David Go
Seattle, the Emerald City, beckons travelers with its unique blend of urban sophistication, stunning natural beauty, and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. From iconic landmarks that touch the sky to vibrant markets brimming with local flavor, Seattle offers an adventure for every kind of explorer. Whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, a nature lover, or simply seeking new discoveries, this Pacific Northwest jewel has something extraordinary in store. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we unveil the top 7 places you simply must visit in Seattle.
Space Needle
The Space Needle stands as Seattle’s most recognizable landmark, a futuristic marvel offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the majestic Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. Visitors ascend to the 520-foot-high observation deck for breathtaking 360-degree vistas, where the innovative Loupe glass floor provides a thrilling perspective straight down. This iconic structure, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, continues to captivate with its unique architecture and the rotating SkyCity Restaurant, providing an unforgettable dining experience coupled with ever-changing scenery. It’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to grasp the beauty and layout of Seattle from above.
Type
- ✔ Observation Deck
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Price Level
- ✔ Expensive
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ❌ Free parking lot
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ❌ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
- ❌ Free garage parking
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ NFC
Pike Place Market
A true gem of Seattle, Pike Place Market is a bustling, historic public market overlooking Elliott Bay, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. Established in 1907, it’s one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. Visitors are enchanted by the famous fishmongers who spectacularly toss fish, the bountiful displays of fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and fragrant flowers. Beyond the main arcades, explore a labyrinth of shops, restaurants, and hidden gems, including the original Starbucks. Pike Place Market is an immersive sensory experience, a cornerstone of Seattle’s culture, and a must-visit for foodies and shoppers alike.
Type
- ✔ Market
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Restroom
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ❌ Free parking lot
- ❌ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
- ❌ Free garage parking
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Nestled at the base of the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is an awe-inspiring exhibition dedicated to the Studio Glass movement artist Dale Chihuly. This stunning attraction features magnificent glass installations both indoors and outdoors, including a vibrant garden where intricate glass sculptures intertwine with natural flora, and a breathtaking Glasshouse housing a 100-foot-long suspended sculpture in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The exhibition offers a mesmerizing journey through Chihuly’s prolific career, showcasing his mastery of color, light, and form. It’s a visually spectacular experience that delights art lovers and casual visitors alike, creating truly unforgettable photographic opportunities.
Type
- ✔ Museum
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Restroom
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Seattle Aquarium
Perched on Pier 59 along Seattle’s vibrant waterfront, the Seattle Aquarium offers an engaging and educational journey into the diverse marine life of Puget Sound and beyond. Visitors can marvel at captivating exhibits featuring everything from majestic octopuses and playful sea otters to mesmerizing jellyfish and an impressive underwater dome showcasing sharks and other large fish. The interactive tide pools provide a hands-on experience, allowing guests of all ages to touch sea stars and anemones. Committed to marine conservation, the aquarium provides an immersive and inspiring experience, making it a perfect destination for families and anyone passionate about the ocean’s wonders.
Type
- ✔ Aquarium
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Restroom
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid street parking
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Kerry Park
For arguably the most iconic and breathtaking views of Seattle’s skyline, a visit to Kerry Park is essential. Located atop Queen Anne Hill, this relatively small neighborhood park offers an unparalleled panoramic vista that perfectly frames the Space Needle with downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and Bainbridge Island in the background. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, tourists, and locals alike, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. The park’s serene atmosphere, coupled with its dramatic backdrop, makes it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply to soak in the stunning beauty of the Emerald City.
Type
- ✔ Park and Garden
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Allows Dogs
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ No
Parking options
- ✔ Free street parking
Payment options
- ❌ Credit Card
- ❌ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ❌ NFC
Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP, is a vibrant and architecturally striking institution at the Seattle Center dedicated to contemporary popular culture. Housed in a Frank Gehry-designed building, MoPOP celebrates music, science fiction, fantasy, and video games through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. Visitors can delve into the history of music with displays on local legends like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, explore worlds of fantasy with props from iconic films, and even try their hand at musical instruments. MoPOP offers an engaging, dynamic, and often nostalgic experience for fans of all ages, making it a unique cultural hub in the heart of Seattle.
Type
- ✔ Museum
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Restroom
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ NFC
The Museum of Flight
Situated at Boeing Field, The Museum of Flight is one of the world’s largest air and space museums, a paradise for aviation enthusiasts and curious minds alike. It boasts an incredible collection of over 170 aircraft and spacecraft, including the original Boeing 747, a Concorde supersonic jet, and a dedicated gallery to the Space Shuttle. Visitors can walk through historic planes, explore a full-scale replica of the Apollo Command Module, and delve into the fascinating history of human flight and space exploration. The museum provides an immersive, educational experience for all ages, offering a comprehensive look at the wonders of aerospace innovation and achievement.
Type
- ✔ Museum
Business Status
- ✔ Operational
Offers Delivery
- ✔ Yes
Good for Children
- ✔ Yes
Has Restroom
- ✔ Yes
Has Wifi
- ✔ Yes
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Seattle is a city that truly has it all – panoramic views, world-class art, bustling markets, and a deep connection to innovation and nature. These top 7 attractions represent just a glimpse into the diverse experiences awaiting you in the Emerald City. Each destination offers its own unique charm and unforgettable memories, promising a travel experience that will leave you wanting to explore even more. So pack your bags, embrace the Pacific Northwest spirit, and discover the magic of Seattle for yourself!
