Is Seattle Worth Visiting In 2023? Things To Do & Reasons To Visit
Are you wondering is Seattle worth visiting? Do not worry, I can help you out!
The Emerald City is filled with plenty of things to do and see for everyone, whether travelling as a couple, with friends or with family.
Whether you have never been to the city before or are looking for something new, this post will provide all the information you need to decide if a trip to Seattle is right for you.
Is Seattle Worth Visiting
Seattle is a vibrant city with exciting things to do and see that will make any visit worthwhile. For those looking for an outdoor escape, Seattle offers lush green spaces, majestic mountain views, and plenty of opportunities for activities like hiking, kayaking, and camping.
Wildlife lovers can take advantage of the many local parks and spot some of the city’s native species.
Seattle got the nickname “The Emerald City” because of its lush green surroundings year-round, adjacent to the reason why Washington State moniker “The Evergreen State.”
Furthermore, Seattle is home to a variety of cultural attractions. From art galleries and museums to music venues and theatre performances, as well as being a big coffee scene, there is something for everyone in this dynamic city.
In addition, the food scene in Seattle is second-to-none, with a wide range of eateries offering up traditional dishes alongside the ever-popular Seattle classics.
So, is Seattle worth visiting? Yes! There are many things to do and see in Seattle. Keep reading to discover all the things to do and see, where to stay and more.
15 Things To Do & See In Seattle
While there are many things to do and see in Seattle, here are some suggestions on where to start exploring the city.
1. Pike Place Market: Pike Place in Seattle, Washington, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of this vibrant city— a bustling market filled with fresh produce and local vendors, delicious food and unique shops.
2. The Space Needle: Standing 605 feet tall and proud in the heart of the city, one of the most iconic symbols of Seattle, Washington, is the Space Needle, a must-see attraction destination for anyone visiting the city
3. Seattle Art Museum (SAM): A must-see for any art enthusiast visiting the city of Seattle, SAM houses some of the most renowned pieces worldwide, ranging from contemporary artwork to classic masterpieces.
4. Watch Sports Games: Seattle is home to professional league sports: Kraken (NHL), Sounders FC (MLS), Seahawks (NFL), and Mariners (MLB).
5. Chihuly Garden and Glass: Stunning garden showcases some of Dale Chihuly’s most breathtaking glasswork, with vibrant colours and intricate shapes that will leave you mesmerized.
6. The Gum Wall: Post Alley has brick-covered walls in chewing gum located under Pike Place Market. Warning the alley will smell horrible during the summer months.
7. Seattle Aquarium: Home to over 800 species of marine life, this vibrant and interactive aquarium offers an immersive experience for both young and old alike.
8. Woodland Park Zoo: This stunning zoo features over 1,000 different species of animals from around the world and offers visitors an up-close look at some of nature’s most incredible creatures.
9. Underground Tour: A popular guided subterranean walking tour of learning the history of old Seattle’s underground pathways built more than 120 years ago.
➡️ Click here to book the Underground Tour
10. Museum of Pop Culture: Explore the world of music and culture. This museum houses an impressive array of artifacts from all genres of popular culture, including rock and roll, science fiction, film, television and more.
11. Discovery Park: The largest city park in Seattle at 534 acres of land.
12. Starbucks Reserve Seattle Roastery: Learn about the art and science of making coffee and pastries at this stunning location.
13. Green Lake: A beloved freshwater lake in an urban neighbourhood that is excellent for boating, swimming, paddleboarding and more.
14. Central Library: The 11-floor building is something to look at from an architectural standpoint. Open area where people can meet or read or use the computer lab.
15. Fremont Troll: A public troll holding a Volkswagon car sculpture under the Aurora Bridge.
What Is The Most Famous Thing In Seattle?
There is more than just one thing Seattle is famous for. However, Seattle’s most famous and recognizable landmark is The Space Needle.
Seattle also has an eclectic music scene and is known for creating a Grunge genre of rock music. According to Brittanica.com, you can hear this type of music in bands such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam.
Also another thing Seattle is known for and is famous for is coffee. In case you did not know, Seattle is where the first Starbucks was opened. You can find the first Starbucks opened in front of Pike Place Market.
