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The Top 10 Neighborhoods to Explore in Seattle

Like many cities, Seattle has a number of neighborhoods, many of which blend seamlessly together while others have their own special vibe. Seattle’s neighborhoods are worth exploring for their tasty restaurants, interesting shops, and attractions large and small.

Whether you seek the hustle and bustle of downtown , the quirky appeal of Fremont, or the international flare of Chinatown-International District, here are 10 of Seattle’s most interesting neighborhoods. It may not be on the list, but don't forget to check out Lower Queen Ann .

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Downtown Seattle is the place it all starts and ends for many of the city’s visitors. This neighborhood is a no-brainer if you haven’t visited Seattle before, or even if you have. It’s where you’ll find the city’s biggest attractions, for the most part, from the Great Wheel to the Seattle Art Museum to Pike Place Market . It’s an especially easy neighborhood to explore on foot (as long as you don’t mind hills) as it’s fairly compact, and all the good stuff is within close proximity. Start with Pike Place Market and pick up a snack or lunch or dinner. Walk the waterfront and peek into shops, ride the Great Wheel, check out the Seattle Aquarium, or simply stare at the water. Take in a show at the 5 th Avenue Theatre or Paramount Theatre. Or get some shopping done as there are stores and shops ranging from Macy’s down to locally owned stores. Downtown is also a really fun place to visit during the holiday season, as it’s lit up with twinkly lights.

Capitol Hill

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Capitol Hill is a neighborhood with broad appeal. It’s known for its nightlife, and it does indeed have a strong nightlife scene with everything from Elysian Brewing Company (an excellent spot for some local beer) to nightclubs. But make no mistake, Capitol Hill is equally appealing in daylight. It’s home to several Seattle mainstays, including the city’s largest bookstore – Elliott Bay Book Company where you can browse or pop in for readings or special events – as well as music venue Neumos and stellar art store Blick Art Materials. Capitol Hill is also home to Volunteer Park, which is hands down one of the best and biggest parks in the city. Within its bounds, you’ll find a glass conservatory and the Seattle Asian Art Museum, as well as plenty of places to run and play for families with kids.

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Belltown is right next to downtown and has turned into a great place to go out in the evening or at night. One of Seattle’s coolest cinemas is located here – Cinerama is a unique movie theater where you can catch first-run and classic films alike while you enjoy local beer, wine and cider as well as a full menu of snacks and bites to eat. Belltown is filled with nightlife venues both mild and wild, including Foundation Nightclub and Ora Nightclub, as well as Shorty’s which has classic games and pinball and food, or check out The Crocodile for some live music. Belltown is also a fine place to look for places to eat. Tom Douglas has a few establishments in the neighborhood – Dahlia Bakery , Lola , and Serious Pie – and Top Pot Doughnuts is here too. 

TripSavvy / Noah Kreyenhagen

Fremont is possibly Seattle’s most fun neighborhood. For one, it styles itself the Center of the Universe. It’s also got some of the most unique fixtures anywhere, from the Fremont Troll under the Aurora Bridge to a Communist-era statue of Stalin and the Fremont Rocket atop a neighborhood building. Fremont is fairly compact so it’s easy to walk and walking is the best way to go as you’ll pass by signs of the neighborhood’s famous quirk everywhere you go – unique buildings, public artwork, interesting shops. The Theo Chocolate Factory is also located here, and it’s open for tours so you can see how this fair trade, organic chocolate is crafted from start to finish. If you can’t make a tour, then visit the shop for chocolate samples. Fremont is a top spot to find delicious restaurants, laid-back night spots like the Fremont Abbey, as well as a place to check for larger events. The Fremont Oktoberfest and Solstice Parade and two major annual happenings that take place in this neighborhood.

Ballard was founded by Scandinavian immigrants in the 1800s and still carries some of its original Scandinavian heritage with it today. To best sample some of that heritage, watch for festivals like Syttende Mai (a traditional Norwegian holiday); Seafoodfest, which hearkens back to the fishermen of yore who helped make Ballard what it is; Viking Days; and Yulefest. Ballard is a stellar place to find fresh local food to eat, from the Ballard Farmers Market to its restaurants. And it’s becoming increasingly known for its microbrewery scene with Reuben's Brews , Maritime Pacific Brewing Company , and  Hale's Ales all in the neighborhood.

Chinatown-International District

Chinatown-International District toggles between a quiet place to have a delicious meal and a neighborhood filled with amazing festivals. On any given day, one of the best reasons to visit Chinatown-International District is for the food. Try a new restaurant or stop by Uwajimaya – a sprawling Japanese grocery store where you’ll find food counters galore, ready-to-eat foods, sushi, as well as a full lineup of Japanese grocery items, office supplies, and household items. But keep an eye on the events in this neighborhood as there are several amazing ones throughout the year, from Bon Odori during Seafair to the Night Market and Autumn Food Festival.

Wallingford

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Next to Fremont but much less quirky, Wallingford is a laid-back neighborhood that’s perfect for a casual afternoon spent exploring shops along with lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants. You’ll find a variety of restaurants and shops on N 45 th Street, including a few local icons like the 45 th Stop and Shop and Dick’s Drive Ins. N 45 th is also home to Seattle’s first cat café – Seattle Meowtropolitan – where you can enjoy coffee, hang out with cats, or even partake in some cat yoga. Wallingford isn’t all shops and restaurants, though. Gas Works Park, one of the city’s most unique parks by far, is also here on the shore on Lake Union, and Woodland Park Zoo is just on the edge of the neighborhood, too.

 Chris VR / TripSavvy

The U District is named for the location of the University of Washington within its bounds, but it’s definitely not just for students. However, the student presence does lend a pretty casual feel to this part of town. A highlight of the U District is “The Ave,” or University Way, where you’ll find a hefty lineup of restaurants and shops. Don’t miss a stroll through the UW campus as it’s picturesque, especially if you visit during cherry blossom season—head for the Commons as you’ll find Seattle’s most spectacular cherry blossom display there. For entertainment, sports or cultural pursuits, you’ll find plenty to do, from the Burke Museum to the Henry Art Gallery to Huskies football games at Husky Stadium.

West Seattle

West Seattle is set apart from the rest of Seattle, located on the other side of Elliott Bay. Visit by taking the water taxi from the Seattle waterfront or drive over the West Seattle Bridge, but either way, expect a completely different vibe from the rest of town. Don’t miss Alki Beach Park , where you’ll find a sandy beach and a sweet view of the Seattle skyline . The streets around Alki Beach Park have shops and restaurants aplenty to explore, but this neighborhood has a few stand out food choices, including Salty’s (with one of the best views over dinner in Seattle), tasty Korean-Hawaii fusion at Marination ma kai, and sushi at Mashiko.

Georgetown is a former industrial area that has revitalized and is now a funky neighborhood worth visiting. It’s an especially great neighborhood for going out to eat and drink, especially if you like Mexican food. Try Fonda la Catrina or El Sirenito if you do. As with most of Seattle’s neighborhoods, there are plenty of shops to explore. If you love vinyl, look to Georgetown Records, while Fantagraphics next door serves up graphic novels and alternative comics in spades. If you really want to delve into the funky vibe that is Georgetown, check out the Trailer Park Mall—it’s just what it sounds like, a flea market-type atmosphere, but instead of booths or spaces, each vendor or display or artist brings in a trailer. It’s small, but the quirk is strong.

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Coolest Neighborhoods in Seattle According to a Local

I didn’t think it’d be difficult to create a list of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle. But then I asked myself, what determines a cool neighborhood? Between world-famous coffee shops, restaurants, museums, boutiques, and parks, I realized every neighborhood in Seattle has that “it” factor.

Also, Seattle is also known for its lucrative job market, sustainability efforts, and access to nature. As a result, many people are moving here and looking for the coolest area in Seattle to call home.

So, in an effort to help, I’ve come up with a list of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle that are worth checking out, regardless of if you’re visiting or planning a move.

This post has affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a small commission at no cost to you if you click on them and make a purchase. This is a small way I earn money to support this site. If links aren’t showing up for you , turn off your ad blocking software. Thank you for your support!

Coolest Neighborhoods in Seattle

Save this to Pinterest for later , as I’ll update this list of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle as more information becomes available!

Capitol Hill

website | get directions | best for: LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants, & thrift shops

Just east of downtown is arguably Seattle’s most popular neighborhood: Capitol Hill. It’s within walking distance of the downtown tourist center, but locals love this vibrant neighborhood always buzzing with events and the going out crowd. There are also a ton of murals that give this area an urban cool vibe.

Young people are drawn to Cap Hill for more than just its overflowing selection of bars and clubs. Between coffee shops, quirky museums, great restaurants, and the abundance of Seattle vintage clothing shops , you can easily spend a whole weekend walking up and down the streets. You’ll often see locals gathered around Cal Anderson Park picnicking or playing bike quidditch (yes this is a thing).

If you prefer a quieter experience in Capitol Hill, definitely stop by the Seattle Asian Art Museum and Volunteer Park Conservatory in the more residential area of the neighborhood. If you like history, stop by the Lake View Cemetery where many of the city’s founders (and Bruce Lee) are buried.

As for restaurants, some of my favorites include Spice Waala, an easygoing Indian spot with some of the best cheap eats in Seattle , and Taneda , one of my favorite sushi spots in Seattle . However, you’ll found countless awesome places lining Pike and Pine Streets.

website | get directions | best for: craft brews, restaurants, & boutiques

I’m a bit partial when it comes to Ballard because I live in this neighborhood. That said, I choose to live here for a few reasons: Ballard’s abundance of restaurants, craft breweries, and the fact that it’s home to one of the best farmer’s markets in Seattle .

Ballard is located 15 minutes outside of downtown in northwestern Seattle, which puts it just far enough away to keep its local vibe but also have transit options to the city center. This area is definitely a craft beer lover’s dream come true, which is why I created the ultimate Ballard brewery itinerary since it can be a bit overwhelming.

One spot worth checking out is the Ballard Locks , built to provide a path between Puget Sound and Lake Union. Today, locals and tourists alike frequently gather near the Locks to watch ships pass and catch a glimpse of the yearly salmon run, which occurs from May to September. Then they walk along the paved trail to catch views at Golden Gardens beach.

Food wise, there are SO many good places to eat. In fact, I created a self-guided Ballard food tour to make it easier for you to explore the area with your stomach. This area is also one of Seattle’s best shopping neighborhoods , so there’s plenty to do between eats.

get directions | best for: water views, public transit, & artsy spirit

I lived in Fremont for a few years and absolutely loved it. It’s located ~1 mile east of Ballard and, similarly, offers a wide selection of bars, restaurants, shops, and a great Sunday market. On the other hand, the vibe is a bit more hustle and bustle, with college students from nearby Seattle Pacific University flooding the streets on the weekends and a lot of buses connecting commuters to other areas of the city on weekdays.

Yet despite the crowds, there’s actually a lot of beauty in Fremont. The famous Burke-Gilman Trail runs right through the neighborhood and is popular among walkers, runners, and bikers. It weaves along Lake Union and a small cut that connects to Ballard, so it’s one of the most beautiful sections of the trail for an urban hike.

The neighborhood also has a bunch of quirky art installations and murals. For example, a popular tourist stop is the irreverent Fremont Troll underneath the Aurora Bridge, or the huge spaceship sculpture with a sign claiming Fremont is “The Center of the Universe”.

There are also a ton of awesome restaurants in Fremont . In fact, I love this neighborhood’s food scene, I also have a Fremont self-guided food tour !

For a list of things to do between eats, check out my list of the top things to do in Fremont .

website | get directions | best for: local art & craft brews

Most locals don’t know that Georgetown is Seattle’s oldest neighborhood. It was a big beer producing area because hops grew really well in the area, but Prohibition and then the wars turned it into a ghost town. Luckily it was revitalized in the 90s, and the historic buildings were preserved so present-day visitors can reminisce about the area’s past.

Georgetown is tiny with only about 1,500 permanent residents. But these artistic locals have turned the area into one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle. They’ve built a walkable downtown area full of art galleries, Seattle vintage shops , bookshops, public art installations, and murals. They even host a monthly art exhibit called Art Attack and a weekend trailer park market full of handmade and vintage goods.

As for the food and beverage scene, Georgetown is home to quite a bit of, you guessed it, craft breweries! But there’s also a ton of awesome eats within walking distance of each other. You can explore all of the best stops on my self-guided Georgetown food tour .

West Seattle

website | get directions | best for: beaching & eating 

West Seattle has a casual, laidback vibe that makes it a worthwhile spot to explore or live. And calling this neighborhood “West Seattle” is a bit of a misnomer, because it’s actually made up of a bunch of neighborhoods all with their own quirks. But to keep things simple, I’ll talk about them as one.

Located in the southwestern part of Seattle, West Seattle is separated almost entirely from the mainland by the Duwamish Waterway. As a result, you need to cross the West Seattle Bridge to get to it, or else drive around the river. It’s also easily accessible from downtown via water taxi, which is worth doing just to cross it off your Seattle bucket list .

West Seattle is best known for Alki Beach. It’s not uncommon to find people sunbathing and playing beach volleyball until well past the typical sunbathing season. And if they aren’t sunbathing, they’re walking the paved trail taking in the water views with the city skyline in the distance.

Beyond the sandy beaches, West Seattle is also known for its plethora of local shops and restaurants, especially in West Seattle Junction, a commercial district with small businesses and community events.

As for the food scene, West Seattle is becoming more and more of a foodie destination. Be sure to check out my list of the best restaurants in West Seattle for a full list of all the spots worth visiting.

Columbia City

website | get directions | best for: quaint charm

Columbia City is located in the southeastern corner of Seattle. It has a lot of historic charm thanks to it being incorporated as a neighborhood about the same time as Seattle. It grew independently thanks to a booming rail and lumber industry, but it was annexed by Seattle in the early 1900s.

The neighborhood intentionally kept the historic Village Green to keep the area walkable. The result is a quaint downtown area full of great restaurants, bars, and shops.

Don’t miss Off Alley, one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Seattle that was also recognized as being one of the best eateries in the US by the New York Times. I also absolutely love Flying Lion Brewing because of its great beer and locals-only vibe.

Beacon Hill/Mt. Baker

Beacon Hill ( get directions ) | Mt. Baker ( get directions ) | best for: architecture & scener y

I grouped together Beacon Hill and Mt. Baker since they border each other, and honestly, I get the cool spots in each neighborhood mixed up often. Both districts are in the southeastern part of Seattle just south of the I-90 bridge.

Beacon Hill is named after the highest point in Seattle resting at about 500 feet above sea level. You can take advantage of the elevation by visiting the popular Jefferson Park, which has stunning views of the city skyline.

There is also a North Beacon Hill neighborhood, which I’m considering part of this section of one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle. Both Beacon Hill neighborhoods are known for their cultural diversity, which means there are a ton of awesome restaurants. One of the most popular spots is Musang , an award-winning restaurant focusing on Filipino food that’s rated one of the best 5-star restaurants in Seattle .

Mt. Baker borders Beacon Hill to the east and is more residential. This makes it perfect for people who like quiet and true neighborhood joints. For example, The Velvet Elk is a hidden gem serving excellent craft cocktails in an eclectic space.

The other huge draw of Mt. Baker is its access to Lake Washington. There are a ton of parks and paths weaving along the lake that people love to walk, run, or blade.

website | U-District ( get directions ) | best for: vintage shops & nature walks

The U-District, AKA University District, is home to the University of Washington and, as you can probably suspect, is loaded with college students at all hours of the day. Or, if it’s April, you’ll find a bunch of visitors swarming the campus for the cherry blossoms, which is one of the best things to do during spring break in Seattle .

That said, being such a busy neighborhood does have its perks. Public transportation is great in this area, and it’s easily one of the more affordable places to eat. One of the best weekend activities is strolling along The Ave (University Way NE) and popping into shops and restaurants of interest. There’s also a great farmers market on Saturdays with a bunch of local vendors.

If you like a bit more quiet, the Ravenna neighborhood to the north has a bunch of greenery and cute homes. Ravenna Park is a staple of the area with tons of hiking trails, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.

Central District

get directions | best for: Black-owned restaurants & local parks

Seattle’s Central District is located in eastern Seattle, just above Mt. Baker and east of the International District. It’s been a longtime hub for Seattle’s Black community and has been called home to Jimi Hendrix, Ernestine Anderson, and Bruce Lee.

Being a focal point for the African American community in Seattle, it’s not surprising many popular Black-owned restaurants have found their home here. Boon Boona Coffee is one of my favorite coffee shops in Seattle, and Communion is arguably one of the most well-known Black-owned restaurants in Seattle .

Beyond the epic food and culture, Central District is a great spot to see local art galleries and enjoy live music. If you’re craving Vitamin D, definitely take a stroll through either Judkins Park or Pratt Park, both of which offer lengthy walking paths, playgrounds, basketball courts, and picnic tables. You can also take a self-guided history tour so you don’t miss any of the most important landmarks.

Chinatown-International District

website | get directions | best for: diverse Asian food & culture

The C-ID is one of the coolest Seattle neighborhoods for those who love history, culture, and food. A gorgeous gate with dragons wrapping the nearby street poll welcomes you to the area that was populated by the Chinese in the late 1800s. Today the C-ID is home to Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, and other Asian locals who share their heritage through food and culture programming.

The Wing Luke Museum is a pinnacle of the neighborhood and regularly offers historic and foodie walking tours. Or you can explore the area on your own with their self-guided walking tour . I love taking a break for some ping pong in Hing Hay Park, which is right in the middle of all the best restaurants.

Some of my favorite foodie stops include Tai Tung , Seattle’s first Chinese restaurant, and Harbor City for dim sum. I also love popping into Uwajimaya food store to browse the shelves for Asian snacks.

Phinney Ridge & Greenwood

website | get directions (Phinney Ridge) & get directions (Greenwood) | best for: Woodland Park Zoo, restaurants, & family-friendly vibe

Phinney Ridge and Greenwood are two neighborhoods that bleed into each other in north Seattle. Greenwood is the eclectic neighborhood to the north that’s has a bit more grit thanks to the younger crowd and more condensed commercial district full of restaurants, bars, and some of my favorite coffee shops in Seattle .

Phinney got its name from the ridge that runs directly through the center of the neighborhood, which gives you amazing views of both the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound. It’s known for being a touch quieter and more family friend, likely because of its proximity to the Woodland Park Zoo.

These two neighborhoods are home to some of the best restaurants in North Seattle . Don’t miss FlintCreek , La Cabaña , and Thaiku . There are also a ton of bars, ranging from neighborhood hangs like Chuck’s Hop Shop and The Baranof to fancier spots like Bar Sur Mer .

Pioneer Square 

website | get directions | best for: shops & art galleries 

No list of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle would be complete without mentioning Pioneer Square, one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. In fact, what you see today is actually built on top of the Pioneer Square of years past. That’s right, they just laid more road and buildings on top of the old stuff. You can actually take the Underground Tour to explore it with a guide.

There are historic brick buildings and cobblestone streets still visible on the street level. Inside each well-loved building you’ll find everything from some of the best Seattle urban wineries to gift shops, boutiques, and restaurants.

This area is especially known for art galleries, so if you love art make sure to stop by for some shopping. My favorite gallery is J. Rinehart Gallery , which has some of the best affordable Pacific Northwest art . The neighborhood also hosts one of the most popular art walks in the city every first Thursday evening of the month.

Staying in Pioneer Square is a good choice if you want to be within walking distance of Pike Place Market to the north and the sports stadiums to the south. However this area is quite popular with the working crowd, so it’s pretty quiet at night save for a few bars and clubs. That makes it perfect for people who want to be in the hustle and bustle, but have it quieter come nighttime.

website | get directions | best for: Pike Place Market & hidden restaurant gems

Downtown Seattle is a tourist hub where most locals work versus live. This might seem counterintuitive to being a “cool” neighborhood, but what most people don’t realize is that commuters create demand for hidden gems perfect for unwinding after work.

Between countless bars, restaurants, cafes, and eclectic architecture, you could easily spend an entire trip just strolling through downtown. That said, I highly suggest you spend at least two days doing traditional sightseeing things, like going to the SAM Sculpture Park, visiting the Museum of Pop Culture, and checking out Pike Place Market .

When you’re ready to dive a little deeper into some local-only spots hidden away in downtown/Belltown, definitely check out my 24-hour itinerary for exploring downtown Seattle .

Queen Anne/Uptown 

Queen Anne ( get directions ) | Uptown ( get directions ) | best for: skyline views & access to downtown

Queen Anne was divided in half in 2021 and the Lower Queen Anne portion became known as Uptown. I continue to refer to this whole area as just Queen Anne, but I’ll do my best to explain the difference between the two.

Uptown has a more bustling nightlife and transit options since it’s closer to downtown. Queen Anne is more quiet, family-friendly with a higher concentration of incredible quaint but expensive homes. However, there is and a great Thursday farmers market in Queen Anne and a quaint commercial street with shops and restaurants.

Both neighborhoods offer amazing views of downtown Seattle, the Puget Sound, and Olympic Mountains. If you’re always on the hunt for the perfect city skyline (like I am), then you’ll want to check out Kerry Park in Queen Anne, especially during sunset. You’ll get a perfect view of the Space Needle that even most locals don’t know about.

More to do in Seattle

Curious about how to spend your time after you explore the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle? Check out my other guides for even more ideas!

• How to Spend 2 Days in Seattle
• Best Gift Shops in Seattle
• Best Places to Take Pictures in Seattle
• Hiking Spots in Seattle for All Skill Levels
• Scenic Day Trips from Seattle

Overwhelmed by trip planning?

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Seattle neighborhoods: where to stay and what to do

From buzzy Capitol Hill to beachy West Seattle, the best Seattle neighborhoods are more than meets the eye

You’d be remiss to think of Seattle as just a moody metropolis filled with a cluster of skyscrapers. Although the city is home to its fair share of towers and its residents have to deal with a lot of rain, there is much more to this town than meets the eye.

Because of its diverse geography—the city is sandwiched between Puget Sound and Lake Washington—and breathtaking mountain views in every direction, Seattle is actually an ideal destination within the United States. You can experience everything here—from sandy beaches and forest trails to a world-class shopping scene and award-winning restaurants —without ever leaving the city limits.

Here are five of the very best neighborhoods in Seattle to consider the next time you make your way to the Emerald City, each one offering a unique vantage point and exciting things to do . From buzzy Capitol Hill to beachy West Seattle, you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose to stay by. You’ll just have to come back to experience them all.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Seattle neighborhoods

With a wide range of restaurants, bars and nightlife opportunities on your doorstep—not to mention a close-up view of the Space Needle—Lower Queen Anne is a great choice for those wanting to be within walking distance of Seattle Center. If you’re looking for a quieter neighborhood feel, consider staying at the top of the hill. Those trying to avoid the climb back up the steep hill after a day of sightseeing (who can blame you?), will appreciate the various bus routes serving the area.

EAT Eating nearby the city’s tourist attractions can feel like a gamble, but one you should take at Toulouse Petit in Lower Queen Anne. Plan to start your day with caffeine and Creole cuisine at this Big Easy-inspired brasserie—order the Dungeness crab Benedict and beignets for the table.

DRINK You won’t go thirsty in Queen Anne, but getting off the beaten path has its advantages. Check out local hangout The Wick, a small bar/motorcycle shop serving rotating craft beers and cups of joe. The Wick is a favorite of moto enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a good brew—of the coffee or beer variety.

DO Ride up to the top of the Space Needle to check out the new glass observation deck, complete with see-through benches, and the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. Take in the sweeping views of the Pacific Northwest: water and mountains as far as the eye can see.

STAY A member of the Stay Pineapple brand, the bright and vibrant Maxwell Hotel is a great option for those who want to be within walking distance of the main city attractions and just a bicycle ride from the waterfront. Bonus points: the hotel loans out beach cruisers to guests who would rather pedal their way around town.

If you do one thing… For one of the best views of Seattle, head to Kerry Park. Located on Queen Anne Hill, this small neighborhood park is usually teeming with locals and tourists alike at sunset, but sunrise is even more spectacular. Pick up a coffee and join photographers and fellow early birds for amazing views of downtown, Elliott Bay and—if the clouds permit—Mt. Rainier.

A unique neighborhood with strong Scandinavian ties and maritime history, Ballard is now one of the city’s hot spots for eating, drinking and live music. In addition to its bounty of craft breweries, independent restaurants and cool boutiques, the area is also home to a historic waterfront and one of the best beaches. Situated on Puget Sound, with impressive views of the Olympic Mountains, Golden Gardens Park attracts visitors from all over the city, especially during sunset hours. Located in the northwestern part of the city, Ballard is accessible by bus, including the RapidRide line, making it easier to get to and from downtown.

