Seattle isn't the most talked-about American city. Yet it's well worth a visit. Located in the northwestern U.S. state of Washington, travelers will discover an urban atmosphere unique in the U.S., a thriving cultural life and a comforting culinary scene. What's more, Seattle is surrounded by an incredible natural environment, between the Puget Sound, Lake Washington and the nearby Olympic Mountains. Looking to get off the beaten track on your next trip to the USA? Here are 15 must-sees from the birthplace of grunge and legendary rock bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.
1. Space Needle and its breathtaking views
A must-see when visiting Seattle. Space Needle is the city's landmark, a futuristic 184 m high tower built for the 1962 World's Fair. It is topped by an observation platform and a revolving restaurant where you can sit back and enjoy a magnificent panorama of the city, the Olympic Peninsula, Mount Rainier, and even the North Cascades on a clear day. All that's left is to choose the best time to get there, during the day, at sunset or after dark.
What to book: Discover two of Seattle's must-see attractions in one day by booking this ticket. Admire the view of the city from the Space Needle and explore the works of Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
2. A trip to Pike Place Market
Located near the harbor, Pike Place Market is one of the few public markets in the USA, and one of the most colorful markets in the world. It's definitely the place to go to shop and cook for yourself. The atmosphere is very relaxed, with a wide range of stalls selling fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. It's impossible to miss the entrance, just look for the big red "Public Market Center" sign. Artists, antique dealers and designers also rent stalls by the day. And for those who want to cook later, there are some very nice restaurants nearby. Some offer lovely views over the bay.
To book explore Seattle by booking this audio tour by bus bus tour. You hop on and off whenever you like on a route that takes you to the city's main attractions and monuments.
3. Enjoy a coffee in the original Starbucks
Starbucks is now a global brand. But travelers should know that it was in Seattle that English teacher Jerry Baldwin, history teacher Zev Siegel and writer Gordon Bowker opened the first coffee shop in 1971. It's just a few yards from the Pike Place Market. A cup of coffee and a pastry in this collector's item is a must when visiting Seattle. The store boasts a retro facade and a cosy interior.
4. Fremont, Seattle's trendy neighborhood
Fremont is one of Seattle's trendiest neighborhoods. It lies northwest of Lake Union. It's a great place to stroll to admire the floating wooden houses and push open the doors of vintage boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Fremont hosts a number of festivals and public art galleries. Don't missthe local curiosity under the Aurora Bridge: the giant troll sculpture created by four local artists. Also, every weekend, the Fremont Sunday Market offers food stalls and items of all kinds.
To book: Want to save money? Bookable right here and valid for 9 consecutive days, the Seattle CityPASS® will give you access to 5 of the city's must-see attractions.
5. Ride the Seattle Center Monorail
Another relic of the 1962 World's Fair. This vehicle, the first monorail in the United States and now a listed historic monument, links Seattle Center to Westlake Center. It winds elegantly between skyscrapers and over the city's bustling streets, reaching a top speed of around 72 km/h. Taking the Seattle Center Monorail is an experience not to be missed. It's an effortless way to discover the city's downtown core and pinpoint the must-see places to explore during your stay.
Unusual activity to book: Explore Seattle's underground passages by booking this guided walking tour under Pioneer Square. You'll see three passages built in the 1890s and discover Seattle's forgotten history.
6. What to do in Seattle Stroll along the waterfront
Seattle's waterfront, a must-see in the U.S., is the perfect place to take in the city and its unique atmosphere! The stroll along the waterfront is invigorating and offers splendid views of the surrounding nature and the bay. You can also take advantage of the excursion to visit the Seattle Aquarium, or take a break in one of the restaurants to sample some seafood. In the evening, we recommend taking a seat aboard the Ferris Wheel to admire a magnificent sunset.
7. Lake Washington and Mercer Island
You can feel it immediately when you set foot in Seattle: water is everywhere. Lake Washington, which lies between the cities of Seattle and Kirkland, invites you to stroll along its shores, as well as paddle or kayak on sunny days. Another idea is to takea boat out to Mercer Island. This island, which lies right in the middle of the lake, offers a rejuvenating setting, with its pretty houses and lush green spaces. A great destination for an autumn trip. It also boasts the imposing backdrop of Mont Rainier.
To book: Discover Seattle's skyline on a cruise bookable right here, which will take you to the city's most emblematic landmarks from the water.
8. A cruise on the Puget Sound
Seattle, an off-the-beaten-track destination in the USA, runs along an inlet of the Pacific Ocean called the Puget Sound. One of the best things to do in the city is cruise its waters. A great opportunity to photograph the skyline and surrounding mountains. Another option is to set sail for Bainbridge Island. Accessible in a 40-minute ferry ride, this island, which lies opposite Seattle, boasts magnificent wooden houses and pine forests. It's also home to the Bloedel Reserve, a park offering a succession of landscaped botanical gardens where you can admire ferns, magnolias, pines, wild rhododendrons and spot deer, squirrels and ducks.
Do you love nature? Don't miss our top 15 most beautiful national parks in the USA!
9. Capitol Hill, Seattle's lively neighborhood
Travelers who want to get out and have a good time during their stay in Seattle should definitely head for the Capitol Hill district, located some fifteen minutes from Downtown. Here you'll find numerous restaurants, bars, trendy clubs, record stores and coffeehouses. On the west side of Capitol Hill, architecture lovers will find plenty of photo opportunities in the Harvard-Belmont Landmark District, a residential neighborhood of sublime, imposing mansions. On the north side of Capitol Hill, Volunteer Park. offers the chance to take a few moments out in the green, surrounded by flowers and plants.
