Having traded my childhood home in Lake Tapps for the vibrant heart of Seattle, I’ve spent years immersing myself in the Emerald City’s unique rhythm. What began as a move has blossomed into a profound love affair with this Pacific Northwest jewel. As a true Seattleite, I’ve had the immense pleasure of uncovering countless new spots, from bustling culinary hubs to serene natural escapes, revealing a side of Seattle I once believed didn’t exist. This city is undeniably beautiful, especially when bathed in the glorious sunshine of its summer months – a season so captivating, it convinces many to brave the legendary rain and call Washington home.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or you’re a fellow resident seeking fresh adventures, this meticulously curated guide is packed with recommendations that promise an abundance of memorable activities and delectable dining experiences. Prepare to fall in love with Seattle’s charm! Pro tip: For the best chance of sunny skies, plan your visit between June and September.
To help you navigate Seattle’s diverse offerings, I’ve organized my recommendations by location and activity. Keep an eye out for these helpful indicators:
- * = Highly Recommended: My absolute favorites and must-visit spots!
- ($) = More on the Pricier End: Expect a higher price point for these premium experiences.
Seattle’s Culinary Delights: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Downtown & Central Seattle Eats
Portage Bay*: Widely acclaimed as one of Seattle’s premier brunch destinations, Portage Bay Cafe is famous for its commitment to locally sourced, organic ingredients. Prepare for a brunch experience of a lifetime, highlighted by their legendary pancake and waffle bar. This self-serve station boasts an irresistible array of fresh fruits, nuts, whipped cream, and gourmet butters, transforming a simple breakfast into an extravagant feast. My personal go-to order is the savory goat cheese omelette with spinach and mushrooms, perfectly complemented by their vegan, gluten-free banana pancakes – because sometimes, you truly need the best of both worlds! To avoid a lengthy wait, I highly recommend making a reservation on Yelp the day prior, though honestly, the wait is often worth every minute. This is consistently my top recommendation for anyone visiting Seattle.
Mr. West Cafe*: Nestled conveniently downtown near Pacific Place and Nordstrom, Mr. West Cafe Bar offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere perfect for any time of day. This stylish spot serves up expertly crafted coffee, exquisite matcha (my favorite is unsweetened with hemp milk), and a delightful selection of toasts, including a fantastic avocado toast. Their menu also features beautifully curated meat and cheese boards and creative cocktails. It’s an ideal setting for a productive work session with your laptop or a relaxed catch-up with friends, thanks to its chic ambiance and diverse offerings.
A delightful RGE cookie skillet ice cream sandwich, a collaboration highlight from F&J’s!
Frankie & Jo’s ($)*: Prepare for a revelation in plant-based desserts at Frankie & Jo’s, home to what I confidently proclaim is the best vegan ice cream you will ever taste. Every flavor is absolutely exquisite, but my personal obsessions are their unique Jamocha Chaga Fudge and the naturally sweetened Vanilla Date Shake. While it is a bit of a splurge, the superior quality of ingredients and the fact that everything is dairy-free, vegan, and even their waffle cones are gluten-free, makes it an unparalleled treat. Beyond the incredible flavors, the shop’s aesthetic – a harmonious blend of cement, palm trees, and an overall chic design – creates a truly memorable experience. With two convenient locations in Capitol Hill and Ballard, it’s easily accessible. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with them twice, creating sold-out ice cream and cookie sandwiches using my RGE cookie skillet individuals. Many have declared these creations the best ice cream they’ve ever tasted, dairy or non-dairy, and I wholeheartedly agree! Keep an eye out for future collaborations!
A vibrant spread of roasted veggies, a trio of delicious spreads (hummus was sadly out on this visit), and fresh pita bread at Eve.
Eve: This charming eatery in Fremont offers a delightful farm-to-fork dining experience within a beautifully decorated space. Their tahini goddess dressing is nothing short of life-changing – it’s an absolute must-try with their perfectly roasted vegetables. The Eve chicken salad is a consistently excellent choice, and the bison burger also comes highly recommended. Be aware that the chefs generally prefer not to modify menu items, so it’s best to order as-is. While the food is fantastic, service can occasionally be inconsistent.
