Have fun with these 13 activities to do in summer in Seattle

You may already know that Seattle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., with historic landmarks and trendy neighborhoods galore. Though Seattle can’t escape its identity as a rainy Pacific Northwest metropolis, Seattle in summer is a time for outdoor activities, Puget Sound cruises, and beach days.

Come June, Seattleites dawn on their SPF and head to spots like Alki Beach, Discovery Park, Lake Union, and Pike Place for their fix of warm weather fun. The rain-free forecast also means better sightseeing opportunities. Take advantage of this guide to 13 fun things to do in Seattle in summer to enjoy the city during its sunniest days.

Best sightseeing activities in Seattle for summer

1. Take a local-guided tour of the Emerald City

Explore Seattle’s top attractions with a sightseeing tour that highlights the city’s unique charm and vibrant culture. Typical tours include iconic sites like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Smith Tower. Even if you’re a Seattle local, it’s fun to see the city from a new perspective and refresh your memory on Seattle's most important landmarks.

Why go in summer:

Summer has the most reliable weather for sightseeing around the city.

2. Marvel at the creative possibilities of glass at Chihuly

Chihuly Garden and Glass is one of the top art museums in Seattle for good reason. The museum houses eight dazzling galleries and a garden that showcases Dale Chihuly's intricate glass sculptures. The Glasshouse is 40 feet tall and covers 4,500 square feet, and its centerpiece is a 100-foot-long suspended sculpture that changes color as the light hits it.

Why go in summer:

Summer light enhances the beauty of the sculptures, and warmer weather means you can enjoy the museum's outdoor spaces morning and night.

Address and opening hours:

305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109. Opening hours vary, with hours posted on Chihuly's website approximately one month in advance.

3. Eat on the go at Pike Place Market

Arguably the city’s most popular marketplace, Pike Place Market is essential for those seeking the best food in Seattle. You can easily spend hours exploring the market stalls and little shops while meeting local small-business owners along the way. Free samples are offered throughout the market, but joining a tasting tour has additional perks, like being led by a local chef.

Why go in summer:

The market is brimming with fresh, local produce and offers plenty of outdoor seating, perfect for a sunny day.

Address and opening hours:

85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101 Open daily 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (some locations stay open later).

4. Experience Seattle’s ferry system

Seattle’s ferry system offers a scenic way to explore the beautiful waters of Puget Sound and a convenient way to get to nearby Islands. Popular islands to visit for the day or a weekend trip include Bainbridge Island, Whidbey Island, San Juan Island, and Vashon Island.

Why go in summer:

Summer is a great time to take a ferry ride because the weather is warm and the days are long, giving you plenty of time to explore nearby islands.

Best nature activities in Seattle for summer

5. See the wildlife at Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is an awesome destination for animal lovers in Seattle. The park features over 1,000 animals from around the world and cares for endangered wildlife as well as animals local to the area, all in natural habitats. The Woodland Park Zoo’s Living Northwest Trail is dedicated to the Pacific Northwest.

Why go in summer:

Summer allows you to explore the outdoor exhibits comfortably and enjoy special seasonal events like the ZooTunes concert series.

Address and opening hours:

5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA, 98103. Open May 1-September 2, 9:30 AM-6:00 PM, and September 3-April 30, 9:30 AM-4:00 PM every day (except Christmas).

6. Watch whales play from up close

Whale watching in Seattle means getting the exciting chance to see orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales in their natural habitat. The waters of the Pacific Northwest, especially around the San Juan Islands, are renowned for their rich marine life, making Seattle a perfect starting point for seeing the region's rich variety of whales.

Why go in summer:

Summer is prime whale-watching season — you’ll have the best opportunities to see these creatures up close.

7. Bike through the trails of Discovery Park

Discovery Park, Seattle’s largest green space, offers over 500 acres of forest, meadows, and sandy shorelines. Biking is one of the park’s most popular activities, but you can also hike to the West Point Lighthouse, go bird-watching, or visit the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center to learn about Seattle's Indigenous tribes. Exploring the park is a fun way to soak in Seattle's coastal views and explore the dense woodlands.

Why go in summer:

Summer is ideal for biking at Discovery Park because the weather is pleasant, and the trails are dry.

Address and opening hours:

Discovery Park, Seattle, WA, 98199. Open 4:00 AM-11:30 PM every day.