EAT You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating in Ballard, but the sweetest treat can be found at Hot Cakes Molten Chocolate Cakery . Order a molten chocolate cake, made with Seattle’s Theo chocolate, and a grilled chocolate sandwich with salted caramel dipping sauce. Chocoholics, proceed with reckless abandon.

DRINK There are so many breweries in the ‘hood, you shouldn’t just choose one—but Stoup is definitely a good place to start. Tucked in-between homes a few blocks north of Leary Way, this busy taproom and beer garden has something for everyone. With 20 taps and rotating food trucks, you’ll only just scratch the surface of the Ballard brewery scene.

DO Once a Scandinavian seafaring community, Ballard is home to a rich maritime history. Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (or the Ballard Locks , as referred to by locals), at the west end of Salmon Bay, carries more boat traffic than any other lock in the U.S. and is a major tourist attraction in Seattle. It is especially popular during the late summer, when you can catch sight of salmon swimming up the fish ladder on their way to fresh water.

STAY Hotel Ballard offers upscale elegance in the heart of the neighborhood, but if you’re looking for a bit more space and a more authentic Seattle stay, your best bet is booking a home a few blocks off Market Street through AirBnB or VRBO.

If you do one thing… Visit the Ballard Farmers Market on Sundays. Open year-round, the bustling market is packed with vendors selling everything from Washington produce and leather goods to seafood and kombucha. Along the tree-lined street, pause to enjoy local musicians busking and poets writing on vintage typewriters (yes, really!).

Capitol Hill

The most urbane Seattle neighborhood, Capitol Hill is home to many of the city’s award-winning restaurants and bars. As the city’s LGBTQ hub, the vibe is young, hip, artistic and literary with a prominent nightlife scene. Because of the close proximity to downtown, this eclectic area is easy to get around in, with plenty of public transit options.

EAT Pull up a bright teal stool at Bar Melusine and dine on oysters and crab-stuffed crepes. This French-Atlantic fusion restaurant, created by Seattle chef Renee Erickson, is an Instragrammer’s dream: expect funky tiled floors, marble counters and gold accents. We promise: the food tastes as good as it looks.

DRINK Drinking in a former funeral home probably isn’t high on your bucket list, but it will be after hearing about Pine Box. Order one of the 30+ beers on tap at the bar built from reclaimed coffins and grab a seat in the space that was once the chapel of the funeral home. Kind of creepy, true, but the beer obviously helps.

DO Stretch your legs at the 48-acre Volunteer Park, one of the city’s most beautiful public parks. Climb the water tower for impressive views of downtown and be sure to check out the conservatory and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. This park may be in the middle of the city, but it feels like a quiet retreat.

STAY Pass up the downtown hotel chains for a unique stay in Shafer Baillie Mansion, a historic manor in a section of Capitol Hill that was once known as Millionaire’s Row. The beautifully restored and maintained B&B is only a 15-minute stroll from the lively Capitol Hill happenings.

If you do one thing… Peruse the shelves at Elliott Bay Book Company for bestsellers or hidden gems and don’t miss their northwest section. This beloved independent bookstore is open late and hosts readings most evenings, making it the ideal escape from the clamor of Capitol Hill.

Walkable and conveniently located, Belltown is the most densely populated neighborhood in Seattle, filled with trendy bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Just north of downtown and on the waterfront, Belltown is the ideal area for those wanting to revel in the hustle-and-bustle of the city, whether for business or pleasure.

EAT Named after the Chinook word for “welcome,” Tilikum Place Café is one of Belltown’s favorite eateries, serving European-inspired comfort dishes in a cozy setting only a short walk away from the Space Needle. Go for brunch and try the Dutch babies—sweet or savory popovers packed with flavor and baked in cast iron pans.

DRINK Dark and moody and oh-so-cool—just like the Jane Austen heartthrob that inspires it—Mr. Darcy’s is not to be missed. This intimate cocktail and wine bar oozes romantic, literary vibes, and the drinks are worth writing home about, especially two cocktails by the names of Pride and Prejudice. See what they did there?

DO Catch a show at one of the city’s favorite music venues, The Crocodile , where local legends like Pearl Jam and Nirvana once played. No live music scheduled for the day of your visit? Worry not, you can still enjoy some pizza, beer and cocktails in the back bar among posters of rock and roll royalty.

STAY You can take your pick of hotel chains by virtue of Belltown being right in the thick of downtown Seattle but, if you want waterfront views, look no further than the Edgewater Hotel . If you’re lucky, you’ll score a room with a balcony overlooking the ferries coming and going across Elliott Bay.

If you do one thing… Walk down to Pike Place Market first thing in the morning. Grab a coffee at the original Starbucks, an apple cinnamon roll from Russian bakery Piroshky Piroshky and wander the historic market stalls. Don’t forget to snap a pic of the iconic market sign before the crowds descend.

West Seattle

A laid-back residential area to the west of downtown, West Seattle has a small town feel—which may come as a surprise to first-time visitors to the Emerald City. The most popular areas of West Seattle are the Junction, a buzzy commercial district with a mix of indie shops and hip dining establishments, and Alki Beach Park. The boardwalk, bars and cafés along Alki are reminiscent of those you’d find in Southern California and they will make you feel millions of miles away from the city. In reality, downtown Seattle is a 15-minute drive away or, even easier (and certainly more scenic), a short water taxi ride away.

EAT Let the smell of freshly brewed Hawaiian coffee beans and homemade baked goods lure you into Ampersand Café, a popular eatery on the main strip of Alki. With its casual, beachy vibe, you can sit on the patio and people watch all morning. On crisp winter mornings, hunker down inside at a window seat with a copy of the local paper.

DRINK Head to Beveridge Place Pub, located on California Avenue, to drink like a local. At this West Seattle alehouse, it’s all about the beer. Although the focus is primarily on Washington brews, you can find an impressive selection of bottled beers from around the world. What you won’t find here, though, is food: you’re encouraged to BYOF or order from one of the many nearby eateries.

DO Spend an afternoon at Alki Beach, beachcombing for sea glass, building sand castles or just enjoying the views. Keep your eyes peeled because it’s not uncommon to spot a seal or dolphin in the distance. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or stand up paddle board to explore the Sound.

STAY Book a room at the picturesque Gatewood Bed and Breakfast , a remodeled 1910 Craftsman in the scenic neighborhood by the same name. You’ll struggle to leave the comforts of the charming front porch, but be sure to take advantage of the B&B’s location by exploring nearby Lincoln Park on foot or going slightly further afield with a short ferry ride to Vashon Island.

If you do one thing… Stop at Marination Ma Kai for Hawaiian-Korean fusion fare and specialty libations served with a side of the Seattle skyline. Located directly across the water from the glistening skyscrapers, diners at this West Seattle restaurant get the postcard-worthy views without having to deal with the hordes of tourists. Try the kalbi beef tacos and kalua pork sliders, and order a spiked shave ice for dessert.

Worked up an appetite while exploring?

The 20 best restaurants in seattle.

From local favorites to tourist destinations that are actually good, the best restaurants in Seattle range in cuisine, decor and presentation but all have one thing in common: They serve oh-so-delicious food. Ready to tackle them all?

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Seattle Neighborhood Guide & Where to Visit

This Seattle neighborhood guide will help you plan your unforgettable trip to the Emerald City whether you’re a first time visitor or returning for another visit! This is absolutely one of our favorite cities to explore and get to know through multiple and extended visits.

With a city with so much to offer it can be tough to choose what to do and see, but after many visits and many posts, we have written to cover this awesome city we have chose what we think are the best neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington to check out on a visit or even base yourself during your stay – for more on that check out our guide for where to stay in Seattle by neighborhood.

For more helpful guides to help you plan your trip be sure to check out what to do in Seattle for a first time visitor , unusual and unique things to do in Seattle , the best day trips from Seattle , and for those enjoying a short stay check out how to spend an action-packed one day in Seattle (with a video) as well as a weekend in Seattle itinerary .

Without further ado, here is our Seattle neighborhood guide! Enjoy your trip!

Best Seattle Neighborhoods to Visit

Looking for a lively neighborhood is known for keeping its visitors busy with sightseeing spots and tours? Look no further, Queen Anne is a residential neighborhood in Seattle near Lake Union.

Queen Anne actually covers alot of area and is broken down into North Queen Anne, West Queen Anne, East Queen Anne, Queen Anne, and Lower Queen Anne which is home to the Space Needle , the most famous tourist attraction in the city as well one of the most recognizable landmarks globally that was built for the 1962 World Fair to symbolize our space age aspirations during a time when America was all about the ‘space race.’

Queen Anne is one of the best Seattle neighborhoods to visit if you want to hit up some of the city’s best tourist attractions and museums. Nearby the Space Needle is Chihuly Garden & Glass . This art museum is located in The Seattle Center and is directly next to the famed needle. This glasshouse is just as picturesque as the artwork on the inside by American glass sculptor Dale Chihuly .

If you’re into museums, another great place to stop by in this Seattle neighborhood is The Museum of Pop Culture . This museum is dedicated to contemporary pop culture and was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.

Many Seattle neighborhoods are also known for their extensive outdoor activities and beautiful parks. Queen Anne has Kerry Park and Olympic Park .

Kerry Park is a small public park that overlooks all of downtown Seattle with some of the most breathtaking views possible in the city surrounded by beautiful 19th-century homes, stylish cafes, and boutiques too.

Nearby is Olympic Park, a sculpture park that the Seattle Art Museum created. This park is 9 acres and is similar to an outdoor museum! It also has a beach and indoor pavilion. 

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is known as the pulse of the city and LGBTQIA hub of Seattle. This lively neighborhood is known for its great dining scene, bars, cafes, and extensive shopping opportunities.

One of the most popular restaurants here is Metropolitan Grill , an upscale steakhouse in the heart of this Seattle neighborhood and is where you can find one of the best steaks in the city. For lunch check out Capitol Hill’s delis, including Tat’s Deli and Salumi.  

One of the most popular places to get coffee in this vibrant neighborhood in Seattle is Starbucks Reserve Roastery . This is basically the Willy Wonka world of coffee and the first location (there are now six globally) which is only fitting since the first Starbucks was at Pike Place Market here in Seattle.

Grab your favorite coffee or try one of their specialty items like Irish Coffee, Espresso Martinis (& Espresso Martini flights!), coffee floats with ice cream, and seasonal specialties! This isn’t your typical corner Starbucks, this is an immersive experience complete with a bar and tons of merchandise and a highlight to be added to your trip and this Seattle neighborhoods guide.

If your perfect neighborhood guide to Seattle has lots of outdoor activities, check out Volunteer Park ! This is a public outdoor park in Capitol Hill that is almost 50 acres total.

Nearby is also Cal Anderson Park , a public park and reflecting pool that has Lincoln Reservoir and Bobby Morris Playfield!

If you want to keep learning about the history of Seattle while spending time outdoors, check out Lake View Cemetary . This famous spot is an independent, private cemetery known for its famous graves, including those of Bruce Lee and John D. Rockefeller.

No Seattle neighborhood guide is complete without a quick visit to a museum. One of the best museums to visit in Capitol Hill is the Seattle Asian Art Museum . This museum is located in Volunteer Park and has many art exhibits that honor contemporary art from all around different Asian countries and cultures.

Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is one of the best Seattle neighborhoods to visit for those craving some downtown action! This downtown Seattle area is known for its coffee shops, art galleries, and rich history as is considered the birthplace of the city. Plus it’s our favorite neighborhood!

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the history of Pioneer Square is to check out a Seattle Underground tour . There are many tours you can take that will allow you to learn more about the history of this neighborhood! Known as Seattle’s birthplace, the underground section of Pioneer Square is filled with subterranean storefronts, sidewalks, and unique architecture. 

For those who love exploring the paranormal side to destinations, be sure to check out this ghost tour of Pioneer Square led by real paranormal investigators! This was one of the best ghost tours we have ever taken and this neighborhood in Seattle has alot of spooky stories!

Nearby is Smith Tower , one of the most well-known skyscrapers in Seattle. If you visit Smith Tower, you’ll be able to see the neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington from a bird’s eye point of view. This tower is 38 stories and almost 500 feet tall. At the time it was built, it was one of the tallest skyscrapers outside of New York City!

Personally, this is our favorite Seattle observation deck even though the Space Needle is the most well known and the impressive Sky View Observatory at Columbia Tower is next door. Smith Tower is an entire experience since this historic building uses man operated elevators still and the bar looks straight out of the Great Gatsby not to mention you get a great view of the Space Needle from here!

If your ideal Seattle neighborhoods guide includes some shopping, be sure to check out Occidental Square . Occidental Square is a park and mall located in Pioneer Square with many great shopping options and restaurants.

Pioneer Square is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington, to also try out some beer. One of the most popular pubs here is Flatstick Pub , where you can expect to find a fun environment complete with a Seattle themed mini-golf course, billiards, great tacos, and a large selection of draft brews and cider.

Of course, no night out would be complete without some bar hopping. After stopping by Flatstick Pub, be sure to check out Merchant’s Cafe ! This cafe and bar has a great atmosphere and delicious home-cooked food and is said to be haunted! Spooky! Check out the basement if you want to increase your chances of a paranormal encounter.

Want to catch a game? Head to Lumen Field and catch a Seattle Seahawks game.

If you want to see a national park, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is the way to go. This historical park & visitor center commemorates The Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s! It’s also in a quaint part of town that has many shopping and eating opportunities. 

South Lake Union

No Seattle neighborhoods guide would be complete without waterfront activities! Lake Union is a freshwater lake in the heart of downtown Seattle neighborhood South Lake Union! This neighborhood is more residential with local eateries that you won’t find many tourists at and water activities.

South Lake Union has alot going on when it comes to getting on the lake. One of the best places to visit is the Center for Wooden Boats , where you can rent anything from hot tub boats to kayaks! Once you embark on your water tour, be sure to check out The Sleepless in Seattle houseboat!

If this interests you be sure to check out which houseboats in Seattle you can rent and stay in during your trip!

Another great way to explore Lake Union is to take a seaplane tour ! Be sure to check out Kenmore Air , a seaplane base and seaplane international airport! This is one of the most scenic ways to see Seattle plus you get the adrenaline rush of taking off and landing on Lake Union.

If you still want to learn more about neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington, check out The Museum of History & Industry . Located in South Lake Union, this museum is family-friendly and has a large exhibit, coffee shop, and cafe on the inside!

And if you have time to explore head over to one of the most unique parks in the city at the north end of the lake. Gas Works Park is now an outdoor public space built on the former Seattle Gas Light Company plant. While this technically is a different neighborhood in Seattle to visit, you can get up close if you do any of the boat rentals on Lake Union and see the park from the water!

Downtown Seattle

One of the best Seattle neighborhoods to visit is Pike Place Market which is located in downtown Seattle! At Pike Place Market , you can find many incredible places to eat, the original Starbucks that started it all, and The Seattle Art Museum to name a few of the many highlights in this area.

You really need to come hungry so you can sample around Pike Place Market. If you’re not sure what to try the perfect solution is to join a food tour! We are huge fans of food tours and it’s a great way not to only learn the history but sample the best spots! 

Join this 2-hour cultural walking and food tour of Pike Place Market sampling everything from donuts to seafood or this 2-hour tasting tour of Pike Place Market led by a chef ! Who better to lead a food tour than someone who’s familiar with flavors in the kitchen!

While you’re here don’t miss the fishmonger’s tradition of throwing the fis h too! This is one of those Seattle moments you don’t want to miss. 

Be sure to also stop by the Gum Wall , one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. This wall covered in chewing gum is a local landmark, so don’t forget to get a pack of gum before you go to leave your contribution. Don’t worry you’re not committing any crimes here – this is an official ‘thing to do’ and allowed.

Nearby Pike Place Market is the Seattle Central Library . This library is known as the flagship of the public library system in Seattle and is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world . This 11-story glass building is a great place to check out from the inside, there are art installations and the entire building is a modern marvel when it comes to architecture and design.

If you want to watch a performance in downtown Seattle, Benaroya Hall is the place to go. This performance venue has over 3,000 seats total and is home to the Seattle Symphony!

Another great place to see performances nearby is the Paramount Theater . The Paramount Theater is another performing arts venue that can hold up to 2,8000 people! Another famous landmark building that’s great for watching performances is The 5th Avenue Theater.

The 5th Avenue Theater has hosted many theater productions and motion pictures since the 1900s when it was first built! It is also owned and was created by The University of Washington. 

If you’re more into music than theater, you won’t want to miss out on seeing something at Showbox! Showbox is a music venue owned by AEG that is known for its live music and delicious cocktails. So if you’re looking for an upscale venue, this is the place to be.

No Seattle neighborhood guide would be complete without shopping options. The best place to shop in downtown Seattle is Westlake Center . This large shopping mall is a 4-story, glass-enclosed retail center that’s great for shopping and trying new foods at the food court! It’s also directly across from Westlake Park! Another excellent place for upscale shopping and dining is Pacific Place. Pacific Place is over 300,000 square feet and is known for its many well-known stores, AMC theater, and unique restaurants.

If you’re in downtown Seattle, be sure to check out at least one of the many piers on the Seattle waterfront . Some of the most popular include Pier 55, Pier 62, and Pier 66. These piers have easy access and are open to the public. They’re great for anyone who wants to take a waterfront stroll or participate in a water activity! 

Fremont 

Fremont is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington, to go sightseeing around a beautiful residential neighborhood.

One of the most famous landmarks in this Seattle neighborhood is the Fremont Troll . Fremont Troll is a public statue under the Aurora Bridge, a bridge that is linked to many alleged troll sightings !

Another interesting statue nearby is Lenin Statue . The Lenin Statue is a statue of Vladimir Lenin and was put on display in 1988.

One of the best ways to complete your neighborhood guide to Seattle is to visit a brewery! One of the most popular breweries is Fremont Brewing Co . This urban beer garden is a beer hall that offers seasonal ales and free pretzels. This brewery is great for families who want some outdoor dining! 

Fremont is one of the best Seattle neighborhoods for families with children. If you have a sweet tooth or younger children with you, be sure to stop by Theo Chocolate ! This famous chocolate shop offers a tour of the place, free samples, and organic desserts that you can’t find anywhere else. 

Last but not least, if you didn’t get to see Gas Works Park from Lake Union be sure to check out Gas Works Park as it’s easily accessible to visit from Fremont.

Ballard is one of the best Seattle neighborhoods to visit if you want to hang out in more of a local’s spot with great dining and drinking options filling the space of old historic warehouses not to mention the cool views from the boats passing through the Ballard Locks.

One of the most popular places to explore is Golden Gardens Park , a public park with many wetlands, beaches, and hiking trails. There are also many playgrounds and areas to have a picnic that is great for larger groups or those traveling with kids. Not to mention on a clear day you get gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains.

Another great way to spend time outdoors is to visit Woodland Park Zoo . Woodland Park Zoo is a wildlife conservation organization and zoo garden. It has served over 1 million visitors and is the most popular zoo in Seattle.

Another popular spot in Ballard is the Fremont Brewing Company . This museum is dedicated to the Nordic immigrants in the area! It covers Scandinavian immigration, art, history, and culture. This place also offers educational classes and has many great restaurants! 

If you’re craving some waterfront time, be sure to check out Ballard Locks. Ballard Locks is a complex of locks connecting Puget Sound from the canals and it’s interesting to see the boats pass through. This family-friendly spot is excellent for fishing and waterfront dining! 

University District

For another beautiful neighborhood in Seattle, Washington head to University District. This is a college town with great dining options, shopping, and views of Mt. Rainer on a clear day.

Expect to find shopping options, coffee houses, and casual eateries surrounding the “U District” on University Way as well as beautiful mansions on 17th Ave NE known as “Greek Row” as many of these homes house the sororities and fraternities of the university.

Head to the University of Washington to see their campus and check out  Henry Art Gallery . This art museum is located on the west edge of the university and was the first public art museum in the entire state at the time of its opening! It commemorates many contemporary and modern artists. 

Right outside of the University of Washington campus is Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture . This natural history museum was created in 1899 by a high school naturalist club that formed in 1879! Today, this museum explores Native American life, the history of the dinosaurs, and much more regarding Northwest history. 

As mentioned, University District is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington to get some shopping done! Two of the best commercial districts for shopping here include University Way and Portage Bay . University Way is near the University of Washington and is the main street in town. This popular spot is known for its unique eateries and independent stores!

Another great place to walk around, grab a bite to eat, or go shopping is Portage Bay. This waterfront spot is known as the eastern arm of Lake Union. If you make your way to Portage Bay, be sure to check out Portage Bay Cafe. This cafe has a few locations around the lake & is one of the best breakfast spots in town! 

This Seattle neighborhood neighbors Downtown Seattle and Queen Anne so it’s a great place to stop between popular sightseeing spots like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market or the waterfront.

Belltown has busy and happening 1st Ave and 2nd Ave that are great for shopping or grabbing a bite to eat. These avenues also have many live music venues and bars with great happy hour options too.

One of the most popular places to eat in Belltown is Six Seven Restaurant at the Edgewater Hotel . This well-known seafood spot offers upscale seafood dishes as well as many vegan options. They also have great happy hour options and stunning waterfront views.

Chinatown-International District

Chinatown-International District is a lively neighborhood and enclave to Asian-American communities in Seattle! Here, you can expect to find many amazing eateries from dim sum to dumplings and sushi – but there’s so much more as there are actually three micro-neighborhoods here including Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon.

This cluster of Seattle neighborhoods is also known for many historical and cultural exhibits. One of the most popular is the Wing Luke Museum of the Asia Pacific American Experience . This history museum focuses on the art and history of Asian Pacific Americans. 

If you want to sing your heart out head to Bush Garden , the first restaurant in the US to have a karaoke bar!

Nearby this museum is also the Pinball Museum . This is a museum and entertainment center that has unlimited arcade games for just one entry fee! They offer light snacks, great beer, and lots of pinball tables to choose from! 

Don’t miss Hing Hay Park on a beautiful day either! This is a great spot to just sit and enjoy a takeaway treat that you pick up at Uwajimaya. This is also a popular gathering place during festivals throughout the year including Lunar New Year celebrations.

Enjoyed this Seattle neighborhood guide and the best neighborhoods in Seattle to visit? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

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Where to Stay in Seattle: the Best Neighborhoods For Your Trip

Posted by Arthur McMahon February 11, 2021 Updated September 01, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Without a doubt, Seattle is the cultural hub of the Pacific Northwest.

The hills of Seattle are alive with the sound of music, the sights of art and nature, and the smell of freshly roasted coffee. The recognizable skyline is etched in the minds of millions, with the Space Needle as its defining centerpiece.

This is where the likes of Starbucks and Amazon started as small ideas, where grunge music was born, and where when it rains, it pours.

Seattle is a gem of a city, and there are plenty of thriving neighborhoods within its border, each with their own unique atmospheres and their own unique experienced to discover. If you’re looking to figure out where to stay in Seattle, you’ve come to the right place. Below you’ll find the best neighborhoods to stay in Seattle for your next vacation, along with suggestions on what kind of travelers may appreciate them the most.

Related Read:   When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Seattle?

Capitol Hill: The Best Neighborhood for Couples and Culture

Featuring hundreds of street-level retail coffee shops and eateries, as well as a dusk ’til dawn nightlife scene, Capitol Hill is the place to find fun entertainment any hour of the day. This vibrant community is on a steep hill just northwest of downtown.

Capitol Hill is known as the birthplace of the 1990s grunge music scene, but the atmosphere has continued to evolve. It’s now home to a variety of alternative music scenes from folk to trance and everything in between. Likewise, there’s a robust art community you can experience by visiting one of the neighborhood’s signature galleries, or by keeping an eye out while wandering – murals abound.

The neighborhood also has a fantastic sense of inclusion and acceptance for a variety of mainstream and far-flung views, likely stemming from its grunge-era activism and the decades-in-the-making progressive LGBTQ+ community. You’ll find rainbow crosswalks, pride flags, and anarchy insignias; this was also the sight of the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest police-free zone that grew from the Black Lives Matter demonstrations of summer 2020.

There are a number of unique and prominent institutions and landmarks in Capitol Hill focused on diversity. Your trip is what you make of it. From Cal Anderson Park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum to the AIDS Memorial Pathway and historic gay bars, there is a wealth of culture to absorb in this multi-layered neighborhood.

Related Read:   10 Marvelously Unique Places to Stay in Washington State

Fremont: The Best Neighborhood for Influencers and Foodies

Fremont stands out for its grand public art displays and eclectic mix of dining options. The area is a few steps north of downtown Seattle in the shadow of the city’s skyscrapers, but it’s home to exceptional views of the city skyline. In Seattle, it’s the self-proclaimed “Center of the Universe.”

