40 Amazing Experiences Around Seattle

40 Amazing Experiences Around Seattle –

The city of Seattle and surrounding areas—often called the Puget Sound region—is a beautiful and exciting place to live or visit. Whether you like being outdoors, meeting new people, or exploring a new city, there’s something here for everyone. This guide offers suggestions for different types of activities, including both indoor and outdoor options, so you can enjoy the area any time of year. No matter if you’re coming to Washington State for the first time or the fortieth time—there is always something new to experience!

Experiences for Active People

If the active Pacific Northwest lifestyle is what you are looking for, you’ll love all that the region has to offer. Here are a few top picks for active people of all ages.

Around Town – Active People:

1- Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Union

Paddling through Lake Union offers a unique perspective of Seattle’s skyline, colorful houseboats (parts of the movie ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ were filmed here), and the iconic Gas Works Park. It’s a peaceful way to exercise and connect with nature close to the heart of the city. Rental options are available at Agua Verde Paddle Club and Moss Bay.

2- Biking the Burke-Gilman Trail

This 20-mile trail is perfect for cyclists of all levels (as well as runners and walkers). It winds through various neighborhoods, offering scenic views and a safe path for commuting or leisure rides. More details can be found on the Seattle Parks website.

3- Trail Running at Discovery Park

1,100-acre Discovery Park was originally Fort Lawton, an army base established in 1897 to protect the city of Seattle. Today, Seattle’s largest green space offers diverse trails, from forests to beaches, ideal for running or walking. It’s a serene escape within the city. Trail maps can be found on the Trail Run Project.

Out In Nature – Active People:

4- Hiking Mount Si

A challenging 8-mile round trip hike that rewards you with panoramic views at the summit. It’s a favorite among locals for fitness and nature appreciation. You’ll want to be in good shape for this one—for beginner to intermediate levels, consider nearby Little Si, which also has beautiful views down the valley. Trail details are available on the Washington Trails Association website.

5- Viewing Snoqualmie Falls

Located approximately 45 minutes east of Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is a beautiful 270-foot waterfall that is a true local treasure. People of all ages can enjoy the view from the roadside observation center, while more adventurous people can follow the 1-kilometer trail down to a lower observation deck for an up-close look. The Snoqualmie Falls Official Website has all the information you need to plan your visit.

6- Late Fall to Spring: Skiing at Stevens Pass

The Puget Sound area has some great ski options, including Alpental, Crystal Mountain, Snoqualmie, and Stevens Pass. During winter, Stevens Pass becomes a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of all ages. It’s a great weekend getaway for adventure seekers and located just 90 minutes east of Seattle. Learn more at the Stevens Pass website.

Experiences for Young Adults

Seattle is a great place to get together with friends or to make fun discoveries on your own. These experiences are well worth a look.

Around Town – Young Adults:

1- Exploring Capitol Hill Nightlife

While some Seattle neighborhoods become quiet in the evening, Capitol Hill is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s a hub for young adults seeking entertainment and social connections. Discover popular spots on Yelp by searching ‘Capitol Hill’.

2- Summertime: Attending Bumbershoot Festival

Held annually over Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot is an arts festival featuring music, comedy, and visual arts. For 2025, the event will be Saturday and Sunday, August 30 and 31. Bumbershoot highlights the music history and culture of Seattle in a unique way; the Bumbershoot website describes the event as a ‘vibrant collision of music, creativity, and culture.’ Tickets can be purchased in advance, with details available at Bumbershoot.

3- Visiting the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

MoPOP offers interactive exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture, appealing to a wide range of interests. It’s both educational and entertaining. Plan your visit at MoPOP.

Out In Nature – Young Adults

4- Riding the Ferry to Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is a beautiful area, with several small towns that offer charming shops, restaurants, and scenic beauty. It’s only a short ferry ride away from downtown Seattle, so Bainbridge is perfect for a day trip. Seeing the Seattle waterfront from the rear deck of a ferry boat is an experience that should not be missed! Ferry schedules are available on the Washington State Ferries website.

5- Camping in Olympic National Park

The Olympic Peninsula is a world to itself. Experience the diverse environments of the park, including rainforests, hot springs, and unforgettable beaches. Camping here offers a chance to disconnect from technology and surround yourself with the beauty of nature. Camping information can be found on the National Park Service website.

Experiences for Families With Kids

Looking for an outing that offers something for children as well as adults? The following options are a good bet to please everyone in the family!

Around Town – Families:

1- Visiting the Seattle Aquarium

Located on the Seattle waterfront, the Seattle Aquarium features marine life native to the Pacific Northwest, providing education and fun for people of all ages. Visit Seattle Aquarium for more information.

