Seattle has amazing landmarks to explore! A must-see is the iconic Space Needle, built in 1962 for the World Fair. It’s a symbol of Seattle and offers stunning views from the observation deck.
Pike Place Market is a historic site, with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce and crafts. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a must-visit for music and pop culture fans. Chihuly Garden and Glass features marvelous glass art installations amidst nature.
The quirky Fremont neighborhood has an enormous troll sculpture and Gas Works Park offers views of Lake Union and the skyline. The Space Needle has even been featured in popular culture like “Sleepless in Seattle”!
A great way to take in Seattle is the waterfront. You can watch ferries come and go, and ponder how many Starbucks cups are in the ocean!
Seattle Waterfront
To explore the Seattle Waterfront with the ultimate sightseeing guide, turn your attention to the Pike Place Market, Seattle Great Wheel, and Seattle Aquarium. Each of these attractions offers unique experiences and sights to behold.
Pike Place Market
The ‘Soul of Seattle’ waterfront marketplace is a renowned beacon for both tourists and locals. It offers produce, crafts, souvenirs and world-class eateries and bars. Dating back to 1907, its arcade is worth strolling through.
Jack’s Fish Spot, Beecher’s Cheese and Matt’s Market are local favorites for seafood and farm-to-table produce. Il Corvo Pasta is a go-to for freshly made pasta.
Experience the Pike Place Evening Market every summer weekend, or witness the legendary fish tossing at Pike Place Fish Market.
In 1971, the iconic neon Public Market sign was saved from removal by local supporters who wanted to protect its past and beauty. After that, why not take a spin on the Great Wheel – enjoy the view while questioning your decisions!
Seattle Great Wheel
The Seattle Great Wheel is an iconic 175ft (53m) tall Ferris wheel located at the picturesque Seattle waterfront. It offers visitors a unique experience to see the city’s skyline and Elliot Bay, with 42 climate-controlled gondolas and night-time rides that showcase the city’s shimmering lights reflecting off the bay.
The Big Wheel at Pier 57 was opened to the public on June 29th, 2012 and still attracts tourists from around the world. It has a diameter of 140ft (43m) and a capacity of 8 people per gondola.
If you’re looking for something fishy, the Seattle Aquarium is the place to be – no actual sharks here, just the ones in the gift shop!
Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium – a unique aquatic paradise – is located on the waterfront! This attraction is renowned for its 600 species of marine life, such as sea otters, octopuses, seals, and more. It features intricate tank systems that create natural habitats and offer visitors a hands-on experience. You can also take a walk through glass tunnels and witness beautiful animals swimming above.
The Aquarium provides interactive shows, educational programs, fun activities, and events like sea otter feeding sessions. Or, join a behind-the-scenes tour for something extra special. Ultimately, Seattle Aquarium is a great place to learn about the ocean’s beauty with family.
Museum of Pop Culture
To explore the Museum of Pop Culture in the ultimate Seattle sightseeing guide, learn about its unique exhibits. Discover the different themed galleries, exhibits that showcase popular and contemporary culture as well as science fiction literature.
Exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture
The Museum of Pop Culture has amazing exhibits that show the history and influence of popular culture. Here’s a peek at some of them!
- Nirvana: Taking Punk to The Masses: Explore grunge music from Seattle- artifacts from Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Pearl Jam. From 2011 till now.
- Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Magic: Celebrate fantasy with authentic costumes, interactive maps, and rare art from J.R.R. Tolkien. From April 27th, 2013 till now.
- Minecraft: The Exhibition: Showcasing the cultural phenomenon Minecraft. Stimulating millions with creativity. From May,22 ,2021 till ongoing.
Experience pop culture landmarks and sci-fi stories with interactive elements and immersive installations. Have you visited the museum yet? Don’t miss out! Enjoy your inner fandom with an unforgettable experience.
Head to the Space Needle for a spectacular view of Seattle. Get close to soaring like a bird without the flying part!
Space Needle
To get the most out of your visit to the Space Needle in Seattle, make sure you experience all it has to offer with its observation deck and SkyCity restaurant. Taking in the views from the observation deck is a must-do, while dining at the revolving SkyCity restaurant is a unique and exciting way to enjoy the cityscape.
Observation Deck
The Observation Plaza sits atop the Space Needle, offering stunning views of Seattle and its surroundings. Visitors can admire the city’s skyline, Mt. Rainier, and Elliott Bay – all 520 feet above ground!
Atmos Café serves up delicious snacks and drinks while you take in the 360-degree views. Plus, the Observation Plaza has a rotating glass floor – making your viewing experience even more immersive.
Don’t miss out on witnessing one of Seattle’s iconic landmarks from up close. Observatory Plaza is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting or living in Seattle! Enjoy some out-of-this-world dining at the SkyCity Restaurant – just make sure your food doesn’t float away.