You’ll find murals and monuments down nearly every street. Notable pieces you’ll be inclined to take a selfie with are the Fremont Troll and the Fremont Rocket, both of which help make this a top choice for where to stay in Seattle if you’re always updating the ‘gram. There are a number of popular annual events in the area, such as the Summer Solstice Parade & Pageant (which has become infamous for its nude Solstice Cyclists) and Troll-a-ween, the birthday party for the well-loved troll.

As far as the foodie scene is concerned, well, the only limitation is your willingness to try something new. There are plenty of fine dining options and great street food, but there are a number of oddball venues in the mix, too, which make for a fun break from the norm. (Cat lovers should definitely swing by the Seattle Meowtropolitan Cafe .)

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Queen Anne: The Best Neighborhood for Families

Riddled with historic mansions and featuring the city’s iconic Space Needle, the sky is most certainly the limit in Queen Anne. You could rent an entire mansion or stately guest house, though there are more affordable options in the neighborhood as well, of course.

The bustling Seattle Center draws in crowds to its many attractions and events. A collection of performance venues and art galleries make this a lively destination throughout the year, while the Armory, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center provide enough entertainment for more than a few days.

Likewise, there are a number of renowned museums in the neighborhood. The Museum of Pop Culture has its roots in rock n’ roll, but has expanded over the years to focus on pop culture across various disciplines and decades. The Pacific Science Center is the spot for spectacular laser light shows and planetarium stargazing, and the Seattle Children’s Museum is packed with child-sized interactive exhibits.

Related Read:   12 Romantic Getaways in Washington to Take Your Sweetheart

University District: The Best Neighborhood for Students

Whether you’re a prospective student, a returning alumnus, or a visiting professor or researcher, there’s no place better to stay than the University District. Also colloquially known as the “U District”, this neighborhood encircles the University of Washington and includes many walkable streets lined with historic homes.

Aside from the gorgeous grounds of the university, there’s also a wide selection of bars and restaurants that maintain a youthful vibe, particularly along The Ave, which is a trendy commercial stretch adjacent to the university. The neighborhood feels a bit less polished than other parts of Seattle and has plenty of casual bars and restaurants that tend to be fairly affordable (as far as cities go, anyway.)

The Henry Art Gallery and the Burke Museum are standout institutions that attract visitors from all over the city, and Meany Hall is where you’ll want to be if you’re a fan of live stage performances.

Bellevue: The Best Neighborhood for Wine and Wanderlust

Located a hop, skip, and a jump across Lake Washington, on the other side of the rest of Seattle, Bellevue is like another town entirely. And in fact, it is. Though with four main thoroughfares leading back into the heart of the Emerald City, it’s basically like another piece of the city. If you’re deciding where to stay in Seattle and love the outdoors (and wine) then Bellevue may be the best choice for you. It offers what nowhere else in Seattle truly does.

What is that, exactly? How about rolling countryside with numerous award-winning wineries and oodles of outdoor recreation opportunities? Both Bellevue and the smaller adjacent town of Woodinville are steeped in wine culture. The area is the perfect place to drink it all in as you tour the dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, conveniently just 10 minutes away from the rest of Seattle.

As for outdoor recreation, there are plenty of opportunities. Bellevue has more than 100 parks, and as the area is bordered by two large bodies of water (Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish), you won’t be left wanting for on-water recreation, either.

Similarly, Bellevue’s southern end butts up against the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park,  loaded with amazing hiking trails of various lengths and difficulties. Couple your hike with a trip to the Cougar Mountain Zoo to create a fun-filled day for the entire family.

Related Read:   9 Best Hikes in Washington State for Epic Outdoor Adventures

Belltown: The Best Neighborhood for Urban Exploration

To some, the skyscraper-laden cityscape that lords over Seattle’s downtown area may seem like one large and complex urban community, but vast-seeming metropolis is actually several distinct districts.

Belltown sits just north of the official “Downtown Seattle,” as well as Pioneer Square, Chinatown, and most of the Waterfront District. This neighborhood is filled with high-rise condos that overlook downtown, the Puget Sound, and the bulk of the city’s famous skyline.

While any of the neighborhoods surrounding downtown will make for a great stay, Belltown has the location and vibe to make your inner-city Seattle stay a top-notch experience. It’s close enough to all of the iconic places in the city you’ll want to see, from the fish-flinging fishmongers at the Square to the Space Needle.

It’s a very walkable part of town and especially great for first-time visitors wondering where to stay in Seattle. Belltown is where you’ll have the best access to all the city has to offer.

West Seattle: The Best Neighborhood for the Beach

If you want to visit the big city during the day but prefer staying the night in the quieter suburbs, West Seattle is the place to be. This low-key neighborhood is a popular summer destination for Seattleites thanks in part to the sandy strip known as Alki Beach .

It’s a fantastic spot for swimming in the Puget Sound during the heat of the summer. Along the waterfront there’s also a lighthouse park, plentiful seafood restaurants, and other recreational opportunities like kayak tours and bike rentals.

What makes this otherwise quiet suburban neighborhood a fantastic spot for visitors are the water taxis to ferry passengers back and forth from downtown. There’s truly nothing more Seattle than a ferry ride across the Puget Sound, and this convenient form of public transport will make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Travel Tips for Visiting Seattle

• Flying in? Take the light rail directly to downtown or the University of Washington from SEA-TAC. From there, it’s easy to take public transit or grab a rideshare to where ever you’re staying.
• Seattle’s traffic is usually abysmal and the city full of hills. You’ll want to avoid driving if you can, and walking can get exhausting quickly. Get yourself an ORCA card for the best rates on public transit while you’re in the city.
• best public transit system in the US, and the ferries are a blast. Take a ferry ride during your stay, even if you don’t end up going anywhere in the process.
• Plan on seeing the most popular attractions? Snag a CityPass to save big bucks on many of the city’s most popular tourist destinations.

Related Read: The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

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Posted by Arthur McMahon

Arthur loves to walk. It’s as simple as that. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike.

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The 16 Best Things to Do in Seattle

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Seattle's famous drizzle feels like an afterthought when you're soaking up the view from aboard a sailing hot tub, and the dampness barely registers while looking up at a spectacular waterfall from an Indigenous cultural center. Getting outdoors all year round, and in any weather, is part of the culture in a city where gardens of colorful glass, giant wooden trolls, and world-class sculptures complement lush parks and tree-lined streets. Puget Sound panoramas unfold all around, from the top of the remodeled Space Needle, to the Marketfront Pavilion addition to iconic Pike Place Market to a ferry ride across Elliott Bay (usually for a great restaurant).

But the beauty extends to the indoors, too: Look down from the pinnacle of the city's most famous tourist attraction, the Space Needle, at the patchwork of neighborhoods hosting museums and galleries that show off the city's deep cultural roots—and, of course, the incredible food scene that comes with Seattle's diversity. Here are the best things to do in Seattle, no matter what time of year you're visiting.

Read our complete Seattle travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Discovery Park Arrow

Discovery park offers 534 acres of lush urban respite. Set on the quiet shores of the Puget Sound in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood, this is the city's biggest park. Twelve miles of walking trails leading to coastal bluffs, tidal beaches, serene meadows, and wooded groves, but if you're short on time, the 2.8-mile Loop Trail offers a best-hits list (it's also one of the easier to accomplish hikes in the area).

Chihuly Garden and Glass Arrow

Seattle's Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases the oeuvre of glass from world-famous glass artist Dale Chihuly. This forward-thinking museum inspires creativity and imagination as much as it pays tribute to the artist, through a surreal landscape of colorful glass sculptures that interact with the natural environment. The magnum opus of the museum is arguably the Glasshouse. This towering 40-foot-tall work of art is the result of Chihuly’s fondness for conservatories. The centerpiece inside is a massive 100-foot-long sculpture, which is one of Chihuly’s largest suspended sculptures. The artwork takes on different qualities throughout the day, as the natural light changes it. The Garden is also a must. Strangely beautiful handmade glass artwork sits amid ferns, vines, and perennials.

Pike Place Market Arrow

One of Seattle’s most iconic destinations, this century-old public market houses dozens of stalls and shops for farmers, restaurants , purveyors, and artisans, all overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront. The bustle is non-stop here. From locals buying fresh seafood and flowers to visitors eating their way through the different gourmet food stalls, there’s an endless array of movement and chatter. Showing up without a game plan can be overwhelming, but you can find a fully customizable planner with suggested itineraries on the market’s website .

Hot Tub Boats

See the city from a different angle: staring out from the comfort of a private hot tub as you motor around Lake Union with up to five friends. Anyone can rent these floating spas by the hour, year-round, from two different companies that offer slightly differing styles of boat, and each one fits up to six people. The small boats come with lights for nighttime floats, bluetooth speakers, and room for a cooler to keep everyone entertained and hydrated as you tour the waterway. Look up at the Space Needle towering above, watch seaplanes land just overhead, and take a self-guided tour of the local houseboats. Lake Union is one of the city's aquatic playgrounds; depending on the day and time of year you might weave among sailboat lessons, kayak commuters, and competitive canoers. Plus you'll get a close-up look at the Museum of History and Industry, the Center for Wooden Boats, and the Steamship Virginia V which dodging big boats and pricey yachts as they ply the canal from Puget Sound to Lake Washington and Gasworks Park.

Seattle Art Museum Arrow

The Seattle Art Museum’s sleek and contemporary digs are as artful as the works that inhabit it. As an institution of Seattle’s art scene, it’s a must-see for any visiting art lover. And while it's not uncommon that a museum’s exhibits play second-fiddle to the permanent collections, here they are one of the main attractions. Spanning topics like, "Who authors history?" to extreme landscape paintings, each exhibit is well-curated and beautifully positioned at a nice pace throughout the museum.

Kubota Garden Arrow

Hidden fountains, bright-red bridges, koi darting about elegant ponds. At Kubota Garden, 20 acres of gorgeous Japanese gardens await visitors willing to make the trip to the Rainier Beach neighborhood in South Seattle. First started in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, the complex is now part of Seattle’s public park system. Make time to wander; an incredible number of native Northwest flowers, shrubs, and trees grow amid the interweaving paths. Just know that the 15 minute drive each way can grow to 30 or more minutes in traffic.

Wa Na Wari Arrow

Wa Na Wari features Black art as part of the organization's mission to promote Black ownership (of land, culture, and joy) in Seattle's historically red-lined Central District. Works of all types, from local artists' to international pieces, hang around the living room and bedrooms of the converted house. The use of a house as a gallery means the downstairs exhibits in the main rooms offer plenty of space for grand ideas, while the smaller bedroom exhibits upstairs give an intimate feel. Bright lights and a multi-space setup makes it easy to explore at your own pace. Friendly staff greet visitors from the porch, but do little more than a welcome. This is a must-stop for anyone who cares about how history, art, and urban geography converge.

Bainbridge Island Arrow

A 35-minute trip from the Seattle Ferry Terminal, Bainbridge Island makes a great day trip for families or couples, even on a short stay in Seattle. Whether you walk, drive, or ride your bike off the boat, you’ll arrive in downtown Winslow quickly. From there, explore the bookstores, coffee shops, clothing boutiques, and cafés that line Winslow Way, or head to Waterfront Park and City Dock for an easy hike along the shore. Extend your stay with dinner at Ba Sa , a modern Vietnamese restaurant infused with regional ingredients, and stay the night at the fairytale-evoking Eagle Harbor Inn.

Olympic Sculpture Park Arrow

An offshoot of the Seattle Art Museum perched on the northern edge of downtown, this park's paths winds down toward Elliott Bay through nine acres of artwork from local and internationally renowned artists. Alexander Calder's "Eagle" overlooking the water provides one of the city's most iconic views, particularly during the sunset. Teresita Fernandez's “Seattle Cloud Cover” beautifully links the natural atmosphere of the park to the man-made art, and Jaume Plensa's waterfront “Echo” is simply mesmerizing. Smooth paths and ample ramps make it easy to navigate. While little information is provided at the various sculptures, the downloadable map and guide on the park's website helps with context. Admission is free and a visit can be a quick stop for a few photos, or a more leisurely stay for a picnic.

Space Needle Arrow

The Space Needle is undoubtedly one of Seattle's ( and America's ) most iconic landmarks. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, it's a futuristic observation tower and the most prominent building in the Seattle skyline. Visitors can reach the top of the Space Needle by elevator for unparalleled 360-degree views of the area: the $100 million renovation that debuted in 2018 gives visitors both an enclosed view level with a glass floor and an open-air deck level above.

National Nordic Museum Arrow

The region has one of the largest populations of nordic peoples in the United States, and this museum gives a deep dive into their history. The thought-provoking collection is primarily built from textiles, archival ephemera, and artwork brought from Nordic countries through generations that emigrated to the United States from 1840 to the present day. Temporary exhibits showcase a wide range of works from artists of nordic descent. Freya , the museum restaurant, isn't just an afterthought like some museum cafes—it's destination dining highlighting the best of Nordic cuisine, and the menu offers a litany of savory smørrebrød. 

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience Arrow

This 60,000-square-foot facility focuses on the confluence of Asian and Pacific American history. The permanent collections include a tribute to the museum's namesake, Councilman Wing Luke (the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest), and other exhibits exploring the cultural heritage of pan-Asian Pacific American immigrants, addressing topics like local history, working conditions, and social justice. It's a great place to begin exploring the stories of Seattle's under-represented communities, especially if you can schedule in one of the Chinatown Discovery Tours—including the Friday afternoon food one.

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King Arrow

Over the course of 2023, five large wooden trolls landed in the greater Seattle area (plus a sixth in Portland), all designed by Danish artist Thomas Dambo from recycled materials, and each with its own backstory. Part outdoor art and part play structure, they are designed for exploration and to encourage curiosity. While three of the trolls live in suburbs that require a ferry, car, or both to access (Issaquah, Bainbridge Island, and Vashon Island), Frankie Feetsplinters outside of Ballard's National Nordic Museum and Bruun Idun, who sings to orcas near Colman Pool in West Seattle, are the easiest to find and visit.

Snoqualmie Falls, Gift Shop and Visitor Center Arrow

The magnificent 270-foot waterfall just east of Seattle and the short walk to its base alone makes for a wonderful half-day trip. But since the ancestral caretakers of the land, the Snoqualmie Tribe, purchased their land back, they have made it even more meaningful in adding more to see. In 2023, the Snoqualmie added a visitors center that tells the story of the Snoqualmie (both the tribe and the falls) through cultural resources, including Indigenous art, with a gift shop that sells art by minority and women artists. This is the fastest way to get an idea of the Pacific Northwest's splendor without having to drive too far from the city or stay too long.

Green Lake Park Arrow

When the Olmstead Brothers planned Seattle's system of connected parks throughout the city, Green Lake quickly became one of the focal points. More than a century later, the crowds walking or rolling the three-mile path around the lake rarely subside, the sports fields and facilities bring people from all over the city, and the beaches attract crowds throughout the summer. A walk around Green Lake introduces anyone to staples of Seattle culture, mostly through the people one passes: the walkers, the fishermen, the picnicking families, and the soccer players. But also through the buildings, including historic bathhouse and aqua theater.

Frye Art Museum Arrow

The Frye is a sleeper gem, with a convenient central location, no admission fee, and creative exhibitions and events. The building's bold, attractive entrance leads visitors through to the galleries full of modern and contemporary art with a natural flow and plenty of natural light. Founded with a private collection of more than 200 oil paintings from the late 19th century and early 20th century, from Europe and the US, the museum has since greatly expanded and enriched its collection by expanding into later artists and pursuing works by under-represented people in the same time periods. The result is a well-rounded, excellent selection of art, curated into informative exhibits.

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21 Popular Seattle Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Seattle in 2024

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With towering mountain ranges, the iconic snowy-topped peak of Mount Rainier, and the beautiful waterfront views of Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle is nestled between countless natural wonders. No matter where you are in the city, this stunning scenery brightens up even the rainiest days.

Many historic, vibrant, and charming neighborhoods make the city what it is today. So many that you may have a hard time deciding where to  live in Seattle . To help make your decision a bit easier, we put together the ultimate guide to Seattle neighborhoods (listed alphabetically). Offering affordability, walkability, amenities, new homes, historic homes, apartment buildings, and more – these neighborhoods provide a wide range of options. So whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Seattle  or  buy a home , join us as we take a journey through Seattle’s most popular neighborhoods.

Ballard is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. It started as its own small city, settled by Nordic immigrants. Today, the neighborhood is home to several small businesses, shops, and galleries. In recent years, it has become one of the best food neighborhoods in the city. From Scandinavian cuisine to Oaxacan, modern American, Italian, and Northern Thai food, you’ll find just about everything here. Noteworthy attractions in the neighborhood include the National Nordic Museum, Ballard Locks, and the Ballard Farmers Market.

Learn more about the Ballard neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $869,000 Homes for sale in Ballard  |  Apartments for rent in Ballard

2. Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a neighborhood south of downtown Seattle and east of I-5. It covers so much ground it’s often divided into sub-neighborhoods, which include North Beacon Hill, Mid-Beacon Hill, Holly Park, and South Beacon Hill. It’s diverse, has incredible views, and thriving art and food scenes. The light rail station makes it easy to get to and from downtown, and I-5 and I-90 are both nearby if you need to hop on the freeway.

Learn more about the Beacon Hill neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $675,000 Homes for sale in Beacon Hill  |  Apartments for rent in Beacon Hill

3. Belltown

Belltown is located on the city’s waterfront on Elliott Bay. It’s the most densely populated neighborhood in Seattle, with a population of over 10,000 people per square mile. The neighborhood is home to various businesses, including restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries. It’s also a popular tourist destination, close to Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. You’ll never be far from a fan-favorite restaurant or a hidden gem.

Belltown is a great place to live if you don’t have a car, as it’s the 3rd most walkable neighborhood in Seattle, with a Walk Score of 98 and a Bike Score of 76. The area also has world-class public transportation, with about 86 bus lines passing through it.

Learn more about the Belltown neighborhood in Seattle.

Median Sale Price: $492,000 Homes for sale in Belltown  |  Apartments for rent in Belltown

4. Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Seattle that’s home to a great collection of businesses and activities. The community is known for its lively nightlife, unique shops, and innovative restaurants. Capitol Hill is also home to many parks and green spaces, like Cal Anderson Park, so it’s a great place to live, work, and explore. If you’re looking for a walkable neighborhood to live in, Capitol Hill is a great option. It’s the 9th most walkable neighborhood in Seattle with a Walk Score of 93, and the area also has excellent public transportation, with about seven buses and one light rail line passing through it.

Learn more about the Capitol Hill neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $682,000 Homes for sale in Capitol Hill  |  Apartments for rent in Capitol Hill

5. Central District

The Central District is one of the oldest surviving neighborhoods in Seattle. With a Walk Score of 90 and a Bike Score of 89, the Central District is a great neighborhood for those without a car. It’s also centrally located near Capitol Hill, downtown, Lake Washington, and The I5. The Central District is home to many exceptional restaurants, whether you’re looking for a new bakery or to try some stellar Ethiopian cuisine.

Learn more about the Central District neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $816,000 Homes for sale in Central District  |  Apartments for rent in Central District

6. Columbia City

Columbia City is a hidden gem in south Seattle. It’s one of Seattle’s eight historic landmark districts, and despite increasing development, it has retained its unique character. So while you’ll find brand-new apartment buildings, charming neighborhood shops, and historic homes give this area a small-town feel.

Learn more about the Columbia City neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $825,000 Homes for sale in Columbia City  |  Apartments for rent in Columbia City

7. Downtown Seattle

The Downtown Seattle neighborhood is located in the heart of the city. It’s a bustling, urban area home to many popular businesses and restaurants, such as the famed Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Seattle Arts Museum. The neighborhood boasts gleaming high rises, many of which offer stunning views of the city and Puget Sound. Downtown has a Walk Score of 98, making it the most walkable neighborhood in Seattle. It also has world-class public transportation, with about 64 buses and three ferry lines. If you want to be in the middle of the action, Downtown Seattle is the place to be.

Learn more about the Downtown neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $550,000 Homes for sale in Downtown Seattle  |  Apartments for rent in Downtown Seattle

8. Eastlake

Located along the eastern side of Lake Union, Eastlake is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods, founded in 1890. People are attracted to the Eastlake area for many reasons, one of which is the beautiful shores of Lake Union. Residents can enjoy all the lake offers, with plenty of small parks, boat launches, and picnic areas. In addition, Eastlake has its own small shopping district with local restaurants, dive bars, and unique boutiques. It’s only 5 minutes from the nearby University of Washington, making it a popular choice for students wanting an easy commute to school.

Learn more about the Eastlake neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $771,000 Homes for sale in Eastlake  |  Apartments for rent in Eastlake

9. First Hill

First Hill is one of Seattle’s oldest and most densely populated neighborhoods. The neighborhood is commonly referred to as “Pill Hill” because it’s home to three major healthcare facilities – Harborview Medical Center, Swedish Medical Center, and Virginia Mason Medical Center. Among the things that First Hill residents love about the neighborhood is its convenient location between Downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill. The area is also extremely walkable, in fact, it’s the 4th most walkable neighborhood in Seattle. The neighborhood also has superb public transportation, with approximately 13 buses and one light rail line passing through it.

Learn more about the First Hill neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $435,000 Homes for sale in First Hill  |  Apartments for rent in First Hill

10. Fremont

The Fremont neighborhood of Seattle is a lively and eclectic community located just north of downtown. The area is home to a diverse array of businesses and attractions, including the Fremont Bridge, the Fremont Troll, and the Fremont Sunday Market. Fremont is also known for its lively nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs in the neighborhood.

Learn more about the Fremont neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $920,000 Homes for sale in Fremont  |  Apartments for rent in Fremont

11. Georgetown

Georgetown was founded in 1851 and is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. It’s located between I-5 and the Duwamish Waterway, less than four miles from Downtown Seattle. While it’s home to Boeing, several distribution centers, and businesses like Grainger Industrial Supply, Georgetown has a trendy and quirky atmosphere.

Learn more about the Georgetown neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $607,000 Homes for sale in Georgetown  |  Apartments for rent in Georgetown

12. Green Lake

The Green Lake neighborhood is a beautiful residential area located above Fremont and Wallingford and is known for its charming homes and green spaces. There are several parks and playgrounds in the area, as well as a large lake, aptly named Greenlake, perfect for walking, running, or biking. Seattle’s Green Lake neighborhood has various housing options available for residents. There are apartments and condos available for rent or purchase, as well as single-family homes.

Learn more about the Green Lake neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $998,000 Homes for sale in Green Lake  |  Apartments for rent in Green Lake

13. International District

The International District is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is just one mile south of Downtown, making it conveniently located. The neighborhood is also one of the city’s finest cultural and food destinations, where you’ll find authentic dim sum, sushi, dumplings, noodles, and more. The rich cultural history of the International District has helped the neighborhood thrive as both a residential and commercial area.

International District is a great place to live if you like to walk, with a Walk Score of 98. You’ll never be far from a good meal or cup of coffee, as there is an average of 45 restaurants, bars, and coffee shops within a 5-minute walk. If you prefer using public transportation, you’re in luck, as the International District has lots of public transportation, with 19 buses and one light rail line.

Learn more about the International District neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $395,000 Homes for sale in the International District  |  Apartments for rent in the International District

14. Magnolia

Magnolia is a beautiful, historic Seattle neighborhood on a hill overlooking the city. The homes in the neighborhood are large and stately, and the streets are lined with trees. The area has several parks and green spaces, most notably Discovery Park. Make sure to drive through the park or hike along one of the trails to see the West Point Lighthouse and views of the Puget Sound. Magnolia is also close to downtown Seattle, making it a great area.

Learn more about the Magnolia neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $1,100,000 Homes for sale in Magnolia  |  Apartments for rent in Magnolia

15. Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square is a neighborhood in the southwest corner of downtown Seattle. It’s the site of the city’s first neighborhood and was once the city’s heart before the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. Today, the neighborhood is a popular tourist destination with cobbled streets, Victorian architecture, and art galleries. The area is also the city’s sports center, as it’s home to Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park, which hosts the Seahawks, the Sounders, and the Mariners.

Pioneer Square is a great neighborhood to live in if you don’t have a car. It’s the 5th most walkable neighborhood in Seattle, with a Walk Score of 97, and it also has world-class public transportation, with 52 bus lines passing through it.

Learn more about the Pioneer Square neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $450,000 Homes for sale in Pioneer Square  |  Apartments for rent in Pioneer Square

16. Phinney Ridge

The Phinney Ridge neighborhood is located on a high ridge that overlooks Puget Sound to the west and the Ballard and Fremont neighborhoods to the south. The area is named after Guy Phinney, who developed a private estate that became Woodland Park, later, Woodland Park Zoo. Phinney Ridge is known for its small-town feel, making it a popular choice for many Seattle residents.