Best water activities in Seattle in Summer

8. Enjoy a relaxing cruise across Elliott Bay

See Downtown Seattle sights, Mt. Rainer, and the Olympic Mountains from the comfort of the water on a sailing trip across Elliott Bay. On clear days, you can spot landmarks like the Space Needle. Floating on Elliott Bay is a peaceful way to experience the region's beauty, offering some of the best photo ops day and night.

Why go in summer:

Clear skies and calm waters during summer make for the most enjoyable and picturesque cruising experience

Address:

Elliott Bay, Seattle, WA. Open 24/7.

8. Beat the heat at the International Fountain

The International Fountain was initially constructed for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair but is now a cooling destination on a hot summer day. The large steel dome is set in a concrete basin, with nozzles and jets sending water up to 125 feet high. This is a creative alternative to escaping the heat if the pool or beach is too crowded.

Why go in summer:

While the fountain runs all year, summer is usually the only time it’s warm enough to enjoy the water.

Address and opening hours:

305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109. Open 24/7.

10. Swim and play at Madison Park Beach

Madison Park Beach is a 400-foot sandy beach situated on the shores of Lake Washington. The beach has a lifeguard-supervised swimming area, two tennis courts, and a large grassy area where you can stretch out and soak in the sun. There's also a playground with swings and benches, so this is also a great family-friendly beach option.

Why go in summer:

Higher temperatures and sunny days make summer ideal for swimming and beach activities.

Address and opening hours:

1900 43rd Ave E, Seattle, WA 98112. Open 4:00 AM-11:30 PM every day.

12. Experience life on the water at the Ballard Locks

For a vibe of what life might be like living by the water, head to the Ballard Locks. Connecting Salmon Bay and Lake Washington to the neighborhoods of Ballard and Magnolia, this spot gives you a feel for off-the-track city living. Walk around the water or take a cruise to see the quirky houseboats.

Why go in summer:

A host of summer events happen at the Locks, including a long lineup of free things to do in Seattle.

Address and opening hours:

3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107. Open 24/7.

12. Have a bonfire at Alki Beach

Alki Beach in West Seattle is a beloved local spot with a laid-back vibe and views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s great for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or a casual stroll on the sand. Plenty of restaurant and cafe options are nearby, so you can plan a whole day here.

Why go in summer:

Summer weather means you can enjoy the beach all day long. Plus, bonfires are permitted only during this season.

Address and opening hours:

Alki Beach, Seattle, WA, 98116. Open 4:00 AM-11:30 PM every day.

13. Kayak or paddleboard on Lake Union

Lake Union is a beautiful spot for kayaking or paddleboarding, a fan-favorite summer activity in Seattle. You can see houseboats, seaplanes, and the steampunk Gas Works Park from the lake. To escape the summer crowds, head to the area near Gas Works Park, which is sometimes less crowded than other parts of the lake.

Why go in summer:

Warm weather, calmer waters, and clear skies mean the most pleasant time to enjoy water activities on Lake Union.

Address and opening hours:

Lake Union, Seattle, WA. Open 24/7.

FAQs

Where can I go swimming or relax by the water in Seattle?

Go swimming at one of the lifeguarded beaches in Seattle, such as Madison Beach, Matthews Beach, or Mt. Baker Beach. Alki Beach and Golden Gardens Park don’t have lifeguards. If you prefer to relax by the water, head to Green Lake Park.

Are there any great summer festivals in Seattle?

Popular summer festivals in Seattle include the Seattle Chamber Music Festival, the Seattle Art Fair, and the Pride Festival. A complete list of Seatle festivals can be found on Visit Seattle.

What are the must-visit outdoor attractions in Seattle?

For must-do outdoor activities in Seattle, bike the Burke-Gilman Trail. Alternatively, take a trip to Bainbridge Island and explore the beaches and coves. The Olympic Sculpture Park and Kerry Park are also great options.

What are some great day trips to take from Seattle in the summer?

Mount Rainier National Park, about 2 hours away by car, is a fantastic day trip offering hiking trails, wildflower meadows, and mountain views. For small-town charm, visit Gig Harbor. You can also ferry to islands such as Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, and Whidbey Island.

What are some fun activities to do with kids in Seattle in summer?

For fun activities for kids in Seattle, visit one of the city's many playgrounds. Seward Park Playground, with its expansive play areas and lake views, and Alki Playground, near the beach, are popular destinations for families. Additionally, the Woodland Park Zoo, the Seattle Children’s Museum, and the Seattle Great Wheel are kid-friendly attractions.