Fun Things to Do on Weekends in Seattle
In Seattle, every weekend offers a new opportunity to explore, unwind, and indulge in a unique blend of urban and natural beauty. This vibrant Pacific Northwest city, renowned for its iconic skyline, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
From meandering through world-class museums and art galleries to embarking on scenic hikes with breathtaking views, each weekend in Seattle unfolds like a mini-vacation. If you’re looking for some exciting things to do on weekends in Seattle, here are some fun ideas.
Pike Place Market and Waterfront
One of the must-visit spots for weekend explorers in Seattle is the historic Pike Place Market. This bustling marketplace, brimming with a rich tapestry of vendors, provides a sensory feast for all who tread its vibrant paths.
Here, you can sample an array of delectable foods, from freshly caught fish to handmade pastries and an assortment of artisanal crafts. Each stall and shop in Pike Place Market tells a different story, adding to the market’s eclectic charm.
Space Needle and Seattle Center
Every visit to Seattle is complete with a trip to the city’s architectural marvel, the Space Needle. Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Seattle Center, the Space Needle is an iconic symbol of the city’s innovative spirit. This towering structure, reaching a height of over 600 feet, offers an unmatched experience to weekend explorers.
Take a thrilling 43-second ride up the elevator to the Space Needle’s observation deck. Here, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the glittering Seattle skyline, shimmering waters, and distant mountain ranges.
For those looking for a memorable weekend activity in Seattle, the Space Needle is a must-visit spot. The architectural brilliance, the exhilarating ascent, and the awe-inspiring views from the top promise a captivating experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
Art enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in Seattle should take advantage of the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. This remarkable destination offers a world of extraordinary beauty crafted from glass. Conceived by Dale Chihuly, a globally celebrated glass artist hailing from Washington State, the museum showcases his innovative work in a series of eight galleries.
Each exhibit is a distinct testament to Chihuly’s creative genius, with striking shapes and vibrant colors elegantly melding together to form magnificent glass structures. The museum’s crowning glory, however, is the stunning Glasshouse.
This monumental 40-foot-tall structure houses a vibrant, 100-foot-long sculpture suspended from the ceiling. The interplay of light and glass creates an awe-inspiring spectacle that leaves visitors spellbound.
Hike at Discovery Park
For those with a penchant for nature and outdoor activities, Discovery Park offers an urban oasis amidst Seattle’s bustling city life. Covering over 500 acres, this park is the city’s most significant green space, characterized by many landscapes, from tranquil meadows and dense forests to steep sea cliffs.
Boasting 11.81 miles of walking trails, Discovery Park is a hiker’s paradise. The trails meander through a diverse environment, offering glimpses of the park’s rich flora, from towering evergreens and vibrant wildflowers to various ferns and fungi.
Each trail provides its unique perspective, whether it’s the serenity of the forest, the expansive views of Puget Sound, or the dramatic descent to the rugged beach.
For outdoor enthusiasts looking to make the most of their weekends in Seattle, Discovery Park presents a rich tapestry of natural beauty waiting to be explored.
Visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Pop culture fans looking for a unique weekend experience in Seattle should make a beeline for the Museum of Pop Culture, fondly known as MoPOP. This avant-garde museum, with its futuristic architecture, is a fitting tribute to contemporary popular culture. It houses an array of interactive exhibits and diverse collections that meticulously document pop culture’s evolution, influences, and impact.
The museum’s exhibits range from music and cinema to science fiction and video games, offering something to cater to every pop culture enthusiast. For instance, the Music + Sci-fi + Pop Culture exhibit takes you on an immersive journey through the world of music, featuring iconic memorabilia, including legendary guitars and stage costumes.
The Fantasy: World of Myth and Magic exhibit transports visitors to mythical realms, showcasing artifacts from beloved fantasy novels and films. MoPOP isn’t just a place to observe; it’s an arena of interaction. You can try playing an instrument in the Sound Lab or step into a horror film in the Scared to Death exhibit.
Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
For a refreshing escape from the city, consider embarking on a scenic ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. This 35-minute journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Pacific Northwest, with panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, the majestic Olympic Mountains, and the serene Puget Sound.