Learn more about the Phinney Ridge neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $839,000 Homes for sale in Phinney Ridge  |  Apartments for rent in Phinney Ridge

17. South Lake Union

South Lake Union, “SLU,” is a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of residential, business, and retail areas. You’ll find yourself in the midst of Seattle’s tech industry if you live in South Lake Union. The area is home to Amazon’s headquarters, Seattle Biomedical Research Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and the UW Medicine Research and Training Building. The neighborhood is served by various public transportation options, including the South Lake Union Streetcar, various bus lines, and the light rail system. It’s also the 6th most walkable neighborhood in Seattle with a Walk Score of 94.

Learn more about the South Lake Union neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $465,000 Homes for sale in South Lake Union  |  Apartments for rent in South Lake Union

18. Queen Anne

Queen Anne is another Seattle neighborhood divided into two sections – Lower Queen Anne and Upper Queen Anne. Lower Queen Anne is the more urban center, and Upper Queen Anne is the storied mansion district. One of the most compelling reasons to live in Queen Anne is its breathtaking city views. You can find striking views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, the Cascades, Lake Union, and Glacier Peak.

A fun fact about the neighborhood is that Queen Anne sits upon a 456-foot hill and features over 100 pedestrian staircases. If you’re a fan of Grey’s Anatomy, you’ll want to check out Dr. Meredith Grey’s house in Queen Anne. Just keep in mind that this house was only used for exterior shots. The neighborhood is known for its many beautiful historic bungalows, Craftsman-style houses, and mansions. In fact, the neighborhood was named after the Queen Anne architectural style because of the large number of homes that resemble this style.

Learn more about the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $900,000 Homes for sale in Queen Anne  |  Apartments for rent in Queen Anne

19. University District

The University District, often called the “U-District,” is a vibrant neighborhood in Seattle known for its lively nightlife and array of restaurants. The area is home to the University of Washington, so students comprise a large portion of the population. The streets, especially The Ave, are often bustling with people out and about, especially on a Washington Huskies game day.

University District is an excellent place to live if you like to walk, with a Walk Score of 93. In just 5 minutes, you can walk to an average of 14 restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. University District also has great public transportation, with about 20 bus lines passing through the neighborhood.

Learn more about the University District neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $915,000 Homes for sale in University District  |  Apartments for rent in University District

20. Wallingford

Wallingford is a charming community located west of the University of Washington, between Aurora Avenue and I-5. Primarily a residential neighborhood, Wallingford’s 45th Street bustles with activity as it’s home to dozens of shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and bars. This Seattle neighborhood is also home to one of the most popular parks in the city, Gasworks Park, which offers stunning skyline views and Lake Union.

Learn more about the Wallingford neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $989,000 Homes for sale in Wallingford | Apartments for rent in Wallingford

21. West Seattle

West Seattle is a peninsula surrounded by Puget Sound to the west, Elliott Bay to the north and east, and White Center, a Seattle suburb, to the south. It’s one of the largest neighborhoods in the city and is broken into smaller sub-neighborhoods, such as Delridge, Admiral, and Alki. West Seattle offers the best of both worlds, located near the metropolitan area without being in the city center.

Alki Beach is a popular area in the neighborhood that offers beautiful views of Seattle’s skyline. There is also a commercial area, West Seattle Junction, full of shops and restaurants, as well as several great parks. A fun fact about the area is that the city of Seattle was officially founded in 1851 by a group of settlers from New York who arrived at Alki Beach in West Seattle.

Learn more about the West Seattle neighborhood in Seattle .

Median Sale Price: $770,000 Homes for sale in West Seattle  |  Apartments for rent in West Seattle

Methodology:  All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the  Redfin Data Center during October 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during October 2023. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during October 2023.

Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Seattle area, Kiley Lazarus is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Seattle area, Kiley Lazarus possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.

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Matador Original Series

Neighborhoods, itineraries.

Many of Seattle’s top attractions can be seen along a two-mile stretch, through five of its neighborhoods. Second Avenue takes you from the Space Needle in Lower Queen Anne; through Belltown and downtown with their restaurants, bars, music venues, and Pike Place Market; and into the historic core of Seattle in Pioneer Square and the Chinatown-International District. Here’s everything you need to know about Seattle’s most popular neighborhoods.

Photo: Checubus /Shutterstock

Downtown Seattle — In the heart of downtown Seattle you’ll find several of the city’s main attractions. Pike Place Market , Seattle’s oldest public market, sells fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and crafts. From the market, you have a bird’s-eye view of the waterfront and its restaurants, tourist shops, and the Seattle Great Wheel . Back up on First Avenue, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) showcases over 25,000 pieces of art with rotating exhibits throughout the year. Music venues in the neighborhood include Showbox , a local favorite; The Triple Door , with live bands and dining; and Benaroya Hall , with special events from Eddie Vedder to the Seattle Symphony. For shopping, head up Pine Street to the Retail Core District and find brands like Louis Vuitton, Barneys New York, and Tiffany & Co. Further up Pine Street, the ornate Paramount Theatre hosts off-Broadway stage shows and top artists in concert.

Photo: Frank Fell Media /Shutterstock

Belltown — Over the years, Belltown has morphed from an industrial warehouse district to a mixture of glass box residential apartments and classic Seattle terracotta and stone architecture with views of Puget Sound. A very walkable neighborhood, Belltown keep locals and visitors entertained with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Most of the happening spots are located on First or Second avenues between Lenora and Wall streets. Local staples like Shorty’s (bar), Mama’s Cantina (restaurant), and Crocodile (live music) are at the heart of Belltown. If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay in the neighborhood, there’s City Hostel on Second Avenue and Ace Hotel on First Avenue.

Photo: DeymosHR /Shutterstock

Pioneer Square — Pioneer Square is one of Seattle’s historic neighborhoods, with stone buildings dating from the 1880s. Starting at First Avenue and Yesler Way, Pioneer Square is visually more of a triangle plaza. In the Pioneer Building, Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour will teach you the ins and outs of underground Seattle. Smith Tower , completed in 1914 at Second Avenue and Yesler Way, was the tallest building on the West Coast until the Space Needle was built in 1962. When you’re ready for a break, pop into one of the many restaurants and historic saloons in the area. Try Mediterranean Mix for the best falafels in Seattle; Salumi Artisan Cured Meats for sandwiches; and the Central , Merchants Cafe and Saloon , and J&M Cafe for sandwiches, burgers, salads, and drinks. If you’re in town over the first Thursday of a month, enjoy an evening visiting the many art galleries during the First Thursday Art Walk .

Photo: f11photo /Shutterstock

Chinatown-International District — East of Pioneer Square, the historic home of Asian-Americans in Seattle is known as Chinatown-International District, or just the ID. The neighborhood is filled with Chinese restaurants, noodle houses, and bubble tea shops. A 45-foot-tall traditional Chinese archway hangs over South King Street near the underground Link light rail station. Hostelling International Seattle at the American Hotel is just a few doors east of the archway for those who want a cheap place to stay in the heart of the city. To get a feeling of how early Asian-Americans in Seattle lived, visit the Wing Luke Museum and take the Historic Hotel Tour. The museum also has special exhibitions about martial artist and actor Bruce Lee, who once lived and worked in the area.

Photo: zhu difeng /Shutterstock

Lower Queen Anne — On the edge of Belltown and South Lake Union, Lower Queen Anne is home to the Seattle Center , a 74-acre open space with some of Seattle’s biggest attractions — the Space Needle , Chihuly Garden and Glass , the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the International Fountain . Catch a performance from the Seattle Opera or Pacific Northwest Ballet at McCaw Hall on Mercer Street. Make sure to stop at famous Dick’s Drive-In for a deluxe burger, fries, and a shake. For an iconic view of Seattle, go midway up Queen Anne Hill and visit Kerry Park where you’ll see the Space Needle, downtown Seattle, Puget Sound and, on a clear day, 14,441-foot Mount Rainier 60 miles away.

Photo: Cascade Creatives /Shutterstock

Capitol Hill — Once an alternative neighborhood in Seattle, Capitol Hill has become gentrified with the demolition of old buildings and the pricing out of locals. That said, it’s still an area for the independent-minded and is home to Seattle’s LGBTQ community. For nightlife, stick to the lower end of Capitol Hill along Pike Street — Neumos has live music and the Comet Tavern is a longstanding bar in the area. Other highlights include the Elliott Bay Book Company , an independent bookstore with over 150,000 titles serving Seattle since 1973, the sprawling Volunteer Park with 48-acres of green grass, the glasshouse Volunteer Park Conservatory , and the Seattle Asian Art Museum housed in a 1933 Art Deco building.

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Seattle   Travel Guide

The 27 Essential Things to Do in Seattle, Washington

If you're a first-time visitor to Seattle, no trip would be complete without stopping by some of the city's most iconic attractions. Browse the bustling stalls of fresh produce and flowers that make up Pike Place Market and take in

• All Things To Do
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Pike Place Market Pike Place Market free

Since 1907, this bustling market near the downtown waterfront has been the go-to place for local produce. Today, you can find almost everything, from local artwork to vinyl records. Plus, the flower market and fish tossing are particular must-sees, according to reviewers. Though Pike Place Market is one of the most tourist-heavy attractions in Seattle (plan to run into crowds, especially on the weekends) that's no reason to scratch it off your to-do list. Recent visitors said the abundance of vendors and lively atmosphere make it an experience you shouldn't pass up, no matter how busy it gets. 

The streets surrounding Pike Place Market are peppered with restaurants and coffee shops, and there's an information booth just west of the marketplace at First Avenue. If you want a little help navigating the massive market, guided tours and food tours are available from third-party companies.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Chihuly Garden and Glass

U.S. News Insider Tip: Utilize the museum’s interactive mobile guide , which provides a map, schedules of live talks and demos as well as an audio guide for insight into the pieces that make up the exhibition. – Vivian Chung

Bursting with artwork spanning the colors of the rainbow, Chihuly Garden and Glass offers visitors a look at creative, glass-blown pieces crafted by renowned Pacific Northwest artist, Dale Chihuly. The permanent exhibition opened in 2012 and has since attracted the admiration of Seattleites and tourists alike. 

Space Needle Space Needle

If there's one thing Seattle is known for (aside from coffee), it's the 605-foot-tall Space Needle. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle has dominated Seattle's skyline ever since with its unique UFO-like design. The tower's 520-foot-high round observation deck offers spectacular views of the city and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. The Loupe, a seasonal cocktail lounge, features a revolving glass floor. If you're not a fan of heights, check out the SpaceBase gift shop at the bottom of the tower.

Past visitors agreed that the Space Needle is a must for first-time visitors to Seattle, and recommend either purchasing your ticket online in advance or showing up early to avoid long lines. Several said they bought the combo ticket that also includes access to Chihuly Garden and Glass . 

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Kerry Park Kerry Park free

This small viewpoint park, which offers amazing views of Elliott Bay and the Central City (and occasionally Mount Rainier), is a favorite with photographers. Sunset is a particularly popular time to visit, when the city lights up and the Space Needle is a beacon in the night. While the park is tiny, you can see the sculpture Changing Form and a children's play area at the Bayview-Kinnear Park just below the viewpoint of Kerry Park.

Recent visitors said the views are astounding and advise others to come on a clear day and be prepared for crowds.

Capitol Hill Capitol Hill free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Opened in December 2014, a trip to the world’s first Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill is a must for coffee connoisseurs. Situated just nine blocks from the original 1912 Starbucks at Pike Place, the Reserve offers exclusive beverages and merchandise. – Vivian Chung

Perched on a hill and bordered by Interstate 5 to the west, 15th Avenue to the east, Roy Street to the north, and Madison Street to the south, diverse and vibrant Capitol Hill stands out as one of Seattle's most popular nightlife and entertainment districts. Marked by rainbow crosswalks and flags, it also serves as the city’s LGBTQ+ epicenter. Infused with cool, hip vibes and a youthful energy, the district is packed with music venues and trendy establishments. 

Museum of Flight Museum of Flight

Seattle is one of the most important cities in the world of aviation and home to several facilities belonging to the Boeing Company, one of the world's leading aircraft manufacturers. You can find out more about the city's unique and fascinating history in aviation at one of its best museums, the Museum of Flight at Boeing Field. The museum is located less than 10 miles south of downtown Seattle. 

The facility is especially enticing for families with young children, who can climb in and around various aircraft. Also recommended is the Red Barn, Boeing's original airplane factory, which features exhibitions chronicling the history of flight. The nearby six-story T.A. Wilson Great Gallery also holds vintage aircraft, offering travelers a unique look into Seattle's prolific technological history. One of the most popular attractions is the SAM 970, which served as Air Force One for presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon, as well as other vice presidents and VIPs until its retirement in June 1996.

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Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks) free

These locks – operated by the Army Corps of Engineers – are popular among Seattle visitors and locals. The locks allow boats to pass between Puget Sound and the Lake Washington Ship Canal, offering a live demonstration of Seattle's maritime lifestyle (many have compared the locks to a miniature version of the Panama Canal). After you've watched a couple barges pass by, head to the south side of the locks where fish ladders help salmon migrate during the summer months; if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a sea lion looking for a quick bite to eat. The fish can be seen up close from special viewing windows. The Chittenden Locks are also home to the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, which feature a variety of 1,500 plants from around the world and beautiful views.

Many visitors suggested taking one of the free hourlong tours offered to learn more about the history of the locks. Tours depart from the visitor center. You can also learn more about the locks on one of Seattle's best boat tours . Recent visitors also mention that parking can be difficult to find and the area can feel crowded on the weekends.

Mount Rainier Mount Rainier

Enveloped by lush forests, alpine meadows and glacial landscape, 14,410-foot-tall Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the tallest mountain in the Cascade Range, takes center stage at Mount Rainier National Park . The park encompasses five developed areas, including Longmire, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, Carbon River and Mowich, with Paradise being the park’s most sought-after. Here, hike the popular 5.5-mile Skyline Trail, which offers views of meadows blanketed by vibrant wildflowers in the summer months. In the winter, Paradise beckons powderhounds to explore its snowy terrain on snowshoes, cross-country skis and snowboards. For scenic viewpoints, head to 6,400-foot-high Sunrise Point to catch daybreak, the highest point in the park accessible by vehicle. And along Stevens Canyon Road, see reflections of Mount Rainier in the tranquil waters of Reflection Lakes.

Despite the two-hour drive from Seattle, recent visitors praise the park’s spectacular natural landscapes, deeming the journey well worthwhile. Additionally, many suggest bringing extra layers, even during the summer, as the park's elevation and mountainous terrain contribute to constant and unpredictable weather changes.

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Museum of History and Industry Museum of History and Industry

If you want to learn about the history of Seattle, pay a visit to this museum. The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) collects and preserves items related to innovation in the Puget Sound region. Permanent exhibits that highlight that effort include the "Bezos Center for Innovation," "Maritime Seattle" and "True Northwest: The Seattle Journey." Its collection includes art, toys, furniture, vehicles, clothing and other locally made or invented products. In addition to its exhibits, MOHAI also houses a cafe and a store featuring products made by Puget Sound artisans.

"Fascinating," "informative" and "engaging" are among the adjectives visitors frequently use to describe MOHAI. As an added bonus, the building offers a nice view of Lake Union, from the maritime history exhibit, appropriately enough.

Seattle Art Museum Seattle Art Museum

Spread across three locations, the Seattle Art Museum houses one of America's premier art collections. Among its collection of more than 25,000 pieces, the museum displays everything from European masterpieces to contemporary sculptures. The Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park are also part of the complex. 

The museum received some mixed reviews from recent visitors for its small size, but most appreciated its eclectic collection and recommended setting aside a few hours. Recent travelers were particularly impressed with the museum's permanent collection of African art and its display of Northwest Coast Native American artists. 

Olympic Sculpture Park Olympic Sculpture Park free

There's no better way to get a healthy dose of culture than to enjoy some fine art, especially when the art is outdoors and free to peruse. In other words, you should plan on visiting the Olympic Sculpture Park, a 9-acre space one mile north of the Seattle Art Museum (with which it's affiliated) that's filled with works by such sculptors as Louise Bourgeois, Alexander Calder, Roxy Paine and Tony Smith. Once you've had your fill of art, turn your attention to the view, which stretches over Elliott Bay to the Olympic Mountains and is a big hit with recent visitors.

Past visitors said it's an enjoyable way to experience the art and ambiance Seattle offers, and appreciate that it’s crowd-free, despite its proximity to downtown. However, they say that unless you’re in the area, you shouldn’t make a special trip to the park as it’s not a “top 10” attraction.

Museum of Pop Culture Museum of Pop Culture

Set in an eye-popping complex designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Museum of Pop Culture celebrates rock music in a myriad of ways. Exhibits at this Seattle Center museum like "Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses" and "Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad, 1966-1970" are excellent and comprehensive looks at these two iconic music phenoms, while the "Guitar Gallery" chronicles the history of the instrument and the musicians who played them. Music isn’t the only aspect of pop culture on display here. The "Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame" exhibit features artifacts from sci-fi literature, film, television and art, including pieces from "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "The Empire Strikes Back." There are also exhibits dedicated to video games and horror films. 

According to recent visitors, the interactive exhibits appeal to a variety of ages, and the museum is worth spending a couple of hours exploring, though reviewers did not appreciate the high admission price. Recent visitors were also impressed by the architectural design of the museum’s building. 

Gas Works Park Gas Works Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Gas Works Park to be a haven for various bird species. Bring a pair of binoculars for the chance to spot double-crested cormorants, goosanders and American coots, particularly along the shores of Lake Union. – Vivian Chung

Encompassing 19.1 acres, Gas Works Park features preserved structures and remnants of the historic Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant, which operated from 1906 to 1956. Its expansive green spaces make this park a favored spot among locals for picnics and kite flying, while Kite Hill, known as the Great Mound, offers a picturesque vantage point for observing seaplanes take off and land on Lake Union. The park also transforms into a vibrant hub each Fourth of July, when crowds come to witness a spectacular fireworks display.

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Discovery Park Discovery Park free

If you're looking to get outdoors without getting out of the city, this is the place. Sprawling across more than 500 acres in northern Seattle, Discovery Park is the city's largest green space. You'll find hiking trails, meadows, beaches and sand dunes abound. One must-see is the West Point Lighthouse – one of 18 active lighthouses in Washington State – which can be reached by following the North Beach Trail, while the South Beach Trail leads to a spectacular view of Puget Sound.

And if you're not one for hiking, keep in mind that Discovery Park also features a tennis facility, a cultural center and a kids' play area that includes swings, climbing structures and a zip line. Many park visitors say this is one of Seattle's finer gems, with something for everyone to enjoy. Hikers commented that there is a trail suitable for every experience level and particularly enjoy the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier on clear days.

Smith Tower Smith Tower

The Space Needle isn't the only way to enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of Seattle. Smith Tower is Seattle's oldest skyscraper, and when it was built in 1914 it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. The 35th-floor observatory that was part of the original construction remains open today, offering 360-degree views of the city. The same floor also has a cocktail bar. In addition to office space, the tower also houses ground-floor retail, special event spaces and historical exhibits.

While the stunning views are the reason to go to the top of the tower, the food and beverages win high marks from reviewers as well, though some find the selection to be limited. Recent visitors also appreciated the self-guided tour showcasing historical information about the tower before enjoying the elevator ride to the 35th floor. For more information about the tower’s past, including its Wishing Chair, consider signing up for one of the 45-minute guided “Talking Tours.”

Alki Beach Alki Beach free

Elliott Bay's Alki Beach is a popular attraction for bicyclists, joggers and anyone seeking to spend a day in the sun. What's more, from its perch on the bay, the beach offers photogenic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound, as well as passing ships. Amenities include fire pits, restrooms, hand-carry boat access, picnic tables and volleyball courts. On Alki Point, there's a monument marking the spot where European settlers first arrived in 1851.

Beachgoers rave about the skyline views seen from the beach, though they do warn that you shouldn’t visit this beach expecting to swim (water temps are chilly, ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-50s). They also appreciate the many restaurants in proximity to the shore. History buffs wanting a break from the sun (or wishing to learn more about those aforementioned settlers) can visit the nearby Log House Museum, which is operated by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society and offers pay-what-you-can admission.

Woodinville Wine Country Woodinville Wine Country

Oenophiles in search of a memorable glass of vino should head about 20 miles northeast of Seattle to explore Woodinville Wine Country. This area within the Sammamish River Valley is home to more than 130 wineries, as well as breweries, shops, hotels and restaurants. To orient yourself, read up on Woodinville's four districts.

The Downtown District, generally regarded as a convenient spot to begin or end a trip to Woodinville – offers numerous options for eating and drinking. 

Mount Si Mount Si free

If you don't have time to make the drive to Mount Rainier (which sits about two hours southeast of downtown Seattle), Mount Si provides a popular alternative. Sitting about 40 miles east of the city center, Mount Si offers several opportunities to strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails. 

On a clear day, views from the summit stretch across the city to the Olympic Mountains. The Mount Si trail to the summit is about an 8-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 3,100 feet. Many recent travelers said the hike is strenuous and definitely not for novices, though the views up top made it worth the journey. They also suggest bringing plenty of snacks and water. Note: There are outhouses located at the bottom of the trail, but no formal facilities along the path.

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Seattle Great Wheel Seattle Great Wheel

U.S. News Insider Tip: Elevate your experience by gathering a group of two to four for an exclusive dinner in one of the Great Wheel’s gondolas. In collaboration with its sister business, Fisherman’s Restaurant, you’ll indulge in a four-course dinner while suspended 200 feet in the air. – Vivian Chung

This colossal, 175-foot-tall Seattle Great Wheel punctuates the city’s skyline and has become an iconic landmark in downtown Seattle since its opening in June 2012. A single ride in one of the 42 climate-controlled gondolas involves three full revolutions of the wheel, lasts up to 20 minutes and offers unobstructed views over downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and, on clear days, Mount Rainier. Illuminated by over 500,000 LED lights, the Seattle Great Wheel hosts vibrant light shows every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from sundown to 10 p.m. during summer evenings.

Bainbridge Island Bainbridge Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To shop local produce and artisan goods from local makers, visit on a Saturday between April and the end of November when the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market operates between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Town Square. – Vivian Chung

Best known for its picturesque scenery and charming small-town vibes, this island 10 miles west of downtown Seattle beckons outdoor adventurers, oenophiles, and art and culture lovers. 

Sky View Observatory Sky View Observatory

Billed as the tallest building in Seattle, the Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center provides stunning panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscapes. To enjoy cocktails and light bites like flatbreads and wraps, head to the onsite Sky View Cafe & Bar.

Recent travelers strongly recommend choosing a visit here over the Space Needle, thanks to more affordable admission and fewer crowds that result in little to no wait time. Plus, with its viewing platform at 902 feet, the Sky View Observatory provides a notable height advantage over the Space Needle (which stands at 605 feet). For the mesmerizing sight of an illuminated city, reviewers suggest visiting the observatory in the evening.

T-Mobile Park T-Mobile Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a guided tour of the ballpark, which offers exclusive access to areas not often seen by the public, including the dugout, press box and All-Star Club. On select game days, tour participants may even have the opportunity to watch batting practice. – Vivian Chung

Home to the Seattle Mariners baseball team, this stadium features a retractable roof and accommodates up to 47,929 attendees. Immerse yourself in the excitement of live baseball, where crowds cheer and fast-paced action unfolds on the diamond against a striking backdrop of Seattle's skyline. For a more comprehensive experience and to gain a deeper understanding of baseball’s significance to Seattlites and the Pacific Northwest, explore the onsite Mariners Hall of Fame, where its curated collection of memorabilia and exhibits celebrate the history and accomplishments of the Seattle Mariners. 

Washington Park Arboretum Washington Park Arboretum free

The Washington Park Arboretum's 230 acres on the shores of Lake Washington contain a diverse array of plants, some of which can't be seen anywhere else in the region. Its themed gardens include the Pacific Connections Garden, which features plants from five countries connected to its namesake ocean (specifically Australia, China, Chile, New Zealand and the U.S. Pacific Northwest); Rhododendron Glen, one of the arboretum's oldest sections, dating to the late 1930s; and a traditional Japanese garden. It also has a winter garden ideally viewed from late November through March. The City of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens jointly manage the arboretum.

Activities in the arboretum include guided hourlong tours via tram and nonmotorized boating. Kayaks and canoes can be rented nearby. Private walking tours are also available.

Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour

(828 reviews)

from $ 320.00

Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

(1164 reviews)

from $ 135.00

Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle

(311 reviews)

from $ 195.00

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience

Situated in Seattle's Chinatown-International District, the Wing Luke Museum is devoted to the art, culture and history of Asian Pacific Americans. The 60,000-square-foot facility, which is housed in a historic building constructed in 1910 by Chinese immigrants, features multiple galleries for both traveling and permanent exhibits. Among the latter are "Wing Luke and the Museum," dedicated to the institution's namesake, who was the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest, and "Honoring Our Journey," which highlights the Asian Pacific American immigrant and refugee experience. 

