10 Best Things to do in Seattle, Washington

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Dreaming up your trip to Seattle, Washington? You’re in the right spot!

We’ve spent plenty of time getting to know the Emerald City, and it always keeps us coming back. One moment you’re sipping craft coffee in Capitol Hill, the next you’re looking out at snowcapped peaks from a city park. Seattle blends grit and charm, nature and culture, unlike anywhere else. 

We’ve wandered through its markets, explored its hidden underground, and taken day trips to nearby mountains and coastlines. Each experience added another reason to love this place. That’s why we’ve pulled together our absolute favorite things to do in Seattle—tried, tested, and totally worth it—so you can skip the planning stress and dive straight into the best experiences.

Things to do in Seattle, Washington

1. Discover Seattle’s underground history

• Duration: 1 hour
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Highlights: Explore the underground pathways in Seattle’s southwest corner, learn about the Emerald City’s history, and compare modern-day Pioneer Square to its historic design
• Inclusions: Professional local guide, insider tips, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 6,600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We’d strolled through Seattle’s historic district before, but had no idea what was hidden beneath our feet—until we joined this walking history tour. It took us below street level into underground passageways that most people never see. 

From the start, it felt like we were stepping straight into the 1890s. Our guide, Kieran, brought the stories of old Seattle to life with an energy that made it impossible not to get swept up in the adventure. He covered everything from the Coast Salish peoples who originally lived here to the Klondike Gold Rush and the gritty rise of Skid Row. 

At one point, we stood in a dimly lit tunnel and looked up at what used to be the sidewalk, realizing we were literally walking through history. You could still see the original brickwork, warped wood beams, and even old storefront windows hidden beneath today’s city.

We explored four blocks of Pioneer Square, both above and below ground, and compared what used to be with what exists now. Standing under a busy café and seeing the original entrance tucked beneath the sidewalk made the city’s layered history feel incredibly real.

This tour gave us access to three unique underground spaces that had only recently reopened and pulled us into the city’s past in a way no museum or guidebook ever could. It’s a hidden side of Seattle you’d never find on your own, which is exactly what made it unforgettable!

Check out the THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

2. Visit the famous Pike Place Market with a chef-led food tour

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 3 pm
• Highlights: Enjoy a chef-guided food tour of Pike Place Market, see where chefs shop and locals hang out, stop for tastings at a wide variety of food spots
• Inclusions: Chef guide, sample the best products of Pike Place Market at nine vendor food stops, discount card, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Pike Place Market is one of those places everyone visits, but not everyone truly experiences. Wandering past flying fish and flower stands is one thing, but joining this small-group food tour with a local chef gave us a whole new appreciation for the market’s flavors, stories, and hidden corners.

Our guide, Chef Noah, didn’t just lead us to great food—he gave us the stories behind it. From the history of MarketSpice (Seattle’s oldest spice shop) to a behind-the-scenes look at where local chefs source their produce, it felt like we were being let in on big local secrets.

We skipped the lines at Pike Place Chowder for a cup of their famous clam chowder. It was creamy, rich, and packed with flavor! Then came Beecher’s mac and cheese, which lived up to the hype with its velvety texture and sharp, nutty cheddar.

We nibbled on chocolate-covered cherries that balanced sweetness with a subtle tart kick and bit into fresh tacos wrapped in earthy, heirloom corn tortillas. Every bite came with a side of history, fun facts, or a personal story—and yes, we left very full!

We’ve done a lot of food tours over the years, but this one quickly became a favorite. Between the generous samples, expert insight, and small group vibe, it felt more like hanging out with a chef friend than following a guide. Read the five-star reviews here to see why this is the ultimate way to experience Pike Place Market!

This award-winning tour was our FAVORITE in Seattle—secure your spot here!

