Pike Place Market is the quintessential Seattle must-see. Check out the amazing produce, fish, fresh flowers, and art on the ground floor first. Then, head downstairs to see Erin's favorite old-time candy shop, collectible store, and vintage advertisement stand. When you're ready, head back up for lunch at Ivars, or any of the places within walking distance! If you still have energy after all that, go to the original Starbucks and head to Beecher's Cheese for a snack!!
Unlike the other "things to do" on this list, you can't get to The Washington Park Arboretum by walking from downtown. 20 minute uber ride aside, it is truly stunning. It's 230 acres of plants and nature, and contains the most amazing assortments from plant species around the world. The Arboretum itself is free, and has many paths and walking tours (both guided and self-guided). However, if you want something even more amazing you can check out the Japanese Botanical Garden, which is located on the south end of the Arboretum itself. There's an entrance fee for the Botanical Garden, and both are managed by the University of Washington. We promise if you visit you won't be disappointed!!
Okay, so we haven't actually been here (YET) but we hear it is STUNNING. Chihuly Garden and Glass is an exhibit in the Seattle Center that opened in 2012. It showcases the studio glass of Dale Chihuly, and if you don't know about his work - look it up! His works are considered to not only be works of blown glass, but they also move into the style of full scale sculpture. You'll see his work all over the city, but this is the only exhibit dedicated to solely showcasing him and his style. Check it out!
Formerly known as the EMP (Experience Music Project) the Museum of Pop Culture is one of the coolest attractions ever. Here, you can learn about movie, tv, and other elements of pop culture! We just went to the Marvel exhibit where they have the whole history of the comic books, characters, and even the costumes from the movies. Check it out!
The Space Needle is an observation tower and landmark of Seattle. It was built during the 1962 World's Fair, where it initially drew over 2.3 million visitors. It's 605 ft high which makes it an awesome place to see the entire city. If we're being honest, it's quite pricey to get to the top, and the food at the restaurant on the tower isn't the best...BUT if you're looking for a view you can't beat it. Don't want to go up top but still want to see the famous structure? Check out the "Space Needle Loop" or simply head to Seattle Center. You can get a great photo-op down below, and it's free! :)
The Seattle Art Museum's Olympic Sculpture Park is completely free and open to the public. It consists of a 9-acre completely outdoor sculpture museum. It's totally unique, and the sculptures and installations vary between permanent and rotating exhibits. What makes this attraction so interesting, we think, is that it's literally RIGHT downtown. You'll feel really Seattle-y as you walk though the zig zag path lined with unbelievable art, and notice the native plants that surround the sculptures. If you still haven't had enough, you can go into the Seattle Art Museum for more!
YUMMM. This cafe is a Seattle staple! With local, sustainable ingredients and an unbelievable TOPPINGS bar...you really can't go wrong. Plus, it's right downtown so you can walk it off!
Skillet is a great upscale diner in Capitol Hill, which is a great part of Seattle. Come here for an amazing burger, fish and chips, or grilled cheese. If it's nice you can even sit out side and people watch! :)
YUM. This is the most amazing ice cream. Ever. Also in Capitol Hill, Salt and Straw has awesome flavors like an insane vanilla, salted caramel, and even a lucky charms inspired cone! Come early though, as there may be a line!