Seattle, the largest city in Washington State, is a dynamic urban center known for its stunning natural surroundings, thriving cultural scene, and strong tech industry. Nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Cascade Mountains to the east and the Olympic Mountains to the west, Seattle offers a mix of outdoor adventures and metropolitan attractions.
With its abundant cultural highlights and stunning scenery surrounding the city, Seattle boasts a range of activities, both indoor and outdoor. The likes of the Seattle Art Museum and Museum of Flight are excellent exhibitions, as is the Henry Art Gallery featuring a collection of modern art. Sports fans are well-catered for with the city boasting three top professional sports teams in major leagues.
The most popular outdoor pursuits on offer are hiking and skiing (depending on the season) at the nearby Olympic Mountains and at the taller Cascade Mountains which include a number of volcanoes, the most famous being Mount St Helens. Puget Sound is a good spot for sailing and kayaking. Closer to the city are a number of lakes with beaches, including Discovery and Myrtle Edwards.
Seattle’s geography is defined by its water bodies, hills, and nearby mountain ranges. The city experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Winter temperatures average in the mid-40s °F (7-9°C), while summer temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18-24°C). Rain is common in the fall and winter months, so packing layers and waterproof clothing is recommended.
Known for its frequent rain, the city’s lush greenery and parks are a testament to its wet climate. Seattle is synonymous with coffee culture, being the birthplace of Starbucks and home to numerous independent coffee shops. The city gained pop culture fame through “Sleepless in Seattle,” showcasing its charming houseboats on Lake Union. Pike Place Market, one of the oldest public markets in the U.S., is famous for its fishmongers who throw fish to each other to the cheers of visitors. The hipster vibe of the city is complemented by a thriving tech scene with giants like Amazon and Microsoft headquartered there.
Food wise, Seattle is known for its coffee culture, seafood, and fairly international food scene:
- Seafood: Fresh catches like salmon, Dungeness crab, and oysters are staples.
- Coffee: Home to the first Starbucks and countless independent coffee shops.
- Craft Beer: The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous breweries and taprooms.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Many restaurants emphasize locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
Where to Go
Highlights
- The Space Needle: This iconic symbol of Seattle offers panoramic views of the city, mountains, and Puget Sound from its observation deck.
- Pike Place Market: One of the oldest continuously operating public farmers’ markets in the United States, it is famous for its fresh seafood, local produce, artisan crafts, and the original Starbucks store.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: An exhibition showcasing the breathtaking glass sculptures of artist Dale Chihuly, located near the Space Needle.
- Seattle Art Museum (SAM): Features an extensive collection of art from around the world, including contemporary, Native American, and Asian art.
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Dedicated to contemporary popular culture, MoPOP offers exhibits on music, science fiction, and more.
- Seattle Waterfront: A scenic area with attractions like the Seattle Aquarium, Great Wheel, and numerous shops and restaurants.
- Discovery Park: Seattle’s largest green space, offering hiking trails, beaches, and views of the Puget Sound.
- Museum of Flight: more than 130 old and new aircraft and spacecraft are on display here, including a Concorde.
- Myrtle Edwards Park: a quiet spot by the waterfront with bike trails and spectacular views of the nearby mountains, including Mount Rainier.
Neighborhoods
- Downtown: The commercial heart of Seattle, home to Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
- Capitol Hill: Known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining, and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, this neighborhood also features Volunteer Park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum.
- Fremont: Often referred to as the “Center of the Universe,” Fremont is known for its quirky public art, the Fremont Troll, and a lively Sunday market.
- Ballard: A historic neighborhood with a Scandinavian heritage, Ballard boasts the Ballard Locks, Golden Gardens Park, and a thriving craft brewery scene.
- Queen Anne: Offers stunning views of the city and is home to the iconic Space Needle and Seattle Center.
When to Go
Summer: (June to September) Is the best time to visit Seattle, as the weather is typically warm and dry. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18-24°C), with occasional days reaching the 80s °F (27-32°C).
Spring: (March to May) Spring in Seattle is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (7-18°C). Rain is common, especially in March and April, but May tends to be drier.
Fall: (September to November) Brings cooler temperatures, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (7-18°C) early in the season, with increasing rainfall as winter approaches.
Winter: (December to February) Are mild and wet, with temperatures generally between the mid-30s and mid-40s °F (1-9°C). Snow is rare but possible, especially in higher elevations nearby.
Festivals & Events
- Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF): One of the largest film festivals in North America, held annually in May and June.
- Bumbershoot: A music and arts festival held every Labor Day weekend.
- Seafair: A summer celebration featuring parades, hydroplane races, and the Blue Angels air show.
- Fremont Solstice Parade: Known for its creative floats and naked cyclists, marking the start of summer.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Numerous trails are accessible within and near the city, including those at Discovery Park, Carkeek Park, and Mount Si, just a short drive away.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Popular on Lake Union and Lake Washington, offering unique views of the city skyline and houseboats.
- Whale Watching: Tours available from the waterfront, providing opportunities to see orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life.
- Cycling: The Burke-Gilman Trail is a favorite for cyclists, extending from Seattle to the suburb of Bothell.