more your thing, here are some options:
- Early Access Pike Place Market Tour
- South Lake Union Food Tour
- Seattle’s Only Underground Doughnut Tour
2. Visit Pike Place Market and the infamous gum wall
website | address: 85 Pike St. | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: free
Located in the downtown area, you can spend hours touring the vendor stalls at Pike Place Market, picking up kitsch souvenirs, and even watching the talented fishmongers flexing their skills in the open air. While you’re here, don’t forget to stop by the slightly gross but impressive gum wall that’s tucked away on Post Alley.
3. Go up the Space Needle
website | address: 400 Broad St. | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: ~$35 for adults
The Space Needle’s observation deck is perched 605 feet above ground, offering visitors panoramic views of Seattle’s skyline. Since its epic renovation in 2018, this attraction is almost entirely made of glass. So, in addition to the rotating glass floor, you’ll find glass staircases, glass walls, glass benches, and even glass staircases.
4. Lounge on Alki Beach
website | address: Seattle, WA 98116 | neighborhood: West Seattle | cost: free, or ~$8 to rent a volleyball court
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to visit West Seattle, Alki Beach is your sign. Not only does the glimmering, sandy beach stretch for 2.5 miles from Alki Point to Duwamish Head, but this area is home to some of the best restaurants in West Seattle. So, if you need a hearty bite after hitting the replica Statue of Liberty, playing a fierce game of beach volleyball, or taking a long stroll, you’ll have no issue finding great grub.
5. Explore Golden Gardens
website | address: 8498 Seaview Pl NW | neighborhood: Ballard | cost: free, but donations are accepted
This immaculate Golden Gardens beach is right on Puget Sound, so you can expect spectacular views of both the waterfront and the Olympic Mountains from here. Thanks to the gorgeous, rugged coastline, there are also several excellent hiking trails and tide pools to explore. In fact, this is one of the best hiking spots in Seattle.
6. Take in the views at Gas Works Park
website | address: 2101 N Northlake Way | neighborhood: Northlake | cost: free
Gas Works Park is a local spot that’s perfect for catching those sometimes-elusive Seattle rays. It was previously the location of a coal gasification plant (hence the name), but it’s now a popular rest spot for picnickers, sunbathers, and kite fliers. It’s also a great spot for taking in some of the best Seattle water views since it’s perched right on Lake Union.
7. Snap the iconic photo at Kerry Park
website | address: 211 W Highland Dr | neighborhood: Upper Queen Anne | cost: free
For breathtaking views of Elliott Bay and Downtown Seattle, you can’t do better than Kerry Park. It’s located in the Queen Anne Hills behind the Seattle Space Needle, and it’s one of my favorite places to watch the sun go down. If you’re lucky you’ll see Mt. Rainier looming behind the impressive city skyline.
8. Visit Hat & Boots Park
website | address: 6430 Corson Ave S | neighborhood: Georgetown | cost: free
Oxbow Park, colloquially known as “hat & boots” park is a small, quirky public park that has two huge sculptures of…you guessed it…a cowboy hat and boots. It was an old gas station designed by Seattle artist Lewis Nasmyth in 1953. It was so popular even Elvis was said to have stopped there! But it lost fame when I-5 was built and diverted traffic away. Luckily, the artsy Georgetown locals fought to save it in the 80s and turned it into a public space with a playground and pea patch.
9. Catch views from up high in the Sky View Observatory
website | address: 700 4th Ave | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$25
The Sky View Observatory is one of Seattle’s tallest points. Located 73 stories above ground level, it offers incredible panoramas of downtown Seattle, its residential neighborhoods, and distant mountain ranges. It’s taller than the space needle, so you’re in for a lot of views.
10. Sip a cocktail in the historic Smith Tower
website | address: 506 2nd Ave | neighborhood: Pioneer Square | cost: ~$19
If you’re planning to visit the Pioneer Square neighborhood, be sure to add Smith Tower to your itinerary. Not only is this Seattle’s oldest skyscraper (it was completed in 1914!), but it offers sweeping views of Puget Sound and the Seattle Skyline from the 35th Floor. Should you have time to spare, stick around to catch the sunset at the speakeasy-style bar with a signature cocktail.
