10 TOP RATED ENTERTAINMENT ATTRACTIONS IN SEATTLE

APR 2022
30
10 TOP RATED ENTERTAINMENT ATTRACTIONS IN SEATTLE

Not the complete and comprehensive list of everything there is to do in Seattle, but a great start!


Planning a tour of Seattle’s top rated attractions?


Start right here, with our list of the top 10 attractions and things to do in Seattle.

The 10 most popular Seattle attractions

  • Discovery Park

  • The Space Needle

  • The Seattle Center (and its Monorail)

  • Pacific Science Center

  • Pike Place Market

  • Pioneer Square Historic District

  • The Central Library of the Seattle Public Library

  • Seattle Aquarium

  • Woodland Park Zoo

  • Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is a top Seattle attraction, especially for those with active lifestyles.

Image credit: seattle.gov

Located on the shores of Puget Sound, Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle. With spectacular views of Mt. Rainier and Olympic National Park, it is easily one of the best places to explore in Seattle. 


A veritable haven of lush green spaces, natural shorelines and walking trails, the Park offers you the chance to take part in a number of activities - from enjoying a relaxing siesta under the trees to going on a hike and even spending time at the beach.


Is Discovery Park Seattle free? Yes, it is free. However you can consider leaving a donation at the Cultural Center.


A little more on the trails. The Park has over 12 miles of trails, including the Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop, the South Beach and Hidden Valley Loop, the North Beach and Hidden Valley Loop, and the Birds Nest and Lookout Beach.


Any historical and cultural attractions in the Park? Yes. The Park was home to Fort Lawton, a World War II era military installation. Many of the military buildings are still standing.

It’s also home to the Daybreak Star Cultural Center, dedicated to Native American culture. 


Website: Visit its webpage on the City website


Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199


Phone (Visitor Center): (206) 386-4236

The Space Needle

The Space Needle is a Seattle landmark and a top city attraction.

Image by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash.

Built as a landmark - a ‘dominant central structure’ - for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle has since become a cultural landmark of our city.


Reach the observation level via a 43 second elevator ride, see Edward Carlson’s original ‘doodle’ (check below), and catch stunning views from the top including the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay.


And if you’re in the market for an even more exclusive experience, have a shot at the Loupe Lounge!


Why do they call it the Space Needle? Edward Carlson, the chief organizer of the 1962 World’s Fair, was inspired by a broadcast tower with a restaurant that he saw in Germany. He planned a similar structure for Seattle (he doodled it on a napkin) and called it the Space Needle.


3 facts about the Space Needle. The Needle itself is 605 feet tall. The Loupe Lounge, the world’s only rotating glass floor, is 500 feet above ground. The Needle was officially designated as a landmark in 1999.


How much is the Space Needle? For ticket prices and other booking information, visit their tickets portal.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 905-2100

The Seattle Center (and its Monorail)

article-image-1

The Monorail at the Museum of Pop Culture. Image by Hester Qiang on Unsplash.

Another creation of the 1962 World’s Fair, the Seattle Center has since become a top cultural and entertainment complex, and a popular destination in Seattle.


The complex houses a number of attractions including…

  • The Armory, a former base for the 146th Field Artillery and converted into shopping mall and entertainment complex for the World’s Fair, and afterwards.

  • The Museum of Pop Culture (which offers the ‘world’s most immersive pop culture experiences’),

  • The Chihuly Garden and Glass (a museum/exhibit of the work’s of Seattleite Dale Chihuly, a globally acclaimed glassblower), and

  • The KEXP Studio, Seattle’s most popular radio station.


And no talk of the Seattle Center would be complete without mentioning the Seattle Monorail, an elevated monorail line originally made for the 1962 World’s Fair, and now operating as a convenient link between the Center and downtown Seattle.

To learn more about the Monorail, visit their website.


What is the Seattle Center known for? To quote from their website, the Center has ‘transformed into a treasured hub for arts and culture, sports, and community gatherings’, reflecting changes from around the world.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 684-7200

Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is a great place to grow an interest in science. Their motto is ‘Be Curious’, and their exhibits are all planned to try to instigate an interest in science and scientific inquiry among visitors.


Explore galaxies in the planetarium, be amazed by our winged friends at the Tropical Butterfly House, and don’t forget to check out the IMAX theaters.


