Seattle Travel Guide: Explore the Emerald City & Top Things to Do

Seattle—the beginning of so many fun adventures! This beautiful city has so much to see and do, from iconic landmarks and incredible food to stunning waterfront views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re starting a cruise, exploring the Pacific Northwest, or spending a few days discovering the city, Seattle is a destination worth taking the time to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Seattle

Downtown Seattle can be expensive—especially during the summer months! If you want to stay closer to the action without paying quite as much, look for hotels near the Space Needle. You’ll still be close to many of Seattle’s popular attractions while potentially saving a little on your hotel.

If you’re really looking to save money, consider staying near the airport. It’s a bit farther from the city, but a taxi or Uber typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Another option is the light rail, which can be an easy and budget-friendly way to get into downtown Seattle.

Getting Around Seattle

If you’re staying near the airport, the Sound Transit is an easy and affordable way to get into downtown Seattle. Sound Transit’s Link light rail runs daily between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and downtown Seattle, with trains arriving every 6–15 minutes depending on the time of day. The trip to Westlake Station takes about 40 minutes.

Fares are typically $3 for adults and $1.50 for children ages 6–19 each way. For current schedules and fares, check Sound Transit before your trip.

What is an ORCA Card?

The ORCA Card (One Regional Card for All) is the smart card system used to pay for public transit across the Central Puget Sound region. It eliminates the need for paper tickets and exact cash across multiple transit networks

The Seattle Monorail

Staying near the Space Needle? The Seattle Center Monorail is a fun and convenient way to travel between downtown and Seattle Center, home of the Space Needle. The monorail is also a Seattle landmark in its own right—it opened in 1962 and remains one of the city’s most recognizable ways to get around.

The Space Needle

The Space Needle is one of Seattle’s most recognizable landmarks and a true icon of the city. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, its futuristic design was inspired by the idea of creating a structure that represented humanity’s aspirations during the Space Age.

Standing 520 feet tall, the Space Needle’s distinctive saucer-shaped “Top House” offers incredible 360-degree views of Seattle and the surrounding area. From the observation levels, you can take in downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains, and the Olympic Mountains.

And if you’re hungry while you’re up there, there are dining options available at the top. Reservations aren’t always required, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Free Seattle Waterfront Shuttle

Did you know Seattle has a free waterfront shuttle? It’s a great way to explore the waterfront without worrying about parking or paying for transportation.

The shuttle typically operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. If you’re visiting Seattle during the summer, this can be a convenient way to get around and see more of the waterfront.

Cruising from Seattle? Be sure to note that the cruise ship terminal pickup is at Pier 66, not Pier 91. That little detail can save you some confusion when planning your day.

Seattle Underground Tour

Looking for something fun and unusual to do with the kids? The Seattle Underground Tour is one of the city’s most unique attractions—and definitely an experience you won’t forget!

This humorous and fascinating walking tour takes you beneath the streets of Pioneer Square to explore the hidden storefronts, sidewalks, and passageways that were buried when Seattle rebuilt the city after the Great Seattle Fire of 1889.

You would never know this hidden world existed without taking the tour! The approximately 75-minute guided walking tour begins beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House before heading into historic Pioneer Square, considered Seattle’s birthplace. From there, you’ll descend underground for a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and a time-capsule view of the streets that once stood above.

It’s a fun way to experience a completely different side of Seattle—and one the kids are likely to remember!

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a must-do when visiting Seattle! This iconic market has been a beloved part of the city for more than a century and is one of those places you really need to experience in person.

Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market covers nine historic acres and is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors. Founded in 1907, it is one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States and is home to hundreds of farmers, artisans, food vendors, and small businesses.

One of the most entertaining things to watch is the famous fish-throwing tradition. The fishmongers toss fish through the air as orders are prepared—definitely have your camera ready!

Take your time wandering through the market and enjoy samples of Pacific Northwest and international foods, admire the beautiful fresh flower bouquets, and browse the many craft and specialty booths. There’s something interesting around almost every corner.

And don't forget to take a selfie with Rachel the Piggy Bank, the large bronze pig located beneath the famous Public Market Center sign and clock. Rachel is named after the real pig that inspired the statue, and donations placed in her help support the Market Foundation and its work in the community.

Tip: Give yourself plenty of time to explore. Pike Place Market is much more than a quick photo stop—you could easily spend several hours eating, shopping, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Seattle Aquarium

If you’re visiting Seattle with kids, the Seattle Aquarium is a great addition to your itinerary. Located on Pier 59 along the Elliott Bay waterfront, the aquarium offers an up-close look at the incredible marine life of the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

The Seattle Aquarium provides visitors with a fascinating window into the underwater world while highlighting ocean conservation, marine research, and the importance of protecting our oceans. It’s an entertaining experience for the whole family and a great way to learn more about the marine environment surrounding Seattle.

Located right on the waterfront, the aquarium is also easy to combine with other popular Seattle attractions, making it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

Have Sports Fans in Your Group?