Pro tip: Love cocktails? Visit even more places with some of the best Seattle cocktails on this Seattle Cocktail Tour!
11. Cheer at a Mariner’s game
website | address: 1250 1st Ave S | neighborhood: SoDo | cost: They use dynamic pricing, so check the website
You may not be the biggest fan of baseball, but a Mariner’s Game is an attraction that shouldn’t be missed while you’re in Seattle. The game itself is always an exciting event, but you can pre-game with the best of them by grabbing an ice-cold beer, downing a delicious chili cheese dog, and people watching as you scarf down some garlic fries.
12. Attend a Seahawks game
website | address: 800 Occidental Ave S | neighborhood: SoDo | cost: it depends on the tickets you purchase
While you’re in Seattle, you can watch a Seahawks game and rally along with the “12s”. In addition to the exciting plays and touchdowns you’ll see, you can enjoy excellent food from one of the many vendors at Lumen Field. Whether you feel like Beecher’s Mac & Cheese or a classic hot dog, you’re bound to find something that’ll fill time outs and half time.
13. Get rowdy at a soccer game
Sounders website | OL Reign website | address: 800 Occidental Ave S | neighborhood: SoDo | cost: ~$20-$64 for an average ticket
Most people don’t realize how many soccer fans there are in Seattle until they go to a game at Lumen Field to see the Sounders (men) and OL Reign (women) teams. Even if, like me, you don’t watch much soccer, you should still go to experience the energy of the crowd.
14. See a Kraken hockey game
website | address: 334 1st Ave N | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: ~$130 per ticket
Seattle fought long and hard to bring back a hockey team and it finally succeeded. You can now see an NHL hockey game at the new Climate Pledge Arena. Apparently tickets are hard to come by, so plan in advance and scour Facebook neighborhood groups for tickets!
15. Go to a Storm basketball game
website | address: 334 1st Ave N | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: ~$40 per ticket
Basketball fans should definitely attend a women’s basketball game at Climate Pledge Arena. They’re one of the best teams in the league and do a lot to advocate for equal pay to the men’s teams, so even if you’re not a huge basketball fan they’re worth supporting.
16. Visit the Seattle Art Museum
website | address: 1300 1st Ave | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$30
The Seattle Art Museum houses a range of incredible exhibitions in a modern and contemporary space. Covering multiple levels and offering a selection of temporary and permanent fixtures, there’s always something new to discover here.
17. See the quirky exhibits at MoPOP
website | address: 325 5th Ave N | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: ~$30
The Museum of Pop Culture (otherwise known as MoPOP) is one of the most immersive pop culture experiences in the world. Whether you’d like to take a closer look at artifacts from the Harry Potter world or simply adore rock ‘n’ roll music, you’re sure to find an exhibition that piques your interest.
18. Take in the glass at Chihuly Gardens
website | address: 305 Harrison St | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: ~$32
For a fascinating glimpse into the mind of legendary glass artist Dale Chihuly, visit Chihuly Garden and Glass. Featuring 8 galleries, a spectacular glasshouse, and a series of impeccable floral sculptures (made entirely from blown glass!), this unique attraction is not to be missed.
19. Learn about the city’s history at MOHAI
website | address: 860 Terry Ave N | neighborhood: South Lake Union | cost: ~$22
Although the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) focuses primarily on maritime history and the importance of Puget Sound, you’ll also find several dynamic and rotating exhibitions that cover the WWII era and beyond. If you’re traveling with kids in tow, don’t miss the incredible Kid-Struction Zone that’s designed to engage their brains with Duplo tables and building blocks!
20. See the cherry blossoms
When spring rolls around, Seattle is blessed with beautiful cherry blossoms. The peak bloom period runs from late March to early April each year, and you can catch them at the University of Washington quad, Seward Park, Seattle Center, and Jefferson Park.