The London Plane ($)*: The London Plane is my go-to sanctuary, whether for an important work meeting or simply when I crave a quaint escape from home. Beyond its exceptional food, the restaurant welcomes you with an enchanting floral section. Guests are invited to craft their own arrangements or seek expert advice from the in-house florist, who occasionally hosts floral arrangement classes. The interior boasts soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and tastefully curated decor, including charming knick-knacks available for purchase. While the food menu is thoughtfully concise, every dish I’ve ever ordered has been nothing short of incredible. Their baked eggs, which I typically customize with goat cheese, are a particular favorite.
(My usual order at The London Plane: delicious baked eggs, perfectly customized with a generous helping of goat cheese.)
Bounty Kitchen*: Situated in Queen Anne, Bounty Kitchen is celebrated for its fresh, wholesome fare. The spicy lemongrass basil + peanut salad with chicken is an absolute standout and my top recommendation here.
Homegrown*: A true pioneer in sustainable dining, Homegrown meticulously sources its ingredients, adhering to the “Dirty Dozen” guidelines, which is truly commendable. Their extensive menu features a delicious array of sandwiches, salads, bowls, and breakfast options. With multiple locations spanning Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland, healthy and flavorful meals are always within reach.
Café Hitchcock: Located in downtown Seattle’s historic Exchange Building, Café Hitchcock is a haven for wellness enthusiasts. They offer an impressive selection of wellness lattes (including options with CBD oil), satisfying breakfast dishes, vibrant veggie bowls, gourmet sandwiches, and a delightful happy hour with cocktails. It’s a perfect blend of historic charm and modern, health-conscious cuisine.
A vibrant, sauce-free poke bowl served over a fresh bed of salad greens from the legendary 45th Stop N’ Shop.
45th Stop N’ Shop*: This hidden gem in Wallingford might just serve the best poke in all of Seattle. Tucked away inside a humble corner store, its incredible poke is a delightful surprise. Be prepared for potentially long lines, especially when the weather is beautiful, as locals flock here for their fresh and flavorful bowls.
FOB Poke Bar*: Located in Belltown, FOB Poke Bar offers a fantastic build-your-own poke experience that rivals 45th Stop N’ Shop for the title of Seattle’s best poke. With fresh ingredients and customizable options, it’s a must-visit for poke aficionados.
Japonessa*: Offering some of the finest sushi I’ve ever tasted, Japonessa stands out for its extensive healthy options and willingness to accommodate various food preferences and substitutions. Their happy hour is also a fantastic deal. You can find them in both downtown Seattle and Bellevue.
Nijo Sushi Bar & Grill*: For another superb sushi experience, Nijo Sushi Bar & Grill comes highly recommended. Their delicious offerings make it a strong contender for your next sushi craving.
Barrio*: Barrio in Capitol Hill is a vibrant hub for fresh, modern Mexican cuisine, renowned for its healthy and diverse menu. It’s a fantastic spot for both vegans and vegetarians, featuring innovative dishes like jackfruit tacos and refreshing cucumber chips served with creamy guacamole. My recent order of ceviche, accompanied by chips, guacamole, and shishito peppers, was absolutely outstanding. The restaurant boasts a cool, energetic vibe and occupies a prime location, making it an excellent choice for gathering with friends for food and drinks. They also offer a popular brunch service.
(An enticing spread of tortilla chips, crisp cucumber chips, freshly made guacamole, and perfectly grilled shishito peppers as appetizers at Barrio.)
Terra Plata: This spot is particularly acclaimed for its awesome brunch experience on its rooftop deck, offering fantastic views and atmosphere. The scramble is always a delicious choice, and I never pass up the opportunity to order their shishito peppers whenever they appear on the menu!
Momiji: A well-known spot for excellent sushi, Momiji is particularly popular for its fantastic happy hour specials.
