Location: Seattle
Top Things to do in Seattle
10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Seattle That You Shouldn't Miss
In Seattle you simply can’t skip the Central Public Library – a modern architectural marvel of glass grids, unusual shapes, and a “book spiral” that climbs four stories. Stroll over to Pike Place Market to visit the original Starbucks and play catch with a fishmonger. In the heart of the city lies Chihuly Garden and Glass, which will dazzle you with its colorful and delicate works. Glide to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and Puget Sound.
Restaurants in Seattle
1. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24,263 reviews
Located in the heart of Seattle, Chihuly Garden and Glass provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. Through the exhibition’s eight interior galleries, lush outdoor garden and centerpiece Glasshouse visitors will experience a comprehensive look at Chihuly's most significant series of work. With both day and night experiences, and full-service dining in the adjoining Collections Café, this long-term exhibition offers a unique experience rain or shine.
Reviewed By KLanicek - Austin, United States
This was an amazing privelege to witness the remarkable talent of Mr. Chihuly and his team of artists. From the amazing and gravity-defying displays to the glass-blowing demo in the courtyard, this place is fantastic! I would like to shake the hand of every member of the cleaning crew, too. Not a speck of dust marred the breathtaking sculptures with their thousands of glass pieces! I'd add that this place was fantastic for my friend and I (grown-ups) and my teenage son appreciated the artwork (and the the glass blowing demo), but I wouldn't risk bringing toddlers or young kids in unless their temperament is calm and obedient. This is a great place to bring older kids, though, to truly marvel at the talent and artistry that goes into making each piece and then putting all those pieces together into a sculpture (landscape, etc.) that is really magical. The gift shop has some unique pieces, too (lots of great gifts). I'm glad my spendy teen was at home or I'd be broke for sure! Another tip is that the gardens outside were just as beautiful as the displays inside. I'd recommend timing your visit with nicer weather (I'm told we got lucky) so you can maximize your experience. You can probably put your hood up and deal with raindrops, but the outdoor gardens are best when you're not rushed by rain. We also had the privelege of seeing the gardens from the Space Needle at dusk (lit up) and wish we had been able to go back into the gardens when it's lit up. From what we could see through the thick hedges (not much) and from above, it looked fantastic! Side note: We got a CityPass and were able to pair it with the Space Needle and MoPop and do all 3 in one day. That alone made it worth the cost of the CityPass.
2. Seattle Art Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,542 reviews
SAM has been the center for world-class visual arts in the Pacific Northwest since 1933. Visit SAM to see a museum carved into the city, as much a part of Seattle's landscape and personality as the coffee, rain, mountains, Pike Place Market, and the Space Needle. Our three distinct locations celebrate the region's position as a crossroads where east meets west, urban meets natural, local meets global. Our collections, installations, special exhibitions, and programs feature art from around the world and build bridges between cultures and centuries.
Reviewed By kanemochi - Seattle, United States
The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a world class museum in a sleek and contemporary building in downtown Seattle. SAM’s digs are as artful as the works that inhabit it. As an institution of Seattle’s art scene, it’s a must-see for any visiting art lover. The multi-level space is expertly curated, with a permanent collection, rotating exhibits, a library, and restaurant.
3. Pike Place Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21,511 reviews
One of the few authentic farmer's markets in the United States, this hub of delicious scents, delectable eats and delightful personalities attracts nine million visitors a year.
Reviewed By mhughes17 - Seattle, United States
Whether you live in Seattle, or are visiting, Pike Place Market is an awesome experience for every sense. You'll be surrounded by color, food, flowers, art, artisan cheeses, meats, flying fish (!), local arts and crafts, street musicians, and a great selection of restaurants from casual to one of the best kept secrets in Seattle - Maximillen's French Restaurant - tucked away behind the fish market on the south end of Pike Place on the top level. A wine list to die for, and fabulous French cuisine.
4. The Museum of Flight
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,675 reviews
Walk the aisle of JFK's Air Force One and climb aboard the West Coast's only Concorde. Revel in the history and heroics of WWI and WWII. Barrel-roll a Mustang, land on the moon, and soar over Puget Sound in a simulator. Experience the excitement of the space race and sit at the controls of the world's fastest jet. From the Wright brothers to the exploration of Mars, you'll find it at The Museum of Flight!