21. Walk or run Green Lake
website | address: 7201 E Green Lake Dr. N | neighborhood: Green Lake | cost: free
Green Lake is a gorgeous natural park that pulls you away from the hustle and bustle of Seattle’s more metropolitan neighborhoods. Relax by the waterfront with a picnic or stroll around the lake for a breath of fresh air. To cool off, take a dip at East Beach or head into the wooded trails of nearby Woodland Park.
22. Take the Underground Tour
link to book | address: 614 1st Ave | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$22
There are several underground tunnels in Seattle that lay hidden after the Great Fire of 1889 forced officials to rebuild above the old city. On the famous Seattle Underground Tour, you can uncover the forgotten sidewalks and storefronts, plus hear stories of Seattle’s historic past.
23. Snap a photo with the Fremont troll
website | address: N 36th St | neighborhood: Fremont | cost: free
The Fremont troll may not look friendly, but it’s an iconic sculpture that belongs on every Seattle bucket list. Located underneath the Aurora Bridge, this massive concrete sculpture has become one of the city’s most popular photo opportunities.
24. Bike the Burke-Gilman Trail
website | address: Seattle, WA 98115 | cost: free (unless you need to rent a bike)
The Burke-Gilman Trail runs for 19 miles between Seattle and Bothell. Although it’s more commonly used by commuters, you can explore the best of the Pacific Northwest’s coastline by tackling the entire stretch by bike. My favorite area is between Fremont and Ballard.
25. Go kayaking/paddle boarding
While there are many prime places to get on a kayak or stand-up paddle board, my go-to area is Lake Union and Lake Washington. If you need gear, head to the Northwest Outdoor Center, Agua Verde, or the University of Washington for rentals. Don’t miss the house boats and dream of owning one, one of my personal Seattle bucket list items to cross off one day!
26. Explore the Olympic Sculpture Park
website |address: 2901 Western Ave | neighborhood: Uptown / Lower Queen Anne | cost: free
The Olympic Sculpture Park was crafted by the Seattle Art Museum, and it hosts several contemporary sculptures across a 9-acre site. Not only are the sculptures themselves worth checking out, but you’ll get breathtaking views of the Space Needle, Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound from the park.
Pro tip: I also love walking the paved Elliott Bay Trail that goes alongside the park all the way to Magnolia.
27. See a movie at Marymoor Park
website | address: 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE | neighborhood: Redmond | cost: ~$30/car
Feel like Danny and Sandy in Grease by visiting Marymoor Park for a drive-in movie! Catching movies at Marymoor has been a popular thing to do in Seattle for years, and you’ll be able to watch everything from old-school classics to new releases depending on when you visit.
28. Rock out at a Chateau Ste. Michelle concert
website | address: 14111 NE 145th St | neighborhood: Kingsgate | cost: ~$57 pp
Chateau Ste. Michelle is a beautiful, winery that runs tours and tastings alongside some of the best Woodinville wineries. But did you know that they also host concerts during the summer? Whether you’re a fan of blues, rock, contemporary music, or the dulcet tones of celebrities, this is a Seattle bucket list item that any culture buff needs to check out. They draw some really big-name musicians!
29. Ride the Great Wheel
website | address: 1301 Alaskan Way | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$14
It may not have the same reputation as the London Eye, but Pier 57’s famous wheel stands proud at 175-feet tall and will show you Seattle from an unbeatable vantage point.
30. Try a Seattle dog
website | address: 1520 4th Ave | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: a few bucks
Anyone partial to a classic hot dog should take things one step further and add a famous Seattle dog to their Seattle bucket list. These delicious snacks are topped with cream cheese plus sautéed onions, and you can find them at several late-night and day food carts in the city. I suggest heading to Dog in the Park to enjoy a bite with gorgeous views over Elliott Bay.
31. See the city from the sky
Here’s the ultimate Seattle bucket list item: enjoy incredible views of Seattle from above on a helicopter tour, seaplane flight, or hot air balloon. The Ultimate Seattle Seaplane Tour allows you to fly with an FAA-certified pilot while taking in Mt. Rainer, downtown Seattle, and the iconic space needle.