A delightful spread of traditional Middle Eastern appetizers at Mamnoon, featuring creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, warm fresh pita, gluten-free crackers, refreshing tabbouleh, and crisp crudité.
Mamnoon: Experience truly delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mamnoon, conveniently located right next to Melrose Market in Capitol Hill. Their hummus, baba ganoush, and fresh pita bread are absolutely divine, and their gluten-free crackers are equally impressive. The staff is consistently kind and welcoming, and the restaurant boasts an excellent wine selection, making for a superb dining experience.
Oddfellows Café and Bar / Little Oddfellows: A wonderful spot for a relaxed brunch with friends or family, Oddfellows Café and Bar (and its charming neighbor, Little Oddfellows) offers a great selection of drinks, coffee, and delectable pastries. It’s known for its cozy atmosphere and inviting vibes.
Black Bottle: An excellent choice for dinner, Black Bottle is celebrated for its inventive small plates and vibrant atmosphere. A definite must-try is their farmer’s market roasted veggies – they are simply phenomenal!
The Pink Door ($): Tucked away in Pike Place Market, The Pink Door is an incredible Italian restaurant offering a truly enchanting dining experience. Request their beautiful outdoor seating for stunning views of the Puget Sound, or opt for a window seat inside. The attentive wait staff is usually very accommodating with dietary needs, able to prepare dairy-free and gluten-free options. Adding to its allure, The Pink Door occasionally features captivating burlesque shows. Reservations are highly recommended, and be aware that parking in Pike Place Market can be challenging.
Boat Street Café: This charming café bases its culinary philosophy on the concepts inherent in French rustic cooking, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients to create flavorful and wholesome dishes.
Seawolf Bakery: If you’ve enjoyed artisanal bread at various Seattle eateries, chances are you’ve tasted the exquisite creations from Seawolf Bakery. Their sourdough is particularly renowned and is absolutely to die for.
Seattle Fish Guys: Your go-to destination for the freshest fish and a superb selection of poke, offering high-quality seafood in a relaxed setting.
Walrus & The Carpenter: A highly celebrated oyster bar and seafood restaurant located in Ballard, known for its fresh, exquisite oysters and expertly prepared seafood dishes.
Stateside: Experience a delightful fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisines at Stateside, where traditional flavors are expertly blended with contemporary culinary techniques.
Plum Bistro: A pioneering vegan restaurant in Seattle, Plum Bistro offers sophisticated and innovative plant-based dishes that are both creative and incredibly flavorful.
Heartbeet Café: This organic superfoods café is dedicated to serving nutrient-dense, health-conscious meals, smoothies, and juices, perfect for fueling your day the healthy way.
Capitol Cider: Seattle’s only 100% gluten-free restaurant and bar, Capitol Cider is a fantastic haven for those with dietary restrictions, offering a vast menu and an impressive selection of ciders in a welcoming atmosphere.
North Seattle Neighborhood Delights
Pablo y Pablo*: Truly my absolute favorite taco kitchen and margarita bar in Seattle! This place is simply the best, and it’s our top choice for entertaining friends and family visiting from out of town. Every single item on their menu is incredibly delicious, and they offer a fantastic array of vegan and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something wonderful for everyone.
Retreat Coffee*: Nestled in the charming Greenlake neighborhood, Retreat Coffee is a sanctuary of healthy options. Their menu features an impressive selection of wellness lattes, wholesome toasts, satisfying brunch items, nourishing smoothies, and adaptogen-infused drinks. They even offer Kite Hill cream cheese, catering to dairy-free preferences. On one visit, I discovered an insane raw fruit and veggie plate – a dish I thought only existed in my own kitchen! I’m almost glad I live about 25 minutes away, because if I were any closer, I’d undoubtedly be a daily patron and likely broke. Psst: The gluten-free seeded toast topped with avocado, crispy bacon, a perfectly fried egg, and microgreens is an absolute revelation!
(A delightful spread at Retreat Coffee featuring a vibrant matcha latte, a generous raw fruit & veggies plate, and a scrumptious avocado toast on seeded bread with smashed avocado, crispy bacon, a fried egg & microgreens.)