Catch a Seattle Mariners Game

If you’re visiting Seattle during baseball season, consider catching a game and cheering on the home team! A Seattle Mariners baseball game is a fun way to spend a summer afternoon or evening and experience a little local sports culture.

Head to T-Mobile Park, home of the Mariners, for an exciting game-day experience. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, the atmosphere, food, and views from the ballpark can make this a fun addition to your Seattle itinerary.

Tour Lumen Field – Home of the Seattle Seahawks

Have NFL fans in your group? Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Lumen Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks! Whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a casual sports fan, or someone who calls the field a “pitch,” this approximately 90-minute tour offers a fun look inside one of Seattle’s most iconic sports venues.

The tour is designed to entertain and educate football fans of all ages. Be sure to bring your camera because the views from the 300 Level concourses are impressive. On clear days, you can see sweeping views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, along with a beautiful view of downtown Seattle.

Tour tickets can be purchased online or in person at the NW Box Office on Occidental Avenue. Tours can sell out, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and purchase your tickets in advance.

Museum of Flight

Kids of all ages will enjoy a visit to the Museum of Flight at Boeing Field! Located about nine miles south of downtown Seattle, this massive museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts—and surprisingly fascinating even if you’re not a huge fan of airplanes.

Seattle has a long and important history in aviation. In 1916, William Boeing founded the Pacific Aero Products Co. and began building seaplanes using locally sourced spruce wood. That early company would eventually become the Boeing Company, helping establish the region as a major center for aviation.

Today, the Museum of Flight brings that history to life with an enormous collection of aircraft and exhibits covering everything from the early days of flight to modern aviation and space exploration.

If you’re an aviation fan, this is an easy addition to your Seattle itinerary. But even if airplanes aren’t your thing, the sheer size and variety of the collection are impressive. Where else can you explore a Space Shuttle, Air Force One, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and Concorde all in one visit?

It’s an entertaining and educational stop for the entire family—and a great way to experience Seattle’s connection to the history of flight.

Day Trips from Seattle

Bainbridge Island Day Trip from Seattle

Looking for one of the best day trips from Seattle? A visit to Bainbridge Island is a wonderful choice—and getting there is part of the fun! The short ferry ride across Puget Sound offers beautiful views and a relaxing break from the city.

Plan to spend an afternoon or even a full day exploring Winslow, the charming town where the ferry arrives. You’ll find plenty of hidden gems for foodies, along with local shops, galleries, and places to wander.

You can walk onto the ferry at Pier 50 in downtown Seattle or bring your car if you want the flexibility to explore more of the island. Ferry schedules and fares vary, so check the current information before you go.

Tip: If you’re planning a Seattle itinerary, Bainbridge Island is an easy way to add a little island time and beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery to your trip.

Woodinville Wine Country

Do you love wine? Then Woodinville Wine Country should definitely be on your Seattle itinerary! Located about 30 minutes northeast of Seattle in the beautiful Sammamish River Valley, Woodinville is a fantastic day trip for wine lovers.

Today, Woodinville is home to more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms, representing wine grapes from growing regions throughout Washington. The area has grown into a popular wine destination, but it all started with Chateau Ste. Michelle, which introduced its first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon in 1976. It took nearly 30 years for Woodinville to develop into the wine destination it is today.

Woodinville Wine Country is divided into four distinct districts: the Hollywood District, West Valley District, Warehouse District, and Downtown District. If you only have one day, choose a district and spend the day exploring its wineries and tasting rooms. Many are close enough to walk between, making it easy to enjoy several without constantly getting back in the car.

Or, if you have more time, take a drive through the beautiful valley and visit wineries in several different districts. There are plenty of options for wine lovers to explore!

Traveling with wine? If you plan to bring a bottle or two home from your trip, you'll want to protect those precious purchases along the way. These wine bottle travel protectors are a great addition to your suitcase.

More Things to Do in Seattle

There are so many things to do in Seattle that I could never fit them all into one blog post! Be sure to add the Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), the original Starbucks location at Pike Place Market, and the first Nordstrom store to your Seattle sightseeing list.

One of my favorite ways to experience a city is simply to walk and explore. Take your time wandering through Seattle, enjoy some fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, go whale watching, and see where the day takes you. There’s always something new around the next corner.

Looking for even more Seattle tours and experiences? You can book these and many other excursions through Viator.

Enjoy this magical place—Seattle, the Emerald City! 💚

Seattle Cruise Luggage Storage

If you’re cruising from Seattle and have some time to explore after your cruise, you may be wondering what to do with your luggage.

If your cruise line offers Port Valet and the service is available for your airline, it can be a convenient option. Details, participating airlines, and the cost will be provided onboard your cruise.

If Port Valet isn't available for your sailing or airline, there are also luggage storage options near the cruise terminals for a fee. This can be especially helpful if you have several hours to explore Seattle before heading to the airport.

Cruising to Alaska?

If Seattle is your starting point for an Alaska cruise, be sure to check out my Alaska packing guide before you go. After cruising Alaska more than 15 times, I've learned that packing for Alaska is all about layers and being prepared for changing weather!

What to Pack for Alaska

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