SkyCity Restaurant
Atop the majestic Space Needle sits SkyCity Restaurant. This high-flying eatery offers stunning panoramic views as it rotates 360 degrees. Enjoy Pacific Northwest dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. See famous Seattle sites, such as Mount Rainier, Puget Sound and Lake Union. SkyCity’s award-winning wine list complements the meal. Listen to talented local musicians perform live music every night. Reserve a private dining room with personalized table settings. Have access to photography services. Make reservations ahead of time during peak hours. Plan private events via email or phone calls. SkyCity Restaurant provides sophisticated West Coast dining with amazing views and impeccable service.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
To fully experience the captivating beauty of the Chihuly Garden and Glass, explore its two distinct areas – the Glasshouse and the outdoor Garden and exhibits. This section provides information on the Chihuly Garden and Glass, which is one of the must-see Seattle attractions. The Glasshouse and Garden and Outdoor Exhibits sub-sections provide unique solutions for an ultimate sightseeing experience.
Glasshouse
The Glass Canopy at Chihuly Garden and Glass is an incredible sight. It is made up of more than 1,000 pieces of colored glass and stands 100 feet high. You can walk underneath the beautiful glass art and be mesmerized by the light and colors.
When you enter the Glasshouse, you’ll be surrounded in a world of bright colors and intricate designs. Dale Chihuly’s iconic works, like the Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier, are on display. The mix of natural light and crafted lighting give an amazing sensory experience.
Outside, the Garden is full of plants that add an extra bit of green to the colorful paradise. As you wander, you’ll find glass mushrooms, flowers, and even giant snails with glass adornments.
Don’t miss this wonderland, which shows off one artist’s lifelong dedication to his craft. Step into a surreal world at Chihuly Garden and Glass’s Glasshouse – it’s sure to leave you speechless! Even Mother Nature takes notes from these outdoor exhibits.
Garden and Outdoor Exhibits
Unlock a world of enchantment at Chihuly Garden and Glass! Stroll through the garden and take in the gorgeous glass flower arrangements. Capture photos of the Space Needle surrounded by glass sculptures. Enjoy live music on select evenings and witness Dale Chihuly’s masterpieces illuminated by starlight. Engage in interactive glass-blowing demos and dine alfresco while being surrounded by intricate glass creations. Let your senses lead the way on this multi-dimensional art experience.
Don’t miss out on this unique outdoor encounter! Unleash your creativity, capture memories and enjoy pure bliss today. Then, explore the great outdoors at Discovery Park – nature is never fresher than the organic kale chips in the gift shop!
Discovery Park
To discover the beauty of the largest park of Seattle, head to Discovery Park with its two alluring sub-sections – Beaches and Trails, and Historic Fort Lawton. These breathtaking trails will lead you to the beaches where you can enjoy the sound of waves and scenic beauty. On the other hand, the historic Fort Lawton offers a glimpse of Seattle’s military history.
Beaches and Trails
Take a trip to Discovery Park! Look out for:
- West Point Beach – peaceful and sandy
- North Beach Trail – calming walks
- South Bluff Trail – views of Puget Sound and the Olympics
- Magnolia Boulevard Trail – wind through trees with glimpses of downtown
Look out for the lighthouse, seabirds and maybe even bald eagles! Pro tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and water. Fort Lawton is historic, but watch out for those pesky mosquitoes in summer!
Historic Fort Lawton
Discover Fort Lawton, a place of historic importance in Discovery Park. It has seen noteworthy occurrences, like Japanese American internment during WWII and the formation of the United Nations. Now, it stands as an educational site, with guided tours and displays reflecting its past and present.
Fort Lawton’s impact is wide-reaching; it has formed Seattle’s history and is a cultural haven for Indigenous peoples. Here, archeological sites have been conserved to guard Native American storytelling customs and landmarks. Enjoy a stroll through beautiful urban gardens, hike picturesque paths, or take in live music performances.
No other park in Seattle can match the offerings of Fort Lawton. Whether delving into its abundant history or simply relishing the beauty of nature, each visitor will find something special and purposeful here. Come to Fort Lawton for an experience that is both informative and moving. Get ready to time travel to Pioneer Square – where the cobblestones are bumpy and the history is definitely captivating.
Pioneer Square
To dive deeper into some of the must-see Seattle attractions in Pioneer Square, there are two sub-sections that offer exciting options: Underground Tour and Occidental Square. Whether you are interested in exploring the architectural history of the city or enjoying a lively public space, these two attractions have something unique and interesting to offer.
Underground Tour
Deep down in Pioneer Square, lies an intricate subterranean passageway. It’s called the ‘Below Ground Tour’. After the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the city was rebuilt over the old ruins – creating these tunnels.
The tour gives a glimpse into Seattle’s past. Cobbled streets, old storefronts, and alleys that were buried under landfill. It’s been restored with attention to detail. Guided by experts who bring history to life.
Perfect for history lovers and curious folk. The tour includes a Klondike Gold Rush story. Don’t forget comfortable shoes – there are stairs and uneven surfaces.