Gracia*: Located in the vibrant Ballard neighborhood, Gracia offers a fresh, homemade, and health-conscious take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The majority of their menu is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to be dairy-free. Their tortilla chips are particularly noteworthy – absolutely divine and a must-try!
No Bones Beach Club: This popular vegan restaurant brings a fun, tiki-inspired vibe to its plant-based menu, offering creative and delicious dishes that cater entirely to a vegan diet.
Ray’s Boathouse: A Seattle institution, Ray’s Boathouse offers exquisite seafood dining with unparalleled views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
Poké Square: Dive into customization at Poké Square, where you can build your very own poke bowl exactly to your liking, choosing from a wide array of fresh ingredients.
Pestle Rock: Experience authentic Northeastern Thai (Isan) cuisine at Pestle Rock, known for its bold flavors and unique regional dishes that stand apart from typical Thai menus.
Kirkland & Bellevue’s Eastside Eateries
A rustic wood-fired meat pizza alongside a fresh farm salad with roasted chicken, beets, and a vibrant pistachio pesto from Deru Market.
Deru Market*: Located in Kirkland, Deru Market is a culinary gem committed to using local and organic ingredients to craft their exceptional dishes. They are famous for their amazing wood-fired pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and cakes so grand they seem to combine ten cakes into one! The ordering process can be a little unconventional; you typically order inside, receive a number, and then wait to be seated if there’s a line. While we once experienced a slight wait with open tables, the food itself was absolutely amazing, making it a definite spot for a return visit.
Little Brother: Also in Kirkland, Little Brother emphasizes local ingredients, offering a menu that highlights seasonal freshness and supports regional producers.
Just Poké: Committed to sustainable ingredients, Just Poké offers a conscientious choice for your poke cravings, with unique options like sweet potato adding a delightful twist to their bowls.
The Lake House*: Situated in Bellevue, The Lake House is celebrated for its farm-fresh ingredients and absolutely delicious cuisine. The restaurant boasts a wonderfully cute and inviting vibe, perfect for a memorable dining experience.
Jujubeet Café: While they have multiple locations, I personally prefer their Mainstreet location in Bellevue. Jujubeet offers a fantastic selection of healthy options, including nutritious meals and convenient grab-and-go items, perfect for a quick and wholesome bite.
Healthy Bonez Beverage Company: A go-to for refreshing and healthy options, Healthy Bonez specializes in cold-pressed juices and vibrant acai bowls, perfect for a nutritious boost.
Seattle’s Best Matcha Spots
Atulea*: Finally, a dedicated matcha haven in Seattle! Atulea, located in Capitol Hill, is an absolute gem. Their matcha is incredibly good, and they thoughtfully use unsweetened nut milk (Califia, I believe), ensuring a pure, unadulterated flavor. Their golden latte is also amazing – a personal favorite of my friend Bridge. A must-visit for any matcha enthusiast!
Mr. West*: Beyond its food offerings, Mr. West Cafe Bar excels with its delicious unsweetened matcha prepared with hemp milk, offering a clean and refreshing beverage option.
Retreat Coffee*: At Retreat Coffee in Greenlake, you can enjoy a perfectly crafted unsweetened matcha with a choice of various alternative nut milks, catering to all preferences.
Café Hitchcock: This downtown favorite provides excellent unsweetened matcha with a range of alternative milks, including hemp, almond, and Oatly. For an added boost, they also offer CBD oil integration.
Anchorhead Coffee: Known for their unique offerings, Anchorhead Coffee serves a delightfully distinctive pistachio milk matcha, which is lightly sweetened for a subtle, enjoyable flavor.
(A comforting golden milk latte from Juicebox Café.)
Juice, Smoothies & Açaí: Refreshing & Rejuvenating
Pressed Juicery*: A top choice for wellness, Pressed Juicery offers an impressive selection of potent wellness shots, invigorating green juices, and their famous dairy-free frozen yogurt, affectionately known as “freeze.” Their commitment to quality makes them one of the best!