Recent visitors typically found the Wing Luke Museum highly informative and strongly recommend participating in the Historic Hotel Tour for a walk through the history of the East Kong Yick Building, which houses the museum. The tour comes free with your admission and provides a deeper insight into the museum’s mission.

Pioneer Square Pioneer Square free

If you like history, Pioneer Square should be on your your to-do list. This neighborhood was one of the first settlements in the Northwest U.S. (hence the name), and it has maintained much of its Old West identity. Today, you'll find the cobblestone area peppered with art galleries, restaurants and shops, not to mention an ornamental pergola, which provides shelter to those waiting to hop on the First Hill Line streetcar.

No visit to Pioneer Square is complete until you tag along on the Beneath the Streets tour, one of the best Seattle tours . On this one-hour excursion, expert guides will lead you through underground passageways dating back to the 1890s, sharing historical information, along with stories of the Klondike Gold Rush, the city's architecture and the Coast Salish tribes who originally inhabited the area. Reviewers applaud the well-versed guides and recommend the experience. If you prefer to explore above ground, visit the nearby Smith Tower and its 35th-floor observatory.

Seattle Aquarium Seattle Aquarium

For a glimpse under the sea, head to the Seattle Aquarium, which sits along the waterfront just a few blocks west of the Seattle Art Museum. It may not be as impressive as other cities' aquariums , but Seattle's facility offers a wonderful introduction to northwestern sea life, such as local bird, fish, seals and otters. The highlight of your visit will most likely be the "Window on Washington Waters" exhibit, which houses aquatic animals native to the surrounding area in a 120,000-gallon tank.

Other points of interest include a coral reef tank and a kid-friendly touch tank, where your little ones can shake hands with starfish and sea cucumbers. And don't miss your chance to get the fish-eye view from the aquarium's underwater observation dome.

Woodland Park Zoo Woodland Park Zoo

Founded in 1899, Woodland Park Zoo stretches across 92 acres and is home to more than 900 animals and 250 species, some of them endangered. Its exhibits include the African Savanna, featuring lions, giraffes, hippos and zebras; Humboldt Penguins, with penguins from coastal Peru; Tropical Asia, which includes orangutans, tigers, sloth bears and various birds; and the seasonal Butterfly Garden. The zoo also welcomes temporary exhibits, and in the past has hosted "Dinosaur Discovery," which displayed more than 20 full-size dinosaur replicas, including a 40-foot-long T. Rex. Woodland Park also houses two western lowland gorilla families. 

Recent visitors generally appreciated the zoo's size and the number of animals on display, though some reviewers were disappointed to find that some animals were not viewable due to exhibits being unexpectedly closed.

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Where to Stay in Seattle: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Seattle is a city that, over its history, has been in a constant state of change. From the early years when it really got its start as a hub for people setting off for the promise of a better future in the form of the gold rush, to today, when it has become home to some of the world’s most influential companies, Seattle is a city built on innovation. 

We’re here to help you decide where to stay in Seattle, whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, and we hope that you’ll see that theme of innovation come to life over the course of your stay. 

Now, I might be (read: definitely am) biased here, because I grew up in the Seattle area and spent many years both exploring the city and living in it. I think Seattle (and Washington State as a whole) is one of the best parts of the country. 

Sometimes, it seems as though the rest of the world is catching on – just go to Mount Rainier or Pike Place Market on a summer weekend and you’ll instantly see what I mean – but other times, there’s still a side of the Pacific Northwest that feels untouched. 

Today, the city I grew up in looks very different than it did a decade ago (really, even just five years ago), but it remains a hub of innovation. And I don’t mean that just in terms of the tech companies that have grown up here.

Seattle is also on the leading edge in the food and drink department (though, not as much as our new home, Portland ), where you’ll find some of the most interesting chefs, brewers, and baristas on the west coast trying new things. 

All in all, Seattle is a fantastic city to visit, whether you have a weekend, or more time to dedicate to the wider Seattle area (Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park are two of our favorite places on the west coast, for what it’s worth). 

In this guide, I – a former local Seattleite – will do my best to help you decide on the best place to stay in Seattle for your particular style and budget. We’ll go through five great neighborhoods in Seattle in (sometimes excruciating) detail, and then cover a few places to avoid for various reasons.

We’ll give you an overview of each of the five neighborhoods , our view of the pros and cons of staying there , some of our favorite highlights within each neighborhood , and the best places to stay in the area.  

Each neighborhood offers a different blend of vibes, prices, and pros and cons, and we’ll cover it all below so that you’re armed with all the information you need to figure out where to stay for your particular style and budget. 

The intention is that by the end of this guide, you’ll be able to use the information we’ve put together for you to make a decision and find the perfect place to stay in Seattle for your group’s particular style and budget. 

Sound good to you? Grab a cup of coffee (this is Seattle, after all) and let’s get into it. 

Important note: This is a long guide with lots of detail (it got longer and longer as we put it together), but we’ve done our best to structure it with headings, a helpful summary at the top, and a table of contents to help you navigate it without reading literally every word. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Seattle: The 5 Best Places to Stay

Our philosophy when it comes to deciding on a place to stay is to first choose the neighborhood , then move on to finding a great hotel, hostel, or apartment in that area. 

Seattle is a relatively compact city, at least when we’re talking about the neighborhoods where it makes sense for tourists to stay, though which area you choose still matters because each has a distinct vibe. 

For example, If you like a concrete jungle with people in suits hustling and bustling, stay Downtown. If you prefer a more laid back, residential vibe, stay in Capitol Hill.

Where you stay is going to have a pretty big impact on how your trip feels. 

We put together this guide to give you the information you need – based on our own experiences exploring Seattle (including living in the city limits) – to figure out the best area for your particular style and budget. 

For each of the neighborhoods below, we’ve created a structure to help you figure out if it’s the right home base for you. Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• An overview of the neighborhood and our experience with it . We’ve personally been to and explored (more than once) all of the areas on this list, so we’ll try to give you a little bit of our perspective on what makes each area special. 
• Pros and cons of staying in this area . The things you need to know to make your decision. 
• Highlights of the neighborhood . Coffee shops, restaurants, parks, etc that we enjoyed, and think you probably will too.
• A collection of a few places to stay that stood out to us . Sometimes it’ll be because they have rooms with mountain views, sometimes it’s the rooftop pool, sometimes it’s that the hotel offers a great value given the location.

Now, we’re well aware that a few of you are currently ready to throw your left shoe at the screen, saying “I don’t have time to read all of that, JUST TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO STAY!” 

Well, here’s a quick summary of this guide if you’re short on time (though we’d recommend reading the section of the place you end up staying for tips and places to add to your list!). 

• Our overall recommendation for most people is to find a great hotel in Belltown . Belltown is, in our opinion, the best combination of central location and selection of restaurants and bars. It’s within walking distance of Pike Place and the Seattle Center. We’ve stayed at the Ace Hotel (a hipster classic!), which is right near Pike Place Market in the heart of Belltown, and we’d recommend it. Our dream hotel in Belltown is Hotel Ändra , which is a very hip boutique hotel right in the heart of some of our favorite food and drinks in the neighborhood.  
• If you have a short trip and want to be as central as possible , you should stay in Downtown Seattle (stay near Pike Place Market), which is as central as it gets. You’ll be within five minutes of Pike Place Market, and walking distance to both Seattle Center and the Light Rail, which will take you further afield (and to the airport). The State Hotel is a great boutique hotel near Pike Place Market, and Hotel Theodore would also be an excellent choice. 
• If you want to be in the coolest neighborhood in Seattle , with excellent food, drinks, shopping, and nightlife, stay in Capitol Hill (can you tell we love Cap Hill?). The downside is that there aren’t that many places to stay, but it’s by far our favorite place to hang out when we’re in Seattle. Great coffee, great bars, great food, and the best bookstore in Seattle – what’s not to love? In terms of where to stay, we’ve stayed with Sonder before in other cities, and have our eye on the serviced apartments at Sonder at Solis for our next trip to Seattle. It’s also worth mentioning the Silver Cloud Hotel . Though it’s not particularly interesting, it is in a great location at a great price. 

Here’s a map to help you visualize what we’re talking about, with the neighborhoods we’ll cover in this guide along with some key landmarks (the yellow stars) to help you understand the geography of the city. 

Note that we’ve included the areas we would NOT recommend in red , so you can see how they fit into the bigger picture of the city.

Belltown: Our #1 Pick (Central + Great Food & Drinks)

In our opinion, Belltown is probably the best combination of location and amenities. It’s smack dab in the middle of the city between Pike Place Market on one end, and the Seattle Center (home of the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture) on the other end.

But unlike downtown Seattle, which is full of restaurants of the big chain variety (think Cheesecake Factory and the like), Belltown is home to some of the city’s best food and drinks. We’ll give you some of our favorites in the “Belltown Highlights” section below.

From charming speakeasies to craft beer, there’s a great selection of bars here too, and it’s a nightlife hub where the party continues late into the evening. 

In other words, if you want the best of both worlds – a central location and a great selection of places to eat and drink on your doorstep – stay in Belltown.

There are also a bunch of cool hotels in the neighborhood, which only adds to the appeal. 

The tradeoff, as you might imagine, is that it’s not exactly quiet. It’s loud and raucous, especially on weekend evenings, so if you’re looking for a quaint, quiet place to stay in Seattle, look elsewhere. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Belltown

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Belltown for your trip as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Belltown : 

• It’s central . You’ll be essentially equidistant between Pike Place Market, the Seattle Center and the Space Needle, and Capitol Hill. In fact, all will be walkable. 
• Great bars and restaurants . If you stay in Belltown, you’ll be in the midst of some of the best bars, restaurants, and nightlife in Seattle. 
• Wide hotel selection . There are several cool hotels in Belltown that are high on our list for future trips up to Seattle, but there are also a few good budget options. All in all, the best range of hotels in the city, we think. 

Cons of Staying in Belltown : 

• It can be loud . Did I mention nightlife? This area can get a bit rowdy and loud, so it might be a little much for families.  
• Parking is a nightmare . If you have a car, parking is going to be a challenge – we’d recommend not renting a car if you’re not planning to leave the city, otherwise you’re going to have to pay for parking in a garage (or at your hotel, which will cost approximately 3000% more). 

Belltown Highlights

Here are some places we enjoy in Belltown. 

• Lola : If you don’t know him yet, Tom Douglas is a Seattle icon. He’s a chef-turned-restauranteur, and he has some of our favorite places to eat in Seattle under his umbrella. Lola might be our favorite (though his pizza place across the street, Serious Pie, is a close second). Good for weekend brunch or dinner. Get the spreads (we love the kopanisti and the spiced red pepper, for what it’s worth) and the halloumi-fig kebabs. 
• Bathtub Gin : Very cozy speakeasy with excellent cocktails. Yes, there’s an actual bathtub. 
• Herkimer Coffee : One of Seattle’s OG coffee shops. The location in Belltown is relatively new, and it’s clean and modern, with the consistently great coffee that has made them locally famous. 
• Navy Strength : We already mentioned that this area is known for nightlife and bars, this is another one to add to your list. It’s a “tropical bar” – the drinks lean towards rum and tequila – with some small bites to go alongside your boozy cocktail. 
• Some Random Bar : I have liked this place for years. No fancy cocktail menu or 72 taps of beer here, it’s just a really good neighborhood bar with friendly staff and solid prices. 
• Olympic Sculpture Park : An art installation at the northwestern end of the neighborhood with great views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. This is another one of our favorite views in Seattle. And it’s free! 

The Best Places to Stay in Belltown

Here are some of our favorite Belltown hotels for your trip. 

The Ace Hotel: A Great Mid-Range Option (Where We’ve Stayed)

The first time we stayed in Seattle together (by that time I had moved to San Francisco, which is where we met) was for a work conference, and we stayed in Belltown at the Ace Hotel .

Before that trip, we never realized it was actually the first ever Ace Hotel. We always thought it was the Portland location (RIP), because, well, the Ace feels very Portland. Since then, we’ve also stayed at the Ace Hotel in New York City , and recommend it as a nice, stylish mid-range option.

The location in Belltown is great, but it’s not the quietest part of the city, and since it’s in an old building, the rooms aren’t exactly noise-proof. They have a range of rooms, from budget rooms with shared (single occupancy) bathrooms, to larger suites. 

They also have some rooms that have a bunk bed, which is one way to fit two beds in a room, and rooms with two beds in a more traditional configuration, if bunk beds feel weird to you.

Some of their rooms have shared (single occupancy) bathrooms, which is a way to shave a few extra dollars off of the nightly rate if you don’t mind sharing a bathroom. 

One thing that I will say is that the staff at the Ace Hotel locations I’ve been to are always top notch, friendly, and willing to help with all sorts of questions. 

Hotel Ändra: A Cool Boutique Hotel in Belltown

I think Hotel Ändra is the coolest boutique hotel in Seattle, and it’s on my bucket list to stay there at some point. 

As soon as you walk into the building – which I have before because I’ve eaten at Lola on the ground floor several times – you’re greeted with the warmth (both in terms of temperature, and in terms of friendliness of the staff) of the fireplace in the lobby, a welcome escape from the sometimes brisk air outside. 

Hotel Ändra is inspired by Seattle’s nordic heritage, and you can see that theme run through elements of the design, from the light wood tones used in the rooms (which is unusual in modern hotels, in our experience) to the fireplace and living room in the lobby. 

They also just went through a remodel in 2022, so everything is fresh and new for your stay!

They have a bunch of different room types, from their standard hotel-style rooms all the way up to bigger studios and suites.

If we’re being honest, most of us are probably choosing the standard rooms, which are 200 square feet and have a queen bed and a desk. A slight upgrade would be their superior rooms, which are 25% bigger and have a nice seating area. 

In terms of amenities, you’ve got a Nespresso maker in every room, a fitness center, and high end bedding and bathrobes. It’s pet-friendly, and they have onsite valet parking ($45 a night). 

There’s a full blown cooking school on the second floor of the hotel too, run by none other than Tom Douglas (who we’ve mentioned a few times now). It’s called the Hot Stove Society , and would make an excellent evening activity. 

StayPineapple Hotel FIVE: An Affordable Hotel in Belltown

While this is an affordable hotel – to the extent that “affordable” still exists in Seattle – there is nothing budget about the experience at Hotel FIVE .

They offer big fluffy towels, comfortable bedding, and bathrobes in the room, and at reception guests can use one of the complimentary bikes to explore the city. 

If you prefer to explore on foot then this is the best place to stay in Seattle with Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Seattle Waterfront just a few minutes away.

The Belltown Inn: Another Affordable Option in Belltown

The Belltown Inn is another great value, with relatively affordable rooms. But it’s not the kind of “affordable” where you’ll be wishing you spent just a little bit more for an upgrade – instead, you’ll be wondering how you got such a great deal. 

One of the things we like about this place is that kitchenettes come with every room – which will include a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. 

The location couldn’t be better – you’ll be centrally located between Pike Place, Seattle Center, and Cap Hill, which is a great home base for a weekend in Seattle . Plus, some of the best bars and restaurants will be almost literally out your front door.  

The Sound Hotel: A Beautiful Luxury Hotel in the Heart of Belltown

I first noticed the Sound Hotel and its matte green facade a few years ago as it was getting built, and made a mental note to check what that was becoming. Fast forward to a year ago, and I walked by it and said “OH, I remember looking at this place!” 

The Sound Hotel is a boutique hotel right in the heart of Belltown on 4th Ave, and it’s a great location to base yourself while you’re in town.

You’re a block or so away from three Tom Douglas eateries – the Dahlia Bakery (home of the famous coconut cream pie), Serious Pie, and Lola (our favorite), and plenty of other bars and restaurants. 

It’s very modern and luxurious, and the rooms are HUGE, coming in at over 400 square feet. That extra space will be very much appreciated if you’re planning on trying to get some work done from your hotel room. 

In terms of common spaces, they have a gym, a bar, and a nice outdoor patio where you can relax and take in the views. 

Parking is valet only, at $49 a night with in and out privileges (there are plenty of cheaper garage options nearby if you have a car). Pets are allowed up to 75 lbs, but incur a nonrefundable $100 fee. 

Downtown Seattle: A Central and Convenient Option

We’re going to be honest here. Downtown Seattle is more of a utilitarian place to stay than it is an uber-charming area or a place that’s packed with great bars and restaurants. 

Downtown Seattle is a fairly big, sprawling area that includes what is essentially Seattle’s central business district (or financial district), with a lot of big glass office buildings, a few malls, a Nordstrom and a Macy’s (that’s how you know it’s a commercial district) and a lot of chain restaurants. 

We’d encourage you to look at hotels within a few blocks of Pike Place Market, which is our favorite part of the downtown area.

Most of the hotels we’ve chosen below are within a couple of blocks of the market, though there are a few stragglers that are a little further out (but we like the look of the hotel, so we included it). 

While Downtown Seattle isn’t the most charming area to stay in Seattle, what it does have is an excellent location.

From here, you’ll be within walking distance of Pike Place Market, the Seattle waterfront (and the ferry terminal, if you’d like to take a day trip to Bainbridge Island ), the sports stadiums, and all four of the other neighborhoods we talk about below. 

If you’re here for a short time (1-2 days) and want to be as central as humanly possible, we’d choose downtown Seattle. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Seattle

Here are the pros and cons of staying downtown (near Pike Place Market) for your trip as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Downtown Seattle : 

• Could you BE any more central ? Probably not, we think. Staying here basically means that you’ll be within walking distance of Seattle’s main sights, or within walking distance of a bus or light rail station that will take you to them. It’s well-connected to other parts of the city center via Light Rail and buses, so getting around using public transportation will be relatively easy. If you have kids, the Seattle Aquarium is a good rainy day activity, and it’s within walking distance along the waterfront. 
• There are plenty of hotel options . That central location, which will put you near Pike Place Market, means that there are PLENTY of hotels in the neighborhood. 

Cons of Staying in Downtown Seattle : 

• Staying in Downtown Seattle means you’ll be in a concrete jungle , with relatively few green spaces around to give you a break from the towering office buildings and hotels. 
• It’s also not super charming, since it’s more of a commercial area . Parking is going to be a nightmare – prepare to either forgo a car, or pay a pretty penny to park it. 

Downtown Seattle Highlights

Here are some things not to miss in Downtown Seattle. 

• Pike Place Market : There’s far too much to say about what to do, see, eat, and drink at Pike Place Market to fit into one bullet. Instead, we’ll refer you to our Seattle itinerary (which covers this in detail) and our guide to what to do at Pike Place Market (coming soon!). Our favorites are Rachel’s Ginger Beer, Beecher’s Cheese, and Ellenos Greek Yogurt. 
• The Seattle Art Museum : Surprisingly fun, and it’s right in the heart of Downtown Seattle. It’s a good rainy day activity, which you’ll find plenty of in Seattle outside of the summer months.   
• Victrola Coffee : Consistently excellent in two departments. First, the coffee. My favorite cappuccino in Seattle was made here. Second, the playlist. Alternative hits from the mid-2000’s are both the soundtrack to my teenage years, and also to Victrola. 
• The Pink Door : Part Italian restaurant, part cabaret show (some nights of the week). This was the place Alysha and my mom first met on one of our early trips to Seattle together. It’s right at Pike Place Market, and it’s a good dinner spot. Make a reservation!
• The Showbox : My favorite music venue in Seattle (which is a city full of great music venues). They host a variety of different act sizes, from bands I’ve never heard of to bigger acts (for example, the 1975 is playing there in the next few weeks at the time of writing). 

The Best Places to Stay in Downtown Seattle

Like we mentioned above, there are a nearly unlimited number of nice hotels in Downtown Seattle. 

Here are the best places to stay in Downtown Seattle, at least in our opinion. 

The State Hotel: A Cool Boutique Hotel a Block Away From Pike Place Market

The State Hotel is a beautiful boutique property in a restored 1902 building right around the corner from Pike Place Market. It’s on our list of places we want to stay in Seattle, and we’re planning on making that happen in 2023. 

They have kept many of the historic charms of the building but have updated the interior with new décor and local artwork. Every aspect of this independent hotel is steeped in the local culture – they’ve even partnered with local artists to decorate the place. 

Inside, you’ll find 91 rooms ranging from cozy queen rooms, perfect for couples who don’t need too much space (you’ll be out exploring, after all), to more spacious king rooms, and even a few gorgeous suites. 

Rooms on the eighth floor all have terraces but there is also a communal rooftop terrace offering fantastic views over the city. 

In terms of parking, they’ve partnered with a nearby garage to offer parking (with in/out privileges) for guests at $27.50 a day (a STEAL in Seattle), and it can be purchased on arrival. The garage is a block from the hotel. 

The hotel is pet-friendly up to 50 pounds, but they only have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, and there’s a nonrefundable $30 pet fee. 

There’s also a daily amenity fee of $22, which is a bummer (JUST INCLUDE IT IN THE PRICE!) that covers internet and the 24 hour fitness center. 

Hotel Theodore: A Very Hip Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Downtown Seattle

Hotel Theodore is the hotel that is a little further out from Pike Place Market in the heart of the financial district (to the extent that such a thing exists in Seattle), but we wanted to include it for two reasons. 

First, the location is pretty excellent, since it’s actually closer to some of our favorite places in Seattle (namely, the Pike/Pine corridor in Capitol Hill). It’s also within a couple of blocks of a Light Rail Station, which is helpful for getting around. 

Second, because it looks super cool. They’ve really doubled down on the “Seattle” theme, featuring an art installation curated by the Museum of History and Industry in the lobby, and a selection of Seattle-themed art in each room. 

Rooms are elegantly decorated, with industrial-chic touches like super cool lamps and subway tile in the bathrooms. There are standard rooms, which are on the small side but have enough room to be comfortable for a couple of nights, and have bigger rooms and suites from there. 

Parking will cost you $50 a night (valet only, ouch), and the hotel is pet-friendly (with a $30 fee that includes a pet welcome package). There’s also a nice fitness center, and it’s open 24 hours a day.

There is, however, a $20 “daily amenities fee” for the privilege of accessing the gym and other amenities (it’s also not optional), which we absolutely cannot stand. Just include it in the price!

The Inn at the Market: A Luxury Hotel Within Pike Place Market 

We were walking through Seattle recently, and my mom pointed up to a building and said “that’s where I used to stay when I came here for business before we moved here!”

She was pointing at the Inn at the Market , which is literally steps away from Pike Place Market in the heart of Seattle.

Standard rooms are surprisingly spacious, and some rooms have views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains (though it will cost you a little extra). The decor skews a little more traditional than modern, but everything is comfortable and well thought out. 

The rooms aren’t cheap – you’re inside the boundaries of Pike Place Market, after all – but the location and amenities might be worth it if you’re not on too tight a budget.

They have a gorgeous rooftop deck, which looks over the Pike Place Market sign and has sweeping views over the water out towards the Olympic Range. 

The Green Tortoise Hostel: The Best Budget Hostel in Seattle 

If you’re looking to stay in a hostel in Seattle, this is it! 

The main draw for the Green Tortoise Hostel is its location. It’s just a few blocks from Pike Place Market, and within walking distance of Seattle Center and the excellent Museum of Pop Culture. 

They have your traditional dorm rooms, which include some queen beds that are great for couples, as well as private rooms . 

Unlike most hostels, they have added small extra touches like heated tiles in the bathrooms, and a well-equipped communal kitchen if you want to cook your own meals to save some money while you’re exploring Seattle. 

Queen Anne: At the Foot of the Space Needle

The last of the five central neighborhoods in Seattle is Queen Anne, which is north of Belltown closer to Seattle Center, and west of South Lake Union.

The main draw here is the fact that the attractions at Seattle Center – the Museum of Pop Culture, Pacific Science Center, Caffe Vita at KEXP, Climate Pledge Arena, etc etc – will be right at your front door. 

Plus, it’s plenty close to Belltown and walkable to both South Lake Union and Pike Place Market. 

Queen Anne is a fairly large area, spanning from Seattle Center up to the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Fremont Bridge. 

For the purposes of this guide, which is focused on helping you find the right place to stay in Seattle for a relatively short trip, when we say Queen Anne here, we mean Lower Queen Anne, which is the area immediately adjacent to Seattle Center (where you’ll find the Space Needle and a few worthwhile museums). 

This part of the city is more central than Upper Queen Anne, which is a very residential neighborhood up the hill (too expensive for our budget), and has a much better selection of places to stay. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Queen Anne

Here are the pros and cons of staying in (lower) Queen Anne for your trip as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Queen Anne :

• Central location near Seattle Center . Queen Anne is basically at the Seattle Center, which means you also won’t be too far away from Pike Place Market and Downtown Seattle.
• The best view in Seattle from Kerry Park . Just up the hill from Lower Queen Anne is Kerry Park, which is both the best view in Seattle (it’s way better than the top of the Space Needle, and it’s free!), and the most popular viewpoint in Seattle. 
• It’s relatively affordable . The key word here is relatively. It’s not going to be cheap – it’s still Seattle – but we have noticed that the hotels here skew towards the more affordable end of the spectrum compared to Downtown and Belltown. 