If you want to go to the first-ever Starbucks, there are a few things to remember. First, it drinks only, and to be quite frank, it tastes like any other Starbucks but with an extra long lineup going out the door.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Seattle?
Suppose you are only visiting Seattle in the central downtown core. You will need about a weekend or three to four days.
In addition, if you plan on experiencing things outside the central city, for example, hiking at major parks, a week or two is your best bet.
When Is The Best Time To Go To Seattle?
The best time to go to Seattle is between May to September. However, that is during peak tourist season, but the weather will be drier and warmer.
If you prefer to travel to Seattle during some rain and budget friendlier, October to April is your better option.
Is Seattle A Walkable City For Tourists?
Yes! The downtown area of Seattle is walkable for tourists. In addition, many tourist attractions are around the general area, such as some of the locations mentioned above, Pike Place, Seattle Art Museum, and stadiums.
However, if walking is not the best option, you can use the local transit system. For example, you can use the King County Metro Bus in Seattle, Bellevue and Vashon Island.
The Light Rail System is the easiest way to get to and from the Seattle Tacoma International Airport. As well as several stops in neighbourhoods going from North to South Seattle.
If you plan on staying in Seattle for a longer period of time, you will need an ORCA card to use any of the local transit systems in Seattle.
You can purchase the reloadable and reusable card if you stay longer in Seattle. If you plan on buying an ORCA card, it is also inexpensive to purchase at $3.00 USD.
There is also an ORCA app to download too. But I believe you still need a physical ORCA card to register on the app.
Where To Stay In Seattle
There are many areas and neighbourhoods to stay in. However, if you want to travel around Seattle by walking or not renting a car, staying near or in Downtown Seattle is your best option.
💎 Best Luxury Hotel – Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
✅ Excellent location: In the middle of main tourist attractions in Seattle
✅ Exceptional hospitality
⚖️ Best Mid-Range Hotel – Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Convention Center
✅ Within walking distance of Downtown Seattle
✅ All suites hotel: Rooms have small kitchenettes
📍 Best Budget-Friendly Hotel – Holiday Inn Seattle Downtown – Lake Union (An IHG Hotel)
✅ Walking distance to Downtown Seattle
✅ Family-friendly
Parking in the downtown core of Seattle can be expensive. Parking fees for hotels are all relatively high to use their parking garages.
How To Get To Seattle From Vancouver, Canada
Whether you are travelling on a Seattle to Vancouver road trip or vice versa, there are a few ways to get to Seattle from Vancouver.
NOTE: You will need a valid government-issued passport to travel to and from Canada and the United States.
Car
The easiest and fastest way to get to Seattle from Vancouver is by car. Depending on where you are coming from in Vancouver, you will want to make your way to Highway 99 toward Peach Arch (Canada-US border).
From the border, you will drive along Interstate-5 for approximately two hours and 15 minutes toward Seattle.
Train
An Amtrak train travels from Pacific Central Station (located near Science World SkyTrain Station) to Seattle (King Street Station). It is a four-hour and beautiful scenic train ride on a sunny day.
Shuttle
The other option is to take a shuttle from Vancouver to Seattle. However, the trip will take longer because multiple stops will be between picking up and dropping off other passengers.
Seattle Weather FAQs
These are some common Seattle weather questions.
What Is The Rainy Season In Seattle?
October to March will be the rainy season in Seattle. But December will have the most rain during the year.
Is April A Good Time To Visit Seattle?
I visited Seattle in mid-April; weather-wise, there was rain and sun. However, April is the middle of Spring, so there could be rain on your trip but remember to pack proper rain gear and check the weather ahead of time.
In addition, fewer tourists were walking around (only in the high tourist attractions areas like Pike Place Market) compared to the Summer. Therefore, April is an excellent time to visit Seattle.
Conclusion: Is Seattle Worth Visiting
Seattle, Washington, is a city full of excitement and adventure for all its visitors. From the iconic Space Needle to the Seattle Art Museum – there is no shortage of things to do and see.
So whether you are looking for a day out with friends or family or want to explore all this beautiful city has to offer, visiting Seattle is worth visiting.
Have a good day 🙂
