Seattle, Washington

Top Things to Do in Seattle

Sights

The spectacular variety of Pike Place Market; the view from the Space Needle; the view of Puget Sound from the decks of Washington State Ferries; the Volkswagen-crushing troll and other public art in Fremont; the historic buildings and galleries of Pioneer Square Historic District; the city skyline from Gas Works Park; the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard. 

Museums

The interactive music exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture and the adjoining Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame; Native American and African art at the Seattle Art Museum; the stunning Olympic Sculpture Park on the waterfront; the impressive holdings of the Seattle Asian Art Museum; cutting-edge contemporary art at the University of Washington's Henry Gallery; aviation and aerospace artifacts at the Museum of Flight; gorgeous glassworks at Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Memorable Meals

The fresh seafood and beautiful views at Anthony's Pier 66 and Chinook's at Salmon Bay; creative Pacific Northwest dishes at the legendary Dahlia Lounge; unique Italian-American entrees and cabaret-style entertainment at The Pink Door; the inspired dishes and table-side service at El Gaucho; espresso everywhere.

Late Night

Dessert at Dilettante Mocha Cafe; jazz at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley; the best bands in town at Tractor Tavern, Neumos or The Showbox; salsa and swing dancing at Century Ballroom; viewing city lights from Salty's on Alki Beach; hanging out in Belltown; bar-hopping on Capitol Hill; late-night breakfast at 13 Coins Restaurant.

Walks

The Washington Park Arboretum and its Japanese Garden; Volunteer Park Conservatory on Capitol Hill; Alki Beach Park for a California-esque stroll; walking, biking or skating through the city on the Burke-Gilman Trail.

Especially for Kids

The Children's Museum in the Seattle Center; interactive exhibits at Pacific Science Center; the tide pools at the Seattle Aquarium; the highly regarded Woodland Park Zoo; the covered playground at Gas Works Park; Carkeek Park; the fish ladder at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks; the bizarre Archie McPhee toy and novelty shop.