Cons of Staying in Queen Anne :

• It’s not our favorite in terms of food and drinks . You’ll probably spend most of your time outside of the neighborhood if you stay here, but that’s totally fine as long as you know that going in. 
• Parking is impossible . Similar to all of the other neighborhoods on this list, parking is going to be a nightmare. Your best bet is to not bring a car, but if you do, be prepared to pay for parking. 

Queen Anne Highlights

Here are a few of our favorite places to visit in Queen Anne. 

• Dick’s Drive-in : Seattle’s answer to In-n-Out Burger. It’s a no-frills burger joint where substitutions are not accepted, and the food is as affordable as it gets in Seattle. It’s a very popular late night spot, with people spilling out of the bars in Queen Anne and forming huge lines at Dick’s before heading home for the night. 
• Toulouse Petit : Excellent cajun creole cuisine. Go for brunch or happy hour. It’s one of the most popular places in Seattle, so be prepared to wait if you don’t make a reservation in advance. 
• Kerry Park : Our favorite view in Seattle. We take all visitors that come to Seattle for the first time up here. You can see downtown – including the Space Needle – and the ferries crossing Elliott Bay. It’s magical. But it’s a popular spot, particularly at sunset. You can find it here on Google Maps.
• Vita at KEXP : This is one of my favorite coffee shops in Seattle in terms of the space – it’s a cavernous high-ceilinged space that is home to KEXP, an independent radio station in Seattle, where Caffe Vita has taken up residence. Good coffee, good ambiance, good place to visit when you’re at Seattle Center. 
• Queen Anne Ave N : This is the main stretch in Upper Queen Anne, and it is lined with places to eat, drink, and shop. Go to El Mezcalito for Oaxacan food (lots of gluten free options, too!), Big Max Burger Co. for fancy burgers (much classier than Dick’s), and How to Cook a Wolf for a slightly fancier meal at one of the most famous restaurants in Seattle that serves Italian-ish food. 

The Best Places to Stay in Queen Anne

Most of the places to stay are in Lower Queen Anne, in and around Seattle Center. Upper Queen Anne is more residential, but also more charming.

It’s well-worth a trip up the hill to check it out – there are some fun places to eat, drink, and shop (plus the view from Kerry Park!), but it’s not the right place to stay. 

Here are some places to stay in Lower Queen Anne that would make a good home base. 

StayPineapple Maxwell Hotel

For what it’s worth, this is our number one recommendation in Queen Anne.

Staypineapple hotels are always among the best value hotels in whatever city they’re in, and the two on this list are no different. The Maxwell Hotel is just north of Seattle Center, and has surprisingly spacious rooms for the price. 

Everything in this hotel is colorful – from the huge pineapple in the lobby, to the brightly colored interior corridors. Rooms come in a variety of configurations depending on your specific needs. 

They do have a daily amenity fee of $25 that covers Wifi, beach cruisers you can borrow, the fitness center, and other stuff. We think this should just be included in the price of the room (come on, Staypineapple!), but it’s better that you know now rather than showing up and realizing it!

It’s dog-friendly too (for an extra fee), and they have onsite parking (which is also an extra fee), which can be hard to find in this part of the city. 

The Mediterranean Inn

The Mediterranean Inn is right in the heart of Lower Queen Anne, just west of Seattle Center.

The rooms here are apartment-style, which means you’ll have access to a small kitchenette that has a mini fridge, electric kettle, microwave, and more.

Rooms are simple but comfortable, ranging from rooms with a single queen bed, to two queen beds. 

One of the highlights here has to be the rooftop deck, which will give you spectacular views over the Downtown Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle. Plus, you can rent bikes from the hotel to cruise around the city!

South Lake Union: A Central, Modern Neighborhood

South Lake Union is about as direct a name for a neighborhood as you can have. It’s on the south end of Lake Union, which is the lake that is right in the middle of Seattle.

It’s a central neighborhood, just east of the Space Needle and Seattle Center, and just north of Belltown. Overall, it’s a great place to base yourself.

South Lake Union was not a place you’d ever want to stay when I was growing up. It was rundown and generally not super pleasant. 

That is, until Amazon showed up. 

Now, it’s one of the nicest areas in Seattle, full of luxury high rise condos and slick Amazon buildings, along with some of the best food and drinks in Seattle. 

I’m not a huge fan of Amazon, but this is not the time or place to go through a laundry list of my concerns about their anti-competitive moves that hurt local small businesses, or their questionable labor practices and union busting.

I think South Lake Union should be on this list of Seattle’s best neighborhoods, regardless of how I feel about Amazon itself.

Pros and Cons of Staying in South Lake Union

Here are the pros and cons of staying in South Lake Union for your trip as we see them.

Pros of Staying in South Lake Union :

• It’s central . It’s squished in between Capitol Hill to the east, Queen Anne to the west, and Belltown to the south, which means you can get to all of our favorite parts of Seattle in just a few minutes by car, or a short walk if you’re on foot. 
• There are tons of places to eat and drink . As you might imagine, a slice of the city that was built as a place for all sorts of office space has also attracted a lot of amenities – bars, restaurants, cycling studios, etc etc – that cater to those workers. There are tons of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops in South Lake Union to keep you busy, and you’re plenty close to Belltown, Capitol Hill, and Queen Anne. 

Cons of Staying in South Lake Union : 

• In a word, Amazon . You’ll be surrounded by huge, modern office buildings plastered with AMAZON, and most of the residents in the high end condos here are employees of the company that’s slowly (okay, quickly) taking over the world. It’s not going to be the most authentic local experience. 
• No Light Rail station . The only downside to the location is that the Light Rail doesn’t come to South Lake Union, so you’ll have to walk or take another form of public transit to get to Light Rail, which definitely comes into play if you’re planning on taking it to or from the airport when you’ll have some luggage in tow.  

South Lake Union Highlights

Here are some spots we enjoy in South Lake Union. 

• Mbar : The best rooftop bar in Seattle. Go for sunset, and make sure to get there an hour or two before the sun actually sets to get a spot (they turn people away when it’s full). Drinks are pricey, but you’re paying for the view of the Space Needle and Lake Union from the rooftop deck. You can make a reservation, but there’s a $75 fee if it’s canceled within 24 hours (and they require a credit card for reservations). 
• Kati Vegan Thai : We fell in love with this place when we stayed at the CitizenM last year. Excellent Thai food (particularly the curries), and though it’s all vegan, you would never know it. 
• Cafe Hagen : A very – some might say painfully – hip coffee shop in South Lake Union serving both good coffee and (delicious, according to everyone I’ve ever gone there with) Scandinavian-inspired pastries. 
• Flatstick Pub South Lake Union : Booze and mini golf. I dare you to name a better combination. It’s a good time, and the course is vaguely Seattle inspired. 
• MOHAI : Short for the Museum of History and Industry, this basically functions as a Seattle history museum. I hadn’t been in a few years until recently, and I was really impressed with the contents of the museum. It’s a robust history of Seattle, and covers the two hundred years or so between Seattle being a port city, through its boom during the gold rush, and into the 2000’s when it became a tech hub. Worth a couple of hours if you’re interested in learning about Seattle’s story. 

The Best Places to Stay in South Lake Union

Hotels are the name of the game here. There are a few options that have popped up as this part of the city was built up over the past decade or so.

Here are some of our favorite South Lake Union hotels for your trip. 

CitizenM South Lake Union: Our Favorite Hotel Chain (We’ve Stayed Here)

On our latest trip where we actually stayed in Seattle, we stayed at the CitizenM Seattle in South Lake Union and absolutely LOVED it. It’s modern, efficient, clean, stylish, and has some great common spaces to hang out in.

We loved it so much that we’ve actually stayed in two other CitizenM locations since then (London and Boston), with plans to stay in a few more in the future. 

This is one of the best hotels in Seattle. 

CitizenM is a Dutch hotel chain that has basically made staying in a hotel super easy and streamlined, with all the amenities that modern (read: younger) travelers are looking for (USB charging, climate controls via iPad, and more) without the unnecessary pieces (fluffy robes and slippers or sitting areas, for example) to offer a nice value.

The other thing we like is that, in the interest of simplicity and ease, they’ve stripped away all the slightly different room types you find in most hotels (small vs. small deluxe vs. small deluxe with partial city view), and there’s exactly one room type available: a small room with an uber-comfy king bed.

At check-in, which is done on these cool kiosks reminiscent of checking in for a flight at the airport, you can even choose which side of the hotel you want to be in, and if you want a low or high floor, which we thought was pretty cool. 

Try to get a room on the John St. side, which has views of the city (which one of the super friendly staff pointed out to us as we were trying to decide).

The rooms themselves are small (but you have access to their “living room” on the ground floor which has couches, desks, and more), but they have blackout curtains, they’re mostly soundproof, and the huge king beds are extremely comfortable.

Everything in the room – from lights, to temperature, to room service – is managed on an iPad. 

The location is also great. We walked from the hotel to Seattle Center (where you’ll find the Space Needle and the excellent MoPop), Pike Place Market, and Capitol Hill . The area around the hotel is also full of great coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.

However, there are a few caveats that you should know before you book. 

• First, they have one room option , and one room option only. It’s a single king bed with a maximum occupancy of two, which means it’s not ideal for families with young children traveling together (you’d have to get a separate room).
• Second, the rooms are small . They’re well thought out, but they don’t have some of the bells and whistles you’ll find in other upscale hotels. Things like an in-room coffee maker ( Elm Coffee Roasters is just down the street, where you’ll find some of the best coffee in Seattle ) or an ironing board (If we’re being honest, I barely know what that is anyway). 

Basically, if you value a good night’s sleep and you’re planning on spending most of your time outside of your room exploring the city or relaxing/working in their common spaces, the CitizenM Seattle is an excellent choice. 

If you’re a family of four who all want to stay in the same room, or you’re a business traveler who wants to iron your shirt before a big meeting, maybe stay elsewhere. 

Want to learn more about the CitizenM in Seattle? Read our in-depth review of the CitizenM to decide if it’s the right hotel for your time in Seattle!

Level: An Excellent Aparthotel for Extended Stays in Seattle (Kitchens + Laundry)

If you’re looking for an aparthotel – a class of accommodations that we’ve really only seen abroad, but we’d like to see more of here – with a little more space and kitchen facilities that make an extended stay a little more comfortable, Level Seattle is the place for you. 

The differences between their suites and a normal hotel room are things like a full kitchen, in-suite laundry, and other amenities that are more geared towards extended stays.

There’s also a huge fitness center, multiple outdoor decks with play areas for kids / dogs, and several pools (both indoor and outdoor) which is a nice touch. 

All in all, if you’re looking for a place to stay for an extended trip to Seattle, this would be our pick. 

All of those amenities – and there are a LOT of them – come with a cost in the form of a daily $25 amenity fee. JUST INCLUDE IT IN THE ROOM PRICE. 

Capitol Hill: Our Favorite Neighborhood (More Residential)

First of all, Capitol Hill is our favorite neighborhood in Seattle, full stop. It’s vibrant during the day, lively at night, and all around a really fun neighborhood.

Capitol Hill is the best neighborhood in Seattle for foodies, twenty-somethings, and hipsters, with plenty of bars and restaurants, specialty coffee shops (don’t miss Victrola and Espresso Vivace ), bars, theaters, and music venues showing a range of established and up-and-coming acts.

It’s a staple on any Seattle itinerary , and is worth setting aside half a day to wander around.

There’s no getting around it – Capitol Hill is pretty hipster and is packed with the thrift stores, independent fashion labels, and small boutiques that young, trendy people flock to. Capitol Hill is also known for its LGBTQ scene. 

As you’re walking around, you’ll notice the rainbow crosswalks, flags, and other subtle (and not-so-subtle) nods to the LGBTQ scene in Capitol Hill.

Capitol Hill is the best area to stay in Seattle for travelers who want to explore one of our favorite neighborhoods in Seattle, but also be in close proximity to Downtown Seattle and the rest of the tourist attractions the city has to offer, like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Capitol Hill

Here are the pros and cons of staying in Capitol Hill (“Cap Hill”) for your trip as we see them.

Pros of Staying in Capitol Hill : 

• Great for food, drinks, and shopping . Capitol Hill is our favorite neighborhood in Seattle – you’ll find us there basically every time we’re in the city. It’s absolutely packed with bars, restaurants, boutiques, and a vibrant energy that you start to feel as the sun goes down. The nightlife is great, too. 

Cons of Staying in Capitol Hill : 

• It’s loud . It’s not a quiet neighborhood, particularly at night. 
• Parking is a nightmare . Parking is metered throughout the Pike/Pine corridor, and has limits in the more residential areas. If you can avoid having a car when you’re staying here, we would do it. 
• Gentrification . Capitol Hill and the rest of the Central District are a historically black neighborhood, which you’d never know walking around today. Gentrification has pushed local residents out to other parts of the city as rents have risen and luxury condos have replaced more affordable housing. We’re not saying you shouldn’t stay here, but we’re saying you should be aware of the impact that becoming the “hip” place to be has on residents of the community.

Capitol Hill Highlights

Here are some of our favorite spots in Capitol Hill. Though, honestly, there are way too many great places to eat, drink, and shop to list here. 

• Elliott Bay Books : The best bookstore in Seattle, I think. If we’re within a few minutes of this place, we’ll walk over and peruse the shelves. I especially like the staff recommendations sections, which is a great place to discover your next read. 
• Analog Coffee : Probably my favorite coffee shop in Capitol Hill, they bring in roasters from all over the Pacific Northwest (usually Camber from Bellingham is a staple) and have a nice menu of espresso-based drinks, and pour over options for coffee nerds like me. 
• Atulea : Alysha’s favorite! They do matcha and bubble tea, and their matcha ice cream is a huge draw. Alysha is all about the Ube Matcha Latte. 
• Molly Moons : Seattle’s OG ice cream spot, which now has an empire with locations all over the city. Great seasonal flavors with fresh ingredients, and fresh-pressed waffle cones. 
• Mamnoon : Lebanese food with a fun selection of very shareable dishes (like the mezze sampler, where you get to try a little bit of everything). 
• Nightlife in Capitol Hill : There are three excellent bars within a couple of blocks of each other in Capitol Hill. Go to Tavern Law for a speakeasy with great cocktails. Go to Canon for a massive whiskey list. Go to Footprint Wine Tap for wines on tap (which is more sustainable than bottles). 

The Best Places to Stay in Capitol Hill

The hardest part about Capitol Hill is the fact that there are very few places to stay.

Aside from the Pike/Pine corridor and Broadway/15th, it’s a pretty residential neighborhood. There are a few hotels and serviced apartments (aparthotels) to choose from.

Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Capitol Hill for your trip. 

Silver Cloud Hotel: Good Price and Great Location in Capitol Hill

It’s not particularly sexy, but the Silver Cloud Hotel in Capitol Hill is probably the best place to stay in the neighborhood in terms of both budget and location. 

Again, nothing special going on here in terms of rooms and amenities, but it’s within a few blocks of the heart of Capitol Hill (though it’s a little bit removed so that you’re not RIGHT in the middle of all the action, which is nice for the whole good night’s sleep thing). 

Rooms are fine – they’re about as traditional as it gets, with the rolling chair and desk you find in just about every big chain hotel, but the price and location are right!

They have parking for $40 a night, and pets are not allowed here. 

Gaslight Inn: A Charming Bed & Breakfast in a Historic Home

This charming bed and breakfast is located inside a BEAUTIFUL historic Craftsman with designated Seattle Landmark status. It’s a great location, and we think it’s a unique place to stay in one of our favorite neighborhoods in Seattle to explore.

There are six different rooms to choose from, some with private baths, fireplaces, or city skyline views.

While you’re staying here, you can take advantage of the outdoor heated pool and free continental breakfast each morning. 

Sonder at Solis: Serviced Apartments in a Perfect Location

We’ve stayed in Sonder properties before (notably in New York City, which we liked), and Sonder at Solis is essentially a hotel, but full of apartments (with kitchens and laundry) rather than more traditional hotel-style rooms. 

It’s a very modern take on travel, and involves contactless check-in, a Roku for streaming, and staffless locations (which, we should note, can be a problem on the off-chance that something goes wrong). 

We’ve chosen Sonder for extended stays before, and would recommend it here too. Especially because of the location, which really could not be much better (it’s on Pike at the eastern end of the neighborhood, within two blocks of some of our favorite Cap Hill spots).

The units here come in a variety of sizes and configurations – namely studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom – and all have big windows with good natural light, full kitchens, and in-unit laundry. 

They have a rooftop deck with a view of the city, which is a nice touch for summer months. No pets, though, so leave the furry friend at home.  

One huge downside here: they have no onsite parking . And street parking in Capitol Hill is a nightmare. If you have a car, we would strongly recommend against staying here (look at Level in South Lake Union instead, which has parking and apartment-style rooms). 

Two Blocks Off Broadway (Two Bedroom Apartment)

If you’re looking for an apartment for a bigger group or family in Seattle, this charming apartment would be our choice.

In general, we’re against vacation rentals in big cities, because they take housing supply that could be used for residents, which has an impact on rising rents in supply-constrained cities like Seattle (and, let’s be honest, every other city on the west coast).

However, we do like alternative spaces being used as rentals for tourists – think the loft above the garage or the basement level apartment – which is exactly what’s going on here. 

This is the ground floor of a 1902 home with two full bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen, and plenty of space to spread out. It was converted into a separate space to accommodate the host’s (who live upstairs) family, who visit often enough that they decided not to rent the space annually. 

If you’re looking for a bigger space for a group of four, this would be an excellent option. They also have onsite parking, so you’ll be able to park the car off the street. 

Where NOT to Stay in Seattle

Now that we’ve covered the places we would recommend staying, we wanted to talk about the places you should avoid, either because they just aren’t convenient for visitors, or because they’re not the nicest areas. 

The first place we’d avoid is Pioneer Square , which is a subsection of Downtown Seattle (which we very much do recommend, but would stay further north towards Pike Place Market).

Pioneer Square is on the southern end of the downtown core towards the baseball and football stadiums.

One thing to know about visiting Seattle is that there is a sizable and visible unhoused population here .

We aren’t going to debate causes and solutions here (sky-high – and still rising fast – cost of living probably has something to do with it, though), but the main thing to remember is that they’re largely harmless to visitors. 

Sure, it’s uncomfortable to see someone down on their luck or dealing with addiction issues because it reminds you how good you have it, but they’re not a scourge on the city, which is language I hear far too often these days. They’re humans, just like you or me. 

The point I’m making here is that we’d avoid staying in Pioneer Square because, for a few reasons, there is a large, visible unhoused population that congregates in Pioneer Square. If that makes you uncomfortable, stay elsewhere. 

The second place we’d avoid staying is West Seattle . Though the West Seattle Bridge is (thankfully) back open and West Seattle is a pretty cool area to explore, it’s still a 20-30 minute journey to get downtown.

And that’s without traffic .

If you’ve got a short trip and you’re planning on seeing the main tourist sights, it’s not going to be convenient at all.

The third area (really, areas) we wouldn’t stay in are Ballard and Fremont . This pains us, because we really love these two neighborhoods, but they’re just too far from the main attractions in Seattle.

With traffic, it can take 30-40 minutes by car (more by bus) to get downtown.

Plus, they’re very residential, and have very few options when it comes to hotels. They’re a great place to visit and spend an afternoon eating and drinking, but staying here would be a mistake. 

We’d include the University District (colloquially known as the “U-District”) in this group of places to avoid too , unless you’re visiting Seattle specifically to go to the University of Washington.

While there are some cool places to eat and drink (especially in the University Village shopping center), it’s far from just about everything else in Seattle. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Thank you so much!…very helpful information & links! God bless!!!

Your article is fantastic and gives me a great prospective on your city. I’m planning our entire trip based on your recommendations. Thank you!

No problem – hope you enjoy Seattle!

Thank you very much just what I needed for my up coming trip. Well done.

Thanks for the kind words – I hope you love Seattle!

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Seattle's Top 25 Things to Do

We dare you to do them all.

In no way is this a comprehensive list of all the incredible experiences to be had in Seattle, but it’s a start. Let’s go!

SEATTLE CENTER

Space Needle

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot-tall Space Needle quickly became an icon of the city that today is recognized far and wide. On the observation level, which you can reach via a 43-second elevator ride, see the doodle-on-a-napkin concept that led to the Space Needle design. Views from the top feature Elliott Bay, the Cascade Mountains, and even Mount Rainier.

Seattle Center Monorail

Another World’s Fair relic, the Seattle Center Monorail links Seattle Center—home of the Space Needle and several other notable attractions—to downtown’s Westlake Center along an approximately one-mile route. The designated historic landmark can reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour and weaves between skyscrapers above the city streets.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Music, science fiction, and pop culture all come together at the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture . The Frank Gehry-designed building looks like a smashed guitar from above, while inside, its colorful exhibits cover everything from the history of indie video games and horror films to Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, and more.

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Pacific Science Center

This family-friendly museum is where science lessons come to life. At Pacific Science Center , explore galaxies near and far in the planetarium, get up close and personal with colorful creatures in the Tropical Butterfly House, maneuver a two-ton granite ball, find out what it means if you can roll your tongue, and much more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is dedicated to the work and career of locally born, world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly, who was introduced to the craft while studying at the University of Washington. It is the most comprehensive collection of his art to date, with interior galleries featuring a variety of his work in the medium. The pièce de résistance is the glasshouse, with a vibrant 100-foot-long sculpture in hues of red, orange, and yellow suspended from the ceiling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet

Among the top echelon of dance companies in the world, Pacific Northwest Ballet performs a variety of classical and modern shows in Seattle Center’s beautiful McCaw Hall. Under the creative direction of renowned dancer Peter Boal, Pacific Northwest Ballet offers transformative performances that are sure to impress. Don’t miss its recently revamped version of The Nutcracker , an annual holiday tradition.

DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

Pike Place Market

From the iconic market sign and Rachel the Piggy Bank to the gum wall, the original Starbucks cafe, well over 225 local artisans selling their wares, the famous fish-tossing tradition, and music-playing street performers, there are enough sights and sounds at Pike Place Market to pack a day (or more). The market added its historic MarketFront expansion in 2017, featuring an open-air plaza and fantastic views of Elliott Bay.

Seattle Art Museum – three ways

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is the city’s largest museum dating back to the 1930s and housing a varied collection of artwork that spans multiple eras and geographic regions. Take the time to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park , an outdoor extension of the museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront. And don’t miss exploring SAM’s Asian art collection at the Seattle Asian Art Museum , located just east of downtown in Capitol Hill.

Central Public Library

You’ve never seen a library quite like this— Seattle Central Library ’s architecturally distinct structure boasts enough glass to cover more than five football stadiums. Head to the 10th floor for a light-filled reading room with peekaboo views of Elliott Bay, or take a self-guided cell phone tour by dialing 206-868-8564*.

Smith Tower

Visit the city’s first skyscraper, built in 1914, and ride the historic, manually operated elevators to the 35th-floor observatory, where 360-degree views await. Displays tell the tale of characters who made Smith Tower what it is today, while the tower’s Prohibition-themed Temperance bar serves themed cocktails.

Seattle Aquarium

Down at the Seattle Aquarium on the waterfront’s Pier 59, learn all about salmon, meet a few adorable sea otters, and greet the various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean, from puffers to giant clams. Watch scuba divers feed the fish, gawk at sharks swimming overhead in the underwater dome, and even touch a sea anemone.

Washington State Ferries

A ride across Puget Sound aboard one of 22 Washington State Ferries vessels is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the bow of the boat as you cruise to the nearby communities of Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. This is one of those cases where the journey is as much fun as the destination.

Seattle Great Wheel

Although it was only built in 2012, the Seattle Great Wheel has quickly become a fixture of the city’s skyline—plus it adds an entirely new sightseeing perspective, thanks to its location perched on the end of Pier 57. Enjoy three revolutions around in one of the air-conditioned gondolas to see the city, water, and mountains on the horizon.

The Museum of Flight

Aviation buffs, take note: The Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space collections in the country, with an overwhelming number of things to see—like a Boeing lunar rover and an Air Force One from the Eisenhower era—and do, including NASA space shuttle trainer tours and flight simulators.

T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field

Cheer on the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park , one of baseball’s prettiest ballparks (with gourmet food, to boot!), or root for the Seattle Seahawks , Sounders FC , and Reign FC at neighboring Lumen Field , known for its boisterous atmosphere. Both stadiums offer behind-the-scenes tours during the offseason and when the teams are away.