For your information if you'd like to opt for a personalized travel itinerary in the United States, we recommend you request a free quote right here. A tailor-made, responsible trip, direct with the best local agencies, awaits you!
10. Stroll through the Seattle Art Museum
The Seattle Art Museum operates three facilities: the main museum in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park and the Olympic Sculpture Park on Seattle's central waterfront. Art lovers are invited to explore these venues and see works by American artists as well as pieces from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The Olympic Sculpture Park is a truly unique place, with impressive outdoor sculptures set against the backdrop of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
To book : take advantage of our partner's rates and book here your ticket to the Seattle Art Museum.
11. Museum of Pop Culture, interactive museum
Also known as the Experience Music Project Seattle, the Museum of Pop Culture is a cultural center conceived by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and designed by architect Frank Gehry. It is located in the heart of the city. Visitors are first captivated by its impressive futuristic architecture, before discovering within its walls the history of rock and grunge, from blues to hip-hop. This interactive museum also offers the chance to test your musical skills on guitars, drums and other instruments.
To book : discover all themust-see places in Seattle by booking this 3-hour bus tour of the city .
12. A day at Woodland Park Zoo
Woodland Park Zoo is home to over 300 species of animal, living in enclosures that replicate their natural environment as closely as possible. The bioclimatic zones range from tropical rainforests to coastal deserts, savannah and Nordic countries. Animals include gorillas, grizzly bears, sea lions, giraffes and penguins. The Seattle Zoo offers year-round entertainment, including fascinating stories about the animals that live there.
13. Seattle's gastronomic must-sees
A trip to Seattle is an opportunity to indulge your taste buds. Of course, there are the standards of American cuisine, such as hamburgers and hot dogs, but the city is also renowned for the quality of its seafood. We recommend trying the crab recipes, clam chowder, oysters, salmon and other fish. And don' t miss the Marionberry pie and the gourmet doughnuts from Top Pot. Seattle promises a culinary adventure to remember.
14. The Chihuly Garden and Glass
The Chihuly Garden & Glass is the largest space ever dedicated to glass artist Dale Chihuly, who trained with the great glass artists in Venice. The tour takes in the man's colorful creations, which, as you soon discover, are far from lacking in imagination and talent. The suspended flower sculpture in the glass greenhouse is absolutely magnificent. The visit also includes the museum's garden, where glass works stand side by side with plants and flowers. The whole creates a magical, enchanting universe.
To book : Click here to book your ticket for the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
15. Viretta Park, a tribute to Kurt Cobain
This visit may not appeal to all generations, but Nirvana fans are bound to want to pay tribute to their idol, Kurt Cobain, during a stay in Seattle. Viretta Park, located south of the house where the singer ended his life in 1994, is home to a bench where many admirers write messages and leave flowers. You can take advantage of being in the area to explore the neighborhood and take a walk along the shores of Lake Washington, a peaceful and pleasant spot.
To book: Discover Seattle's spooky history on this guided haunted walk. Explore sites such as the ancient Suquamish Cemetery or the Northwest's first mortuary.
Where to stay in Seattle?
Like all major U.S. cities, Seattle has no shortage of accommodation options. Both downtown and the dynamic Capitol Hill district are great places to stay.
- The Maxwell Hotel, for its central location
Bookable right here, this hotel is the ideal option for those who want to reach downtown's main attractions in no time. Rooms and suites where shapes meet colors offer a world that's both cheerful and comforting. Art is also present throughout The Maxwell Hotel, and there's an indoor pool where you can take a dip after a day of sightseeing.
- Gaslight Inn, for those who like to go out
This affordable hotel, which you can you can book hereis located in the heart of Capitol Hill, one of Seattle's best neighborhoods for restaurants, bars and trendy clubs. Gaslight Inn boasts a warm, elegant decor, with wood as the predominant material. There's also a pleasant little outdoor pool where you can swim on sunny days or simply relax on a deckchair.
- Hotel Max, for a relaxed atmosphere
This hotel is located in the heart of Downtown. The rooms, book here, are very comfortable and beautifully decorated. We love the casual feel ofHotel Max, with its paintings, photos and music-related elements. The hotel also has a gym for those who want to let off steam and keep fit during their trip.
What to do in Seattle in 3 days
Seattle, a dynamic city surrounded by nature, offers a multitude of activities for a 3-day stay. Start your adventure at the famous Pike Place Market, with its local produce and street performances. Then climb the Space Needle for spectacular panoramic views, and explore the Museum of Pop Culture. The second day is devoted to discovering the Capitol Hill district and its trendy cafés. Then it's off for a stroll along the waterfront, with a stop at a restaurant. Finally, you can plan a cruise in the Puget Sound to admire Seattle and the surrounding mountains, then stop off on Bainbridge Island to enjoy its beautiful nature.
Planning to visit Seattle? Discover the list of official documents required to enter the United States and our advice on finding the best health insurance.
Petit Futé tip: Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurancehere, and leave with peace of mind! Don't forget to apply for your visa right here to prepare for your trip.
You'll also find below some of the trendiest things to do in Seattle:
So, are you tempted? Take a look at our airfares now, and don't wait too long to book !
