Seattle, the Emerald City, offers an incredible mix of iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, and stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are the must-see attractions and experiences that showcase the best of what Seattle has to offer. We also included the opening schedules and entrance fees as of writing, but note that these may change, so be sure to double-check before going.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If your are traveling soon and still on the planning stage, you can also visit our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Here, we compiled travel essentials, including immigration requirements and all our recommended hotels and tours. Just visit this page: TPT Masterlist. We have a compilation for destinations around the world.
SEATTLE CENTER
Space Needle
No visit to Seattle is complete without ascending the city’s most recognizable landmark. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot Space Needle offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding mountains from its observation deck. The revolving glass floor adds an extra thrill to the experience. Visit during both day and night, if possible, to see the city from different perspectives.
Address: Space Needle, 400 Broad Street, Seattle, Washington 98109, United States
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM; Wednesday & Sunday, 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Friday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Entrance Fee: General Admission, $49; With Chihuly Garden & Glass, $69
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Located at the base of the Space Needle, this stunning exhibition showcases the vibrant blown-glass artwork of renowned Seattle artist Dale Chihuly. The indoor galleries and outdoor garden feature breathtaking sculptures suspended from ceilings, mesmerizing installations set against lush greenery, and a 100-foot-long centerpiece that will leave you in awe. It’s a feast for the eyes and one of the city’s most photographed attractions.
Address: Chihuly Garden and Glass, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, Washington 98109, United States
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Wednesday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: General Admission, $35 – $42.50; Seniors, $30 – $37.50; Youth (5-12 y/o), $30 – $37.50; Children (4 y/o & below), FREE; With Space Needle, $69
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
This contemporary museum celebrates pop culture through music, science fiction, fantasy, and gaming exhibits. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the building itself is a work of art. Inside, you’ll find memorabilia from Seattle’s legendary music scene (including Nirvana and Pearl Jam), immersive experiences, and rotating exhibitions on everything from horror films to indie video games.
Address: Museum of Pop Culture, 325 5th Avenue N, Seattle, Washington 98109, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Regular, $35.50 – $39; Seniors, $31.75 – $35 ; Students (w/ ID), $31.75 – $35 ; Youth (5-12 y/o), $26.50 – $29.25 ; Children (4 y/o & below), FREE
Pacific Science Center
Perfect for families, this interactive museum sparks curiosity about math, science, and technology through hands-on exhibits. Features include an IMAX theater, a butterfly house, laser shows, and engaging displays that make learning fun for all ages.
Address: Pacific Science Center, 200 Sue Bird Court N, Seattle, Washington 98109, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults, $26.95 – $31.20; Seniors, $24.20 – $27.95; Youth (3-17 y/o), $20.20 – $23.45; Children (3 y/o & below), FREE
Kerry Park
For the quintessential Seattle skyline photo with the Space Needle and Mount Rainier in the background, head to a small viewpoint in Queen Anne. The viewpoint is particularly popular at sunset and night when photographers line the railing to capture the city lights twinkling below. Kerry Park includes benches for relaxing, a small lawn area, and a hollow sculpture often used as a framing device for photographers. Despite being quite small, it’s become one of Seattle’s most photographed locations, featured in movies, publications, and postcards.
It is not really within Seattle Center, but it’s good to visit after exploring the museums and Space Needle, so we’re putting it in this cluster. You can just book an Uber or Lyft, or if you have the stamina, walk for 30 minutes to the park. It’s a bit uphill, though.
Address: Kerry Park, 211 W Highland Drive, Seattle, Washington 98119, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
DOWNTOWN & WATERFRONT
Pike Place Market
This historic market has been a cornerstone of Seattle since 1907 and remains one of the city’s top attractions. Spanning nine acres in downtown, Pike Place Market is home to over 200 vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, flowers, handmade crafts, and artisan goods.
Watch fishmongers toss salmon, visit the original Starbucks, explore the quirky Gum Wall, and discover hidden bookstores and vintage shops beneath the main arcade. The newly opened Overlook Walk connects the market to the waterfront below with expansive Elliott Bay views.
If you’re more interested in exploring the delightful gastronomic scene of Seattle, you can join a chef-guided food tour around Pike Place Market.
