A complete guide to the city of Seattle

When Diane LaVonne says eating in Seattle is “an exploration of the people, places, and history of the Pacific Northwest,” she isn’t lying. She’s made a business out of it. Diane’s Market Kitchen, minutes from Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, is a much-loved fixture on the city’s food scene for its community-led approach and celebration of Washington’s enviable larder. Her intimate group cooking classes might be “inspired by connection, community, and companionship,” but that’s only a few of the ingredients in the mouthwatering dishes that result. Here, Diane tells us how her Kitchen came to be, what drives Seattle’s most unique culinary experience, and the food highlights no one should miss in the city.

Why is Seattle named The Emerald City? Year-round, it’s compellingly lush and green. With forests, mountains, and almost 500 parks, Seattle is made for outdoor activities. It’s sandwiched between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, so there are plenty of opportunities to get out on kayaks, boats, and paddleboards, too. If Washington’s supposedly famous rain puts you off, you’ll be pleased to learn that it isn’t the wettest state, not even in the top 10. So whether you enjoy scenic hikes in the likes of North Cascades National Park, summiting dizzying peaks like Mount Rainier, or cruising on stunning waters like Puget Sound, you’ll find the perfect activity in this roundup of the best things to do outside in Seattle.

The largest city in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle has it all. Of course, a long weekend in the Emerald City should include some of Seattle’s exciting outdoor activities, but there’s so much to see if you keep it central. Culture is key, with museums and galleries from the Pacific Science Center to MoPOP. Sports fans can bag tickets to see the Seattle Kraken or the Mariners play. The food scene is a big draw, and a weekend of foodie exploration is as exciting as visiting any of Seattle’s landmarks. That said, you can’t skip a trip to the top of the iconic Space Needle for 360-degree views from 520 feet. Ready to begin the ultimate Seattle weekend? Here’s your ultimate three-day Seattle itinerary.

Los Angeles–based content creator Jaimie owes her passion for travel to her parents, and started sharing her adventures on TikTok four years ago. Now, over 400,000 social media followers turn to her for travel inspiration and tips.

Seattle-based with Ukrainian roots, photographer and content creator Veronika has a deep love for the outdoors and a commitment to inspiring others to discover the beauty of travel through her photos.

Alabama-based couple Brennan and Ashley’s love of travel began on their honeymoon. Now, over a million TikTok and Instagram followers turn to them for travel inspiration and date ideas.

From Pike Place Market to the Smith Tower, Seattle is brimming with amazing sights that are waiting to be explored. This guide to the best places to visit in Seattle is packed with must-sees for art and history lovers, families, nature enthusiasts, adventurous types, and everyone in between.

You don’t have to look far for the best museums in Seattle. The city houses icons like the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Seattle Art Museum (SAM), the Pacific Science Center, and numerous others — all you have to do is choose where to go first.

Beyond Seattle’s bustling streets and famous landmarks are numerous hidden gems and secret places, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s soul. Imagine picking fresh veggies in a community garden or stumbling upon a 22-foot waterfall in the midst of the city. From the ancient trees of Schmitz Preserve Park to Fremont’s public art, each hidden place has a story to tell.

If you’re looking for the best art in Seattle, the city’s art museums promise a little bit of everything and then some. Sure, Seattle’s face value often equates to its skyline-piercing Space Needle and coffee culture, but it’s a fantastic art destination, too.

Winter means colder days and the potential for snow in Seattle, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to enjoy in the city. Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy coat, strolling through the illuminated pathways that show up at Green Lake during this season, or escaping the weather at an indoor tropical sanctuary. From tranquil gardens under a blanket of frost to lively cultural events that lighten up the shorter days, this guide unveils eight of the best things to do in Seattle in winter for all interests and ages.

As the leaves begin to turn, Seattle in fall unveils a charm unlike any other season. Known for its vibrant autumn foliage and crisp, cool air, the city transforms into a picturesque haven of iconic Pacific Northwest autumn beauty. The city's cool, mild weather, with the occasional Seattle rainshower, is ideal for both outdoor adventures and cozy indoor explorations. From the breathtaking views of changing leaves to the warm embrace of its famed coffee culture, Seattle in fall offers an array of experiences that cater to every taste.

An iconic city synonymous with rainy weather, Seattle brilliantly showcases that a drizzle doesn't dampen its spirit. When searching for things to do in Seattle when it rains, you'll discover that the city's charm doesn't diminish with the weather. From exploring world-class museums like MoPop to engaging in creative workshops, there's no shortage of enriching experiences.

Discovering the best neighborhoods in Seattle is to embark on a journey through a city that's as diverse as it is dynamic. Each neighborhood in this gem of the Pacific Northwest offers its own unique flavor. From the historic charm of Pioneer Square to the trendy streets of Capitol Hill, Seattle's neighborhoods are a treasure trove of cultural, culinary, and artistic experiences. Whether you're drawn to the maritime heritage of Ballard or the eclectic energy of Fremont, each area promises a distinct slice of the city's character.

Nestled at the foot of the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a journey into a vibrant world of color, light, and imagination, where art and nature intertwine seamlessly. The brainchild of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, this iconic Seattle attraction has captivated visitors since opening in 2012.

With its signature 100-foot-long sculpture, the glasshouse is a marvel of engineering and artistic vision. Each gallery and garden tells a story, showcasing the evolution and breadth of Chihuly’s work and reflecting his unique style.