3. Spend a day exploring Mt. Rainier National Park

• Duration: 10–12 hours
• Time: 7:20 am
• Highlights: Visit Mt. Rainier National Park on a full-day bus tour from Seattle, learn about the park, local lakes, and historic towns from your guide, photograph stunning sites such as Christine Falls and Narada Falls
• Inclusions: Professional guide, pick up and drop-off from select Seattle hotels, transport by air-conditioned commercial bus
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We always wanted to visit Mt. Rainier, but figuring out driving, park access, and unpredictable weather felt overwhelming. This full-day guided tour made it completely stress-free. Instead of juggling maps and road conditions, we just sat back and enjoyed the ride straight into the heart of Mt. Rainier National Park.

Our guide, James, was knowledgeable, accommodating, and genuinely enthusiastic. He shared facts about the region’s volcanic past, pointed out local wildlife, and adjusted the day’s stops based on real-time weather and road conditions, which made everything feel well-paced and flexible.

We stopped at Christine Falls, strolled through a forest of ancient trees, and even had the chance to snowshoe in Paradise, which lived up to its name at 5,400 feet (1,645 meters) above sea level.

One of the best parts is that each tour is a little different, depending on your guide and the season, which means you’re getting a personalized experience tailored to the best conditions and hidden spots available that day.

But keep in mind that snow can limit access to some spots, especially between mid-October and April, and food options inside the park can be limited on weekdays, so pack snacks or grab lunch along the way. Still, no matter the route, the views of Rainier, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls are worth every second of the drive.

With thousands of 5-star reviews, it’s no wonder this Mt. Rainier tour is a highlight for so many visitors. We’d do it all over again in a heartbeat!

Book this bucket-list tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!

4. Visit the Space Needle and the famous Chihuly Garden and Glass

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: Open hours vary from 8:30 am to 11 pm
• Highlights: Visit the iconic Space Needle and world-famous Chihuly Garden and Glass, enjoy hands-on digital experiences, be inspired by artist Dale Chihuly’s innovation and passion
• Inclusions: All entrance fees, digital souvenir photos, glass floor, outdoor deck, live glass demonstrations, gallery talks, audio guide
• Rating: 4.6 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Hopping around the city to see major sights can eat up your whole day, but this combo ticket makes it simple to experience two of Seattle’s top attractions in one go. The Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass are right next to each other, and you can visit them in any order after redeeming your voucher.

We started with the Space Needle, riding the elevator 520 feet (158 meters) up to the observation deck for sweeping views of Mt. Rainier, Puget Sound, and the downtown skyline. The late morning light made the water shimmer, and we could even spot tiny ferries cutting across the bay in the distance.

The glass floor and tilting glass walls made our knees wobble a bit, but the views were worth it. Free digital souvenir photos were a fun extra, too!

From there, we wandered straight into Chihuly Garden and Glass—and honestly, it blew us away. Just take time to download the museum’s free audio guide so you don’t miss any important details. 

The galleries were stunning, but our favorite part was the boat installation surrounded by bursts of glass flowers in every color imaginable. It looked like something straight out of a fantasy film!

This experience felt like the ultimate Seattle two-for-one deal—iconic views and unforgettable art, all in one easy stop. If you’re short on time but still want a big experience, this is the way to do it!

Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book it in advance here!

Related Read: If you haven’t booked a place to stay yet, check out our guide to the best hotels and areas in Seattle!

5. See the city from the water on a harbor cruise

• Duration: 1 hour
• Time: Multiple departure times from 10:45 am to 4:05 pm
• Highlights: Small-group cruise around Elliot Bay, learn about Seattle’s historic waterfront, get an up-close look at one of the world’s largest shipping terminals, snap photos of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, including Mt. Rainier
• Inclusions: Live narration, one-hour sightseeing cruise, interior and exterior seating areas, restrooms available on board, food and beverages available for purchase onboard, first to board upgrade (if option selected)
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We’d spent days walking Seattle’s streets and hitting the major sights, but it was surprisingly hard to get a clear, panoramic view of the city. That’s why we took this small-group harbor cruise around Elliott Bay. In just one hour, we saw the skyline, mountains, and working waterfront from a whole new angle, all without fighting crowds or traffic.

