11 Fun Things to do in Seattle in Summer
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Looking for fun things to do in Seattle in the summer? Trust me, there’s no shortage of amazing activities!
Summers in Seattle are absolutely blissful, with pleasant weather, endless blue skies, and a vibrant energy that fills the whole city. The city’s origins at Alki Beach have truly set the tone for its laid-back, summer-loving vibe, and the surrounding landscapes are simply gorgeous this time of year.
There’s something about Seattle in the summer that feels extra special. From outdoor adventures to city festivals, my family and I found so many ways to enjoy the season.
One highlight is the city’s iconic Seafair festival, which takes place in July or August and transforms Seattle into a month-long celebration. We loved experiencing the concerts, colorful parades, delicious food fiestas, thrilling aerial shows, and exciting boating events.
Whether you’re drawn to lush green parks, sandy beaches, impressive city landmarks, or wildlife attractions, there’s truly something for everyone.
I’ve put together a list below of some of our favorite summer activities in Seattle, each one guaranteed to make your trip memorable and full of summer magic!
Fun Things to do in Seattle in Summer
1. Admire the Chihuly Garden and Glass
If you’re anything like me and find yourself dreaming of lush greenery and cool, refreshing spaces in the summer, you are going to absolutely fall in love with the Chihuly Garden and Glass. This place is a true feast for the senses!
I was amazed by the explosion of color from the rare plants and flowers spread throughout the garden. It honestly felt like stepping into a magical, otherworldly landscape.
One of the highlights for me was the incredible glasshouse. The combination of vibrant plants thriving in the greenhouse and the stunning glass sculptures above made it feel like a world within a world. My kids were completely captivated by the colors, shapes, and the way light danced through the glass art.
A trip to Seattle really wouldn’t be complete without wandering through the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
2. Picnic Time at Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park was one of the most unique places we visited in Seattle. The park’s fascinating history and the old gas plant structures give it a quirky, industrial vibe that my kids found absolutely intriguing. It felt like we were exploring a giant playground from another era!
For families, there’s a fantastic children’s play area where my kids could climb, run, and burn off energy while I enjoyed the surroundings. One of my favorite parts was the shoreline. When we needed a break from exploring, we just sat by the water and soaked in the beautiful views of Lake Union and the city skyline.
Whether you’re in the mood for a little adventure, a scenic picnic, or just some time to relax by the water, Gas Works Park has something for everyone. It’s a must-visit for families looking to experience a different side of Seattle’s history and enjoy the great outdoors!
3. Ride the Elliot Bay Water Taxi
One of the most memorable little adventures we had in Seattle was taking a ride on the water taxi. While these boats are typically used to shuttle people and luggage to and from ships, they’re also a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, even if you’re just going for a short trip across Elliott Bay.
We hopped on the water taxi from Seacrest Dock in West Seattle and rode across to Pier 55 on the downtown waterfront. The ride itself was quick and easy, but the views of the city skyline were absolutely stunning, especially during the evening when the city lights began to sparkle.
The water taxi operates year-round, with departures every 30 minutes during busy times and every hour in the middle of the day. If you have the chance, I definitely recommend taking a ride, especially at twilight, for that extra bit of magic!
4. Take a walk along the Green Lake
Walking along cool water bodies is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Seattle during the summer, and Green Lake is the perfect spot for it! Unlike the bustling waterfront of the city, the lakeside atmosphere here is calm and grounding. I felt instantly relaxed as soon as we arrived.
Located just 10 minutes north of downtown, Green Lake is a picturesque oasis with a 2.8-mile loop that’s popular for walking, running, and just soaking in the scenery. We enjoyed strolling along the path, feeling the cool air coming off the water and brushing against the green grass nearby. It’s easy to see why both locals and travelers flock here in the summer.
Another highlight for us was spending time at East Green Lake Beach. We rented a boat from the Green Lake Boathouse and took a peaceful ride across the lake. Kayaks, paddleboards, and water bikes are also available for rent, making it easy for families to enjoy the water at their own pace.
If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure in Seattle, Green Lake offers beautiful views, plenty of activities, and a tranquil escape from the city bustle.
5. Spend a night at Alki Beach and dine at Salty’s Restaurant
Whenever I hear Lana’s lyrics, “Hot summer nights mid-July…”, I can’t help but think of Alki Beach in Seattle. This iconic stretch of sand isn’t just the birthplace of the city; it’s also the ultimate destination for adventure seekers, especially in the summer months. I loved hanging out here during the day, but the real magic happens after sunset.
If you want to experience Alki Beach at its best, plan to visit at night. On clear evenings, the sky is filled with stars, and if you’re lucky enough to catch a moonlit night, the scene is truly unforgettable. The soothing sound of gentle waves and the sparkling cityscape in the distance create an atmosphere that’s even more beautiful than I imagined.
For a special treat, we enjoyed dinner at Salty’s restaurant right on the waterfront. The views of downtown Seattle across the water are simply unmatched, making it the perfect spot to relax with good food and soak in the city lights. Alki Beach at night is an experience you won’t want to miss!
6. Relax at the Waterfall Garden Park
Waterfalls are the ultimate summer bliss, and Seattle even has its own hidden gem right in the city! Waterfall Garden Park in Pioneer Square became one of my favorite little escapes during our trip. When the summer heat started to feel overwhelming, we would slip into this oasis and instantly feel refreshed.
The sound of the waterfall is so soothing, it’s like a natural ASMR that melts away stress and creates a peaceful retreat from the busy city streets. The lush greenery and cozy nooks make the garden feel extra special, and my kids loved discovering all the quiet corners to relax in.
