22 Best Things to Do in Downtown Seattle: A Must-Visit Guide
Seattle’s downtown is the heart of Washington's capital, and is packed with energy, culture, and stunning waterfront views. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Seattle Downtown, you’ll find a perfect mix of history, modern attractions, and unique local experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just passing through, this lively district has something for everyone.
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, downtown Seattle offers endless opportunities to explore. You can soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, dive into its rich arts and music scene, or simply enjoy the incredible food and coffee culture Seattle is known for. No matter your travel style, you’re bound to find something that catches your interest.
Ready to make the most of your time in Seattle? This guide will take you through all the must-visit spots, giving you the ultimate downtown experience for your first visit here. Let’s dive in!
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The Best Things to Do in Downtown Seattle
Some of the best things to do in Seattle lie in its downtown district! So now it's time to check out all of the fun things to do in downtown Seattle, so you can start off your trip to Washington's capital city the right way.
1. Experience Pike Place Market
If you're going to experience just one highlight in the downtown area of Seattle, then Pike Place has got to be it.
Pike Place Market is Seattle's most famous market, and it is so much more impressive than I was anticipating. Spanning 9 acres along the waterfront, you can find everything from fresh fish stalls and local restaurants to handmade leather goods and unique crafts here.
Whether you're looking to grab a bite at one of the incredible eateries or shop for souvenirs, no trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the city's iconic Pike Place Market.
Pike Place Market is one of the top things to do in Seattle downtown.
2. Visit the Iconic Gum Wall
Tucked away down a small set of stairs inside Pike Place Market is a famous wall covered in gum! The colorful display has hundreds of thousands of pieces of chewed gum, making for a wildly unique and colorful display - definitely a fun one to snap for your Instagram!
3. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel
Looking for some stunning and iconic views of Seattle's most popular area? Hop on the 175-foot tall ferris wheel located in the heart of the city on pier 57 for one of the best things to do in Seattle downtown.
4. Take in the Views at Skyview Observatory
For even better panoramic views of Seattle, head up to the Skyview Observatory, which is the tallest public viewing area in the Pacific Northwest.
From the 73rd floor of Columbia Center, you’ll get stunning sights of the skyline, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound. Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city, this is one of the must-see attractions in downtown Seattle.
5. Stop at the World's First Starbucks
Did you know Seattle is home to the first Starbucks in the world? As the birthplace of the most iconic coffee brand, checking out the original is a must. We'll be honest - we're definitely NOT Starbucks fans - but seeing the very first one is pretty cool, especially since they've kept their original logo!
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6. Discover Beneath the Streets
Seattle has a hidden world beneath its surface, and you can explore it on the unique Beneath the Streets tour.
On this tour you'll be walking through the historic underground passageways of Pioneer Square, hearing fascinating stories about the city’s early days and the Great Seattle Fire that led to this buried past.
If you're looking for unique things to do in Seattle downtown, this tour is definitely one you'll want to add to your bucket list.
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7. Browse the Seattle Art Museum
Art lovers will enjoy the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), which is home to an impressive collection ranging from Indigenous Northwest art to contemporary masterpieces. Among the top things to do in Seattle downtown, a visit to SAM is a must for culture enthusiasts.
8. Check Out the Frye Art Museum
For a more low key (and free!) art experience, check out the Frye Art Museum, which is a true hidden gem in Seattle.
The museum features rotating exhibits of classical and contemporary works, making each visit a new experience. If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path things to do in downtown Seattle, this charming museum is definitely worth exploring.
9. Stroll the Waterfront Park
Seattle’s waterfront is one of its most scenic spots in the city, and Waterfront Park offers the perfect place to take in the views of Washington's capital.
From here, you can watch ferries glidsailinging across Elliott Bay, snap photos of the Seattle Great Wheel, or relax on a bench while enjoying the fresh sea breeze. For those looking for iconic things to see in downtown Seattle, this is a must-visit stop.
10. Sail on Seattle’s Tall Ship
Step aboard a historic-style tall ship and set sail on the Puget Sound for a unique coastal adventure in Seattle. You’ll have the chance to help hoist the sails or simply sit back and enjoy the incredible views of the city skyline.