As your ferry glides over the tranquil waters, remember to keep an eye out for playful seals and soaring eagles that often grace these waters. Upon reaching Bainbridge Island, a world of charming attractions awaits. You can explore the island’s quaint downtown area, abundant with unique shops, art galleries, and delectable eateries.
For nature enthusiasts, the Bloedel Reserve, a spectacular 150-acre forest garden, offers tranquil walking trails flanked by glorious flora and fauna. The island is also home to seven wineries, making it a haven for wine lovers.
Stroll in the Seattle Waterfront Park
The Seattle Waterfront Park is a perfect destination for those who enjoy strolls and breathtaking views. Nestled along the serene Elliott Bay, the park offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Numerous walking paths meander through the park, inviting visitors to wander amidst nature’s beauty at their own pace.
Each path promises a unique vista – the sparkling waters of Elliott Bay, the towering skyline of Seattle, or the majestic Olympic Mountains in the distance. The park is brimming with recreational activities, catering to visitors of all ages.
From picnicking in the lush green spaces to flying kites under the vast open sky, the possibilities for fun and relaxation are endless. Kids will delight in the playground areas, while adults may prefer to sit back and watch the array of boats sail across the bay.
Visit the Seattle Aquarium
Sea enthusiasts and families looking for an educational and enjoyable outing should consider visiting the Seattle Aquarium. Situated on Pier 59, the aquarium is a fascinating window into the diverse and vibrant marine life of the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
The Seattle Aquarium is home to a wide array of exhibits showcasing a plethora of marine species. From colorful tropical fish to playful sea otters, each show provides an immersive, up-close experience with sea life.
One of the crowd favorites is the Window on Washington Waters exhibit, which replicates the coastal waters of Washington and is home to over 800 fish and invertebrates. The Underwater Dome, an undersea room with 360-degree views, is another mesmerizing attraction, giving visitors a diver’s-eye view of fish swimming overhead.
But the aquarium is more than just a visual treat; it’s an educational journey. Interactive exhibits like the Marine Mammal Exhibit or the Tidal Touch Zone allow visitors, especially children, to learn about marine life in an engaging and hands-on way.
Enjoy a Mariners Baseball Game at T-Mobile Park
For sports enthusiasts, there’s no better way to spend a weekend than catching a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park. As you step through the gates, you’ll be swept up in the electrifying atmosphere permeating every corner of this iconic stadium.
From the roar of the enthusiastic crowds to the sight of the perfectly manicured field, every element contributes to the heart-pounding excitement of a live baseball game. T-Mobile Park is renowned for its world-class athletic performances and the comprehensive sports entertainment it offers.
Relax at Alki Beach
When spending a relaxing weekend in Seattle, a day at Alki Beach is hard to beat. Stretching along the northern edge of West Seattle, Alki Beach boasts sandy shores that are a rarity in the region. The glistening Puget Sound waters perfectly complement the beach’s expansive sandy coastline, creating a stunning canvas that never fails to mesmerize visitors.
Alki Beach offers a plethora of outdoor activities for all ages. Whether you prefer playing beach volleyball, cycling along the waterfront, or building sandcastles with the kids, there’s something for everyone.
The beach’s flat, paved pathway, stretching over two miles, is a dream for joggers, rollerbladers, and cyclists alike. Not to mention, watersports enthusiasts can take to the calm waters for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Conclusion: Things to Do on Weekends in Seattle
Seattle offers a wealth of recreational opportunities catering to various interests. Whether you’re a nature lover looking for a serene getaway, an avid sports fan eager to soak in the thrilling atmosphere of a baseball game, a family seeking an educational and entertaining outing, or a beach enthusiast wanting to engage in fun outdoor activities, Seattle has something for everyone.
From the vibrant and diverse marine life at the Seattle Aquarium, the heart-pounding excitement of a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park, the relaxing ambiance of Alki Beach, to the tranquil beauty of the Seattle Waterfront Park, the city promises an enriching and memorable experience.