One of the best parts? Visiting Waterfall Garden Park is completely free! If you’re exploring Seattle in the summer, make sure to carve out time for this beautiful, tranquil spot. It’s the perfect place to recharge before heading back out into the city
7. Visit the Seattle Aquarium
One of our favorite summer activities with kids in Seattle was visiting the Seattle Aquarium and getting up close to incredible marine life. My kids were absolutely delighted to learn about their favorite sea animals and see them in real life. For me, it was a chance to discover even more about the world beneath the waves right alongside them.
Some of the highlights for us included the touch pools filled with vibrant fish, the mesmerizing glass ring with luminous jellies, and the glass see-through tunnels that revealed mysterious sea creatures all around us. The underwater domes gave us a truly unique perspective, and we spent ages just watching the marine life swimming overhead.
What made our visit even more special was the friendly and knowledgeable staff who were always ready to answer questions and share fun facts. The Seattle Aquarium is a must-visit, especially in summer, for families looking to combine learning and fun in a truly memorable way.
8. See Wildlife at the Woodland Park Zoo
If you find yourself missing the cool shade of rainforests and the wonder of woods during Seattle’s sunny summer days, Woodland Park Zoo is the place to go! After exploring the world beneath the sea, we made sure to spend time with the amazing land creatures here.
My kids loved seeing all the different animals up close, especially the rare Asiatic species that you won’t find in most other zoos or bioregions across the country. We spotted otters, orangutans, cheetahs, and so many more fascinating animals.
One of the highlights for my children was Zoomazium, a fantastic indoor play area designed just for kids. They were especially excited to climb up the magical tree and explore all the creative play spaces. It was the perfect spot for them to burn off some energy while I enjoyed a little break in the shade.
If you’re looking for an adventure that brings you right into the heart of nature (without leaving the city), I highly recommend visiting Woodland Park Zoo. Don’t forget to get your tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer season!
9. Enjoy Watersports at UW Waterfront
If you’re an adventure seeker like me, you can’t leave Seattle in the summer without diving into some water sports, and the UW waterfront is the absolute place to do it! What’s summer without a little splash and thrill, after all? The University of Washington Waterfront is a true hub for anyone who loves outdoor activities on the water.
During our visit, we were amazed by the vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Not only did we get to try out canoeing, kayaking, and boating, but we also met so many fellow adventure lovers whose excitement was contagious. There’s just something about being surrounded by people who share your passion for water sports that makes the whole experience even more fun.
During the summer months, the UW waterfront hosts various competitions and events, so if you’re feeling competitive, you can jump right in! It was a highlight of our trip, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking to make the most of Seattle’s summer!
10. Visit the Pioneer Square
While exploring Waterfall Garden Park, we quickly realized we were in the heart of one of Seattle’s most culturally and historic neighborhoods Pioneer Square. The atmosphere here is so unique: a little bit old, a little bit rustic, and filled with stories just waiting to be discovered.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend a peaceful summer afternoon wandering through shaded corners and, if you like, linger on into a truly magical evening.
Pioneer Square feels worlds apart from the modern, bustling side of Seattle. I loved learning that the city was originally built separately from what we see today, and this neighborhood has managed to preserve its character and charm for generations.
Strolling the streets, we found old shops and buildings with beautiful architecture, some with a Renaissance touch that made us feel like we’d stepped back in time.
It’s also the perfect spot for capturing some of the most aesthetic photographs of your trip, enjoying a glass of wine, and tasting food that feels like it came straight from an old family recipe book. If you want to experience the history, warmth, and timeless vibes of Seattle, be sure to spend time in Pioneer Square.
11. Visit the International Fountain
Right in the heart of Seattle’s busiest area, we found the International Fountain, a spot that’s so much more than just a place to cool off with a refreshing spray of water.
While my kids loved running through the mist and playing in the droplets carried by the breeze, I was fascinated by the fountain’s unique history and thoughtful design. Built in 1961 and renovated in 1995, it was created to symbolize the exploration of unknown worlds beyond our own.
The fountain itself is impressive, but what really makes it special are the musical programs held here. We happened to catch a show one evening, and listening to Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with water jets dancing in perfect harmony was an experience I’ll never forget.
The mix of music, water, and city energy draws both locals and travelers, making it a true gathering place.
Where to stay in Seattle
As the largest city in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle offers a huge range of accommodation options. I know from experience that it can feel overwhelming to decide where to stay, but I highly recommend choosing the downtown neighborhood for your visit. Staying in the heart of the city makes everything more convenient and puts you right at the center of the action. Here are some of my top recommendations for places to stay in Downtown Seattle:
Budget ($): If you’re a backpacker or looking for a convenient, budget-friendly stay, you’ll love the Green Tortoise Hostel. It’s right across from Pike Place Market and close to the Seattle Art Museum, with a comfortable dormitory setup.
If you prefer more privacy, consider the Arctic Club Hotel, a heritage hotel right in Downtown Seattle with plenty of character and charm.
Mid Range ($$): Hotel Theodore is a fantastic mid-range option with modern decor, spacious rooms, a fitness center, an American restaurant, and a 24-hour reception. Its central location makes all the key tourist attractions easily accessible.
Luxury ($$$): For a splurge-worthy, magical stay, the Lotte Hotel is my top pick. This stylish property offers elegant, spacious rooms with breathtaking city and lake views. You’ll also find a wonderful spa, fitness center, and on-site restaurant to enjoy.
Seattle is one of the coolest cities in Washington state, home to world-famous landmarks like the Space Needle, a thriving center for arts and culture, and an endless array of delicious cuisines. No matter your style or budget, you’ll never run out of options or things to do here.
Did we miss any of the best things to do in Seattle in summer? Share your favorite Seattle summer tips in the comments!