✅ BOOK PIKE PLACE MARKET FOOD TOUR HERE
Address: Pike Place Market, 85 Pike Street, Seattle, Washington 98101. United States
Operating Hours: Opening hours vary every day per establishment, but the general operating hours start as early as 7:00 AM to as late as 12:00 AM.
Seattle Aquarium
Located on the waterfront, Seattle Aquarium showcases marine life from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Watch playful sea otters, explore the new Ocean Pavilion devoted to the Indo-Pacific’s Coral Sea, get hands-on in tide pool exhibits, and observe salmon through an underwater viewing dome. The this world-class aquarium recently underwent an expansion, making it even more impressive.
Address: Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, Washington 98101, United States
Opening Hours: Aquarium – Daily, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Café – Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Gift Shops – Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Regular, $35.95 – $41.95
Seattle Great Wheel
This 175-foot Ferris wheel offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and Seattle’s skyline from its climate-controlled gondolas. It’s especially magical at sunset or after dark when the city lights come alive.
Address: Seattle Great Wheel, Pier 57 – Miners Landing, 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, Washington 98101, United States
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults, $23; Seniors, $21; Youth (3-11 y/o), $18; Children (2 y/o & below), FREE; Glass Bottom VIP Cabin, $50/person
Ferry Rides and Cruises
Take a Washington State Ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island for a scenic 35-minute cruise across Puget Sound. The round-trip offers stunning views of the city skyline and mountains, and you can explore the charming island town once you arrive.
Or you can just join a cruise around Elliott Bay on a smaller but more comfortable boat.
✅ BOOK SEATTLE HARBOR CRUISE HERE
Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Located in downtown, Seattle Art Museum (SAM) showcases diverse collections ranging from European master paintings and ancient Asian artifacts to contemporary sculptures and Indigenous art. It’s a perfect rainy day activity and offers thought-provoking exhibitions year-round.
Address: Seattle Art Museum, 1300 First Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98101, United States
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday, CLOSED; Wednesday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults, $29.99 – $32.99; Seniors, $24.99 – $27.99; Students & Youth (15-19 y/o), $19.99 – $22.99; Children (14 y/o & below), FREE
Underground Tour
Experience Seattle’s hidden history beneath Pioneer Square. This popular tour takes you through underground passages to see original storefronts, sidewalks, and remnants of the city before the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. It’s an entertaining way to learn about Seattle’s quirky past.
Address: Beneath the Streets, 102 Cherry Street, Seattle, Washington 98104, United States
Tour Schedules: Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM; Wednesdays, 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM; Friday to Sunday, 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
Tour Duration: Regular Tour, 1 hour; Night Tour, 75 minutes (starts at 6:30 PM; available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during peak season)
Rates: Standard Underground Tour, $27.25 (plus taxes); After Hours Underground Tour, $30 (plus taxes)
Olympic Sculpture Park
This unique nine-acre waterfront park combines art, nature, and stunning views. Stroll along paths dotted with large-scale sculptures while enjoying panoramas of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. It’s free and open year-round.
Address: Olympic Sculpture Park, 2901 Western Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98121, United States
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fee: FREE
CAPITOL HILL
Coffee Tour
Capitol Hill is Seattle’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhood, offering an eclectic mix of nightlife, dining, and outdoor spaces. Explore exceptional independent coffee shops, including Espresso Vivace and Caffe Vita, which we were able to visit on our own. But we failed to check out Porchlight Coffee & Records, where visitors are said to be able to browse vinyl while sipping your latte.
If you prefer having a guide as you sample cup after cup, we found this tour on Klook. We didn’t book this, but you might want to check out:
✅ BOOK SEATTLE COFFEE TOUR HERE
Pike/Pine Corridor
This area is the epicenter of Capitol Hill’s legendary nightlife and music scene. Catch live shows at famous venues like Neumos or Barboza, enjoy craft cocktails at speakeasy bars like Knee High Stocking Co., or explore indie movie theaters like SIFF Cinema Egyptian. The corridor features art galleries, historic buildings, and a creative pulse that defines the neighborhood.
Location: Pike/Pine Corridor, Capitol Hill, Seattle, Washington, United States
Volunteer Park
This enchanting 50-acre park, designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers, features tranquil walking paths with eye-popping city and mountain views. Visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum housed in an art deco building, explore the Victorian-style Volunteer Park Conservatory with its tropical plants, or climb the historic water tower for panoramic views of the city. The park is also home to the graves of Bruce Lee and Brandon Lee at the adjacent Lake View Cemetery.