Among the most exciting things to do in Seattle downtown, this sailing experience is perfect for those looking for something different, and definitely a romantic option for sunset.
11. Go on a Dinner Cruise
Not only is sailing around the harbour magical enough, but you can also have a full dinner cruise sailing right from downtown Seattle. Sip champagne and enjoy a three course dinner while you admire the views of this city's stunning skyline at night time for the ultimate bucket list activity in Washington's capital.
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12. Join a Whale Watching Tour
One of the most magical adventures to experience exclusively in Seattle is a whale watching tour! Sail right from downtown Seattle and see killer whales in their natural habitat - this is a true bucket list animal encounter you won't want to miss out on.
13. Explore Olympic Sculpture Park
Blending art and nature, the Olympic Sculpture Park is an outdoor museum in Seattle with stunning waterfront views and large-scale sculptures.
It’s a peaceful place to stroll, take photos, or just relax while admiring both the artwork and the surrounding beauty. As one of the best free things to do in downtown Seattle, it’s an ideal stop for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
14. Go on a Ghost Tour
If you’re looking for a fun and thrilling activity, a Seattle ghost tour is an exciting way to uncover the city’s darker past.
From haunted hotels to eerie alleyways, you’ll hear terrifying stories that make for a dramatic night out. Whether you’re a believer or just love a good ghost story, this is one of the most fun Seattle downtown tours to take after dark.
15. Visit Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Learn about Seattle’s role in the Klondike Gold Rush at this fascinating museum in Pioneer Square.
The exhibits transport you back to the 1890s, telling the stories of fortune seekers who passed through Seattle on their way to Alaska. If you're looking for educational things to do in Seattle downtown, this free museum is a great place to dive into the city's history without breaking the bank.
16. Walk Around the Waterfall Garden Park
Tucked away in Pioneer Square, Waterfall Garden Park is a little slice of paradise in the middle of the city. The highlight is a beautiful 22-foot waterfall, which you truly wouldn't expect! If you’re searching for hidden gems in downtown Seattle, this little-known park is well worth a visit.
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17. Take a Water Taxi to See the Seattle Skyline
For a budget-friendly way to see the city from a new perspective, hop on the water taxi to West Seattle. The short ride offers incredible skyline views, especially at sunset. Among the best things to do in Seattle downtown, this quick ferry ride is a must for photography lovers.
18. Hop on a Ferry to Bainbridge Island
Looking for a great way to escape the crowds of downtown and explore somewhere new? A ferry ride to Bainbridge Island is a fantastic way to get away from the chaos of the city for a few hours while enjoying stunning water views.
Once you arrive, you can explore charming boutiques, enjoy waterfront dining, or go for a scenic walk. If you're looking for a fun day trip from downtown Seattle, this is one of the easiest and most rewarding options.
Bainbridge Island is one of the best day trips you can take from Seattle downtown.
19. Watch a Game at T-Mobile Park
Cheer on the Mariners at T-Mobile Park, where baseball, beer, and incredible city views come together.
The stadium’s retractable roof ensures a great experience no matter the weather, and the atmosphere makes for an unforgettable night. Whether you're a sports fan or just looking for entertaining things to do in Seattle downtown, catching a game is definitely one for the bucket list.
18. Experience the Coast Guard Museum
Located on the Seattle waterfront, the Coast Guard Museum offers an incredible look at maritime history. Exhibits showcase historic rescues, ship models, and the role of the Coast Guard in the Pacific Northwest. If you enjoy exploring unique museums in downtown Seattle, this hidden gem is the perfect stop for your itinerary.
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19. Play Around at the Seattle Pinball Museum
Bring out your inner child in this fun museum that features around 30 different pinball machines from a variety of eras. The ticket allows unlimited play, and is one of the most unique things to do in Downtown Seattle.
20. Go on a Pub Crawl
Looking for another exciting way to enjoy a night (or day) out in Seattle? Well, don't miss out on one of the organized pub crawls that bring you and a fun group from bar to bar sipping on special brews that the city is so well known for.
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So are you ready to explore all of the best things to do in Seattle downtown? This popular hot spot it the perfect place to experience if it's your first time in Washington's capital, and it personally was my favorite area of the city.
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