Jujubeet Café: Living up to its motto, “food that makes you feel good,” Jujubeet Café provides a comprehensive menu of breakfasts, superfoods, organic cold-pressed juices, and wellness elixirs. They also offer a convenient selection of grab-and-go foods for those on the move.
Verve Bowls: Though I haven’t personally visited, Verve Bowls comes highly recommended by many for its enticing selection of fresh and flavorful acai and smoothie bowls.
Juicy Café: Another spot that has garnered numerous recommendations, Juicy Café is praised for its healthy and refreshing juice and smoothie options, making it a popular choice among locals.
Seattle’s Vibrant Coffee Culture: Top Coffee Shops
Bulletproof Café: Specializing in Bulletproof Coffee, this café offers a unique and energizing start to your day with their signature butter and MCT oil infused coffee.
Storyville Coffee Company: With a charming atmosphere and a commitment to quality beans, Storyville offers a premium coffee experience perfect for unwinding or catching up.
Honor Coffee: Known for its artisanal approach to coffee making, Honor Coffee provides a refined setting to enjoy carefully crafted espresso drinks and pour-overs.
Espresso Vivace: A pioneer in the Seattle coffee scene, Espresso Vivace is renowned for its exceptional latte art and dedication to perfecting the espresso shot, making it a must-visit for serious coffee drinkers.
Oddfellows Café and Bar: Beyond its brunch, Oddfellows is a great spot for coffee, offering a cozy and inviting environment to enjoy your favorite brew.
Olympia Coffee Roasting Co.: Located in West Seattle, Olympia Coffee is celebrated for its commitment to ethical sourcing and award-winning coffee, providing a high-quality coffee experience.
Café Hitchcock: In addition to its healthy food options, Café Hitchcock serves excellent coffee, complementing its wellness-focused menu in a historic setting.
West Seattle Grounds: With an aesthetic that is clean, bright, and inviting, West Seattle Grounds is the place to be in West Seattle for a superb coffee experience. Its crisp white interiors are simply lovely.
West Seattle: Coastal Charm & Culinary Gems
Duke’s Seafood & Chowder*: Boasting a prime location overlooking Alki Beach, Duke’s Chowder House is a fantastic spot to enjoy sustainable ingredients, including grass-fed burgers, free-range chicken, and their famous clam chowder. What’s truly impressive is how they’ve updated their menu to offer a wealth of healthy and gluten-free options, a stark contrast to my childhood memories of the place. It’s truly health-friendly now!
Cactus*: This beloved Southwestern-Mexican cuisine spot offers an incredible range of options, including a fantastic weekend brunch and a dedicated gluten-free menu. We absolutely adore this place for its vibrant flavors and accommodating choices.
Blue Moon Burgers: A family-friendly favorite, Blue Moon Burgers offers delicious gluten-free options and boasts a dog-friendly patio right on Alki Beach, perfect for enjoying a meal with your furry friend. They also have locations in Fremont and Capitol Hill.
A breathtaking panoramic view of the downtown Seattle skyline, as seen from Salty’s on Alki in West Seattle.
Salty’s on Alki ($)*: Prepare for absolutely amazing views of the downtown Seattle skyline paired with exceptional seafood and a lively happy hour at Salty’s on Alki. It’s a quintessential Seattle dining experience.
Real Fine Coffee: A local favorite, Real Fine Coffee offers a classic coffee shop experience with quality brews and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
Café Fiore: Dedicated to organic coffee, Café Fiore provides a mindful and delicious coffee experience for those who appreciate natural and sustainable choices.
Olympia Coffee Roasting Co.*: This super cute coffee shop on California Ave is a West Seattle highlight, offering a full range of pastries, matcha, and exceptional coffee – the whole works!
Arthur’s: An Australian-inspired all-day café, Arthur’s brings a touch of Down Under to West Seattle with its unique menu and relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Metropolitan Market ($): More than just a grocery store, Metropolitan Market is a healthy food paradise, featuring one of the best spicy poke bars around. I often grab just the poke to take home and create my own bowls with fresh ingredients, avoiding any additives.