Occidental Square
In Pioneer Square’s heart, Occidental Square is a bustling and vibrant public space. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and historic significance. You’ll find a beautiful fountain, seating areas, and Victorian architecture. Local art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and sights and sounds of the city await you. It’s an amazing place to visit, with events and activities all year round.
Seattle’s oldest neighborhood proudly houses Occidental Square, which has been a part of the city’s culture and history since the earliest commercial development. Businesses, restaurants, and nightlife venues are all within walking distance.
Public art abounds. Sculptures, murals, and interactive installations captivate any visitor. The sculpture “Waiting for the Interurban” is particularly noteworthy – it portrays people waiting at a bus stop, with their luggage piled high. This has inspired photoshoots and reflections on urban transit.
Occidental Square is a must-see – it’s an essential part of Seattle’s cultural landscape! History, beauty, artistry, and community spirit make it unforgettable.
Fremont Troll
To explore the fascinating Fremont Troll in Seattle and understand its significance, you need to understand the history of this iconic attraction. In order to learn about this, the following sub-sections will provide you with some insights.
History of the Fremont Troll
The Fremont Troll dates back to 1989. The Washington State Arts Commission held a contest for public art pieces below Seattle’s Aurora Bridge. The winning design was to turn an ugly lot into a community space with a gigantic troll.
The sculpture was made with steel rebar, wire mesh and two tons of concrete. It was 18 feet tall and 30 feet long, with an old Volkswagen Beetle as its nose. Its design was inspired by Scandinavian folklore to symbolize community unity.
The Fremont Troll is an iconic attraction in Seattle. It stands out from other public artwork due to its location and features. There’s even a nearby museum showcasing its history. Don’t forget to take photos when you visit – it may not be around forever!
Olympic Sculpture Park
This museum by the water offers modern and contemporary sculpture art. It is named after the Olympic Mountains, visible from the park.
Take a walk through the beautiful scenery and gaze at the renowned sculptures from around the world. Among them are ‘Echo‘ by Jaume Plensa and ‘The Eagle‘ by Alexander Calder.
Admire the stunning views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier as you make your way through this gorgeous park. Pro Tip: Go during sunset for a magnificent view of the artwork with Seattle’s vibrant skyline.
Don’t forget to stop by the Seattle Center and check out the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the enormous crowd of tourists taking selfies.
Seattle Center
To explore the Seattle Center fully, with its exciting festivals and events, and the mesmerizing International Fountain, we’ve created this next part of your Ultimate Sightseeing Guide!
Festivals and Events
Seattle Center is an iconic spot for culturally diverse Festivals and Events. It showcases the city’s artistic and musical heritage. Enjoy the vibrant culture, make connections and learn more about the art and music scene.
Events and Festivals include:
- Music Events – Bumbershoot Festival, Northwest Folklife Festival, Summer Concert Series and many more.
- Culture Fests – Italian Festival, Irish Festival, Greek Festival and more.
- Film Festivals – Independent films and Hollywood blockbusters.
- Science Expo – Hands-on science activities by experts from a range of fields.
Plus, art exhibitions featuring works by local artists year-round.
Don’t miss out on these unique events of Seattle City. Keep up with their calendar of events regularly. At Seattle Center, cool off and try your moves at the International Fountain.
International Fountain
This iconic masterpiece at Seattle Center is a must-visit. The Jet d’Eau fountain shoots up to 120 feet in the sky and dances to enchanting music. At night, it is illuminated with vibrant colors, making it one of the most significant landmarks of Seattle.
The International Fountain symbolizes unity and diversity. Water displays shaped like continents accompanied by different cultural sounds. High-tech water displays make for an incredible experience. Plus, there are free annual events like Fourth of July Celebrations and Bite of Seattle.
Capture the moments at this cosmopolitan hub. Enjoy ice creams from nearby vendors or sit on the grass. Get sprayed by water jets shooting from the ground unexpectedly!
Don’t miss out on your chance to see why International Fountain is one reason many natives love Seattle even more than coffee!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some must-see Seattle attractions?
A: Some must-see Seattle attractions include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Gum Wall, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Great Wheel.
Q: How much time should I allocate for sightseeing in Seattle?
A: It is recommended that visitors allocate at least 3-4 days for sightseeing in Seattle in order to fully experience the city’s top attractions.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Seattle?
A: The best time to visit Seattle is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is usually the warmest and driest.
Q: Is the Space Needle wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the Space Needle is equipped with elevators and other accessibility features to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Q: Can I purchase tickets for Seattle attractions in advance?
A: Yes, many Seattle attractions offer the option to purchase tickets in advance online, which can help visitors save time and avoid long lines at the ticket counter.
Q: Are pets allowed at Seattle attractions?
A: Pets are generally not allowed at Seattle attractions with the exception of service animals. Visitors should check with individual attractions for their pet policies before visiting.
