Seattle, WA
Seattle rises where the mountains meet the sea, a city shaped by rain, innovation, and restless creativity. From the hum of espresso machines in cozy cafés to the salty air drifting off Puget Sound, Seattle feels alive—its skyline a mix of history and progress, its streets echoing with stories of dreamers, builders, and explorers who’ve always looked toward what’s next. This is a city where nature and urban energy intertwine, inviting you to wander, taste, and discover the soul of the Pacific Northwest.
Seattle is a fantastic place to visit, offering a plethora of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or just looking to explore a vibrant city, Seattle has something special for you.
Canoeing on Lake Union in downtown Seattle
Outdoor Adventures Galore
Seattle is an outdoor lover’s paradise, where the city’s vibrant culture meets breathtaking natural beauty. From kayaking on Lake Union and cycling along waterfront trails to hiking the nearby Cascades and exploring lush urban parks, the region offers endless opportunities for adventure. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and waterways, Seattle invites year-round exploration for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Hiking: Seattle is a paradise for hikers, surrounded by lush forests, glistening lakes, and rugged mountains. Trails wind through Discovery Park, offering forested paths and waterfront views, while nearby Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge, and the Snoqualmie Region challenge adventurers with breathtaking vistas. From easy urban strolls to strenuous mountain climbs, Seattle’s hiking options suit every level. Visit Washington Trails Association to locate a hike for your level of hiking and for a recent trail report. Learn more at wta.org
Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddling: Seattle’s waterways make it a paddler’s playground. Glide across Lake Union, take in the city skyline, or explore the quiet inlets of Lake Washington. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing offer a peaceful way to see the city from the water while spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds the urban landscape. Paddle in Lake Union or Puget Sound. A great place to rent gear and for an urban paddle is at Northwest Outdoor Center. Look at the famous Seattle houseboats right from a kayak or a stand up paddleboard.
Mountain Biking & Road Cycling: Seattle is a haven for cyclists, with miles of scenic bike paths weaving through neighborhoods, waterfronts, and parks. Urban riders can enjoy city routes along Elliott Bay or Lake Washington, while mountain biking enthusiasts have quick access to nearby trails in the Cascades and Olympic foothills, offering challenging terrain and stunning Pacific Northwest views. Enjoy the scenic routes and bike-friendly paths. Check out the Burke Gilman urban trail system.
Scuba Diving: Dive into the rich underwater world of the Pacific Northwest. Seattle offers exciting opportunities for scuba diving, with its rich marine ecosystems in Puget Sound and nearby lakes. Divers can explore kelp forests, encounter colorful marine life, and investigate historic shipwrecks. Cold-water diving here provides a unique Pacific Northwest experience, blending adventure with the region’s stunning underwater landscapes. There is a great underwater park located in Alki over by Salty’s that can easily be accessed right from the beach.
Fishing: Cast a line in the many lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. Just be sure to check with the Washington State Department of Wildlife for seasonal info and to buy your fishing license.
The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)
Arts and Culture
Seattle’s cultural scene is a vibrant tapestry of art, history, and innovation. From world-class museums and galleries to theaters, film festivals, and public art installations, the city celebrates creativity in every form. Diverse neighborhoods offer authentic cultural experiences, making Seattle a hub for exploration, learning, and inspiration.
Museums: Seattle is a haven for museum lovers, offering everything from art and history to science and culture. Explore the Seattle Art Museum, Museum of History and Industry, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass for immersive experiences. Each museum provides a window into the city’s rich creativity and fascinating stories.
Aquarium and Zoo: Enjoy a day with marine life at the Seattle Aquarium or explore the Woodland Park Zoo.
Music Scene: Dive into the city's vibrant music culture with live performances and iconic venues. Seattle’s music scene pulses with energy and history, from the grunge explosion of the ’90s to thriving indie and jazz communities today. Iconic venues, live music bars, and local festivals showcase everything from rock and blues to electronic beats, making the city a must-visit destination for music lovers. Some of my favorite venues are: The Showbox, the Crocodile, Neptune Theater and the Tractor Tavern.
A Foodie's Paradise
Seattle’s food scene is a flavorful blend of fresh, local ingredients and global culinary influences. From bustling seafood markets and waterfront eateries to trendy cafés, farm-to-table restaurants, and international cuisine, the city offers something for every palate. Iconic dishes and innovative flavors make dining in Seattle a must-do experience. Seattle is renowned for its diverse and delicious food scene:
Pike Place Market: A must-visit for its fresh produce, unique vendors, and delicious bites. My recommendation is to nibble your way through the market, sampling a variety of small bites.