Has a hot air balloon ride always been on your bucket list? Take one with Seattle Ballooning to see downtown Seattle, the Cascades, and Tacoma from above.
32. Take an Argosy cruise
link to book | address: 1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55 | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$50
Enjoy a 1-hour narrated cruise across the harbor while enjoying views of Seattle’s skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. While you’re taking in the sights, grab a cocktail or craft beer from the full-service bar on board.
33. Go indoor sky diving
link to book | address: 349 Tukwila Pkwy | neighborhood: Tukwila | cost: ~$100 per person
If you’ve always wanted to try sky diving but aren’t sure about the whole jumping out of a plane thing, indoor skydiving is for you. iFly Seattle is in the South Center Mall and allows you to experience floating without going too far off the ground. I went with my nieces when they were about 4 and 6 years old, so it’s good for all ages!
34. Go on a trip to Victoria via the Clipper
website | address: 2701 Alaskan Way Pier 69 | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$115-160
Hop over to Victoria, BC on the FRS Clipper. This ferry service takes you across to beautiful Vancouver Island in 3 hours and allows you to explore the best of Seattle and BC if you have a couple of days to spare. While you’re in Victoria, check out its incredible restaurant scene, go biking, and tackle the many hiking trails in the area. I have a whole guide on unique things to do in Victoria if you want more ideas for filling your trip.
35. Visit iconic Mt. Rainier
I couldn’t write a Seattle bucket list without including Mt. Rainier! This popular national park offers waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and incredible climbing opportunities, making it the perfect mountaineering day trip to Mount Rainier to explore the best Mt. Rainier hiking trails.
If you’d prefer to not have to think about your itinerary, take a Guided Mount Rainier Hiking Tour or a Guided Mount Rainer and Yakima Wine Valley Tour.
Pro tip: Don’t have a car? See Mt. Rainier from the air on a helicopter tour!
36. Sip from a rooftop bar
website | address: 110 Stewart St | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$20 pp, plus the cost of cocktails
Offering views of the Puget Sound, the downtown area, and the towering mountains, you can spend hours sipping cocktails at the best rooftop bars in Seattle. If you’re looking for recommendations, The Nest is a posh joint right by Pike Place Market that offers stunning views of the waterfront.
37. Drive to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
website | address: 311 W Kincaid St | neighborhood: Skagit Valley (around 66 miles from Seattle) | cost: ~$15
The Seattle Tulip Festival runs every year between April 1st through 30th, and it always attracts swathes of tourists who want to check out the wonderful craft fairs, food and drink events, tulip tours, and general springtime gorgeousness. It’s the perfect excuse for spending the day exploring the fun things to do in Skagit County.
38. Eat at Canlis
website | address: 2576 Aurora Ave N | neighborhood: Queen Anne | cost: ~$105 for the tasting menu
For the best of the Seattle fine dining restaurants, pull up a chair at Canlis. Known as the fine-dining spot in Seattle, this restaurant is a mid-century marvel that offers visitors panoramic views of Lake Union and an excellent, Seattle bucket list-worthy tasting menu.
39. Get a fancy dinner at Herb Farm
website | address: 14590 NE 145th St.| neighborhood: Woodinville | cost: couple hundred per person
If you’ve never tried food from the Pacific Northwest, visit Herb Farm for a decadent nine-course celebration of the stuff. Not only will you get to try several seasonal dishes with matched wines, but you’ll dine in a whimsical room featuring stained glass and romantic mood lighting.
40. Hike Discovery Park
website | address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd | neighborhood: Magnolia | cost: free
Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle, and it’s perched right on the shores of Puget Sound. Offering 11.81 miles of paved and rough trails, a rugged shoreline, and plenty of green space, it’s a wonderful place to stretch your legs and ponder your next Seattle bucket list adventure.
Want to check out Discovery Park by bike? Try this Discovery Park Electric Bike Tour.
41. Attend the Pride Festival
website | address: 1122 E Pike St | neighborhood: Downtown/Central District | cost: ~$140 for a 3-day GA ticket
The Seattle PrideFest takes place on the last Sunday in June each year and it’s held at the Seattle Center. Take part in the revelry and enjoy parades, parties, fundraisers, and visibility events that celebrate the power and perseverance of the LGBTQ+ community.