Mashiko Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar: A pioneer in sustainable sushi, Mashiko offers a responsible and delicious dining experience, committed to serving seafood that respects ocean ecosystems.
Seattle’s Best Bars & Breweries
A spectacular view overlooking South Lake Union from the M Bar rooftop.
M Bar ($)*: Offering absolutely incredible panoramic views of the city skyline and South Lake Union, M Bar is a top-tier destination for exceptional drinks and delicious food. The ambiance alone makes it a must-visit.
The Nest ($): Located atop the elegant Thompson Hotel, The Nest is a pretty fancy rooftop bar that provides stunning vistas overlooking the iconic Seattle Great Wheel, perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Marseille: This charming spot, also found within Melrose Market, is a delightful destination for natural wines, expertly brewed coffee, and a selection of small, flavorful plates.
Spin Seattle*: For a uniquely fun night out, Spin is a downtown ping pong bar that combines casual dining and drinks with lively table tennis action, making for an entertaining social experience.
Flatstick Pub*: With multiple locations, Flatstick Pub offers a fantastic combination of local beers and ciders alongside indoor mini golf. Best of all, it’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup along for the fun!
Rhein Haus: This German-inspired establishment offers a vibrant atmosphere for enjoying beer and hearty food, featuring multiple bocce ball courts for an engaging social activity.
Elysian Fields Brewery: Situated directly across from CenturyLink Field, Elysian Fields Brewery is an ideal spot to grab a craft beer and a bite before a Seahawks game. Just be sure to arrive early, as it fills up quickly!
Salty’s on Alki: Beyond its acclaimed dining, Salty’s on Alki is also a popular spot for drinks, offering stunning waterfront views that enhance any cocktail or wine experience.
Wakefield Bar: A cozy and inviting neighborhood bar, Wakefield offers a selection of classic and craft cocktails in a relaxed setting, perfect for a casual evening.
Ghostfish Brewing Company: A standout in the brewing scene, Ghostfish Brewing is entirely gluten-free, offering a wide array of delicious craft beers that are safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Fremont Brewing Co.: Famous for its innovative craft beers and vibrant beer garden, Fremont Brewing Co. is a popular destination in the Fremont neighborhood, often bustling with locals and visitors.
Things to Do in Seattle: Explore & Experience
Pike Place Market*: An iconic Seattle landmark, Pike Place Market is an absolute must-visit. Witness the famous fish throwing, marvel at the vibrant displays of fresh flowers (perfect for picking up a beautiful bouquet), and explore the countless unique shops and artisanal stalls. It’s a sensory feast that encapsulates the spirit of Seattle.
Gum Wall at Pike Place Market: Just below Pike Place Market lies the quirky and undeniably iconic Gum Wall. While some might find it a bit gross, it’s a wonderfully bizarre Seattle tradition. Make sure to bring some gum and contribute your own piece to the layers upon layers of chewed and used gum that adorn this alleyway – it’s a weirdly memorable photo op!
Melrose Market on Capitol Hill*: I absolutely adore Melrose Market! I envision it as a charming, miniature version of New York City’s Chelsea Market. Home to several fantastic restaurants and Butter Home, a delightful shop filled with unique treasures, it’s definitely a must-go for a relaxed browse and bite.
Ballard Farmer’s Market: Held on Sundays, the Ballard Farmer’s Market is a vibrant community hub offering an incredible selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food. It’s an ideal way to experience local life.
West Seattle Farmer’s Market*: Another excellent Sunday market, the West Seattle Farmer’s Market provides a wonderful opportunity to support local vendors and discover fresh, regional products in a lively setting.
Walk Greenlake: A beloved urban oasis, Greenlake Park offers a picturesque 2.8-mile loop perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching and enjoying Seattle’s natural beauty within the city.
See the Fremont Troll: A quintessential Fremont experience, visiting the enormous, car-clutching Fremont Troll under the Aurora Bridge is a quirky and fun photo opportunity that perfectly embodies the neighborhood’s eccentric spirit.