Spuds Fish & Chips: The barometer for which I gauge all fish & chips against. Simply put, this is the best fish & chips I’ve ever had.
Ray’s Boathouse: A great spot for dinner and delicious seafood.You must try the wild-caught Pacific Northwest Salmon. It's a local staple and simply amazing.
Salty’s on Alki: Another excellent choice for seafood or brunch with stunning views.
The Pink Door: This is a hard place to get reservations for, but if you love Italian food, this place does an amazing job and it’s in a fun location in Post Alley down by Pike Place Market.
For more great tips and suggestions on places to eat and other neighborhoods to explore in the city, go listen to this episode:
Seattle’s Hidden Gems with Find Me in Seattle
The view from Kerry Park on Queen Anne hill.
Neighborhood Gems
Seattle’s neighborhoods each have their own distinct personality, offering a mix of history, culture, and lifestyle. From the bustling streets of downtown and historic Pioneer Square to the artistic vibes of Capitol Hill, the family-friendly charm of Ballard, and the waterfront serenity of West Seattle, there’s a corner of the city for everyone. A couple of my favorites:
Fremont: A quirky neighborhood with fun restaurants, shops, and the famous Fremont Troll.
Alki Beach: Located in West Seattle, it offers a beautiful boardwalk with spectacular city views. Don’t miss Spud Fish and Chips for the best fish and chips around.
Gas Works Park
‘Something Different’ Experiences
Step off the beaten path and see Seattle from a fresh perspective. Experiencing the city in unexpected ways uncovers stories and sights most visitors never find. For a truly unique Seattle experience, consider these activities:
Gas Works Park: Enjoy a picnic with great city views at this former utility plant turned public park.
Seattle Underground Tour: Discover the bawdy history of Seattle's early days with this fascinating tour.
Seattle REI: Visit the flagship store, which features an indoor climbing wall and a bargain basement for deals.
Seattle Hot Tub Boats: You might be asking yourself just what this is, and it’s quite the experience. You can rent a boat that is a hot tub and go drive around Lake Union while staying warm in a hot tub. While it sounds like a bit of a skivvy experience I assure you it’s not. The team there drains and cleans the hot tub after each use. It really is a blast, especially on a bit of a drizzly day with float planes flying and landing on the lake. This is definitely ‘something different.’
Camping Near Seattle
While camping close to the city can be challenging due to the dense metropolitan area, there are several great options within an hour’s drive:
Kayak Point Regional County Park: About an hour north, offering beach combing, crabbing, fishing, and more.
Fort Casey on Whidbey Island: A historic site with great camping facilities and easy ferry access to Seattle.
Wenberg County Park: Located on Lake Goodwin, offering swimming, beach activities, and full hook-up campsites.
Dash Point State Park: Located about 45 minutes South of Seattle, this is a great state park located right on a beach in the Salish Sea.
Traffic Tips
Seattle traffic is notoriously bad, ranked as the 5th worst in the nation. To make the most of your visit, budget your time accordingly and try to avoid peak traffic hours. This way, you can enjoy all that the city has to offer without the frustration of being stuck in traffic.
Final Thoughts
As the sun dips behind the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, casting golden light across Puget Sound, it becomes clear why Seattle captures the hearts of those who visit. From the bustling waterfront to quiet forested trails, the city offers a rhythm all its own, where nature and urban life intertwine, and every corner tells a story. Whether you’ve wandered Pike Place Market, felt the spray of a cascading waterfall, or paddled along the shoreline, Seattle leaves an impression that lingers long after you’ve gone.
Visiting Seattle is more than checking off attractions, it’s about embracing the city’s spirit. Sip coffee in a cozy café, catch a live music set in a tucked-away venue, or lose yourself among the galleries and museums that celebrate creativity at every turn. With adventure just beyond city limits, from hiking and biking to kayaking and boating, Seattle is a gem of the Pacific Northwest, it’s where the mountains meet the ocean. Despite its recent reputation, it remains a vibrant city full of adventure, culture, and delicious food. By the time you leave, you’ll understand why locals are proud, visitors are enchanted, and why the Emerald City continues to inspire travelers.
