11 Best Things to Do in Seattle
What is Seattle Most Famous For?
There is no shortage of best things to do in Seattle, from the thriving culinary scene to its iconic landmarks. The metropolis of Seattle is known as the Emerald City because of its famous, lush evergreen forests. Famously recognized as the home to the first Starbucks, Seattle is sure to be a hit with coffee aficionados. Sat on Puget Sound and opposite the Olympic Mountains, Seattle is also a haven for nature lovers.
With a lively independent music scene and countless craft cocktail bars, a trip to Seattle will be packed day and night. To help make life a bit easier for you, we’ve put together a list.
What are the best things to do in Seattle?
1. Space Needle
The landmark of the Pacific Northwest
Ideal para: Foto
It’s safe to say that, when you think of Seattle, you probably picture the Space Needle. Recently renovated with a revolving glass floor, the Needle is now even more architecturally impressive, with visitors able to experience 360-degree views and look 520 feet downwards through glass panels.
You can find a bench and take a picture of the glorious Seattle skyline, from an incredible 184 metres high. The gorgeous city vistas are just as spectacular at night as they are in the day. Don’t forget to stop by the restaurant to combine those views with the finest of Seattle dining. Leia mais
Localização: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Abre: Sunday–Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm (Mondays and Thursdays until 8.30 pm), Friday from 9 am to 9.30 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 11 pm
Telefone: +1 206-905-2129
Space Needle
2. Seattle Waterfront
A collection of lively piers
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
Containing 20 piers, the Seattle Waterfront is a tourist hotspot and its attractions and views across Elliott Bay to the Olympic Mountains make visiting a must. There are plenty of souvenir shops here, which are perfect for finding something for the home or as gifts. The walk from Pike Place Market towards the Olympic Sculpture Park takes you past Seattle’s Great Wheel, which has nice views of the city, depending on the weather.
If your interest lies in exploring more of Elliott Bay, there is a harbour cruise from Pier 55 that offers a ride along the bay, with a guide adding details about the maritime history of Seattle. You might even glimpse a whale. Leia mais
Seattle Waterfront
3. Pike Place Market
The retail soul of Seattle
Ideal para: História, Foto, Alimentação, Econômico
A large historic shopping complex, Pike Place Market boasts delicious seafood and is home to Seattle’s original farmers’ market. It’s worth picking up a coffee on your way at the world’s first Starbucks and snapping a picture of the vintage storefront.
Throughout the market itself you’ll find seafood galore, with stalls dedicated to the freshest clams, salmon and crab. Stalls selling artisan food and handcrafted jewellery and wares usually open around mid-morning, and you’ll be sure to find quirky giftshops and cosy bookstores. If you’re not up for a little seafood in the morning, grab a buttery almond croissant from Le Panier or delicious carrot napa tofu dumplings from the Seattle Dumpling Co. Leia mais
Localização: 85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
Telefone: +1 206-682-7453
Pike Place Market
4. Olympic Sculpture Park
Contemporary outdoor art gallery
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico
Truly a must-do in the Emerald City, the Seattle Art Museum’s Olympic Sculpture Park holds impressive artworks by contemporary A-list artists such as Alexander Calder and Louise Bourgeois. The sculptures stand in 9 acres of parkland adjacent to the Puget Sound with the Space Needle and the Olympic Mountains as a spectacular backdrop.
A special nod goes to Jaume Plensa’s mesmerising Echo, which is a 46-foot-high head that gazes towards the Olympic Mountains. No matter the weather, the park should be visited, especially since it’s free. Leia mais
Localização: 2901 Western Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121, USA
Abre: From 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
Telefone: +1 206-654-3100
Olympic Sculpture Park
5. Museum of Pop Culture
Where pop culture exhibits are popping
Ideal para: História, Foto
The Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP, is a museum experience quite different to most others. It looks at the different times when risk-taking among society has resulted in new trends and pop culture as we know it today. The museum is very much interactive and depends on its visitors to engage with the exhibits and collections.
Starting from the rock ‘n’ roll movement, it looks at pivotal pop culture icons such as Jimi Hendrix, who is a Seattle native, the Marvel Universe and game revolutions amongst many others. It’s definitely a place that makes you think about what drives our world today. Leia mais
Localização: 325 5th Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Abre: Thursday–Tuesday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Wednesday)
Telefone: +1 206-770-2700
Museum of Pop Culture
6. Fremont Troll
An architectural nod to Norwegian folklore
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
The Fremont Troll is an icon of Seattle that’s linked to Norway. The unique sculpture lies under the George Washington Memorial Bridge and finds its roots in the Norwegian folklore that depicts a troll living under a bridge. The sculpture is a unique landmark in the city as it’s located in an unusual spot just off the freeway.