We grabbed drinks, found a sunny spot on the upper deck, and let the salty breeze and skyline unfold around us. It was the kind of calm you don’t expect in the middle of a busy city. We also did the First to Board upgrade, which was worth it for skipping the line, getting the best seats, and 15% off drinks.

The commentary was lively and packed with interesting bits of Seattle history, from the story behind Harbor Island’s massive shipping operations to the original piers along the historic waterfront.

Along the way, we spotted Pike Place Market perched above the waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel spinning near the piers, and both stadiums—T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field—standing out like Seattle’s sports temples just beyond the city’s edge.

Mt. Rainier peeked out from the clouds in the distance, while the Space Needle rose above the skyline like a postcard brought to life. The views were nonstop, and the vibe on board was relaxed, friendly, and fun.

For unbeatable city views, fun facts, and a refreshing break from land, hop on this harbor cruise—you’ll see why so many travelers keep coming back!

Check out the 1,300+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

6. Explore Seattle’s top sights in an easy 3-hour city tour

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 1 pm
• Highlights: See numerous Seattle highlights in just a few hours, including Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and Pike Place Market, learn about the history and culture of each destination
• Inclusions: Local guide, transportation by air-conditioned mini coach bus, small-group tour, three meetup locations to choose from
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Seattle has so much to see, it’s hard to know where to start—especially on your first visit. Rather than wrestling with parking apps and trying to plan a route ourselves, we hopped on this small-group city tour and covered a huge portion of the city in just a few hours, without lifting a finger.

Ron, our guide, was fantastic. Equal parts storyteller and local expert, he shared everything from Seattle’s Gold Rush roots to modern tips on where to find the best oysters and coffee. As our minicoach cruised through the city, we passed iconic spots like the Seattle waterfront, Pike Place Market, and the Amazon Spheres, with Ron adding context that made it all feel connected.

Stops at Pioneer Square, the Ballard Locks, and Kerry Park gave us time to walk around, take photos, and soak up the scenery. It was such an iconic moment standing in the park, looking out over the skyline with Mt. Rainier in the distance!

We even drove past the original Starbucks headquarters, aka the “Starbucks mothership”, according to Ron, which was oddly exciting, especially if you’re someone who’s ever relied on a grande latte to survive your morning.

From quirky neighborhoods to iconic landmarks, this tour gave us the perfect Seattle overview. Book it early in your trip—it’s a fun, easy way to get your bearings and fall in love with the city!

Read thousands of glowing reviews here and secure this city highlights tour!

Related Read: Not sure how to make the most of your time in Seattle? This day-by-day itinerary covers all the Seattle highlights—plus a few hidden gems for a perfectly balanced 3-day trip!

7. Get outside and explore Olympic National Park

• Duration: 12 hours
• Time: 7:30 am
• Highlights: All-inclusive, small-group tour exploring Olympic National Park with a naturalist guide, hike tailored to your group
• Inclusions: Professional guide, local refreshments, seasonal local picnic lunch, transportation, snow gear (during winter months), pick up and drop-off at select downtown locations, Olympic National Park entrance fees
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Most travelers stick to Seattle’s city limits, but one of the most incredible landscapes in the Pacific Northwest is just beyond the skyline. This all-inclusive day trip to Olympic National Park made it easy to escape the city and dive into glacier-carved mountains, moss-draped forests, and wild coastlines, with transportation, meals, and everything we needed included.

The day started with a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound, where the skyline faded behind us and the Olympic Mountains came into view. We crossed the peninsula, stopping at Lake Crescent, towering old-growth forests, and trails lined with ferns and filtered light.

Our guide, Matthew, was incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about the region’s ecology. He pointed out black-tailed deer unique to the area, explained the Elwha River restoration project, and even helped us spot a glacier in the distance. The hike was tailored to our group’s pace and interests, and there was no shortage of warm drinks, fresh snacks, and even a picnic lunch with a view.

