Things to do · Seattle, Washington, US

Things to Do in Seattle

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Getting there
Seattle is served by Seattle‑Tacoma International Airport, about 18 km (roughly 11 mi) north of downtown, with most domestic flights arriving from hubs such as Denver, Chicago and Los Angeles and many international connections via a Seattle‑to‑Seattle transfer. Travelers can also reach the city by Amtrak’s Coast Starlight or Cascades routes, which stop at King Street Station a short walk from the central business district, and by Interstate 5, the main highway linking Vancouver, BC and Portland, OR.
Who goes
Seattle welcomes roughly 40 million visitors each year, drawing a mix of business travelers, tech‑industry tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The summer months, especially July and August, see the highest crowds as people flock to waterfront attractions, while the early winter period from November through January tends to be quieter, offering a more relaxed city experience.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend around $70‑$100 USD per day (roughly ¥10,000‑¥15,000 CNY), while a comfortable stay might run about $150‑$200 USD daily (≈¥22,000‑¥30,000 CNY); meals and transportation typically take up the largest share of the budget. To stretch dollars further, consider purchasing a ORCA card for discounted transit fares and using it for the ferry rides that connect downtown to nearby islands. Estimate →

  1. Chihuly Garden and Glass

    museum · 4.8 rating

    Museum showcasing colorful blown glass sculptures by artist Dale Chihuly across indoor galleries and outdoor gardens.

  2. Pike Place Market

    market · 4.5 rating

    Seattle's historic public market on the waterfront, famous for its fishmongers, produce stalls, craft vendors, and the original Starbucks. It is one of the city's defining attractions for food, browsing, and atmosphere.

  3. Space Needle

    landmark · 4.3 rating

    Iconic observation tower in Queen Anne built for the 1962 World's Fair, with glass viewing decks and city views.

  4. Washington State Ferries

    experience · 4.6 rating

    Ferry system connecting Seattle to nearby islands and Puget Sound destinations.

  5. Museum of Pop Culture

    museum · 4.2 rating

    A striking Frank Gehry-designed museum near the Space Needle dedicated to music, film, and pop culture with immersive exhibits. A major draw for fans of entertainment and contemporary culture.

  6. The Museum of Flight

    museum · 4.7 rating

    World's largest air and space museum, built around Boeing's original factory site.

  7. Kubota Garden

    garden · 4.7 rating

    A serene 20-acre Japanese garden in south Seattle blending Japanese landscaping traditions with Pacific Northwest plants, featuring ponds, waterfalls, and hillside trails. Travelers visit for peaceful strolls and seasonal foliage.

  8. Pike Place Fish Market

    market · 4.6 rating

    The iconic Pike Place Market fish stall famous for its fishmongers tossing fish over the counter to entertain crowds. A must-see spectacle and seafood vendor.

  9. T-Mobile Park

    stadium · 4.6 rating

    Home stadium of the Seattle Mariners baseball team.

  10. Kerry Park

    park · 4.6 rating

    Terraced park offering panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier.

  11. Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

    landmark · 4.6 rating

    Waterway system connecting Puget Sound's saltwater to the Ship Canal's freshwater, known locally as the Ballard Locks.

  12. Sky View Observatory - Columbia Center

    viewpoint · 4.6 rating

    An enclosed observation deck near the top of Columbia Center, the tallest building in Seattle, offering panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains. Travelers visit for the highest public vantage point in the Pacific Northwest.

  13. University of Washington

    landmark · 4.7 rating

    A large, historic public university campus known for its Gothic architecture, the cherry blossom-lined Quad, and views of Mount Rainier. Travelers visit to walk the grounds, see the seasonal blooms, and explore campus landmarks like Suzzallo Library.

  14. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

    historic site · 4.5 rating

    A free museum in Pioneer Square telling the story of Seattle's role in the 1897 Klondike Gold Rush through exhibits and artifacts. A destination for history-minded travelers.

  15. Alki Beach

    beach · 4.4 rating

    Long beach strip stretching over 2.5 miles, popular for walking and beach activities.

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