Address: Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Avenue E, Seattle, Washington 98112, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM. The Water Tower is open daily from 10:00 AM to dusk.
Cal Anderson Park
Named after Washington’s first openly gay legislator, this community gathering place features a playfield and reflecting pool. The park includes a skate park, dog park, basketball courts, and hosts outdoor movie screenings during summer evenings.
Address: Cal Anderson Park, 1635 11th Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98122, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 4:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Capitol Hill Food Trip
Capitol Hill boasts some of Seattle’s best restaurants concentrated along Pike, Pine, and Broadway. Try James Beard-nominated MariPili Tapas Bar for Spanish cuisine, Tavolata for pasta, Lark for upscale seasonal dishes, or grab late-night bites at one of the many food spots that stay open after the bars close.
BEYOND THE CITY CENTER
Fremont
Known as the “Center of the Universe,” Fremont is Seattle’s quirkiest neighborhood. Don’t miss the Fremont Troll sculpture lurking under the Aurora Bridge, the statue of Lenin, the Fremont Rocket, and the “Waiting for the Interurban” sculpture that locals dress up seasonally. The Sunday Fremont Market is great for crafts and vintage finds.
Location: Fremont, Seattle, Washington, United States
Ballard
This former Scandinavian fishing village has become one of Seattle’s trendiest neighborhoods. Visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks to watch boats and salmon navigate between saltwater and freshwater, explore the historic Ballard Avenue with its boutiques and restaurants, and sample craft beers at the area’s many excellent breweries.
Location: Ballard, Seattle, Washington, United States
Gas Works Park
This former gasification plant turned park offers sweeping views of Lake Union and the city skyline. The industrial remnants create a unique backdrop, and the hill is perfect for picnics and kite flying.
Address: Gas Works Park, 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, Washington 98103, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Discovery Park
Seattle’s largest green space, at 534 acres, offers forest trails, meadows, beaches, and stunning views of Puget Sound. Hike the 12 miles of trails among evergreen trees, visit the historic West Point Lighthouse, and spot wildlife, including eagles and harbor seals.
Address: Discovery Park, 3801 Discovery Park Blvd., Seattle, Washington 98199, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Museum of Flight
One of the largest air and space museums in the world, this Boeing Field attraction houses an incredible collection of aircraft from vintage biplanes to space shuttles. Walk through Air Force One, explore the Space Gallery, and learn about aviation history through interactive exhibits.
Address: Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way South, Seattle, Washington 98108-4097, United States
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults, $29; Seniors, $25; Youth (5-17 y/o), $21; Children (4 y/o & below), FREE
DAY TRIPS FROM SEATTLE
Snoqualmie Falls
Just 30 minutes east of Seattle, this spectacular 268-foot waterfall features observation decks and hiking trails. The upper viewing area is easily accessible from the parking lot, and you can hike down to the base for a different perspective. The falls are particularly impressive after heavy rain or during late spring snowmelt.
Location: Snoqualmie Falls, Railroad Avenue SE, Snoqualmie, Washington 98065, United States
Opening Hours: Open daily from dawn until dusk.
Entrance Fee: FREE
Bainbridge Island
Only a 35-minute ferry ride across Elliott Bay, Bainbridge Island offers a remote outdoor experience without being too far from the city. This convenient day trip doesn’t require a car. Simply walk on the ferry from downtown Seattle and arrive in charming Winslow, where you’ll find art galleries, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art or stroll along the waterfront.
Location: Bainbridge Island, Washington 98110, United States
How to Get There: Hop on a ferry from Seattle Ferry Terminal in Downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal in Winslow.
Ferry Fare: For the ferry ticket and fare information, you can visit here.
Woodinville Wine Country
Located just 30 minutes north of Seattle, Woodinville is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms. Popular stops include Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Winery, and Novelty Hill-Januik Winery. Plan your visit around one of Chateau Ste. Michelle’s summer outdoor concerts for an extra special experience.
Address: Woodinville Wine Country, 13590 NE Village Square Drive, #1030, Woodinville, Washington 98072, United States
Tours & Passes: For more info on tours and passes, you can visit the official website.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier is the highest mountain in Washington State and the Cascade Range, serving as the unofficial logo of Seattle. The closest entrance is less than 100 miles south of Seattle. Don’t miss roadside stops like Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lakes. Popular hikes include the Skyline Loop to Panorama Point, offering views of surrounding peaks. Note that timed-entry reservations are required during the peak summer season.
✅ BOOK DAY HIKE FROM SEATTLE HERE
Location: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, United States
Hours & Fees: This is managed by the National Park Service under the US Department of the Interior. You can check the updated visit hours, entrance fees, passes, and other announcements through the official website.
Whidbey Island
This beautiful island features rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, wildlife, and churning green waters, with two bridges connecting it to the mainland. Visit Deception Pass State Park for dramatic views and hiking trails, explore charming towns like Langley and Coupeville, and watch for whales, otters, and seals from shore. You can make it a loop by driving down the island and taking the Clinton Ferry back.
Location: Whidbey Island, Puget Sound, Washington, United States
How to Get There: From Seattle, the nearest entry point is via Mukilteo Ferry Terminal in Snohomish County. Hop on a ferry to Clinton Ferry Terminal on Whidbey Island. For the ferry schedules, you can check it here.
Leavenworth
Two hours east of Seattle, this Bavarian-themed village offers a unique European experience in the Cascades. Wander through alpine architecture, enjoy German food and beer, and browse the famous year-round Christmas shop. Surrounding activities include hiking in summer, white water rafting on the Wenatchee River, and winter sports like dogsledding and skiing. Special events include Oktoberfest, Bavarian Ice Festival, and Christmas lighting ceremonies.
Location: Leavenworth, Chelan County, Washington, United States
Tacoma
Just over an hour south, Tacoma has emerged as a cultural destination. Visit the Museum of Glass featuring Dale Chihuly’s work, explore the Tacoma Art Museum, walk along the waterfront, and discover Point Defiance Park — one of the largest urban parks in the country with a zoo, gardens, and beaches.
Location: Tacoma, Washington, United States
Olympic National Park
This exceptional national park offers diverse scenery with peaks to climb, rainforests to walk through, and beaches to explore across its 900,000-plus acres. The closest access points, like Staircase, are about two hours away, while Hurricane Ridge and the Hoh Rainforest require three or more hours. Popular day hikes vary from 20 minutes to several hours.
✅ BOOK FULL-DAY TOUR FROM SEATTLE HERE
Location: Olympic National Park, Washington, United States
Hours & Fees: This is managed by the National Park Service under the US Department of the Interior. You can check the updated visit hours, entrance fees, passes, and other announcements through the official website.
Where to Stay in Seattle
Seattle has several great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on what you’re looking for. As in most other destinations, the closer you are to the city center, the pricier it gets. So if you’re on a budget, consider staying in the areas on the city’s outskirts. But we always prefer staying close to the major attractions to save time and energy. Here are the top hotels/accommodations in Seattle as rated by travelers online.
🔥🔥🔥 Use AGODATPT for 10% off on select hotels! 🔥🔥🔥
The Poor Traveler readers and followers can now use a special discount code to score 10% discount, up to USD 100 (roughly PHP 5700)! To apply and avail of the promo code, visit AGODATPT Promo Code.
- The Mediterranean Inn. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- citizenM Seattle South Lake. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Mayflower Park Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Hotel Max. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- College Inn – European-Style Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
- The Dylan, a Baymont by Wyndham. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Search for more Seattle Hotels!
Have Peace of Mind While Traveling!
Getting a travel insurance is optional, but we highly recommend this, especially when traveling abroad. Travel can be unpredictable, and though we hope we’ll never use it, having it gives us peace of mind in case of unexpected delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For international destinations, consider PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance. You can GET IT HERE. Don’t forget to use WORTHIT for a special affordable rate.
Join The Poor Traveler Support Group
✅ If you have any questions or need travel tips, feel free to post them to the TPT Support Group. The members are very helpful. This Facebook support group has been around for a long time, and many members have found travel buddies through it. You can join too! Just visit The Poor Traveler Support Group. Note that this is different from The Poor Traveler Facebook page.
Updates Log
2025 12 29 – First uploaded
Editing by: Asta Alvarez
Photos by: Yosh Dimen