In summer, the tour explores subalpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. In winter, it transforms into a snowshoeing adventure through quiet, snow-covered trails around Hurricane Ridge with snowshoes included, so all you need to bring is some warm clothes and a sense of adventure.

What made this tour special wasn’t just the scenery—it was how personal it felt. Between the tailored hike and thoughtful touches, it was more like exploring with a group of friends. For any nature lover, this one is a must!

Reserve this all-inclusive tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

8. Taste Seattle’s famous coffees on a coffee tasting tour

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 10 am and 1 pm
• Highlights: Enjoy a java tour of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, pass by the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, sample three different coffees, go behind the scenes of coffee production
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, three coffee samples, tips on what else to see, do, and eat during your stay, small-group or private tour (depending on option selected)
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Seattle might be known for its rainy weather, but what really fuels this place is coffee. This walking tour through Capitol Hill gave us the perfect excuse to dive headfirst into the city’s caffeine scene while also getting a local’s take on one of its most vibrant neighborhoods.

We started at the Jimi Hendrix statue (because where better to kick off a tour of Seattle’s creative energy than with the city’s most legendary rock icon?) and quickly moved into a deeper exploration of Capitol Hill’s counterculture roots. 

Between stops, our guide Sam shared stories about Seattle’s music history, progressive politics, and, of course, how the city helped shape modern coffee culture.

We tasted three unique coffee drinks, starting with a classic Americano brewed from single-origin beans. It was smooth, strong, and perfectly balanced! Next came a rich blend infused with Mexican chocolate that hit just the right mix of bold and sweet. The last was a coffee-based mocktail served over ice with citrus and bitters, which was unexpected, refreshing, and totally addictive.

We also got a peek at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, basically a theme park for coffee lovers, and picked up tons of recommendations for local bakeries, drink spots, and late-night eats in the area.

Coffee wasn’t just served on this tour—it was celebrated, from how it’s brewed to how it’s woven into the heart of Seattle’s culture. Just keep in mind that spots fill up fast, and when you read the hundreds of 5-star reviews here, it’s easy to see why!

Don’t miss out on Seattle’s famous coffee – book this tour here!

9. Discover Seattle’s Best Donuts

• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 1 pm
• Highlights: Small-group walking tour exploring Seattle’s top donut shops with a local guide, sample some of the city’s sweetest offerings
• Inclusions: Donut tastings, coffee/tea
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Seattle might be known for coffee, but the donut scene here is totally underrated. This small-group walking tour took us to some of the city’s best donut shops and gave us full permission to indulge in Seattle’s sweetest side.

Our guide, Amanda, was friendly, upbeat, and clearly passionate about pastries. She knew the history behind each stop and tossed in fun facts about the neighborhoods we passed through, from local legends to pop culture moments we’d never have picked up on ourselves.

We kicked things off at Top Pot Doughnuts with their classic old-fashioned maple bar—crisp edges, fluffy center, and just enough glaze to keep things interesting. At Doce Donut Co., we tried a brioche-style donut with bold Latin American-inspired flavors, like dulce de leche and guava, all served just outside the futuristic Amazon Spheres.

Next came Dahlia Bakery, where the donuts were more delicate, almost elegant. Think soft, buttery bites dusted with powdered sugar! And the grand finale was a warm bag of cinnamon-sugar minis from Daily Dozen at Pike Place Market. Still sizzling, slightly crispy, and dangerously easy to devour.

This tour delivers more than just donuts—it’s a delicious way to explore Seattle, one neighborhood and one bite at a time. Come hungry, bring your sweet tooth, and don’t be surprised if you leave with a new favorite donut shop!

This donut tour frequently sells out, so grab your spot here before it’s too late!

