Things To Do
Pike Place Market
This one is worth the hype! There are tons of stalls and more permanent shops here, so there is something for everyone. Buy your souvenir from a local artist or taste samples of fresh fish and produce. Hang out at the famous fish market on the south end for a bit and you may see them throwing fish. If you're into oddities, the Gum Wall is right next door in Post Alley. Adding your own chewed gum and germs to the wall is not required.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
An art museum good even for people who don't like art museums! This is our favorite of the tourist-y attractions and it's right at the base of the Space Needle. Dale Chihuly is an iconic local glass-blowing artist who creates these magical and often massive sculptures. This isn't just Micaela's recommendation, Justin loved it too! Tip: If you're planning on doing the Space Needle also, buy a combo ticket to save a few dollars.
Museum of Pop Culture
Another museum? Yes! Because the MoPop isn't just another boring museum. Formerly the "Experience Music Project" they hold a permanent and extensive collection of guitars and memorabilia from many a famous musician — especially Seattle legends Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix. They've since expanded and have exhibits on all things pop culture: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror Films, Indie Games, and *last time we visited* an exhibit on the history of Rap and Hip Hop through photography.
Sky View Observatory
If you're not eager to go up the Space Needle itself (for the cost or fear of heights), the Sky View Observatory at Columbia Tower has a fully enclosed and unobstructed view of the city (including the Space Needle), the water, and the mountains beyond if the clouds clear. We've done both the Space Needle (pre-renovation of the rotating glass floors) and the Columbia Tower and they are both enjoyable! For a shorter and even more affordable view, you can also go up the historic Smith Tower which used to be the tallest building in the city. It has great views of the Waterfront and you can snap pics with the Space Needle in the skyline. We haven't tried this option, but have heard good things.
Seattle - Bainbridge Ferry Ride
One of Micaela's favorite recommendations that you may not see in a tourist guide is to take a ferry. Seattle to Bainbridge is a popular option for the beautiful sights, proximity to downtown, and the walkability on the far side. For $10 roundtrip as a walk-on, you can see the water, feel the wind in your hair, and then choose to explore Bainbridge Island or just ride the ferry right back. You can also drive on to the ferry and get out of your vehicle during the boat trip if that is more your speed. If you're not staying in Seattle, check out the Edmonds-Kingston or the Mukilteo-Clinton ferries as other options.
Hiking!
There are so many great places to get outside! We'll recommend a few of the most popular and our favorites, but you can also use the button below to filter the WTA Hike Finder map for one that has the right distance, elevation, and proximity for you. Note for all of the below hikes: People love the outdoors here and especially so when the sun is shining. If you're looking for a trail that has a lot less people and a lot more solitude, try starting early, hiking on a weekday, or choosing a different option with the Hike Finder. Feel free to text Micaela if you need more guidance.
Saint Edward State Park
St. Edward State Park: This one is right around the corner from our house and is a great "city" hike, meaning no gravel road or potholes and a great nature 'return' with little driving 'investment'. There is no one trail here, so go for a mile or several on the interconnected paths that loop you through the forest and down to the waterfront of Lake Washington. Also, a good option if you want to leave serious hiking gear at home. Beware, because many of the paths head down towards the water, you'll be doing the more challenging hike back up second, so pace yourself!
Wallace Falls State Park
This is the hike Micaela took Justin on when he first came to visit the PNW. Lush greenery and 3 viewing points for a stunning waterfall. Beware, on a nice weekend day this trail gets BUSY, but it is very popular for a reason. Under an hour drive from Woodinville/Redmond. 5.6 miles roundtrip to the Upper falls, 1300ft elev. gain, but you can also turn around at the lower or middle falls and have gotten great view.
Mount Si
The hike where we got engaged! This is a classic Seattle trail as it has great views and is under an hour from Seattle—BUT—not for the faint of heart as it is relentlessly steep. You climb 3100 ft elevation in 4 miles, and then have to go 4 miles back down. They say you're fit enough to summit Mt. Rainier if you can do it with a backpack full of gear in under 2 hours. I think we took closer to 4 hours only carrying sandwiches and one small but perfectly sized finger rock <3 If you want something similar but shorter, "Little Si" is just down the road and half the distance and elevation.
Rattlesnake Ledge
Another under an hour drive, this one is really popular for the vibrant blue lake at the bottom that contrasts the lush mountains and sweeping views. A reasonable 4 miles roundtrip and a little over 1000 feet elevation. Pack a lunch and enjoy the views on the ledge for a nice break in the middle.