2- Experiencing the Pacific Science Center

This center features hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and IMAX theaters, sparking curiosity in young minds. Learn more at Pacific Science Center.

3- Picnicking at The Ballard Locks

Located just north of downtown Seattle, the Ballard Locks (officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks) connect the saltwater of Puget Sound with the freshwater of Lake Union and Lake Washington. Visitors can bring a picnic lunch and enjoy watching boats pass through the locks every day. In the fall season, underwater windows allow you to watch wild salmon swimming upstream as they return to the rivers where they were born. A unique Seattle experience! Find more information here: Ballard Locks Visitor Information

4- Exploring the Woodland Park Zoo

Home to over 1,000 animals, the zoo offers interactive exhibits and educational programs, making it a family favorite. In addition, zoo conservation efforts help provide information and care for endangered animals. Plan your visit at Woodland Park Zoo.

5- Spring Season Only: Seeing the Cherry Blossoms at the University of Washington

In the month of April, the University of Washington’s Seattle campus bursts into color as cherry blossoms bloom. In the area known as ‘The Quad,’ 29 Japanese cherry trees create a beautiful canopy of pink and white, making it the perfect place for family photos or a picnic. The peak bloom typically occurs between mid-March and early April, depending on weather conditions. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation due to limited parking during peak times. You can find more information at this UW Cherry Blossoms website.

Out In Nature – Families:

6- Meeting the Animals at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

If you have ever seen an elk up close, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. At Northwest Trek, you can explore a 723-acre park with native Northwest animals in natural environments. A bus tour offers close-up views of bison, elk, caribou, and more. Details at Northwest Trek.

7- Tidepooling at Dash Point State Park

At low tide, pools of water in the rock become your own private aquarium. Up-close views of sea stars, crabs, and other marine life make for a memorable and educational beach outing. Park information is available on the Washington State Parks website.

8- Spring Season Only: Attending the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

During the month of April, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival showcases millions of blooming tulips across various fields and display gardens in Mount Vernon—a town about 90 kilometers north of Seattle. The festival includes art exhibits, a street fair, food, and other family-friendly events. Traffic can be very heavy during peak bloom, so it’s a good idea to go on a weekday if possible. You can find more information and purchase tickets at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival website.

Experiences to Get Away from the Crowds

Sometimes you just want to get away from it all, and the Pacific Northwest is a great place for that mindset. Here are a few great options that are off the beaten track.

Around Town – Away from the Crowds:

1- Strolling the Japanese Garden at Washington Park Arboretum

This quiet garden offers a peaceful retreat with koi ponds, bridges, and seasonal flowers. It’s a great place for reflection or a slow walk. Entry is low-cost, and it’s ideal for solo visitors or small groups. The Japanese Garden website will help you plan your visit.

2- Wandering through the Bellevue Botanical Garden

Located just east of downtown Bellevue, the Bellevue Botanical Garden offers 53 acres of beautiful gardens, woodlands, and natural wetlands. Open daily from dawn to dusk with free admission, it’s an ideal spot for a tranquil walk, nature photography, or quiet reflection. Learn more at the Bellevue Botanical Garden website.

3- Walking Trails at Juanita Bay Park

This park offers easy trails and boardwalks through wetlands, ideal for bird watching, picnic lunches, and nature walks with children. Watch a heron hunting for his lunch, or see the turtles warming themselves on a log in the afternoon sun. More info at Juanita Bay Park.

4- Exploring the Kubota Garden

Located in South Seattle, this hidden gem blends Japanese design with native Pacific Northwest plants. It’s free to visit and rarely crowded—perfect for photography or meditation. See the Kubota Garden website for information.

Out In Nature – Away from the Crowds:

5- Exploring Whidbey Island Beaches

Just a short ferry ride or drive from Seattle, Whidbey Island has calm, scenic beaches perfect for shell hunting or watching the sunset. Great for those who enjoy slow-paced, scenic outings. Learn more about Whidbey Island here.

6- Hiking the Olympic National Forest Trails

This area of the Olympic Peninsula offers quieter hikes than the national park nearby. Trails like the Mount Townsend Trail or Lower Big Quilcene are peaceful and surrounded by nature. Visit the website for Olympic National Forest Information.

7- Visiting Deception Pass State Park

Famous for its iconic bridge and coastal views, Deception Pass is at the heart of the Puget Sound island experience. The park can be busy on weekends, but during weekdays, you’ll have plenty of quiet moments to enjoy the amazing sights. The Deception Pass area is great for hiking, beach walking, or quiet reflection. As bonus hidden gems, be sure to check out nearby Rosario Beach and Mt. Erie. Learn more at the Deception Pass State Park website.