Walk Alki Beach*: While I might be biased as a West Seattle resident, Alki Beach truly stands out as one of my favorite places in the entire city. It’s simply breathtaking. You can stroll for miles along the glistening water, catch exciting beach volleyball games in the summer, rent bicycles or rollerblades, walk your dog, enjoy vibrant people-watching, relax by a bonfire, savor delicious food from beachside eateries, watch ferries gracefully pass by, embark on an invigorating evening run, and witness the most picturesque sunsets imaginable. The list of activities is endless. Alki Beach is an essential Seattle experience that you absolutely have to see!
(We often walk along Alki Beach several nights a week, captivated by its stunning sunsets.)
Kerry Park: Offering arguably the most iconic and breathtaking panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound, Kerry Park on the south side of Queen Anne hill is an absolute must-visit for photographers and sightseers alike.
Gas Works Park: One of Seattle’s most iconic and unique parks, Gas Works Park is recognizable for its historic industrial remnants repurposed as a public space. You might even recognize it from the movie “10 Things I Hate About You.” It offers fantastic city views, especially at sunset.
Golden Gardens Park: A popular Ballard beach park, Golden Gardens offers sandy shores, walking trails, fire pits, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, making it a perfect spot for recreation and relaxation.
The Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks): A fascinating engineering marvel, the Ballard Locks connect Puget Sound to Lake Union and Lake Washington. Watch boats pass through, explore the beautiful botanical garden, and observe salmon navigating the fish ladder.
Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum: Located at the Seattle Center, this stunning museum showcases the breathtaking glass artwork of Dale Chihuly. It’s an immersive experience of vibrant colors, intricate forms, and artistic genius, perfectly complemented by its beautiful garden installations.
Space Needle: A quintessential Seattle landmark, the Space Needle is a must-do when visiting the city. Take the elevator all the way up to its awe-inspiring 360-degree rotating glass floor and observation deck, offering unparalleled views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and beyond.
Take a Ferry to Roche Harbor, San Juan Islands, or Bainbridge Island: Embrace the Pacific Northwest experience by taking a scenic ferry ride. Explore the charming Roche Harbor, the tranquil San Juan Islands, or the quaint shops and natural beauty of Bainbridge Island for a perfect day trip.
Ride the Seattle Great Wheel: Enjoy breathtaking views of Elliott Bay and the city from this impressive Ferris wheel on Pier 57. Afterward, make sure to visit Ye Olde Curiosity Shop for some incredible fudge – a nostalgic favorite of mine since childhood!
Walk Magnolia Bluff: Explore the scenic trails and enjoy stunning views from Magnolia Bluff, a serene spot offering panoramic vistas of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Elliott Bay Book Company: This independent bookstore in Capitol Hill is a literary paradise. Find a captivating new read, then grab a latte and delicious avocado toast from Little Oddfellows, located conveniently inside, and settle in for a relaxing afternoon.
Exercise & Wellness: Rejuvenate Your Body & Mind in Seattle
Antonio Spa ($)*: For a truly luxurious and rejuvenating experience, Antonio Spa offers exceptional facials that leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. It’s a top choice for pampering.
City Sweats*: City Sweats is your ultimate destination for holistic wellness, offering invigorating infrared saunas, beneficial lymphatic drainage treatments, and therapeutic massages. Be sure to mention my name (Rachael) to receive $15 off your first sweat session, plus complimentary tonics!
CorePower Yoga: With multiple locations, CorePower Yoga provides dynamic and heated yoga classes for all levels, perfect for building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.
Inspire Seattle: Inspire offers high-quality Pilates instruction, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and precise movements to enhance overall physical well-being.
BurnCycle: Get an intense and exhilarating workout at BurnCycle, a popular spin studio known for its high-energy classes and motivating instructors.
SoulCycle: Experience the iconic, full-body workout that is SoulCycle, combining challenging cardio with inspirational coaching and rhythmic music in a dark, candlelit studio.
