Top 15 Things to do in Seattle for First-Timers
Seattle is a city that blends iconic landmarks with a laid-back Pacific Northwest vibe. From the bustling energy of Pike Place Market to the sweeping views at the Space Needle, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do.
I’ve been to Seattle a few times, and on my most recent visit, I focused on the attractions that make Seattle unique. Here are my picks for the best things to do in Seattle, perfect for first-time visitors.
This Seattle city highlights tour gave me a great introduction to the city’s attractions and neighborhoods.
1. Space Needle
The Space Needle is Seattle’s most famous landmark and was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. Although it’s not very tall compared to the other high-rises, it still offers the best views of the city. From the top, you can see the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and on clear days, even Mount Rainier and the Olympic mountain ranges.
➡️ We purchased this Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combo Ticket
On my recent trip to Seattle, we chose to visit the Space Needle in the evening for sunset. The glass elevator ride up 600 feet set the stage with sweeping views before we even reached the top. The outdoor deck has incredible 360-degree views of the city and the bay.
The lower level’s revolving glass floor was fun to try, but the upper deck views were the real highlight. We stayed through sunset and had some amazing views. There is a cafe counter offering snacks and drinks, as well as a lounge for a more formal meal, although reservations are required.
Overall, a fun place to spend a couple of hours in the evening. Buy your tickets in advance and go on weekdays for less wait time to ride the elevator. If going for sunset, plan to reach an hour before sunset time to get daylight views as well.
2. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most iconic attractions. Open since 1907, this historic public market overlooking Elliott Bay is filled with food vendors, fishmongers, flower stalls, and local shops. It’s also home to the famous Pike Place Fish Market, where the fishmongers put on a show by tossing salmon through the air.
If you get there early in the day, you can stop at the First Starbucks Store for coffee, as the lines are much shorter in the morning. Other popular spots include the colorful flower stalls, the Gum Wall in Post Alley, Rachel the Piggy Bank statue, and the craft vendors selling handmade souvenirs.
The market can feel overwhelming at first, so on my recent trip to Seattle, I joined this early morning Pike Place food tour, which turned out to be a great decision.
Our guide led us through different levels of the market, sharing its history while we sampled biscuits with Beecher’s Cheese, pastries from Three Girls Bakery, tacos from Los Agaves, Earl Grey–flavored gelato, and several other tastings. The guide also pointed out hidden corners of the market that I might have missed on my own.
➡️ Check out my Pike Place Market food tour experience here.
After the tour, we spent time browsing the craft stalls and picked up a few souvenirs, including a handblown glass bowl that reminds me of Seattle. Between the food, the history, and the lively atmosphere, Pike Place Market is a must-do, whether you go on your own or with a tour.
Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, and consider booking a guided food tour if you want to sample the best bites without having to figure out what to try.
➡️ We booked this Early Bird Pike Place Market Food Tour
➡️ This Pike Place Market Tasting Tour is with the same company, but with time options later in the day.
3. Seattle Harbor Cruise
A harbor cruise is one of the best ways to take in Seattle’s skyline from the water. The one-hour sightseeing cruise leaves from the waterfront and gives you sweeping views of the city, the Space Needle, and, on clear days, Mount Rainier in the distance.
➡️ We booked this 1-hour Seattle’s Original Guided Harbor Cruise
We did the cruise after spending time downtown, and it ended up being one of my favorite activities in the city.
I didn’t worry much about getting a perfect seat on the boat since I moved around the upper deck to take photos, but if you prefer a set spot, it’s best to line up early. Even on a warm day, the breeze off the water can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
There are several options depending on how much time you have. The standard one-hour sightseeing cruise is perfect if you’re fitting it into a busy itinerary, while longer Ballard lock cruises and whale watching tours are available if you want to spend more time on the water.
Tip: Book tickets in advance if you’re visiting in summer or on weekends, as cruises often sell out.
4. Seattle Waterfront
Seattle’s waterfront is a lively place to walk, with piers lined with shops, seafood restaurants, and attractions like the Seattle Aquarium and the Seattle Great Wheel. It’s also where most harbor cruises depart, so it’s easy to combine a stroll here with time on the water.
We enjoyed wandering along the piers and browsing souvenir shops after our harbor cruise. One quirky stop was Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, a waterfront staple since 1899. It’s part museum, part souvenir shop, with oddities like shrunken heads, mummies, and an eclectic mix of knick-knacks. It’s worth popping in for a few minutes just for the novelty.
