Seattle isn’t just one of the most visited places in the US, it’s one of the most visited cities in the world. Each year millions of people flock to Seattle to take in the city’s amazing culture, rich architecture, beautiful scenery and unique dining experience makes this a city to remember. Growing at a record pace with plenty of reasons why makes Seattle, Washington one of the greatest treasures of the Pacific northwest.
Some would say the Emerald City is the crown jewel of the northwest and we tend to agree. Getting past the amazing landscape is hard enough and once inside it’s easy to see why it’s one of the cleanest metropolises in the US making it the perfect place for families.
Below, we break down the Top 10 Things to Do in Seattle Washington for families while detailing the many reasons why.
10. Chihuly Garden and Glass
For a touch of glass, the 10th spot in this review is a must-see for families if you’re intending on visiting Seattle. The Chihuly Garden and Glass is as top attraction in a city of attractions with distinctive characteristics setting it apart from the rest.
Highlighted by a studio of glass constructed by Dale Chihuly which is home to some of his greatest exhibitions including a Glasshouse, Garden, bookstore, audio tour, and of course, dining.
Visit Chihuly Garden and Glass
9. Museum of Pop Culture
Over the years, Seattle has become well-known for it’s push into modern pop music and what better way to experience this then heading over to the Museum of Pop Culture. On display are numerous tours, 17 of which have made their way around the world. Events, programs and a gift shop are all onsite which provide ample entertainment.
Visit Museum of Pop Culture
8. The Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight is a private air and space museum located just south of Seattle. At first sight it doesn’t sound like much, but once there it’s easy to realize it’s so much more then it sounds. The museum itself is rich in history, provides plenty of education perfect for kids and adults alike and there’s numerous events ongoing like the annual Space Expo which brings in thousands of visitors from afar.
What separates this space and flight museum apart from the rest is the level of interactivity with various simulations allowing you to not only see the part, but be the part.
Visit The Museum of Flight
7. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a great place to visit and gives you an amazing view of Elliott Bay and the Central City. Becoming well known for recreation and wedding ceremonies because of the immense natural beauty and picturesque backdrops you won’t find anywhere else. For family outings, night outings are the best offering a fantasy type scene filled with bright lit ferries gliding across the water. It really is what it seems.
Visit Kerry Park
6. Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum spans three facilities including the Asian Art Museum, Olympic Sculpture Park and the main Seattle Art Museum downtown. Each of the museums see thousands of visitors each day with each offering a different take on amazing art pieces. From programs, learning, exhibits and world class collections, the rich cultural art is enough to captivate everyone in the house.
Visit Seattle Art Museum
5. Green Lake
Green Lake is not just one of the most beautiful fresh water lakes around Portland, its one of the most beautiful in the US. This lake offers amazing scenery and plenty of local entertainment for the entire family. Clean and complete with swimming holes, fishing, walking trails, benches and picnic areas, you’ll find yourself lost for an entire day.
There’s no website, but you can check out the lake yourself located near the Green Lake and Wallingford neighborhoods.
4. Seattle Aquarium
Open since 1977, the Seattle Aquarium is located in the waterfront district of Pier 59. From education to daily activities and events, there’s plenty to do for the entire family for a full day. The aquarium boasts an impressive 120,000 gallon exhibit which puts on quite a show for thousands of visitors each day and has seen over 22 million people since opening. Numerous animals, exhibits and shows will entertain the entire family.
Visit Seattle Aquarium
3. Carkeek Park
Spanning more than 200 acres in the Broadview neighborhood, this park offers plenty of hiking trails, a picnic area, shelter, Piper Orchard and Pipers Creek. The park offers amazing views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound and is located only 9 miles from downtown. The highlight is walking the Pipers Canyon Story Trail which is great on foot or bike.
Visit Carkeek Park
2. Seattle Center
The Seattle Center is the seat of arts and entertainment in the center of the city offering everything for someone in the entire family. Everyone who visits and lives here stops in to enjoy artwork, gardens, museums, theaters, food, festivals and plenty of events all the time. You’ll have to check out the official website below to get updates, and you’ll be glad you did.
Visit Seattle Center
1. Space Needle
If there’s one place that represents Seattle to its fullest, its the Space Needle. This observation tower is what everyone remembers when they talk about the Emerald City as its become one of the most iconic structures in the Pacific northwest. The tower sees more than 20,000 visitors each day and well over 2 million people each year.
The Space Needle is the best thing to do in Seattle, Washington and offers a great attraction that’s family friendly. It’s been totally transformed and ready to take your visit to the next level as it’s completely re-imagined and wide open. From incredible views of the ocean, mountains and the entire city, you get a 360-degree view of one of the most beautiful cities in the US.