10. Go wine tasting in Washington’s iconic wine regions

• Duration: 6 hours
• Time: Hotel pick up from 9:15 am to 10:15 am
• Highlights: See Snoqualmie Falls and two Washington wineries, go deep into the rolling Cascade foothills, past lush horse ranches and flower farms, and to popular Hollywood production locations 
• Inclusions: Local guide, pick up and drop-off from select hotels, air-conditioned bus transportation
• Rating: 4.5 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Exploring Washington’s wine country sounds great—until you’re stuck planning the route and figuring out who’s driving. This winery and Snoqualmie waterfall tour handled all the details so we could just sip, relax, and enjoy the views. 

Our day began with a scenic drive over Lake Washington and into the Woodinville wine region. At our first stop, we sampled crisp whites and bold reds at a boutique winery, with time to chat with the staff and linger over our favorites. 

After a laid-back lunch nearby, we made our way to a second tasting room—this one mixing things up with small-batch ciders and rich, velvety blends that had us reaching for the tasting menu more than once.

Somewhere between sips, vineyard views, and trivia about Washington wine country, our guide James added a fun layer to the day with his stories and surprising facts. He made the drive fly by!

We wrapped up the day at Snoqualmie Falls, where the 268-foot (82-meter) drop thundered into the canyon below, sending up a cool mist that hit our faces like nature’s version of a wake-up call. It was the perfect way to re-energize after all those cozy tasting rooms!

Between the wine, the waterfall, and a sweet chocolate treat at the end, this tour is an easy win. Don’t forget that wine tastings and lunch aren’t included, so bring some extra cash and a big appetite!

Book this tour here and get flexible payment and cancellation options!

Where to Stay in Seattle, Washington

Now that you’ve got a list of the best things to do in Seattle, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! Downtown Seattle is super fun and convenient, but it’s also more expensive. So I’ve included a few options in the heart of Seattle and also a bit closer to the airport to reach all budgets:

Luxury – $$$

Tucked between Seattle’s vibrant Belltown district and buzzing downtown core, Hotel Andra Seattle MGallery Hotel Collection is a luxury boutique hotel that blends sleek Scandinavian design with warm Pacific Northwest hospitality. Just a short walk from Pike Place Market and the Seattle Center Monorail, the location is ideal for exploring the city’s highlights. The spacious rooms feature plush beds, cozy fireplaces, espresso makers, and spa-style bathrooms—everything you need to relax in comfort and style.

Rates typically range from $250–$500 USD per night, depending on the room type and season. Explore your options and book your luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Lake Union is a solid mid-range stay in one of Seattle’s most scenic neighborhoods. Just steps from Lake Union and near downtown, it’s an excellent choice for both business travelers and families. Rooms are spacious and spotless, with thoughtful touches like a microwave, fridge, and a coffee machine. Some even come with lake views, fireplaces, or spa baths for a bit of added comfort. The rooftop deck is a relaxing spot to unwind, and the included breakfast is a bonus.

Rates typically range from $170–$320 USD per night. Check availability on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For a convenient and budget-friendly stay near the airport, Courtyard by Marriott Seattle SeaTac Airport is a great pick. Just steps from the terminal, this modern hotel offers free airport shuttle service, clean and comfortable rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and friendly 24-hour front desk service. Accommodations include air conditioning, private bathrooms, and tea/coffee makers.

Private rooms start at around $113 USD per night, with flexible booking options available. Visit Booking.com to reserve your stay.

For more options, see all of Seattle’s hotels listed here!

Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the USA

• Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
• Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
• Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Visiting the Pacific Northwest was always on my bucket list, and our trip to Seattle included all of the best sights! From world-famous coffee to the green forest, mountains, and historic markets, you’ll never be bored while in Seattle. Even if you check off just a few things on this list, I know you’ll have a memorable trip!

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! We love sharing our travel experiences, favorite places, and can’t miss activities with other travelers. Here are a few related articles to help you plan your next adventure:

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Seattle, Washington: 3-Day Itinerary

10 Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Los Angeles: The Best 3-Day Itinerary

10 FUN & EXCITING Things to do in Las Vegas