20 of the best things to do in Seattle

20.09.2024 - 09:01 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 19, 2024 • 9 min read

Seattle's frequent rain contributes to the lush beauty and vibrant life that make the city so special. Don’t let it deter your exploration – this city offers a diverse array of unique activities to enjoy. 

Among that beauty and life is a throng of diverse and unique things to do. From experiencing the historical music scene that brought legends like Nirvana to the forefront of the industry to dining at fresh seafood joints with a beautiful mountain backdrop, here are some of my favorite things to do in the Emerald City.

To get your nature fix without actually leaving the city, Discovery Park is the place to go with 534 acres of natural area to explore. As Seattle's largest green space, it's a haven for wildlife and offers stunning views of Puget Sound.

Go for a hike on the 12 miles of trails among the evergreen trees, relax or search for seashells on the sandy beach or visit the West Point Lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1881. The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center tells the history of the Indigenous Duwamish who once lived on the land.

Pike Place Market has a special place in the heart of Seattle. This famous market, with its maze of shops and foodie spots, is a must-visit. The market is currently undergoing an exciting expansion, which includes the construction of the Overlook Walk. Scheduled to open in 2025, this elevated pedestrian bridge will connect the MarketFront Pavilion to the waterfront below, providing expansive views of Elliott Bay and a seamless route for visitors. The Overlook Walk will feature play areas for families, public plazas with seating and lush terraced landscaping, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and taking in the sights. There’s a wall where you can leave your mark with a chewed-up piece of gum – is it fascinating or unsanitary? You decide.

Watch seafood vendors fling fish from one part of the store to another. Most come for the spectacle, but the ultra-fresh filets or shellfish make for an unforgettable home-cooked meal.

Stroll around the many quirky shops like Eighth Generation, an Indigenous-owned home goods and art shop, Lamplight Books, a used book store with everything from modern literature to vintage favorites, or massive footwear at the Giant Shoe Museum. But who are we kidding? You came here to eat.

Planning tip: Go hungry. Find tasty Russian dumplings at Piroshky Piroshky, swig some Rachel’s Ginger Beer, indulge in the best mac 'n' cheese you’ve ever tasted at Beecher's Handmade Cheese or grab a sweet Earl Grey cookie at Three Girls Bakery. With the ongoing development, you'll soon be able to enjoy your market finds while strolling along the new promenade that will link Pike Place Market directly to the waterfront,