This picturesque Queen Anne spot looks down at the Seattle skyline from the north. It’s the ideal place to get the quintessential view of the city, featuring the Space Needle, Elliott Bay, downtown skyscrapers, and (on clear days) Mount Rainier.

Pioneer Square

Seattle’s original downtown is full of beautiful old buildings in Romanesque Revival style, underground tours that take you beneath the streets to see the remains of the city’s first buildings, and an ever-growing slate of hip shops and restaurants. Take an afternoon or more to explore Pioneer Square ‘s ivy-covered buildings and pop into bars, boutiques, and hidden gems, like Waterfall Garden Park .

Chinatown-International District

The ornate Chinatown Gate welcomes you to this diverse neighborhood, where the food scene is incredible. After eating your fill of everything from pho to sushi, visit Wing Luke Museum , dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience; practice your pinball game at the Seattle Pinball Museum ; and shop for Japanese snacks and cute gifts at the Uwajimaya supermarket.

Ballard Locks

In Lake Washington’s Ship Canal sits the century-old Ballard Locks , where you can watch the water levels rise and lower to create a “boat elevator” for boats and even kayaks passing between freshwater lakes and the salt water of Puget Sound. The on-site botanical garden and fish ladder are also worth a visit.

South Lake Union

The always bustling Lake Union, located just northeast of downtown, hosts a variety of seaplanes and boats of all kinds, including the floating home from Sleepless in Seattle . Get out on the water at The Center for Wooden Boats , which offers rentals and tours. And explore the area’s burgeoning restaurant and bar scene.

Kenmore Air

If you want to get a better look at the city, the views from Kenmore Air ’s Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour are unbeatable. Board the floatplane at Lake Union for an exhilarating takeoff, leisure flight, and gentle landing back on the water.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Known as MOHAI , this museum on the shores of Lake Union encapsulates what Seattle is all about, with a dash of smart history, a dose of technology, and quirky artifacts around every corner (think a pink truck with toes). Permanent exhibits showcase everything from the city’s maritime history to modern tech innovations.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

You won’t have trouble finding a Starbucks here in the company’s hometown, but you’ll want to seek out this special Starbucks experience on Capitol Hill. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a Willy Wonka–esque coffee wonderland, where you’ll find exclusive beverages, various brewing methods, a coffee library, and more.

JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY

Woodinville Wine Country

Western Washington’s wine outpost is in Woodinville, a charming town just a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle. There are more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms pouring there (including Chateau Ste. Michelle , the state’s first winery), ensuring something for every palate.

Boeing Future of Flight

Boeing Future of Flight is one of Washington state’s premier aerospace attraction and experiences, 25 miles north of downtown Seattle. It is located in Mukilteo at Paine Field. Guests are welcome for the Gallery, Sky Deck, and Boeing Store.

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20 of the best things to do in Seattle

Sep 19, 2024 • 9 min read

From hanging out in Discovery Park to visiting the Space Needle, here are Seattle's unmissable experiences. Shutterstock

Seattle's frequent rain contributes to the lush beauty and vibrant life that make the city so special. Don’t let it deter your exploration – this city offers a diverse array of unique activities to enjoy. 

Among that beauty and life is a throng of diverse and unique things to do. From experiencing the historical music scene that brought legends like Nirvana to the forefront of the industry to dining at fresh seafood joints with a beautiful mountain backdrop, here are some of my favorite things to do in the Emerald City.

1. Spend a day in Discovery Park

To get your nature fix without actually leaving the city, Discovery Park is the place to go with 534 acres of natural area to explore. As Seattle's largest green space, it's a haven for wildlife and offers stunning views of Puget Sound.

Go for a hike on the 12 miles of trails among the evergreen trees, relax or search for seashells on the sandy beach or visit the West Point Lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1881. The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center tells the history of the Indigenous Duwamish who once lived on the land.

2. Shop and eat at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market has a special place in the heart of Seattle. This famous market, with its maze of shops and foodie spots, is a must-visit. The market is currently undergoing an exciting expansion, which includes the construction of the Overlook Walk. Scheduled to open in 2025, this elevated pedestrian bridge will connect the MarketFront Pavilion to the waterfront below, providing expansive views of Elliott Bay and a seamless route for visitors. The Overlook Walk will feature play areas for families, public plazas with seating and lush terraced landscaping, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and taking in the sights. There’s a wall where you can leave your mark with a chewed-up piece of gum – is it fascinating or unsanitary? You decide.

Watch seafood vendors fling fish from one part of the store to another. Most come for the spectacle, but the ultra-fresh filets or shellfish make for an unforgettable home-cooked meal.

Stroll around the many quirky shops like Eighth Generation , an Indigenous-owned home goods and art shop, Lamplight Books , a used book store with everything from modern literature to vintage favorites, or massive footwear at the Giant Shoe Museum . But who are we kidding? You came here to eat.

Planning tip: Go hungry. Find tasty Russian dumplings at Piroshky Piroshky, swig some Rachel’s Ginger Beer , indulge in the best mac 'n' cheese you’ve ever tasted at Beecher's Handmade Cheese or grab a sweet Earl Grey cookie at Three Girls Bakery . With the ongoing development, you'll soon be able to enjoy your market finds while strolling along the new promenade that will link Pike Place Market directly to the waterfront, offering one of the best sunset views in the city.

3. Rock out at the Museum of Pop Culture

Not only is the Museum of Pop Culture a unique architectural wonder to admire, but the exhibitions will take you on a journey through the history of the music industry, with a special soft spot for Seattle legends Kurt Cobain and Jimi Hendrix.

And beyond music, there are year-round showcases and events celebrating all things pop culture and entertainment. A new addition to the museum's permanent collection is an exhibit on the rise of indie video games, showcasing the creative spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Check out Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter’s collection from films like Black Panther (2018), Malcolm X (1992) and Do the Right Thing (1989).

Planning tip:  If you want to give your secret desire to be a rock star a try, spend some time in the Sound Lab, where you can get in a jam studio and record your own songs.

4. Ride the Puget Sound ferries

For a beautiful view of Seattle and a worthwhile day trip , take one of the many ferries in the area to another Pacific Northwest location. Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Vashon Island, or one of the San Juans provide that small-town getaway feeling without going too far.

Local tip:  When you’re on the ferry, head up to the passenger deck for a full panoramic view of the Seattle skyline from one side and the beautiful Cascade Mountains on the other.  Pro tip: Time your ferry ride at sunset for an unforgettable experience.

5. Have a cup of coffee (obviously) 

Everyone knows Starbucks began in Seattle, but it's not the only coffee shop worth trying. With multiple cafes on every block, Seattle is considered the coffee capital of the US for a reason. 

You can’t go wrong with sampling espresso from practically anywhere in the city. Diva Espresso has often been left off those “best coffee shops in Seattle” lists, and it’s a shame – the coffee is outstanding. It has seven locations spread throughout the city and serves some of the best iced brews. Grab a pinwheel pastry, and your perfect order is complete. 

Support Black-owned Black Coffee Northwest in Ballard, which gives back to the community through youth development programs.

Planning tip: If you must venture to a Starbucks, make it the Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill. You can try menu items like pizza and tiramisu and special brews like espresso martinis not found in a normal store.

6. Watch a drag show in Capitol Hill

Catching a drag show, eating brunch at an excellent restaurant or viewing some eclectic street art are just snippets of what the Capitol Hill area has to offer. 

This LGBTIQ+  friendly neighborhood has rainbow crosswalks, lots of queer-owned nightlife and a park to relax in an ultimately special pocket of the city. Watch some of your favorite RuPaul’s Drag Race performers and local Seattle queens lip sync up a storm at Queer/Bar or Julia’s on Broadway . 

One of the best restaurants in the neighborhood is Oddfellows Café + Bar , an all-day and all-night spot where you feast on everything from deviled eggs (with dill) to pesto linguine. And always leave room for the strawberry shortcake with Chantilly cream. Right next door, you can find Molly Moon's , an ice cream parlor with local flavors like honey lavender.

7. Take a ride up the Space Needle

The city icon, which is as synonymous with Seattle as the letters S-E-A-T-T-L-E, was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and in 2018 got a face-lift to bring it into a new era.

Although it's no longer Seattle's tallest structure, one million annual visitors still squeeze into the Space Needle’s slick, speedy elevators to enjoy views that are best described as awesome. Granted, tickets are expensive, and you'll be elbow-to-elbow with tourists, but stop complaining and get in line: this is an essential Seattle pilgrimage.

Local tip: Get up early to have the Needle all to yourself. 

8. Get out on the water at Lake Union

Lake Union is the central spot in Seattle to enjoy all things aquatic. Formed by glacial erosion over 12,000 years ago, Lake Union offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, seaplane journeys and even hot tub boat rentals. 

And if being on the water isn’t your specialty, you can enjoy the lake from the land at Gas Works Park , which has a lovely view of the Space Needle , especially at night. 

If you’re up to the challenge, you can walk or run the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, which takes you 6 miles around the perimeter, with plenty of houseboats to admire. For a unique experience, paddle up to Gasworks Brewing and enjoy a refreshing pint. You won’t be the only one in a swimsuit.

9. Enjoy Seattle’s public art

Seattle likes to display its art out in the open with no holds barred. You’ll even find art installations underground in the Link stations, like the “apartment windows” in the U District station. Sculptures and statues decorate parks, streets and squares, from the menacing stone troll underneath a Ballard bridge (see #16!), to the iconic Jimi Hendrix statue, to the existential Waiting for the Interurban .

Seattle’s sculpture park , an outpost of the Seattle Art Museum, spreads its 3D works across a landscaped space overlooking Elliott Bay.

10. Bike through Colman Park 

Head south along Lake Washington Blvd E through the very upscale Madrona Park neighborhood and you’ll end up at Colman Park . The entire lakefront stretch between here and Seward Park is parkland. This is an especially good area for cycling. On the weekends, the boulevard is closed to cars, making it a cyclist's paradise.

11. Dine in Belltown

If you’re unsure where to eat and don’t have anything specific in mind, Belltown is where to go. With over 100 restaurant options covering every cuisine you can imagine, you won’t have a problem finding something to sate your appetite. 

For hearty Italian pizza, head to Rocco's for its Classic Sausage. If you need a sushi fix, try Shiro's . Biscuit Bitch should be your brunch stop if you need a serving of Southern-inspired breakfast foods. And for some Caribbean eats, Jerk Shack is a must (try the jerk chicken plate). Drink some ales in the warehouse-style tasting room at Cloudburst Brewing .

The macarons at Lady Yum are so pretty it might be hard picking between eating them or snapping a few photos. A few flavors include classic vanilla bean, espresso fudge, salted caramel, honey lavender, and of course, chocolate.

12. See a performance at LANGSTON 

This Byzantium Revival building began life in 1915 as a synagogue for a congregation of Orthodox Jews. By 1969 the demographics of the neighborhood changed and the building was reintroduced as the  Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center , named after the famed Black American poet and social activist. 

In 2016, the nonprofit LANGSTON organization took over programming events in the space to highlight Black art and culture in Seattle. Visitors can catch musical performances, plays, poetry events, and film festivals. Whether you're interested in contemporary issues or timeless classics, LANGSTON offers a diverse array of cultural experiences.

13.  Wander through the Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, often called the Ballard Locks, offer a unique experience where you can watch boats transition between Lake Union’s freshwater and the saltwater of Puget Sound, dropping 22 feet in the process. Adjacent to the locks is the fish ladder, built in 1976, which helps salmon navigate upstream to their spawning grounds in the Cascade headwaters. During spawning season, from mid-June to September, you can watch salmon make their incredible journey through underwater viewing windows. The fish ladder is also a prime spot to observe sea lions chasing the salmon. Nearby, the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens and a visitor center with a small museum add to the experience, making the Ballard Locks a must-see in Seattle.

14. Toast to Seattle beer culture in Ballard

A one-time fishing village founded by Nordic immigrants, the Ballard neighborhood has been reincarnated as Seattle’s beer capital with enough bars in its own right to satisfy a city. Boldly experimental, Ballard's small breweries concoct big flavors that are served in a cornucopia of drinking establishments.

There are nano-breweries, brewpubs, old-school biker hangouts all over Seattle (try Backfire Moto ), tasting rooms, whiskey bars (try The Ballard Cut ), sports bars, dives peddling rock music, and bars with book corners. A must-visit is Fremont Brewing , known for its massive urban beer garden perfect for a sunny day out. Once you’re done with the booze, you can immerse yourself in Ballard's unique National Nordic Museum and a necklace of waterside parks.

15. Marvel at the genius of the Chihuly Garden & Glass

Opened in 2012 and reinforcing Seattle’s position as a leading city of the arts, this exquisite exposition of the life and work of dynamic local sculptor Dale Chihuly is possibly the finest collection of curated glass art you'll ever see.

It shows off Chihuly's creative designs in a suite of interconnected dark and light rooms before depositing you in an airy glass atrium and – finally – a landscaped garden in the shadow of the Space Needle. Glassblowing demonstrations are a highlight. The outdoor garden, with its striking glass sculptures that blend seamlessly with nature, is particularly breathtaking at night when illuminated.

16. Hunt the Northwest Trolls across Seattle

Seattle’s public art scene has a whimsical new addition: the Northwest Trolls . These giant hand-built sculptures by Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo can be found across various locations in the Pacific Northwest, each telling a unique story that blends environmental sustainability with Scandinavian folklore.

Start your troll-hunting adventure in Seattle by visiting "Bruun Idun" in Lincoln Park. This troll, crafted from recycled materials, is part of a broader project that includes several other trolls around the region, each with its own backstory and environmental message. Another Seattle-based troll, "Frankie Feetsplinter," stands guard outside the National Nordic Museum in Ballard, inviting visitors to explore both the sculpture and the museum’s rich cultural exhibits.

If you’re up for a short ferry ride, head over to Bainbridge Island to meet "Pia The Peacekeeper" in Sakai Park. This troll, located just a mile from the ferry terminal, is accessible by a short, ADA-compliant trail. For those looking to explore even further, "Jakob Two Trees" in Issaquah and "Oscar the Bird King" on Vashon Island offer more opportunities to engage with these creative and environmentally conscious installations.

These trolls are not just for show – they’re meant to be touched, photographed and enjoyed by all ages. Just remember, while you’re free to interact with the trolls, climbing is not allowed in order to preserve these installations for future visitors.

17. Visit the Seattle Underground Tour

Beneath the bustling streets of Seattle lies a hidden world that tells the tale of the city’s past. The Seattle Underground Tour takes you on a fascinating journey through the subterranean passageways that once served as the main roadways and storefronts in the late 19th century. Following the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the city rebuilt on top of the old streets, leaving behind a network of tunnels that now offer a unique glimpse into the city’s history. This guided tour is both educational and entertaining, providing insight into the challenges and triumphs of Seattle’s early days.

18. Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

For a different perspective on the city, hop on the Seattle Great Wheel at Pier 57. This 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay and, on clear days, even Mount Rainier. Each gondola is enclosed, making it a great year-round activity, rain or shine. Whether you ride during the day or at night when the wheel is illuminated with vibrant colors, it’s an experience that provides some of the best aerial views of the city.

19. Take flight with Wings Over Washington

Located on Pier 57 near the Seattle Great Wheel, Wings Over Washington is a state-of-the-art flying theater that takes you on an aerial adventure across the state of Washington. This touristy experience uses cutting-edge technology to simulate a flight over iconic locations like Mount Rainier, the Olympic National Forest and the San Juan Islands. Complete with wind, mist and scent effects, Wings Over Washington is a fun, kitschy way to explore the diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest without leaving the city.

20. SoDo: brews, bites, and baseball

Be sure to hop on the Link and have lunch in SoDo at Ghostfish Brewing , which offers gluten-free beer and food options – perfect for fueling up before catching a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park, renowned for its stunning views. If baseball isn’t your thing, SoDo is also home to the Museum of Flight , one of the largest air and space museums in the world, featuring an impressive collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits.

SoDo features the Showbox SoDo , a premier concert venue that hosts a variety of live performances in an intimate, industrial-style setting. Whether you're into sports, technology, or live music, SoDo has something for everyone.

Seattle planning tips

Deciding on trip length:

Yes, three days is enough time to get a taste of what Seattle has to offer, but if you can squeeze in a fourth day, do it. Focus on key attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and the Museum of Pop Culture, and mix in some outdoor activities like a visit to Discovery Park or a ferry ride on Puget Sound.

Must-have foods: 

Don't leave Seattle without trying its fresh seafood, especially the Pacific Northwest's renowned salmon. Pike Place Market is a great place to sample seafood, whether you prefer a sit-down meal or grabbing some fresh catch to cook at home. For a unique Seattle treat, try the Seattle Dog – a hot dog topped with cream cheese and grilled onions.

Popular outdoor activities: 

Seattle is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking in Discovery Park, kayaking on Lake Union and cycling along the Burke-Gilman Trail. The city's proximity to mountains and water makes it easy to explore nature even while staying close to urban amenities.

Family-friendly activities:

Families will enjoy the Seattle Aquarium, Woodland Park Zoo and the Pacific Science Center . The Chihuly Garden & Glass and Museum of Pop Culture also offer exhibits that appeal to both adults and children.

Best way to spend one day: 

Start your day with breakfast at Pike Place Market, then head to the Space Needle for a morning view of the city. Spend your afternoon exploring the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden & Glass, and wrap up with a scenic ferry ride on Puget Sound. End the day with dinner in Belltown, sampling the diverse culinary offerings of the neighborhood.

Best way to get around: 

Seattle’s Link Light Rail is an efficient and convenient way to travel from the airport to downtown and beyond. With stops that connect you to major attractions, you can easily explore the city without a car. The Link Light Rail is particularly convenient for travelers flying into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport – just download the Sound Transit app on your phone, hop on with your suitcases and head straight into the heart of the city. Seattle is also a very walkable city, with excellent public transit options, making it easy to get around.

This article was first published May 26, 2021 and updated Sep 19, 2024.

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The 9 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Seattle

Moving to or within Seattle, Washington? Seattle is much more than great coffee, the Seahawks, and the Space Needle. Here are our top 9 neighborhoods to check out before you sign your lease.

Table of contents

How we chose the best neighborhoods in seattle.

Seattle is known for various things, a great coffee culture–hello Starbucks and artisan coffee shops–a booming job market with over two Fortune 500 companies HQ-ing–including giants like Amazon and Microsoft–and a hipster vibe that's infused with waterfront fun.

Whether you want to experience a different lifestyle than in a typical US city, a progressive city focused on sustainability, or you just want to have one of the country's most incredible cups of joe, Seattle's waiting for you.

However, this city filled with mountains, grunge music, and many waterfront destinations can be tricky to navigate. As with everything, when it comes to moving to a new city, location, location, location is king. You'll need to know which area has the right life-work balance, the coffee-and-brew ratio for you, and a price tag that doesn't leave you with no piggy banks left to open.

To help you find the perfect neighborhood–one where the coffee is perfect, the brew is cold, and the people are as friendly as it gets–we've compiled a comprehensive list of 9 top neighborhoods to consider. Even better, we've built a ranking system for each one to make this decision feel as easy as finding a coffee shop in Seattle. We’re ranking:

Atmosphere: nightlife & entertainment, shopping & restaurants, and beauty & parks

Amenities: schools, public transit, and points of interest

Experience: safety, affordability, and walkability

The result is a prioritized list of the best places to move to in Seattle, Washington.

Why should you listen to us? We might not have as many lakes or cafés as Seattle, but we sure have plenty of experience with our top-ranked rentals across the US.

Top Neighborhoods in Seattle, Ranked

9. Montlake

Perfect for young professionals looking for a relaxed area with great walkability and schools..

Montlake is an affluent area of Seattle located just northeast of downtown and surrounded by the beautiful waters of Portage Bay. This is a perfect place for young professionals to move in with roommates and experience a relaxed and charming neighborhood.

Nature lovers can rejoice knowing they’ll have the Washington Park Arboretum UW Botanic Gardens. The perfect place to go for a walk, bike ride, or a jog with green scenery like no other.

At Montlake, you’ll find some excellent quality coffee–something essential in Seattle–like the Italian deliciousness at Café Lago or the more vibrant atmosphere at Fuel Coffee. There are many other places, and soon you’ll find your favorite coffee shop.

If you’re looking for an active community that will welcome you with arms wide open, Montlake is what you’re looking for. They do events like the Annual Montlake Community Club 5K Turkey Trot and Kids Run–of which 100% of proceeds go to the University District Food Bank. So you can feel good with your body and know you’re doing something great for the community. This is also a great chance to meet your other Turkey Trotter half–wink, wink.

Montlake’s perfect scores in Walkability, Beauty and Parks, and Safety provide this relaxed neighborhood with great views, simple choices, and a peaceful life. However, if you feel like venturing out for a night out, you’re never too far away from other, more lively neighborhoods.

Rankings: Weighted rankings were determined by scoring neighborhoods on a scale of 1-5 in the following categories, with 5 being the best.

Here's how Montlake scored:

Affordability: 💸 💸

Beauty & Parks: 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳

Nightlife & Entertainment: 🎉 🎉 🎉

Points of Interest: 📍 📍

Public Transit: 🚃 🚃

Safety: ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅

Schools: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Shopping & Restaurants: 🛍 🛍 🛍

Walkability: 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️

8. Madrona & Leschi

Perfect for young professionals looking to be close to downtown and experience a relaxed, chill area..

Madrona and Leschi neighborhoods are located east of downtown Seattle and on Lake Washington. They offer beautiful views, top-rated schools, and everything you might need right at your fingertips.

These sister neighborhoods are mostly seen as residential areas, but once you venture into them, you’ll find out the variety of bistros, cafés, and shops that it offers. The 34th Street gives these neighborhoods a solid four out of five in Shopping and Restaurants.

If you’re looking for waterfront sightseeing, head to the Leschi Park Marina. Or the Blue Water Bistro, where you’ll find delicious fresh local seafood while enjoying the idyllic views of the boats on the docks.

For those looking for a little more greenery in this waterfront area, you have Madrona Park. In it, you’ll find the Madrona Creek, which you can hike up when you need a break from city life. There’s also Leschi Park and Frink Park. Both are great places for a bike ride, family jog, or romantic walk.

Madrona and Leschi are two neighborhoods that sum up what living in Seattle is all about: great location, surrounded by nature, and tidy craftsman homes filling up the streets. Come here for the views; stay for the vibes.

Here's how Madrona & Leschi scored:

Affordability: 💸 💸 💸

Public Transit: 🚃 🚃 🚃

Safety: ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅

Schools: 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎 🍎

Shopping & Restaurants: 🛍 🛍 🛍 🛍

Walkability: 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️

7. Beacon Hill

Perfect for young professionals looking for a diverse community and a beer-to-coffee ratio that makes life well-balanced..

Beacon Hill is one of Seattle's oldest residential neighborhoods. It's also one of Seattle's most diverse communities. These multicultural residents have shaped the neighborhood into what it is now, a perfect blend of great variety cuisines, and a helpful and open-minded community.

Grab a delicious taco or quesadilla at El Quetzal or Baja Bistro, or eat authentic Asian food at Wicked Chopstix or Dim Sum House. Whatever you're craving, you'll easily find it in this neighborhood.

Beacon Hill Station is at the center of the commercial hub that is Beacon Hill. In it, you'll find the light rail that easily connects you to the rest of the city–15 minutes to the city center and less than half an hour to the airport.

Thanks to the light rail, bike paths, and hiking trails, Beacon Hill is one of the best neighborhoods if you're looking to have a car-free life–which will save you a lot of money that you can spend on delicious food from all over the world.

At Jefferson Park, you'll find plenty of activities to do. You'll get to play golf in its over 100 year old course. You'll also be able to learn about gardening and eat some delicious self-grown food from the community program of edible trees.

In Beacon Hill, you'll also find a social justice non-profit organization called El Centro de la Raza. A community-building organization focused on helping to empower people of all races and economic sectors. Feeling in a helping mood? Volunteer at this center and see how you can impact those around you.

For the bookworms out there, you'll be pleased to know that you have the Beacon Hill Branch of the Seattle Public Library just next to the station. However, if a library is not quite your cup of tea, you'll find plenty of quirky artisan cafés to enjoy a cup of joe with your favorite book.

In Beacon Avenue, you'll find plenty of things to do, from yoga studios to cool breweries, a bike shop, and an upscale pizza place for those lazy Saturday nights. Beacon Hill doesn't have as many things as other parts of Seattle. However, it does have everything you need for a tasty bite of the Seattle lifestyle.

Here's how Beacon Hill scored:

Affordability: 💸 💸 💸 💸

Beauty & Parks: 🌳 🌳 🌳

Public Transit: 🚃 🚃 🚃 🚃

Walkability: 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️ 🚶🏽‍♀️

6. West Seattle

Perfect for those looking to be next to seattle's favorite beach and have the best of the city's green space to explore..