If you’re visiting with kids, the Great Wheel and the aquarium are popular stops, while adults might prefer fresh seafood at one of the restaurants along the piers. Even without visiting any attractions, simply walking along the waterfront is a relaxing way to spend time.
Tip: You can combine the Seattle waterfront and harbor cruise with your visit to Pike Place Market. There is a walking ramp behind the market that goes right down to the waterfront.
5. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly Garden and Glass is one of Seattle’s top attractions, showcasing the large-scale glass installations of Dale Chihuly, a world-renowned artist and a Washington state local. The museum is located right next to the Space Needle, which makes it easy to see both on the same visit.
➡️ We purchased this Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combo Ticket
We spent about an hour exploring the museum, and even though I had seen photos before, the exhibits were even more impressive in person. The vivid colors and striking patterns make each room feel completely different.
Some of the most memorable exhibits for me were the Sealife Room, the Persian Ceiling, the Mille Fiori garden, the Float Boats, and the colorful chandeliers. The outdoor glasshouse with the massive glass sculpture was also a highlight.
During our visit, there was a live glassblowing demonstration, and the theater was showing short films about how the pieces were created. My personal favorite was the Macchia bowls, gorgeous statement pieces! I wish I could buy one for home, but even a small one in the gift shop was way too expensive for my souvenir budget!
6. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Located right next to the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, often called MoPOP, is one of Seattle’s most fun and creative museums. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the museum celebrates contemporary pop culture with exhibits dedicated to music, movies, video games, and science fiction.
Inside, you’ll find everything from original guitars played by legendary musicians to costumes and props from blockbuster films like Star Trek, The Wizard of Oz, and Harry Potter. There are also entire sections devoted to icons such as Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, both with deep roots in Seattle’s music history.
The building itself is worth a visit. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, its colorful, curving exterior has become an attraction in its own right. If you have an extra hour or two, it’s worth combining with your visit to the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
7. Kerry Park
Kerry Park offers one of the most iconic views of Seattle’s skyline. From this small hillside park in the Queen Anne neighborhood, you get a postcard-perfect view of the city with the Space Needle in the foreground and, on clear days, Mount Rainier in the distance.
I visited as part of this Seattle city highlights tour, and seeing the Space Needle and downtown skyline framed against Elliott Bay was worth the stop. Unfortunately, Mount Rainier was not visible that day, but the rest of the view was still breathtaking!
Even though I liked the view of Seattle skyline from the harbor cruise equally, I think the view from Kerry Park puts the Space Needle as a focal point making it quite unique!
The park itself is small, and the viewpoint is the main attraction here. Visit on a clear day if you can for the best chance to see Mount Rainier. Parking in the area is limited, so joining a city tour or taking a rideshare makes it easier.
8. Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood and the city’s original downtown. With its tree-lined streets, redbrick buildings, art galleries, and cafés, it offers a glimpse into a quieter, more historic side of the city.
I visited on a Saturday afternoon as part of this Seattle city highlights tour. The square itself was beautiful, with huge trees, benches, and plenty of space to sit, though it was quite empty (maybe because it was a rainy day), and there were several homeless individuals around. Still, it’s worth a stop for the architecture and a few key sights.
Some of the highlights here include the Waterfall Garden Park, a small garden with a waterfall hidden behind the buildings; the Memorial to Fallen Firefighters, which honors those who died in the line of duty; and Glasshouse Studio, where you can watch glass artists at work. For a coffee break, Caffè Umbria is a cozy local favorite.
History lovers will also enjoy the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, a small museum that tells the story of Seattle’s role during the gold rush era.
If you have time, you can also take this popular Underground Tour, which explores the old streets buried beneath the city after the Great Fire of 1889.
9. International District (Chinatown)
Seattle’s International District, also known as Chinatown, is one of the city’s popular cultural areas. Located just south of downtown and near Pioneer Square, it’s home to a mix of Asian restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks representing Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and Filipino communities.
I saw this area while passing through on the Seattle city highlights tour, and it looked lively with colorful storefronts and plenty of places to eat. The main streets, along South King and South Jackson, are filled with authentic restaurants, bakeries, and markets.
The historic Chinatown gate at S King St and 5th Ave is a great photo spot. Popular places include Uwajimaya, a large Asian grocery store with food stalls and shops, and the Wing Luke Museum, which shares the stories and heritage of Asian Americans in the Pacific Northwest.
The Hing Hay Park area is great to explore if you have time, with ping-pong tables, chess, a piano, and a traditional pavilion.
