Location: Seattle
Top Things to do in Seattle
10 Things to Do 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 based on 19 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 JeannineBC - Kelowna, Canada
Wow. The colours, shapes and feeling of the designs were just incredible. This was my favourite activity while in Seattle, even just sitting in the garden was superb. The staff are friendly and even give a glass blowing demonstration which was brilliant. I had wanted to see the gallery but had no idea how enthralled we would be. We thought we were filling some time before going to the space needle but this was the best exhibition, we spent approximately 2.5 hours here and it easily could have been longer. Definitely recommend.
2. Pike Place Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 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 SadhanaRakesh - Recife, PE
One must visit the Public Market Center – Pike Place Market whenever you are in Seattle / Seattle downtown. It was not very busy during weekdays. Enjoyed the great view around including the giant wheel side.
Since it is a covered market, it is suitable to visit all the seasons including a rainy day. Have a look at fresh flowers, fresh fruits and seafood. Coffee shops and bakery are plenty.
Farmers market provides to the opportunity to see a variety of fresh vegetables at reasonable cost.
One can have a look of Cheese making process through glass window – various types of fresh cheese, all very tasty!
It is open all the seven days! Good for shopping too.
3. Space Needle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
If you see one thing in Seattle, see everything. Explore jaw-dropping 360° views on the Observation Deck: majestic mountains, sparkling waters, towering skyscrapers, and beyond. Plus, use award-winning interactive technology to explore the icon’s history and Seattle’s sights like never before.
Reviewed By 19243 - Baton Rouge
For such an icon of Seattle, this place is completely underwhelming. Ride an elevator. Take in a view & ride an elevator. Won’t do again.
4. The Museum of Flight
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5 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 William S - Mentor, Ohio
Any child involved in STEM classes needs to go to this museum. Leave yourself about 2.5 to 3 hours to see everything. I’m not a science person so it was all fascinating to me what goes into getting these huge aircraft off the ground. Very interesting and informational movies and the docents are exceptionally informative. Great experience for a rainy day in Seattle.
5. Benaroya Hall
Overall Ratings
5 based on 487 reviews
The new home of the Seattle Symphony.
Reviewed By Rehsinup19 - Kent, Washington
We met friends here for the Coats Christmas concert and had a nice experience. The concert hall is quite attractive and the sight lines are good from anywhere in the theater. The acoustics are well designed.
6. Sky View Observatory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By chrish77 - South Bend, Indiana
We went in late afternoon and went back just before dusk. They’ll stamp your hand so you can come back once the city lights up after dark. The only issue I had was the reflection from the interior lights reflecting off the windows and creating a glare. The glare overexposes the pictures. But, it’s a great way to see the city and surrounding area. We went on the first night we were in town which helped us plan where we would go for the remainder of our visit.
7. Living Computers: Museum + Labs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 134 reviews
Living Computers: Museum + Labs, located in Seattle, Washington, is dedicated to preserving and displaying working examples of historic computers that tell the story of our journey away from computing as a difficult and expensive undertaking toward the universal access to information technology we enjoy today. On any given day at the Living Computers: Museum + Labs, you might see our staff working to restore our vintage machines. Starting November 18th, we will also make a fantastic array of new technology available to our visitors featuring topics in modern computing, such as AI, VR, robotics, and self-driving cars. We believe that the best way for people to fully understand computing systems is by experiencing them.
Reviewed By KendianaJones - Burien, WA
This museum is a playground for the computer geek. The older you are, the more different eras will be familiar to you. There are numerous hands-on exhibits. Signboards provide interesting stories of the ascent and decline of various companies, as well as the technological breakthroughs.
My favorite was the upstairs cold room - with raised flooring holding 1980’s and 1990’s equipment, including functional line printers stocked with actual 11x17” fanfold green-bar paper! There are magnetic tape drives, and numerous tapes, complete with write rings.
I thought I might have some old computer equipment to donate, but I was wrong. They have almost everything. From talking to a docent I learned that they have a Wish List on their web page, for the only items they are accepting. I was unable to help.
I was there only two hours, and it just wasn’t enough. I just barely got started on the upstairs when I ran out of time. I will be back.
TIP: The museum offers free admission the first Thursday of each month, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
8. Seattle Symphony
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 193 reviews
Take a break and take in some Bach or Berlioz here.
Reviewed By Frederic S - Dayton,OH
My grandson and I attended the performance of the Ninth Symphony by Beethoven. BenaRoya Hall is an outstanding venue - excellent acoustics and not a bad seat in the house. The hall was completely sold out. The instrumentalists were top notch. The 120-voice chorus was very impressive. My 17-year-old grandson who is musically inclined found the experience "fabulous," and I couldn't agree more!
9. Washington State Ferries
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By HTCWI - Marathon, WI
We took the Ferry to Bainbridge Island and it was a pleasant beautiful journey! Easy to purchase tickets, plenty of space and a variety of times to catch the ferry back to Seattle! For land locked folks this is a relaxing water adventure!
10. 5th Avenue Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 394 reviews
Reviewed By TomAfar
Had the chance to see Mamma Mia on matinee. What a wonderful, ornate gem. Drinks and food were available, staff on hand to set you and the show was wonderful. If you ever get a chance to attend a play or musical make sure you take the time to come early and soak it all in.
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