42. Ride the water taxi
website | address: Coleman Dock | neighborhood: Downtown/West Seattle | cost: ~$5.75
Seattle’s Water Taxi docks in Seacrest Park and ferries you from West Seattle to the downtown area. It only takes around 15 minutes to complete, and it’s a cool way to take in the local sights.
43. Go wine tasting in Woodinville
Woodinville is a world-renowned winery destination in the Sammamish River Valley, and you’d be foolish to miss out on a tasting or two! Located just 30 minutes from Seattle, this wine region boasts over 100 wineries and tasting rooms that you can explore. Here’s my guide to the best Woodinville tasting rooms.
Don’t want to have to think about driving? Take this Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour or this Woodinville Winery Tour.
44. Visit the Seattle urban wineries
You don’t need to visit Woodinville for excellent wines – in fact, you’ll find over 20 urban wineries right here in Seattle! Seattle’s best wineries can be found in predominantly SoDo and Georgetown, with a few scattered around the city. If you don’t want to have to think about planning an itinerary, let me plan a custom day trip for you or check out these best Seattle wine tours.
45. Do a beer crawl
Ballard is home to some amazing breweries, and I’ve spent many an afternoon sipping unique beers at favorites like Obec Brewing and Bad Jimmy’s. To make a day of it, plan your very own tour using my useful guide to the best Seattle breweries!
Want to take a guided tour instead? Check out these options:
46. Go on an art walk
Every month, local Seattle artists set up art walks to bring communities together. The oldest and most famous art walk takes place in Pioneer Square, but several walks take place in major neighborhoods throughout the year. If anything catches your eye, don’t be afraid to purchase and support the best Pacific Northwest artists!
47. Make the rounds at the farmers markets
Who doesn’t love a good farmers market? If you didn’t know, Washington is a major agricultural hub in the US, and you’ll find everything from fresh fruit and veggies to glorious oysters making an appearance at the local markets here. You can keep things touristy at Pike Place Market or visit one of the lesser-known Seattle markets.
48. Take a ferry
For a change of scene, take a ferry to one of the nearby islands. There are several amazing islands near Seattle, but I’d say that Bainbridge Island, Vashon, and Whidbey are ideal for a day trip from Seattle.
49. See the salmon run at the Ballard Locks
website | address: 3015 NW 54th St | neighborhood: Ballard | cost: free
You can’t claim to have completed a Seattle bucket list without checking out the Ballard Locks in Salmon Bay. These locks allow boat traffic to pass through each day between Lake Union and Puget Sound. The Locks are the main event, but you should also keep an eye out for the fish ladder that salmon use to travel upstream!
Want to get a narrated history of the locks? Check out this Ballard Locks, Gas Works, and House Boats Tour.
50. Get wild at the Woodland Park Zoo
website | address: 5500 Phinney Ave N | neighborhood: Phinney Ridge | cost: ~$25
Woodland Park Zoo isn’t just one of Seattle’s best attractions, but it’s a wildlife conservation area too! It takes around a day to cover the zoo in its entirety, but you can zip around in 3-4 hours if you plan carefully. Oh, and don’t forget to check out Molbak’s Butterfly Garden before leaving!
Pro tip: The zoo hosts a ton of events, ranging from their summer concert series called Zoo Tunes to their annual Jungle Party fundraiser auction.
51. Visit the Seattle Aquarium
website | address: 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59 | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$25-$31
The aquarium is a great excuse for checking out the Seattle waterfront. They have both indoor and outdoor exhibits, plus a bunch of interactive touch options for kids. Don’t miss the hypnotizing jelly fish!
52. Ride the monorail
website | address: 370 Thomas St.| neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$3
The Seattle Center Monorail is a fun and convenient way to zip between downtown Seattle and Seattle Center. It runs for less than a mile, but it offers a great view of Seattle’s main attractions. Kids love it and it’s cheap to do.