West Seattle is truly a gem of this city. You'll get the best of the land, and the sea, with the rich history of Seattle sprinkled on top.

Located to the southwest of downtown and surrounded by water on three sides, West Seattle is truly a showcase of Seattle's best nature. The Greenbelt located on the eastern side of West Seattle is a great place to escape the city vibes and immerse yourself in a nature-filled state of mind. After all, West Seattle is the home of one-third of the city's green spaces and urban forests. Oh, and there's also the charming Chinese Garden for you to find some zen.

In this neighborhood, you'll also get to enjoy some of the rich history of Seattle. By Alki Point, you'll see where the Denny Party landed just 170 years ago. A reenactment of that famous landing is reenacted every year since 1950, during the week-long Seafair celebration. There's also the Log House museum for you to spend a Sunday learning more about the history of Seattle.

From Alki Point, you're just a stone's throw away from the most popular beach in Seattle: Alki Beach. Soak it all in with your family, date, or friends. Visit for a morning swim, an afternoon tanning session, or a summer bonfire night with friends.

West Seattle Junction is the commercial hub of the neighborhood. Inside there are casual eateries, coffee shops for days, and other funky shops for you to peruse.

The area's nightlife is mainly targeted to date nights or outing time with friends, so it's not really a place to be single and ready to mingle.

The laid-back residential vibe of West Seattle is the perfect setting for those looking to have some easy daily exposure to nature. Plus, thanks to the excellent accessibility to downtown, you'll enjoy much more vibrant city life with just a short drive or bike ride.

Here's how West Seattle scored:

Points of Interest: 📍 📍 📍 📍 📍

5. North Queen Anne

Perfect for young professionals who work downtown or college students who want to live in the most picturesque area of seattle..

North Queen Anne is where all of the pictures of Seattle's skyline are taken. This neighborhood is on a giant hill, so the views will change depending on how high your home will be. However, one thing is certain, with the number of things to do and the steep hills you'll find, you'll need your most active clothes, or a fast car to get you everywhere you want to be– a chance to get those legs as toned as you've always wanted!

North Queen Anne, also known as Upper Queen Anne or Simply Queen Anne, is slightly different from its sibling, Lower Queen Anne. Lower Queen Anne used to be part of downtown. This legacy still holds in its nightlife and more hustle and bustle vibes. Instead, in North Queen Anne, you get the best of the urban and the residential side of Seattle.

North Queen Anne has some of the best views of the city's landscape, and it also offers a supportive community vibe. Although its platonic front lawns and historic Victoria Townhomes give Queen Anne a bit of esteemed and luxurious air, in reality, it is a quaint and laid-back neighborhood.

In this neighborhood, you'll find everything from international college students at Seattle Pacific University to young professionals and couples to settled-down Seattle families.

In terms of entertainment, you'll be able to find things like the Rosebud Motel, a homage installation to the television show Schitt's Creek. There's also the How to Kill a Wolf, a top-rated Italian restaurant–we promise you, they don't serve wolves–and the Interbay Athletic Complex.

North Queen Anne gets a deserving four out of five in all of its entertainment categories and its Public Transit, Schools, and Safety. Definitely a great neighborhood to consider when moving to Seattle.

Here's how North Queen Anna scored:

Nightlife & Entertainment: 🎉 🎉 🎉 🎉

Points of Interest: 📍 📍 📍 📍

4. Wallingford & Greenlake

Perfect for active people looking to have an awesome place to jog, swim, bike, and go kayaking..

We've arrived at the top three on our list! Wallingford and Greenlake are two of the most desired areas in Seattle. Why? Because they have nature, a lake, beautiful homes, charming streets, and the right combination of city and small-town vibes to give you exactly what you're looking for.

These two neighborhoods have a balanced number of families, young professionals, hipsters, and retirees. This shows that you'll find whatever you're looking for right here.

Wallingford and Greenlake are the ideal places in Seattle for those into outdoor activities and looking to have an active lifestyle. Thanks to the Gas Works Park, Woodland Park, and Green Lake Park, you'll have all the areas to jog, swim, kayak, and get a lovely suntan.

Get yourself a great pair of sneakers to hike, and some swimsuits with your favorite fruit stamped all over because you'll need these essential pieces of gear in these neighborhoods. It will also be a good idea to get some cool shades and Premium Spotify so you can run for days and train for a marathon, a half, or get that toned body for your Tinder pic.

Although there are some interesting restaurants and microbreweries in these neighborhoods–that give it a four out of five in Nightlife and Entertainment–if you're looking for a wild night of dancing non-stop, you'll be better off at other neighborhoods or directly downtown. The good thing is it's only a 15-minute drive from downtown.

Another great thing about these two neighborhoods is that they have the highest score in Safety from our top three areas. There is always something great when you're planning to go for a nighttime run.

Whether you like to experience the hustle and bustle of the city or prefer the quiet and calmness of a small town in the middle of the forest, Wallingford and Greenlake offer you precisely what you're looking for. Little bonus, the Seattle Zoo is just next door, ideal for when friends and family come to visit!

Here's how Wallingford & Greenlake scored:

3. Capitol Hill

Perfect for the people that like to work hard and party harder..

Capitol Hill is the most colorful and inclusive neighborhood in Seattle. It's also the one with the most personality and most magical nightlife–this gives it a well-deserved joint spot on the third place.

Whether you're at Seattle University, a Seattle Central College student, or a young professional looking to live in the city's most vibrant and active side, Capitol Hill is calling your name.

However, despite having a perfect score in all entertainment categories and Walkability and Beauty and Park, it does have a two out of five in Affordability. It's no surprise that such a highly-rated neighborhood will have a steep price tag.

The area's Public Transit scores a four out of five, but thanks to the high walkability and limited parking space, not having a car is a real possibility in this neighborhood. Since Seattle in general is very environmentally friendly, not having a car might give you extra points with your Bumble date.

The Century Ballroom is one of Capitol Hill's shiny gems. On Wednesdays, Sundays, and most Saturdays, you'll hear vintage jazz music coming out of every club window. Not into jazz? How does salsa, bachata, or tango sound? Yeah, those are all available there too with dancing classes and all.

In Capitol Hill, you'll get a diversity of people you might not find somewhere else. There's the gay community, the tech guys, the straight people, young hipsters, and even the hippies. Cap Hill is the melting pot of Seattle.

In terms of food and drink, you'll find great restaurants and plenty of fantastic microbreweries to have a drink–or a few. There are also plenty of vegan options, and some say the best ice cream in town is found at Molly Moons.

Capitol Hill is the perfect example of a trendy and hipster neighborhood where hard work is still taking place. Come here for the vibes, and stay for the drinks, the food, the friends, and the indie films at the Egyptian theater.

Here's how Capitol Hill scored:

Nightlife & Entertainment: 🎉 🎉 🎉 🎉 🎉

Safety: ✅ ✅ ✅

Shopping & Restaurants: 🛍 🛍 🛍 🛍 🛍

2. Ballard & Fremont

Perfect for the bohemian crowd and artists that are looking for a quaint neighborhood close to downtown..

Top two, let's go! Ballard and Fremont are two neighborhoods that share some similarities and have different vibes, although they're right next to each other. However, they're both great places to call home and the dearest neighborhoods in Seattle.

Ballard's a seafront neighborhood with a rich Scandinavian history that has oozed into the culture. On the other hand, Fremont is by the canal and has much more artsy and bohemian vibes. However, they do share some demographic stats. For example, the average age in both is similar. Ballard's is 34, and Fremont's is 32. Both are filled with young professionals and students that give these neighborhoods their contagious vibrant energy.

Fremont is an excellent space for those that love funky art. Have you ever lived in a neighborhood with a troll, a skyrocket, a giant Lenin–a very controversial statue–and a couple of dinosaurs? Fremont has huge statues of all of these things and plenty more throughout the neighborhood.

For those that enjoy a park by the shore, you'll be lucky enough to have three of those throughout Ballard and Fremont. There's the Golden Gardens Park, the Ballard Locks, and the Fremont Canal Park.

For Affordability, these two places get an incredible four out of five. This is mainly because you'll find something for every budget, and since Ballard is a bit far from downtown, it doesn't have the expensive price tag that Queen Anne does.

All entertainment categories get a perfect score thanks to the many hip pubs, eclectic shops, little boutiques, and great restaurants in these neighborhoods. Fremont and Ballard have you covered whether you're looking for a fancy photo frame, a cool barbershop, or a plant shop with so many plants you think it's just a garden.

Ballard is home to the most awarded brewery in the whole state of Washington, Reuben's Brew. Sit down and enjoy a pint of your new favorite IPA.

Whether you want to live by one of the most pristine beaches in Seattle, a famous brewery, or captivating artwork for days, Ballard and Fremont are worth considering. The bohemian vibes, the incredible nature, and the broad offering of things to do will make boredom a thing of the past.

Here's how Ballard & Fremont scored:

1. Mount Baker & Columbia City

Perfect for young professionals that enjoy a quiet night but want to experience everything seattle has to offer..

We've finally reached the top of the top. These are our number one choices when it comes to living in Seattle. Mount Baker and Columbia City are two neighborhoods with the offering, location, and community deserving of our impressive first place.

Located just southeast of downtown, by Lake Washington, and less than a 15-minutes drive from King County International Airport, you know that you've scored a winning location.

Rainier Avenue is the central hub in both neighborhoods. In it, you'll find popular places like Geraldine's Counter, a go-to spot for french toast and other comfort food in Seattle. Pho Bac restaurant for some delicious Vietnamese food. Emerald City for some old-school fish and chips and plenty of other places for you to venture and find your new favorite food.

Like any neighborhood in Seattle, you'll find some fantastic coffee roasters to get the perfect kick for a busy day or the ideal space to get in the zone for your work projects.

The community in these two neighborhoods is pretty tight and likes to have seasonal get-togethers, potlucks, parties, and yard sales. If you like the winter holidays, you'll be pleased to know that their Christmas extravaganza is unmissable.

Having Lake Washington right on your doorstep is a great way to seize all the waterfront activities and views that Seattle has to offer.

Without a ridiculously expensive price tag, and with charming Olmsted-designed greenways, pristine beaches, a light rail station, and easy access to downtown, these two neighborhoods are worth considering when thinking of Seattle. Although they don't boast a nightlife like Capitol Hill or other areas, their restaurants, taprooms, and Community Club will keep you entertained all day and all night long.

Here's how Mount Baker & Columbia City scored:

What You Need to Know Before Moving to Seattle

Time to look at the numbers of our top neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington.

Let's look at the lower numbers first. Point of Interest, Affordability, Public Transit, and Nightlife and Entertainment all scored an average of below four out of five. This is because most of the best places to live in Seattle aren't really in the city center and, as such, miss out on the vibrant nightlife or the most exciting things to do.

Now, let's look at the highlights. Beauty and parks achieved the highest average with 4.8. After all, a city with endless mountains, parks, lakes, and canals, is a city that will have a beautiful backdrop. Schools as well as Shopping and Restaurants also got fantastic scores at 4.3 and 4.4. If you're planning to grow your family soon, Seattle is a great place to be.

Seattle averaged at 39.4/50 on our best neighborhoods to live in the USA ranking.

Despite having a reputation for having polite but distant friendly Seattleites–the well-known Seattle Freeze–and a tad bit of crime, in Seattle, you'll become an important part of a friendly and helpful community once you get to know your neighbors.

If you ever wanted to live in a place with hip coffee shops, a thriving job market, and some of the best nature and outdoor activities right at your doorstep, then Seattle could be your next chapter.

Ready to find your next home?

Move-in ready homes and a built-in community so you can feel at home, together — wherever you are.

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• Travel Destinations

30 Hidden Gems In Seattle

Published: September 21, 2024

by Sile Stockwell

Seattle, known for its iconic Space Needle and bustling Pike Place Market, has much more to offer than meets the eye. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden gems waiting to be explored. From secret gardens to quirky museums, this city brims with surprises. Imagine stumbling upon a serene waterfall tucked away in a city park or discovering a cozy bookstore that feels like a portal to another world. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these lesser-known spots provide a fresh perspective on the Emerald City. Ready to uncover Seattle's best-kept secrets? Let's dive into the city's hidden treasures.

Discover Seattle's Hidden Gems

Seattle, known for its iconic Space Needle and bustling Pike Place Market, has many lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. These hidden gems offer unique experiences, from serene parks to quirky museums. Let's dive into some of Seattle's best-kept secrets.

Unique Museums and Galleries

Seattle's art and history scene extends beyond the well-known museums. Here are some offbeat spots worth visiting.

Frye Art Museum : This free museum showcases a mix of contemporary and classical art, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) : While not entirely hidden, MoPOP's unique exhibits on music, sci-fi, and pop culture make it a must-visit.

Wing Luke Museum : Dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience, this museum offers insightful exhibits and walking tours of Seattle's Chinatown-International District.

Serene Parks and Gardens

Escape the urban jungle and find tranquility in these lesser-known green spaces.

Kubota Garden : A stunning Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and meticulously maintained landscapes.

Washington Park Arboretum : Wander through this expansive park featuring a diverse collection of plants and trees.

Parsons Gardens : A small, hidden gem in Queen Anne, perfect for a quiet stroll or a peaceful moment.

Quirky and Fun Attractions

Seattle's quirky side shines through in these unique attractions.

Gum Wall : Located in Post Alley near Pike Place Market, this colorful, sticky landmark is both bizarre and fascinating.

Fremont Troll : An 18-foot-tall troll sculpture lurking under the Aurora Bridge, perfect for a quirky photo op.

Hat n' Boots : A giant cowboy hat and pair of boots in Oxbow Park, remnants of a 1950s gas station.

Offbeat Eateries and Cafes

Seattle's food scene is diverse and delicious. Check out these hidden culinary gems.

The Pink Door : An unmarked door in Post Alley leads to this Italian restaurant with a charming ambiance and live entertainment.

The Crumpet Shop : A cozy spot near Pike Place Market serving freshly made crumpets with various toppings.

Pie Bar : A bar dedicated to pies, offering both sweet and savory options along with cocktails.

Hidden Historical Sites

Discover Seattle's rich history through these lesser-known sites.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park : Learn about Seattle's role in the Klondike Gold Rush through interactive exhibits.

Smith Tower : Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi , this historic skyscraper offers panoramic views and a speakeasy-style bar.

Georgetown Steam Plant : A fascinating piece of industrial history, this plant offers tours showcasing early 20th-century steam technology.

Secret Shopping Spots

Find unique treasures and support local businesses at these hidden shopping destinations.

Fremont Sunday Market : An eclectic mix of vendors selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts.

Ballard Avenue : A charming street lined with boutique shops, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind items.

Elliott Bay Book Company : A beloved independent bookstore with a vast selection and cozy reading nooks.

Unusual Outdoor Adventures

For those seeking adventure, Seattle offers some unexpected outdoor activities.

Gas Works Park : Explore the remnants of a former gasification plant while enjoying stunning views of Lake Union.

Discovery Park : Seattle's largest green space, offering miles of trails, beaches, and breathtaking views of Puget Sound.

Seward Park : A peninsula with old-growth forest, walking trails, and a beautiful lakeside setting.

Hidden Nightlife Spots

Experience Seattle's vibrant nightlife at these lesser-known venues.

The Hideout : A speakeasy-style bar with an extensive cocktail menu and rotating art exhibits.

The Crocodile : A historic music venue that has hosted legendary bands and continues to showcase up-and-coming artists.

Canon : A cozy bar with an impressive selection of spirits and creative cocktails.

Lesser-Known Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Seattle's diverse culture through these unique experiences.

Seattle Pinball Museum : Play vintage pinball machines while learning about the history of this classic game.

Chihuly Garden and Glass : While not entirely hidden, this exhibit of Dale Chihuly's glass art is a mesmerizing experience.

Seattle Underground Tour : Discover the hidden underground pathways and learn about Seattle's early history.

Secret Spots for Relaxation

Find peace and quiet in these secluded spots around the city.

Volunteer Park Conservatory : A Victorian-style greenhouse with exotic plants and a tranquil atmosphere.

Golden Gardens Park : A beautiful beach park with stunning sunset views and picnic areas.

Kerry Park : A small park offering one of the best views of the Seattle skyline, perfect for a quiet moment or a photo op.

Discover Seattle's Best-Kept Secrets

Seattle offers more than just the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Hidden gems like the Fremont Troll , Kubota Garden , and Gas Works Park provide unique experiences. Ballard Locks and Golden Gardens Park showcase the city's natural beauty. For art lovers, the Olympic Sculpture Park and Chihuly Garden and Glass are must-visits. Foodies will enjoy the International District and Capitol Hill for diverse culinary delights.

Exploring these lesser-known spots will give you a deeper appreciation of Seattle's rich culture and history. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these hidden treasures offer something new and exciting. So next time you're in Seattle, venture off the beaten path and uncover the city's best-kept secrets. Your adventure awaits in the Emerald City!

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Seattle Met

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Dining Guides by Neighborhood

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Where to eat if you’re headed to the stadiums.

03/28/2024 By Allecia Vermillion

Neighborhood Dining Guide

Where to Eat in Seattle's Georgetown Neighborhood

From lunch counters to layer cakes.

03/27/2024 By Seattle Met Staff

Seattle Dining

Pike Place Market Restaurants: A Great Big Guide

From quick lunches to special occasion dinners. (With stops for crumpets and hombow in between.)

08/01/2023 By Allecia Vermillion and Seattle Met Staff

Eastside Dining Guide

The Best Restaurants on Mercer Island

From burgers to forbidden duck.

06/30/2023 By Allecia Vermillion and Seattle Met Staff

The Best Restaurants in Kirkland

New and old. Upscale and casual. Lake views and mall views.

The Best Restaurants in Bellevue

The haunts. The holes in the wall. The high-rises.

The Best Restaurants in Redmond

From Indian pizza to Korean barbecue.

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Pre-game your Climate Pledge Arena hockey outing with German beer or (why not?) geoduck chowder.

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Capitol Hill Neighborhood Guide

The Best Restaurants on Capitol Hill

An entire city’s worth of great food, crammed into one lively (slightly sprawling) area.

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Wine Adjacent

A bevy of brunches; even more seasonal menus.

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WALLINGFORD NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

Where to Eat in Wallingford

This part of town doesn’t get nearly enough credit for all its great food.

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Central District Neighborhood Guide

Where to Eat (and Drink) in the Central District

A variety that reflects the neighborhood’s history.

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West Seattle Neighborhood Guide

The Best Restaurants in West Seattle

Buzzy newcomers, marvelous classics, tons of pizza—this part of town eats absurdly well.

07/29/2019 By Allecia Vermillion and Seattle Met Staff Edited by Anna Coumou

Latest Issue

Seattle's Best Bars

• Food & Drink
• 10 new Seattle-area bars to know about

Lately, all the Seattle bar buzz has centered on a stretch of Greenwood Avenue North in Phinney Ridge. Last week, Bon Appétit magazine lauded the creative Khmer-inspired cocktails at Sophon , anointing that Cambodian restaurant as one of the 20 best debuts in the country.

And that’s not even the most popular bar along this stretch.

Two blocks north of Sophon sits a 240-seat bar that has been packed every sunny weekend this summer. It often looks like a block party, with hundreds of people squeezed into the patio area and inside the two-story bar.

More details below on that hot spot, along with nine other new bars and tasting rooms around Seattle and the Eastside.

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Phinney Station

7418 Greenwood Ave. N., Seattle (Phinney Ridge); 206-402-5339, phinneystation.com

One of the largest bar openings in North Seattle in recent years, Phinney Station can hold 150 inside and 90 more in its front yard. It’s an open-wall bar with an indoor seating area that blends into the covered patio area. A big hit on sunny days, the bar plans to keep the party going during the dreary, damp seasons with four heaters and four firepit tables. The bar plans to set up a tent out front come winter.

The bar has 18 taps of beers, ciders and slushies. Phinney Station serves Korean-Mexican fusion tacos out of a trailer, and management plans to bring in two more food trucks to give patrons more food options soon.

Phinney Station is family-friendly and allows dogs in the patio area.

Chandelier Lounge

416 Broadway E., Seattle (Capitol Hill); 206-420-2014, chandelierloungeseattle.com

Some of the best fries in the city are served at this unassuming bar near the Capitol Hill light rail station. Potatoes get brined in vinegar and then fried twice in beef fat to give these golden fries a distinctive tang and savory quality. Even white-cloth bistros don’t afford their fries this much attention. On the menu, to go with a side of fries: stellar gourmet sandwiches, reasonably priced from $14 to $17, including a pork belly porchetta and a jambon beurre stuffed with housemade ham.

Little Thing Wine

3003 Beacon Ave. S., Seattle (Beacon Hill);  littlething.wine

The new kid on Beacon Hill’s hip restaurant row is Little Thing, a 12-seat wine bar that has been a hit in the neighborhood. It helps that Little Thing is adjacent to three big-name restaurants (Homer, Bar del Corso and familyfriend ), so the bar gets plenty of foot traffic from patrons who drop in for a glass while they wait for dinner reservations. The bar has sidewalk-cafe-style seating out front and a backyard to handle large crowds. It’s a modest but well-curated list (about 18 different bottles) of local and Old World boutique wines. Up to seven wine-by-the-glass options are available, including whites from the acclaimed Kelley Fox Wines in Willamette Valley.

5411 Ballard Ave. N.W., Seattle (Ballard); 206-420-2277, slimgoodyseattle.com

Ballard gets another sports bar just in time for Seahawks , Kraken and Husky football seasons. With 18 televisions, Slim Goody can show multiple games with the volume on in different corners of the bar. There are also two heated patios and games to play, like foosball and cornhole. There are wings and fish and chips along with rotating regional specials, like a Chicago-style hot dog that Slim Goody will roll out when Seattle plays teams from the Windy City.

Tilda’s Lounge

5239 Ballard Ave. N.W., Seattle (Ballard); instagram.com/tildaslounge

A couple of blocks southeast of that sports bar sits this hidden nook in the back of Lupe’s Situ Tacos , a Lebanese-Mexican fusion taqueria. Tilda’s Lounge offers plenty of agave drinks, slushies and cervezas to wash down those deep-fried butter beef tacos. There are also vegan tacos with harissa cauliflower and a vegetarian version with garlic mashed potatoes.

1988 Cocktail Lounge

6009 12 th Ave. S., Seattle (Georgetown); 206-829-9057, instagram.com/1988.lounge

This Georgetown bar does Southeast Asian riffs on classic cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned with a coconut-washed whiskey mixed with pandan-flavored simple syrup and bitters. It also composes many Vietnamese-inspired cocktails such as The Zenith, which is a vodka drink with pho-spice simple syrup, ginger, basil and lime.

500 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue; kingleroyseattle.com

Seattle’s King Leroy expands across the bridge to Bellevue’s Lincoln Square with a 30-seat bar and a menu that looks cribbed from the hipster playbook. There’s Rainier, Miller High Life ponies and, for cocktails, a Portland favorite: the old-school Grasshopper. The food at King Leroy — chicken sammies, burgers and a hot dog fancied up with caviar — comes from the neighboring Great State Burger, since both share space.

Dossier Wine Collective

15029 Redmond-Woodinville Road N.E. #300, Woodinville;  dossierwine.com/woodinville-tasting-room

Dossier is known more for its celebrity ties, as former Seahawks receiver Sidney Rice teamed up with investor Tim Lenihan to open this Walla Walla wine company in 2021. But the brand has serious cred. The duo, along with winemaker Billo Naravane, have put together a respected wine portfolio that’s the envy of many in the industry. Now, at Dossier’s new Woodinville digs, Eastsiders can see (or taste) what all the fuss is about. Its stellar rosé is a bargain at $7 a glass. Try its critically acclaimed Columbia Valley cabernet or its Bordeaux-style red, called Index. No food in-house, but you can order dinner at Von’s next door.

Kinhaven Winery

14463 Redmond-Woodinville Road N.E., Woodinville; 425-892-0239, kinhavenwinery.com

South of Dossier is Kinhaven, a Walla Walla-based winery that specializes in Bordeaux reds. The tasting room also features blanc de blancs as well as a rosé made from cabernet sauvignon. The tasting room has 24 seats indoors and can fit a dozen more in the patio area.

Chi Chi Bellevue

3720 Factoria Blvd. S.E., Suite F, Bellevue; 425-590-9517, instagram.com/chichi.bellevue

This is technically a restaurant, but Chi Chi caters to the party set with beer pong tournaments and other drinking games , set to a blaring soundtrack of K-pop and hip-hop. Located in Factoria Village, Chi Chi is 21-and-older-only on Fridays and Saturdays, though it has a bar vibe on other days, too, with half-off pricing on all alcoholic drinks from Sunday through Wednesday from 5 to 9 p.m. For food, the 200-seat bar does Korean fried chicken and other beer noshes.

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The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.