Reviewed By Jaretr1 - Miami, United States
Being an airplane geek, I had to check this out, and it was worth it! Its a fantastic museum that goes into the history of Boeing, as well as how aircraft contributed to both world wars, and then a display of aircraft in two locations, including my favorite, the prior Air Force one! Several of the planes can be walked through, like the Concord and the first 747 test plane.
5. Space Needle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 19,059 reviews
Seattle’s “must see” is now a “must do” following the Space Needle’s multimillion-dollar renovation. Glide onto The Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor, for never-before-seen views of the structure and the city. Lean into tilting glass walls on the open-air deck and float over Seattle on one of 24 angled Skyriser glass benches. Sip and sample the Pacific Northwest’s best while savoring the thrilling views. The future. Now open.
Reviewed By janinep851
We went on a Thursday and there was no line to access the Space Needle. A very fast elevator ride took us to top levels, which offered stunning views of Seattle and its surrounding countryside plus the ocean and Mt. Rainier. This is a super way to get your bearings on the city. The "glass" floor takes a little getting used to but you quickly learn to love it and the views it affords. We didn't eat at the restaurant but saw an accessible area for grabbing drinks. It's well worth the short time it takes to do this activity.
6. Golden Gardens Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 268 reviews
You won't find gold here, nor gardens, but with all the sand, sun and surf on this lovely beach, you won't even notice.
Reviewed By teresitalovestogo - Seattle, United States
Golden Gardens remains one of the best spots in Seattle. There are playgrounds, volleyball nets, walking paths, sand, views and FREE parking. Even on a gray day, the views of Puget Sound are gorgeous, and the people watching is unparalleled.
7. Gas Works Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 966 reviews
From industrial sludge to family fun: this urban park features an industrial plant-turned kiddie play area as well as a beautiful lake and picnic area.
Reviewed By LeslieOW - Poughkeepsie, United States
Our visit was one of those “while we’re in the neighborhood” things, and I’m so glad we followed through. The site is an abandoned gasification plant on the north shore of Lake Union, with a stunning view of the Seattle skyline and a great perspective on the pleasure craft and sea planes to be found on the lake. There’s a playground, extensive grounds and a kite-flying hill all overlooking the city, Queen Anne, and Capitol Hill. There were people of all ages enjoying the park while we were there. It’s a great site for picnicking, or for just chilling on the hillside. A word of advice—watch your step, because geese LOVE the place there are goose droppings everywhere.. Words don’t do justice to what a neat place this is!
8. Alki Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,051 reviews
Beach made famous in a scene from the movie "Sleepless in Seattle" where Tom Hanks flies a kite with his son.
Reviewed By DeeFry
We live in West Seattle, and the waterfront walk from Alki to Harbor Ave is the best place to bike and walk, with lots of cafes on the opposite side. However, the city should widen the walking part along Alki, because you end up walking single file when it's crowded, so cannot walk with your friend(s). Simply remove the plantings (no need to water nor take care of) that separate the biking from walking, and cement it so that it is wide like the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France. It's fun to watch the beach volleyball games, too.
9. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,045 reviews
This national park is really a free museum that documents Seattle history, from the fire that burned it down to the gold rush that helped build it up.
Reviewed By robertM865 - Seattle, United States
The story of the Klondike Gold Rush told here is wonderfully interesting for all ages. This Seattle museum is one half of the Klondike Museum. If you want to see the other half you have to travel to Skagway, Alaska where the twin museum is located. With plenty of exhibits to keep all ages occupied and interested, the admission tariff is quite reasonable - it is free. ! Donations are accepted and not required. The friendly staff is there to answer any questions and to make your visit as complete as possible. An activity involves getting stamps in a passport book at many exhibits. This makes the younger guests anxious to see all the museum contains. Even the location of the Museum is significant as the Cadillac Hotel housed many of the "Stampeders" when they traveled to and from the gold fields.
10. Seattle Japanese Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 415 reviews
An oasis of tranquility in the city, Seattle Japanese Garden invites visitors to indulge their senses and immerse themselves in quiet beauty. The Seattle Japanese Garden is open from March through November each year. More information on hours at seattlejapanesegarden.org.
Reviewed By gh788
Easy ambles along curated pathways in a beautiful garden that pleases every sense ~ peaceful, colourful, verdant, with delightful varieties of things that bloom or/and have interesting leaves / structures ~ and a wonderful pond with big brilliant koi fish and large turtles lazing along...