Things to Do on a Rainy Day

While it doesn’t rain in Seattle quite as much as people think (shhh, don’t tell anyone, it’s our local secret!), nevertheless Seattle does have its share of rainy, cloudy days. That doesn’t mean you have to be stuck at home; here are some great ways to get out in spite of the weather.

1- Reading at a Local Library

The Puget Sound area has libraries across all of its communities, providing lots of cozy opportunities to pick up a new book and read. The downtown Seattle library is an architectural marvel; the library provides spaces for reading, studying, or community events. Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and Lake Hills have great libraries too. For Seattle, learn more at the Seattle Public Library website; outside the city you’ll want to check out the King County Library System.

2- Shopping at Pike Place Market

A top-ten experience for many people is to visit the downtown Pike Place Market and nearby location of the First Starbucks Coffee Shop. Historic Pike Place Market offers indoor shopping, fresh produce, and local crafts, perfect for exploring on a rainy day. Visit Pike Place Market for details.

3- Winning a Game at Mox Boarding House

A unique venue combining a game store, restaurant, and gaming space, ideal for enjoying board games with friends. Learn more at Mox Boarding House.

4- Playing Indoor Mini-Golf at Flatstick Pub

Combining mini-golf with a pub atmosphere, it’s a fun indoor activity for adults (ages 21+). Locations include Kirkland, Redmond, South Lake Union, and downtown Seattle. Check out Flatstick Pub for more information.

5- Trying Hot Yoga Classes

Want to chase away the Seattle rainy-day blues? Stay warm and active by joining a hot yoga class, which can be both relaxing and invigorating. Yelp highlights a number of hot yoga options in the Seattle-Bellevue area.

6- Indoor Rock Climbing at Vertical World

As America’s first climbing gym, Vertical World provides facilities for both beginners and experienced climbers. It’s a great way to build strength and meet fellow enthusiasts. Visit Vertical World for more information.

Things to Do to Meet People

Looking to make connections and start up some new friendships? Give these opportunities a try!

1- Language Exchange Meetups

Participate in language exchange events to practice English and meet new friends. A variety of events are available at Meetup.com and through friendly organizations like English Language Learners Alliance.

2- Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and connect with others. Opportunities can be found through VolunteerMatch.

3- Community Center Classes

Enroll in classes such as cooking, art, or dance at local community centers to learn new skills and meet people. Check offerings at Spring 2025 Classes and Activities – Parkways or at the City of Bellevue website.

4- Sports Leagues

Participate in recreational sports leagues like soccer or ultimate frisbee to stay active and socialize. Information is available at Underdog Sports Leagues.

Don’t Miss These Top Experiences

Are you someone who’s looking for the best of the best? Whether you’re new to the area or visiting, you won’t want to miss these essential experiences that offer the true flavor of life around the Puget Sound:

1- Riding a Ferry Across Puget Sound

Whether you go to Bainbridge, Bremerton, or Vashon, taking a ferry is a classic and scenic experience. Watch the Seattle skyline fade away as mountains and islands appear. You might even see a Puget Sound orca whale! Riding a ferry is a great experience for all ages; more information about Washington State Ferries can be found here.

2- Exploring the Pike Place Market

One of the oldest farmers markets in the U.S., this busy place has something for everyone—fresh seafood, flowers, handmade crafts, and flying fish! It’s also a great place to practice your English while talking to local vendors. Information is available at the Pike Place Market website.

3- Eating Fresh Seafood

One thing the Puget Sound area is famous for is fresh seafood. For a quick seafood lunch, Ivar’s Restaurants are a Seattle legend. Also be sure to include in your trip at least one sunset dinner at a waterfront restaurant along the Puget Sound, such as Anthony’s (several locations are available) or Salty’s in West Seattle.

4- Visiting a National Park (Mount Rainier or Olympic)

Experience the wild beauty of Washington’s mountains, forests, and beaches. You can go for a hike, have a picnic, or just take photos. Many trails are beginner-friendly. Explore all that’s available at the National Park website.

The Puget Sound region is full of opportunities to explore, learn, and connect with others. Whether you prefer city life or peaceful nature, there’s always something fun to do—rain or shine.

Tips for Newcomers:

• Dress in layers—the weather can change quickly.
• Don’t be afraid of the rain—just bring a light waterproof jacket when you go out. Locals almost never carry umbrellas!
• Follow local rules in parks and public spaces (such as “Leave No Trace” guidelines).
• Say hello to people! Many local people are friendly and enjoy greeting visitors.