The Troll lives in the self-proclaimed Center of the Universe, Fremont. This quirky, counter-cultural area houses some of the best coffee shops in Seattle; Fremont Coffee Company and Milstead & Co. are particular favourites. The Sunday farmers’ market stretches to Ballard and is a very pleasant way to spend your afternoon once you’ve finished checking out this very photogenic troll. Leia mais
Localização: Troll Ave North, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
Fremont Troll
7. Chihuly Garden and Glass
A showcase of the colourful works of Dale Chihuly
Ideal para: História, Foto
On one of Seattle’s rainy days, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a wonderful source of colour and cheer. A fascinating exhibition of local glass sculptor Dave Chihuly, the venue showcases his best work. Like something out of a dream, the gardens are filled with vibrant and striking colours, and each plant was carefully chosen to perfectly complement the art.
A mixture of indoor and outdoor exhibits, each display is unique and memorable in its own way. The 8 galleries show the artist’s avant-garde approach to glasswork, while the true showstopper is the 40-foot-tall fiery sculpture inside the Glasshouse. The gift shop should not be missed either should you want a replica of Chihuly’s work for yourself. Leia mais
Localização: 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Abre: Sunday–Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm and Friday–Saturday from 9.30 am to 9.30 pm
Telefone: +1 206-753-4940
Chihuly Garden and Glass
8. Ballard
The picturesque home of a former Scandinavian fishing community
Ideal para: História, Foto, Econômico
The charming neighbourhood of Ballard is one of the most interesting parts of Seattle. Norwegians chose to settle here because of its salmon fishing opportunities, and the Nordic influence in the area can still be strongly felt today. The historic Ballard Avenue houses a stream of boutiques, cafes and nightlife spots. Ballard Coffee Works’ craft espresso blends are worth a stop.
To experience what initially attracted the Nordics years ago, head over to the Ballard Locks. During salmon season, you can watch the fish jumping out of the canal, and you may even be able to see salmon battling the current if you look towards the ladders. Nearby, Golden Gardens Park offers a stunning sunset from its waterfront.
Ballard
9. Lake Union
A revitalising freshwater lake
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Aventura
Lake Union is an urban oasis that attracts people from around the city who need a quick escape. Seattle in summer is a marvellous sight, and it’s made all the better by this sparkling, giant lake in the middle of the city. This freshwater lake can be explored by hiring an electric boat, or kayak if you’re more adventurous.
While soaking up the sunshine, admire Seattle’s breath-taking skyline. Don’t miss a visit to Gas Works Park, an old gasification plant that’s been repurposed into a steampunk-style playground. For a memorable occasion, you can even book a seaplane tour, which takes you around the city and offers stunning views of Seattle’s scenery.
Lake Union
10. Woodland Park
A zoological playground in the park
Ideal para: Famílias, Foto, Econômico, Aventura
Seattle has countless beautiful parks to offer, and Woodland Park can easily make the top 5. Woodland is a magical zoological garden that is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife. One side of the park features a skate park, BBQ sites and lovely open areas that are perfect for games of football or other sports in the summer.
The other side of Woodland Park houses over 800 animals, including some of the world’s most endangered species. From African lions and one-horned rhinos to Malayan tapirs and Saki monkeys, they’re all waiting to meet you. Families will love the Zoomazium, an indoor playground of interactive exhibits and sensory experiences. Leia mais
Localização: 1000 N. 50th Street, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
Abre: Park: daily from 4 am to 11.30 pm. Zoo: September–April: daily from 9.30 am to 4 pm, May–September: daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm
Telefone: Park: +1 206-684-4075. Zoo: +1 206-548-2500
Woodland Park
11. Belltown
Home of the iconic Seattle dog
Ideal para: Vida noturna
Come to Belltown and you’ll find young crowds heading toward the hottest clubs and bars. This lively neighbourhood has hosted many noteworthy musicians and is still the home of the city’s indie music scene. Independent music venue The Crocodile has seen bands like Nirvana, R.E.M. and Cheap Trick grace its stage.
Though filled with high-rise condos, affordable accommodations in this area attract backpackers and budget travellers. Look out for street vendors selling their wares outside the bars and try a legendary Seattle dog. This famous variation on a typical American hot dog adds fried onions and cream cheese, which will sound especially enticing after a night of bar-hopping.
Belltown
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