The first time I visited Seattle, I was on a weekend getaway with my husband. We chose the city because we both love going places we’ve never been before and I had never been to Seattle. We had a fantastic time and I knew I would want to go back with the entire family.
About a year later, we had the chance to take the kids for a weekend. My philosophy of traveling with kids is that there is always something to do no matter how old they are. Even though traveling with kids can sometimes be a headache, it builds incredible memories that will last a lifetime.
So let’s get to it… 10 things to do in Seattle with kids!
1. Pike Place Market
A trip to Seattle MUST include a visit (or two or three) to Pike Place Market. This is a combination open-air market and shopping mall with unique shops and eateries. No name brand stores here, but you will enjoy browsing all the knick knacks and homemade goods, not to mention the produce and fresh flowers available. Watch the fishmongers throw the fish at the corner fish market and grab some apple cider. You will see fruits and vegetables that you probably haven’t seen before and some pretty awesome crafts.
2. Bainbridge Island
Seattle is a seaport city so you can’t possibly visit without taking a trip across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island. Ferries leave regularly and the ride will be as enjoyable as the island. This rustic little island has shopping and restaurants and is the perfect place to enjoy a long walk and relax by the bay. Get the kids some ice cream and make it a family day.
3. Boeing Factory Tour
We actually took the Boeing Factory Tour without the kids the first time we were in Seattle. But really… take the kids. You will actually get to see first hand and up close how airplanes are built. It’s fascinating and you will never look at an airplane the same way again. You don’t have to be an aviation fanatic to enjoy this tour. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through the large hangers. We LOVED this tour!
4. Seattle Aquarium
It doesn’t matter how old you are, you will be fascinated by the Seattle Aquarium. They have such interesting exhibits and you will get the opportunity to learn more about Puget Sound. I love that they have live cams of several exhibits and you can take a look online and see the sea creatures you will be visiting. Check their event page before you go to see if they are having anything special going on. They also periodically have what they call “Meet us at the beach!” Naturalists from the Aquarium will be at local beaches during low tide to share their expertise about the sea. Super fun!
5. Smith Building
Forget the Space Needle and visit the Smith Tower instead. This art deco building and Seattle’s first skyscraper, has a 360 degree viewing platform and gives you an incredible view of Seattle and Puget Sound. The Smith Tower was developed by L.C. Smith, the man who started Smith Typewriters. If you are even a smidge a fan of the vintage typewriter, you’ll love visiting the gift shop. There is a fee to climb the vintage Otis elevators (complete with elevator operator) to the top, but it’s so worth it. The kids will love it. Oh, and there is a restaurant/bar at the top so you can sit and enjoy a bit or a drink while you take in the beauty of the city.
6. Underground Tour
The first time we visited Seattle, I thought this was silly and didn’t bother going. The second time, when we went back with the kids, we decided it would be fun for the family… it was! Definitely make time for Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour. There are a few different variations, but take the original. Yes… you do actually go underground – bring comfortable walking shoes. This isn’t a tour for strollers so make sure your kids are strong walkers. For those that don’t know, Seattle was originally a much lower city than it is today. I don’t want to give too much away because the tour will explain how Seattle built itself up on top of the original stores. Great tales for any history buff. Worth the price.
7. Seattle Great Wheel
Similar to the great wheel in Las Vegas, the Seattle Great Wheel is enormous and is located on Pier 57. Each gondola seats 8 people so take the whole family and get a bird’s eye view of Puget Sound. Not for those afraid of heights, but pretty awesome for the chance to ride one of the world’s largest Ferris Wheels.
8. Seattle Seahawks Game
I am not what you would consider a big sports fan, but when we are in strange cities, I do love to experience a game in their own stadium. It’s always fun to go sit with the local fans and root for the home team… even if the home team isn’t YOUR home team. When we were visiting Seattle, the Seahawks were in town and EVERYONE was dressed in blue and green. Grab tickets in advance (if you can) and make a point of spending an afternoon at CenturyLink Field.
9. Woodland Park Zoo
Yes… the zoo! Every single zoo I’ve been to is unique in its own way. You will see the traditional animals, but there are always unique exhibits to the local area that you won’t see anywhere else. The Woodland Park Zoo has a petting zoo, baby gorillas, you can experience the giraffe’s up close and personal, and learn how to care for animals from the zookeepers themselves. Check out their special events if you are planning a trip. Doesn’t matter what age your kids are… zoos are amazing places to visit!
10. Japanese Garden
Just beautiful! If you want a fantastic place to take photographs, this is it. The Seattle Japanese Garden gives complimentary tours with admission price or you can wander around on your own. Make sure to sign up for the Tea Ceremony (costs extra) but is so worth it to learn about the beautiful tradition of serving tea. Come ready to relax. Good walking shoes a must as some parts of the gardens are not accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.
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