Glass Art & Skyline Views in Seattle
Seattle, WA, USA
Tips on renting in Seattle
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant city where families can enjoy the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Start your journey at the iconic Pike Place Market, where the aroma of fresh seafood mingles with the lively sounds of street performers. The market’s renowned fishmongers, known for their entertaining fish tossing, add a playful energy that delights visitors of all ages. Just steps away, the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57 offers sweeping views of the city skyline and Elliott Bay, making it a favorite for families seeking unforgettable moments together.
For those who love the outdoors, Discovery Park in the Magnolia neighborhood boasts 534 acres of scenic landscapes, from lush forests to sandy beaches and dramatic bluffs. Wander along the Discovery Park Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile path that invites families to experience the tranquility of nature right in the heart of the city. The historic West Point Lighthouse adds a picturesque touch, standing as a symbol of Seattle’s coastal charm.
Immerse your family in Seattle’s rich heritage at the Museum of Flight, where a remarkable collection of aircraft and spacecraft awaits. From vintage fighter planes to the original Air Force One, interactive exhibits ensure that visitors of all ages are engaged and inspired. The Woodland Park Zoo, a beloved city institution since 1899, is home to more than 900 animals representing 250 species, offering families an enriching and entertaining day surrounded by wildlife and wonder.
Nearby cities
Greenwood
Experience Greenwood, where the annual Greenwood Seafair Parade brings vibrant community spirit and lively summer festivities to town.
Lacey
Explore Lacey and stroll the scenic trails of Woodland Creek Community Park, a haven for nature lovers.
Olympia
Explore Olympia and stroll through the breathtaking Washington State Capitol Campus, where history and stunning gardens meet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Seattle has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Capitol Hill pulses with artisanal coffee culture and vintage boutiques, while Queen Anne delivers sweeping Sound vistas beneath the Space Needle’s iconic silhouette. Fremont’s quirky charm unfolds through eclectic galleries and Sunday markets, whereas Ballard’s maritime heritage mingles with craft breweries along cobblestone streets. Each district offers distinct flavors of Pacific Northwest urban sophistication.
-
Summer’s luminous Pacific Northwest days draw travelers like moths to flame, making June through August fiercely competitive. Secure your urban sanctuary 3-4 months ahead to claim coveted waterfront lofts or historic craftsman havens. Spring cherry blossoms and fall’s amber tapestry also command premium rates, requiring similarly strategic planning for optimal choices.
-
Exceptional properties weave local character into every detail: floor-to-ceiling windows framing Elliott Bay’s mercurial moods, chef-caliber kitchens stocked with locally-roasted beans, and private decks where morning mist dances across cedar branches. Curated libraries featuring Pacific Northwest authors, vintage vinyl collections, and artisanal bath products elevate stays beyond mere lodging into immersive cultural experiences.
-
Seattle’s walkable neighborhoods and robust transit networks liberate visitors from automotive concerns. Properties near light rail stations connect seamlessly to Pike Place Market’s sensory theater and Pioneer Square’s cobblestone romance. Strategic locations in Belltown or South Lake Union place Space Needle, waterfront piers, and museum districts within pleasant strolls, while streetcars whisk adventurers toward emerging culinary destinations.
-
For a sublime view of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains, head to the Sky View Observatory in the Columbia Tower, the tallest building in Seattle. Located on the 73rd floor, 900 feet above ground, this observatory offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding natural beauty. Tickets range from $20 to $40 per person, and it’s advisable to purchase them in advance to avoid moderate weekend crowds.
-
To visit the Space Needle in Seattle, pre-purchase a timed ticket to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. Rise 605 feet above the city to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains from the saucer-shaped top house. Plan your visit between 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM on Fridays, or check the specific hours for other days, and consider visiting as part of the CityPASS for additional city attractions.
-
For a seamless and enjoyable boating experience on Lake Washington, head to Warren G. Magnuson Park, home to Seattle’s most popular public boat launch. Located at the southeast end of the park, this launch offers four ramp lanes, ample parking for trailers, and convenient amenities like electronic fee machines and nearby stores for last-minute needs. The park is open from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., making it ideal for both early risers and those looking to spend a full day on the lake.
-
For a safe and enjoyable beach experience in Seattle, head to Madrona Beach, West Green Lake Beach, Matthew’s Park Beach, Madison Beach, Mt. Baker Beach, or Pritchard Beach, all of which are equipped with lifeguards during the summer months. These beaches offer stunning lake views and refreshing waters, perfect for a day of swimming and sunbathing from May to October. Make sure to check the lifeguard schedules for the most up-to-date information on their hours of operation.