10. Fremont Troll
The Fremont Troll is one of Seattle’s quirkiest landmarks and a fun, quick stop. Located under the Aurora Bridge in the Fremont neighborhood, this massive concrete sculpture of a troll clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle has become a local icon and popular photo spot.
We made a brief stop here during our city tour, and it was definitely worth it for a quick look and photo. The sculpture is huge and very interesting!
As per our tour guide, it was created in 1990 by a team of local artists as part of a neighborhood art project to revitalize the area under the bridge, which had fallen into neglect. Inspired by the Norwegian fairytale Three Billy Goats Gruff, the troll “lurks” beneath the bridge and even holds a real VW Beetle in its hand.
A short visit of 10–15 minutes is plenty of time for photos. If you’re driving on your own, street parking nearby can be limited, so plan for a quick stop or visit early in the day.
11. Ballard Locks
Officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, the Ballard Locks are one of Seattle’s most interesting and unique attractions. They connect the freshwater lakes, Lake Union and Lake Washington, to the saltwater of Puget Sound, allowing boats of all sizes to pass between the two.
I stopped here as part of the Seattle city highlights tour and watched boats move through the locks, which was fascinating to see up close. There’s also a fish ladder that lets salmon migrate between the lakes and the ocean, mainly active in late summer.
As I visited in October, there was no salmon to see, but I did see some sea lions lounging. Visit during salmon season (roughly June to September) to see fish swimming up the ladder. The surrounding gardens are nice to stroll through with walking paths and greenery. The fall foliage was spectacular here.
If you want to experience the locks firsthand, you can take this Seattle Locks Cruise from downtown. The cruise passes through the locks and offers excellent views of the city skyline and the floating homes on Lake Union.
12. Floating Homes on Lake Union
Seattle’s floating homes, often called houseboats, are one of the city’s most unique and recognizable sights. These colorful homes line the edges of Lake Union and became world-famous after appearing in the movie Sleepless in Seattle.
While the floating homes are privately owned and not open to visitors, you can see them from the water or nearby parks. This Seattle Locks Cruise is one of the best ways to get a close-up view of the homes and learn about their history, plus you get to go through the Ballard Locks!
For another great vantage point, head to Gas Works Park, which overlooks Lake Union and offers sweeping views of the floating homes as well as the Seattle skyline.
13. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space and a great place to escape the city for a bit of nature. Located about 20 minutes from downtown in the Magnolia neighborhood, the park spans more than 500 acres with forest trails, open meadows, and scenic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Here you can explore miles of walking trails, including the popular Loop Trail, or head down to West Point Lighthouse along the beach. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll, picnic, or simply enjoying a quieter side of Seattle.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and allow a couple of hours if you plan to explore the trails. Parking is free, but it can fill up on weekends.
14. Seattle Central Library
The Seattle Central Library, also known as the Seattle Public Library, is one of the city’s most striking architectural landmarks. Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, the building’s bold glass-and-steel design stands out among downtown’s high-rises. Inside, its light-filled atrium, dramatic angles, and colorful book spiral make it worth a quick visit even if you’re not a book lover.
You can take the escalators up to the top floors for great interior views or stop by the reading room on Level 10, which overlooks the city. Entry is free, and it’s a great place to take a short break or snap photos of the architecture while exploring downtown.
15. Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum, often called SAM, is the city’s leading art museum and a great stop for anyone interested in culture and design. Located downtown near Pike Place Market, it features a wide range of exhibits—from classic European and Asian art to modern and contemporary works.
Outside the museum, the large moving sculpture Hammering Man has become one of Seattle’s recognizable landmarks. Across the street, the Harbor Steps lead down toward the waterfront and make a nice spot to relax or take photos between downtown attractions.
Final Takeaways
Seattle has the perfect mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and laid-back fun. The Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass are must-dos, while Pike Place Market gives you a true taste of the city’s history and food scene.
Add to that the waterfront, a harbor cruise, and unique spots like the Fremont Troll, Ballard Locks, and Lake Union’s floating homes, and you’ll see how much variety this city packs in.
If you have more time, explore neighborhoods like Pioneer Square, the International District, and Fremont, or head outdoors to Discovery Park or Gas Works Park for scenic views. The Seattle Art Museum and Central Library are also worth a quick stop for art and architecture lovers.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, Seattle is easy to enjoy at any pace. I hope you enjoy exploring Seattle as much as I do!