53. See the gardens at Washington Arboretum
website | address: 2300 Arboretum Dr. E | neighborhood: Montlake | cost: free, unless you visit the Japanese Garden which costs ~$8 pp
The Washington Arboretum boasts an immaculate selection of 20,000 trees and plants from around the world, and it’s a tranquil escape from Seattle’s busy center. While you’re here, walk the Magnolia Pathway and meander through the Japanese Garden which is open between March and November.
54. Walk around Seward Park
website | address: 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S | neighborhood: Seward Park | cost: free
Seward Park is a stunning park within Seattle’s city limits and it’s home to 300 acres of old-growth forest. Head on the hiking trails, hop on a bike, or try and spot the eagles’ nests that are typically perched high in the trees.
55. Watch the Blue Angels at Seafair
website | address: 4316 S Genesee St | neighborhood: Columbia City | cost: ~$35
Seafair is one of the quintessential summer activities in Seattle. The Seafair Weekend Festival is essentially a boating event, airshow, and major festival rolled into one neat package. While there are many events at Lake Washington and Genesee Park in Columbia City, one of the standout moments from the weekend has always been watching the US Navy’s Blue Angels soaring through the air during a breathtaking performance. It’s thunderous, it’s strange, and it’s so much fun!
56. Check out Volunteer Park and Volunteer Park Conservatory
website | address: 1247 15th Ave E | neighborhood: Capitol Hill | cost: ~$4 pp to visit the conservatory
Volunteer Park will always be one of my favorite spots for a moment of quiet contemplation. While you’re here, stop by the Volunteer Park Conservatory to check out the 6,000 square-foot glass greenhouse. It’s elaborate, houses multiple plant species, and is the perfect tropical climate to escape to when the weather is unpleasant.
57. Go to an event at Magnuson Park
website | address: 7400 Sand Point Way NE | neighborhood: Sand Point | cost: usually free
If you love hiking, head to Magnuson Park for over four miles of walking trails along Lake Washington. This area is packed with towering deciduous trees that look totally gorgeous when the seasons change. Keep an eye out for craft fairs at Hangar 30 and other local events that often happen in the park.
58. Get the omakase Sushi Kashiba
website | address: 86 Pine St | neighborhood: Downtown | cost: ~$110 for the omakase dinner
I seriously can’t say enough wonderful things about Sushi Kashiba, which is why I’ve included it on my list of the best fish restaurants in Seattle. Not only is the head chef a three-time James Beard Award nominee, but this sushi bar has been operating in Seattle for over 50 years. It’s certainly pricey, but the omakase sushi dinner here is both beautifully presented and packed with flavor.
59. Eat fresh oysters
Bulk out your Seattle bucket list by eating fresh oysters at one of the many incredible oyster restaurants in the city. Washington State is the largest producer of farmed shellfish in the US, and I’ve found that Pacific oysters are small, sweet, and incredibly pleasant. So, even if you’re grossed out by their slimy texture, I promise that Seattle oysters will change your mind!
60. Get coffee from a small roaster
Starting the day with a hot cup of coffee from a small roaster has always been the Seattleite way, so it’s a must on any Seattle bucket list. I recommend skipping Starbucks and instead visiting a quaint local Seattle roastery for some truly incredible java.
Want to learn more about coffee cupping and sample brews back to back? Check out this Seattle Coffee Culture Tour.
61. See a show at a theater
Both the 5th Avenue Theatre and Paramount Theater host excellent touring productions throughout the year. The former theater focuses on musicals, while the Paramount Theater is better known for putting on a wide variety of musicals, concerts, plays, and celebrity events.
Don’t miss the annual traveling Cirque du Soleil show that happens every winter around January to March.
62. See live music
Music fans know Washington is the birthplace of grunge and some of the most iconic musicians like Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, Dave Matthew’s Band, and Jimi Hendrix. So it goes without saying seeing live music is a must!
Nuemos in Capitol Hill was my go-to when I was in my early 20s for live shows. The Showbox is another popular music production company that runs events at The Showbox, The Crocodile, and a few other locations around the city.