If you’re heading to Seattle, chances are you plan to visit the Space Needle, the city’s most prominent landmark. This architectural marvel, created for the 1962 World’s Fair, soars 605 feet above Seattle.

When you visit the Space Needle, you’re signing up for more than breathtaking views. This complete guide to the Space Needle will walk you through its intricacies, from experiencing the Loupe Lounge to the historical insights of interactive displays. Get everything you need to know about the Space Needle in one place, including must-see features, the best times to visit, and other practical tips.

As the chill of winter fades, Seattle emerges as a vibrant canvas of natural beauty and bustling activity in spring. Known for its enchanting cherry blossom season, the city transforms into an outdoor escape with pink and white blooms adorning the streets and parks. At the same time, Seattle neighborhoods come alive with seasonal festivals and markets, offering an authentic taste of local life. Whether it's hiking in the nearby mountains, kayaking on Lake Union, or simply enjoying a coffee in a cozy pub garden, the best things to do in Seattle in spring are all around.

Solo travel in Seattle is one of the best ways to experience the city of rain, coffee, and grunge music. Washington State’s largest city offers an array of activities that cater perfectly to the lone explorer. Traveling alone means you can explore Seattle at your own pace, whether that's sipping on drip coffee, discovering indie bookstores, or hiking.

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle’s unique location promises a plethora of weekend escapes. Whether you're drawn to the lush rainforests of Olympic National Park, the charming European vibes of Leavenworth, or the serene beauty of the San Juan Islands, the best weekend getaways from Seattle are never too far out of reach. From the bustling streets of Portland, Oregon, to the tranquil settings of Whidbey Island, Seattle’s proximity to both mountain ranges and the Pacific Ocean ensures that every weekend can be an entirely new adventure.

There are fun things to do in Seattle around every corner. Seriously. In a city where urban vibes meet natural beauty, having fun is an easy guarantee for everyone. Seattle’s coolest activities range from walking through Pike Place Market with a chef by your side to feeling the roar of fans at a Mariners game and exploring the city’s mysterious underground passageways.

Exploring Seattle doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. For those on the hunt for cheap things to do in Seattle, this city is a goldmine of free attractions.

Join free events in Seattle at the Frye Art Museum or browse the iconic Pike Place Market while enjoying the bustling atmosphere and complimentary samples. For one of the best free views of Seattle’s skyline, head to Kerry Park.

Seattle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., with historic landmarks and monuments galore. And as you'd expect in The Emerald City, it's a great vacation spot if you want to enjoy modern amenities surrounded by lush landscapes.

Reach for the stars at the Space Needle, take a selfie with the Fremont Troll, or explore the Olympic Sculpture Park - Seattle is full of exciting historical, natural and architectural landmarks. If you’re visiting the city in the summer, there are several to see outdoors, from beautiful Kerry Park to imposing Mount Rainier. And you can even count a few museums among them, such as the Pacific Science Center and the National Nordic Museum.

Seattle loves good, authentic food. Whether you consider yourself a diehard foodie or are simply looking for new dishes to try, finding food in Seattle is a flavorful adventure. From Beecher’s mac and cheese in Pike Place Market to salmon snacks rooted in Seattle’s Native American heritage, Seattle’s food scene promises a tasty mix of contemporary and traditional.

If you think “Sleepless in Seattle” has set the bar for romance in this city too high, don’t be discouraged just yet. There are plenty of equally romantic things to do in Seattle, whether you need anniversary ideas or activities for a first date.

A rainy day walk through the city’s best neighborhoods, a cozy cooking class near Pike Place Market, or dinner at the Space Needle are perfect opportunities for couples to create lasting memories. Need more ideas? Here’s a list of 12 romantic activities in Seattle that echo the magic of those classic rom-coms.

As the sun sets over the Emerald City, a new side of Seattle comes alive, inviting you to explore a host of nocturnal delights. See the stars from the top of the famous landmark of the Space Needle, uncover the city’s spookier side with a haunted pub crawl, or explore Seattle’s underground past.

From the iconic Space Needle to a multitude of enriching museums, like the Museum of Pop Culture, there's a myriad of things to do in Seattle with kids. This bustling city offers a wonderful blend of art museums, history, and nature that will captivate both adults and children.

Featuring some of Seattle’s most popular attractions and spaces, Downtown Seattle is a dynamic mix of the old and the new, where historic buildings like the Smith Tower stand tall amidst modern architectural marvels like the Seattle Central Library.

With the Seattle Waterfront and numerous landmarks, shopping areas, and diverse dining options all in one place, Downtown Seattle has everything you need for an authentic Seattle experience. This neighborhood guide will get you started on your Downtown Seattle adventure, from where to find the Gum Wall at Pike Place Market to some of the must-visit places along the waterfront.

Seattle offers a plethora of scenic spots waiting to be explored, from the sparkling Seattle skyline at Kerry Park to the serene reflections of Alki Beach. Along with the must-see view from the Space Needle, Seattle hides many lesser-known viewpoints that provide equally mesmerizing sights. Best of all? Many of these spots are free, ensuring you can soak in the beauty of Seattle without breaking the bank.

Not to be confused with the Capitol Hill of Washington D.C., Capitol Hill, Seattle is a hip, coffee-fueled neighborhood with eclectic character and a welcoming LGBTQIA+ scene in the state of Washington. To visit Capitol Hill is to experience a heady mix of artistic expression, diverse cuisine, and lively nightlife, making it a perfect destination for city explorers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts.