Things To Do In Downtown Seattle Washington

Seattle is a beautiful city in the Pacific Northwest that boasts of stunning natural landscapes, world-renowned museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving food scene. One of the most iconic neighborhoods in Seattle is Downtown, which is known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and a plethora of tourist attractions. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, here are some of the best things to do in Downtown Seattle.

The Best Things To Do In Downtown Seattle

1. Visit Pike Place Market

No visit to Seattle is complete without a trip to the Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in the country. The market is home to dozens of vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, artisanal cheeses, flowers, and handcrafted goods. Make sure to catch the famous fish throwers at Pike Place Fish Market, who have been entertaining crowds with their antics for decades.

2. Take a ride on the Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel is a towering Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. The wheel has fully enclosed gondolas that are climate-controlled, making it a great attraction to visit year-round.

3. Explore the downtown Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is one of the largest museums in the region, featuring a vast collection of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes ancient artifacts, contemporary art, and traditional pieces from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.

4. Visit the Space Needle

The Space Needle is an iconic symbol of Seattle, standing at 605 feet tall and offering 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck, which is located 520 feet above the ground, and enjoy panoramic views of Seattle, the surrounding mountains, and Puget Sound.

5. Check out the Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a stunning museum dedicated to the works of Dale Chihuly, a world-renowned glass artist who was born in Tacoma, Washington. The museum features an extensive collection of Chihuly’s artwork, including his signature glass sculptures, and a beautiful garden filled with colorful glass flowers, trees, and other unique creations.

6. Visit the Seattle Aquarium

The downtown Seattle Aquarium is a popular attraction that showcases the rich marine life of the Pacific Northwest. The aquarium features a variety of exhibits, including a giant octopus tank, a sea otter exhibit, and a tropical reef tank. Visitors can also enjoy daily feedings and talks by aquarium staff.

7. Walk through Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is a historic neighborhood in Seattle that dates back to the city’s founding in the late 19th century. The area features charming red-brick buildings, art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops. Visitors can take a guided walking tour of the neighborhood to learn about its rich history and architecture.

8. Shop at Westlake Center

Westlake Center is a popular shopping destination in Downtown Seattle, featuring dozens of stores, restaurants, and cafes. The mall is anchored by major retailers such as Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Zara, and also features a variety of local boutiques and specialty stores.

9. Visit the Olympic Sculpture Park

The Olympic Sculpture Park is a beautiful outdoor park that features large-scale sculptures by world-renowned artists. The park is located along the waterfront, offering stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the park or join a guided tour led by a trained docent.

10. Explore the downtown Seattle Public Library

The Seattle Public Library is an architectural masterpiece that is worth visiting for its unique design alone. The library features a futuristic, glass-and-steel structure that seems to defy gravity, and its interior spaces are filled with natural light and vibrant colors. The library also boasts a vast collection of books, movies, and other materials that visitors can browse and borrow.

11. Take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is a picturesque island located just a short ferry ride away from Seattle. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, and charming downtown area. Visitors can take a ferry from the Seattle ferry terminal to Bainbridge Island, and spend the day exploring all that the island has to offer.

12. Enjoy a meal at the Sky View Observatory

The Sky View Observatory is located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the tallest building in Seattle. The observatory offers stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains, and also features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view.

13. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a must-visit attraction for music lovers, featuring exhibits on the history of rock and roll, hip hop, and other popular genres. The downtown Seattle museum also features exhibits on science fiction, video games, and other pop culture phenomena.

14. Attend a performance at the Paramount Theatre

The Paramount Theatre is a historic venue that has been hosting live performances since 1928. The theatre features a beautiful Art Deco interior and hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and comedy acts.

15. Explore the waterfront

Seattle’s waterfront is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a seafood meal at one of the many restaurants, or take a ride on the Great Wheel. The area also features a number of parks and public spaces where visitors can relax and take in the views.

Downtown Seattle is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, history, shopping, or simply enjoying the city’s natural beauty, there are plenty of things to see and do in Downtown Seattle. So the next time you’re in the Emerald City, be sure to add these activities to your itinerary!