Flywheel Sports: Flywheel offers performance-focused indoor cycling classes, complete with real-time stats and leaderboards, providing a competitive and effective cardio workout.
Seattle Bouldering Project: More than just a climbing gym, Seattle Bouldering Project offers bouldering, yoga, various movement classes, a café and espresso bar, and even booch on tap, creating a comprehensive fitness and community hub.
Seattle’s Specialty Food Shops & Markets
Metropolitan Market: A premium grocery store known for its high-quality produce, gourmet selections, and specialty items, including an excellent poke bar.
PCC Community Markets: As a leading co-op, PCC Markets are celebrated for their commitment to organic, local, and sustainable products, offering a wide array of healthy and ethically sourced groceries.
Central Co-op: Another fantastic cooperative grocery store, Central Co-op focuses on providing organic, local, and natural foods to its community members.
Whole Foods Market: A well-known national chain, Whole Foods in Seattle offers a vast selection of natural and organic products, from fresh produce to prepared meals.
New Seasons Market: Located in Ballard, New Seasons Market is a beloved grocery store that emphasizes local and organic produce, sustainable seafood, and community engagement.
Ballard and West Seattle Farmer’s Markets on Sundays: These vibrant Sunday markets are perfect for experiencing local culture, finding fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious prepared foods directly from local farmers and makers.
Boutiques & Unique Shops: Retail Therapy in Seattle
Butter Home*: Tucked inside the bustling Melrose Market on Capitol Hill, Butter Home is a delightful shop brimming with charming home goods, unique gifts, and carefully curated lifestyle items.
A peek inside Glasswing shop within Melrose Market, displaying an array of plants, ceramics, and curated clothing.
Glasswing Shop*: This store is major aesthetic goals! Also located within Melrose Market (seriously, you just need to go there), Glasswing is a beautifully curated space offering an exquisite selection of plants, unique ceramics, stylish clothing, and other artfully chosen items that are sure to bring joy.
Fleurt Collective*: My absolute favorite shop in West Seattle, just down the street from where I live. Fleurt is my go-to for finding the perfect cards, beautiful plants, and thoughtful gifts for every single occasion. It’s a treasure trove!
Homestead: Located in Capitol Hill, Homestead is a wonderful spot for discovering vintage rugs, unique furniture pieces, and stylish flower pots, perfect for adding character to your home.
Anders: A charming shop located in Ballard, Anders offers a carefully curated collection of home goods, gifts, and stylish accessories, embodying a refined Pacific Northwest aesthetic.
Palm Room: Also found in Ballard, Palm Room is a beautifully designed space offering an array of plants, unique ceramics, and botanical-inspired home decor.
Verde & Co.: Situated in South Lake Union, Verde & Co. specializes in thoughtfully designed home goods, gifts, and artisanal products, perfect for elevating your living space.
Easy Street Records*: A true West Seattle institution, Easy Street Records is an old-school record store boasting an incredible selection of vinyl. It also features a fantastic café connected on the first floor, making it a perfect spot to browse records and grab a bite.
Isla: This cute shop located in Capitol Hill is a great destination for finding unique cards and charming gifts, perfect for any occasion.
Totokaio: Totokaio is an experience in itself, with its mesmerizing, almost OCD-level wall of ceramics that is truly magical. While they also offer high-end clothing and shoes, the exquisite store design alone is enough to captivate you for hours.
Pipe & Row: A stylish boutique offering carefully curated women’s clothing, Pipe & Row in Ballard is known for its modern and sophisticated selection.
Mooreaseal: This unique shop offers an intriguing collection of vintage and antique finds, alongside handcrafted goods and local artisan products, creating a distinctive shopping experience.
I sincerely hope this comprehensive Seattle guide proves incredibly helpful in planning your adventures, whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering your beloved city. Seattle is a city that constantly surprises and delights, and I’m thrilled to share my local favorites with you. If you have any additional suggestions, hidden gems, or feel I’ve missed something important, please don’t hesitate to comment below. Let’s continue to share ideas and explore all the incredible things Seattle has to offer together! Happy exploring!