There’s also the annual Capitol Hill Block Party every July. It’s a multi-day outdoor festival that’s the perfect excuse for walking around the artsy neighborhood.
63. Do a Caribbean sandwich taste off
Paseo’s website | Un Bien’s website | neighborhoods: various locations | cost: ~$12
You haven’t lived until you’ve tried one of the famous Caribbean roast pork sandwiches available in Seattle. They used to only be available at Paseo, but the owner and employees had some beef and reached a hefty settlement. Those employees left to open Un Bien, bringing their sandwich wizardry to a new location.
Many debates on which shop has the best sandwiches in Seattle ensued. I swear they’re similar, but Un Bien’s is slightly better. Go to both and decide for yourself.
64. Take a day trip to Edmonds
website | address: approximately 15 miles north of Seattle | neighborhood: Edmonds | cost: free to visit
Edmonds may not be in Seattle, but it’s one of the finest spots in Washington for farm-to-table cuisine and top-notch craft beers. Although the Edmonds restaurants are probably the area’s main draw, you can also check out the Edmonds Art Festival during the summer or find a unique piece of fine art or furniture at Driftwood Modern.
65. Explore Chinatown-International District
website | address: 719 S King St | neighborhood: Chinatown-International District | cost: ~$17 for the food tour.
The Chinatown-International District is an eclectic part of Seattle that features 4 neighborhoods of family-owned stores, restaurants, and attractions. You can spend hours exploring the area of your own accord, but the Wing Luke Museum’s Seasonal Food Tour is an excellent way to cover some of the best local eats.
66. Spend the day in Georgetown
website | address: 4700 Ohio Ave S | neighborhood: Georgetown | cost: free to explore
Georgetown is a trendy neighborhood that’s approximately 5 miles south of downtown Seattle. It was once an area that was packed with warehouses, but over the years, it’s been transformed into one of the most bustling spots in the city. Boasting craft breweries, art galleries, hopping bars, and hip restaurants, it’s well worth a visit.
67. Go whale watching
The Puget Sound is home to several resident orcas, and you’re likely to spot them year-round. For something slightly more active, try kayaking with the orcas between May and September or heading to San Juan Island on a day trip!
Pro tip: You can also drive up to Anacortes and take a whale watching tour there closer to where they hang out!
68. Take a chocolate factory tour
website | address: 3400 Phinney Ave N | neighborhood: Fremont | cost: ~$12 per person
Theo Chocolate is the first Fair Trade chocolate company in the US. I used to live down the street and the whole area would smell like yummy confections. They take education really seriously, so going on their factory tour is a great way to not only sample why they’re one of the best chocolate makers in Seattle, but also learn about cocoa farming.
69. Watch the Solstice Parade
website | neighborhood: Fremont | cost: free
Celebrate the start of summer at the annual Fremont Fair held on the summer solstice weekend in June. There are a ton of activities throughout the weekend, including vendors, entertainment, and a beer garden.
However, the quintessential thing to do at the fair is watch the parade. You’ll see a ton of naked bikers with intricate body paint and many bikes turned into fun floats. Bring a lawn chair and take out a spot along Leary Ave NW to get a good view.
70. Eat at Dick’s
website | neighborhoods: various locations | cost: ~$3-$5
If Sir-Mix-a-Lot references Dick’s in his Posse on Broadway song, you know it’s a quintessential Seattle experience. Dick’s Drive-In is a local burger chain that’s a step above McDonald’s but oh so good. Get the deluxe with two patties, their flaccid fries that are really addictive, and a milkshake. I often also buy a meal for one of the homeless guys nearby since it’s so cheap.
More incredible things to do in Seattle
Looking for more inspiration to add to your own Seattle bucket list? Check out these other cool things to do that’ll boost your trip to the Pacific Northwest.
- Quintessential Seattle Food
- Seattle Foodie Bucket List
- Scenic Day Trips from Seattle Everyone Must Take
- How to Spend the Perfect Day in Seattle
- The Ultimate 2-Day Seattle Itinerary
- Best Seattle Gift Shops
- Best Seattle Gifts That Ship