When did the Pacific Science Center open? On October 22nd, 1962, as a temporary science pavilion during a fair whose name I think you’re tired of hearing by now (the World’s Fair). The pavilion proved so popular that it was decided that it should be turned into a permanent center.


How long does it take to go through the Pacific Science Center? Obviously, it depends on how fast you walk, how much time you spend at the exhibits and shows, and so on…but a good rule of thumb is four or more hours.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 443-2001

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market remains a top Seattle attraction for all kinds of travelers.

Image by Jason Leung on Unsplash.

Ah, you were wondering when this was going to come up, weren’t you? Pike Place Market, one of the most famous farmers’ markets in the country, and a place for ‘locally sourced, artisan and specialty foods’.


Apart from that it has a whole range of shops ranging from antique dealers, family-owned restaurants, collectibles dealers, and various craft shops.


Apropos of nothing, it is a great place to celebrate your birthday in Seattle.


Why is Pike's market place so famous? There are many reasons the market is so famous, like being the oldest farmers’ market in the USA that’s still in business. A top draw is the fishmongers flinging their catch in the air to the counter for packaging.


What's really in the Pike Place Market? It’s built on top of a steep hill and has several levels. Each level houses a variety of unique shops.


What is the best day to go to Pike Place Market? According to their website, the market is fullest Thursday through to Monday; and on any day the crowd starts building from noon.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101


Phone: (206) 682-7453

Pioneer Square Historic District

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s original downtown, described as our city’s ‘first neighborhood’. It’s known for its historical buildings and architecture.


One of the most popular places to visit with your friends is the 42 floor Smith Tower. It is a historic skyscraper, the oldest one in Seattle and one of the tallest buildings outside New York City when it was built.


For a truly unique experience, book a spot on Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour (phone: (206) 682-4646), a guided tour through ruins of Seattle streets that were buried after an 1889 fire.


Why is it called Pioneer Square? The name comes from Pioneer Place, a plaza at the corner of First Avenue and Yesler Way.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Email: info@pioneersquare.org

The Central Library of the Seattle Public Library

article-image-2

Image by Yiyang on Unsplash.

You don’t need to be a ‘book lover’ to visit the library. You can visit it just to gaze at the marvelous architecture. It’s said to have enough glass to cover more than five football stadiums!


There’s a reading room on the 10th floor that also offers views of Elliott Bay.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104


Email: info@pioneersquare.org


Phone: (206) 386-4636

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium is a top Seattle attraction for anyone interested in marine life and conservation.

Would you like to touch a sea anemone like this? Image by Yiyang on Unsplash.

Located on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium is a top draw for anyone that’s interested in watching and experiencing marine life up close.


They also feature a lot of exhibits and information on our impact on marine life and conservation.


If nothing else, visit to watch scuba divers feed the fish, meet a few cute otters, and so on.


Why is the Seattle Aquarium famous? It provides visitors with a treasure trove of experiences like watching various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean ranging from giant clams to salmon and sharks first hand. You can also touch creatures like sea anemones at the touch pool.


How long does it take to go through the entire Aquarium? This will vary from person to person, and on whatever shows and events they have going. It may take anywhere from 30 minutes to over 2 hours.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101


Email: contactus@seattleaquarium.org


Phone: (206) 386-4300

Woodland Park Zoo

Another top attraction in Seattle - the Woodland Park Zoo.

Image by Joani Dorse on Unsplash.

Well, if you visit the Aquarium, you better check out the zoo as well, right?


This 92 acre facility features numerous threatened species from across the world. It might interest you to know that Woodland Park Zoo was the first to feature naturalistic exhibits.


Before visiting, check their website for animal feeding times, any programs that might be ongoing, and the hours for the solar-operated carousel.


How long does it take to go through the Woodland Park Zoo? As long as you want it to. However, if you don’t stop too long at any exhibit, you’d take three to four hours to cover it all.


Can people take their own food to the Zoo? Yes you can, but you can eat only in certain designated areas. Alcohol is prohibited.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103


Email: contactus@seattleaquarium.org


Phone: (206) 548-2500

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Mohai chronicles Seattle’s rise as a port city, and celebrates our rise as a top center for innovation and technology.


Catch a glimpse of historical events like the Klondike Gold Rush.


Enjoy 360 degree views of the city through a real World War II periscope at the maritime exhibit.


And for some water travel and activities, drop in at the The Center for Wooden Boats next door!


Is there parking at Mohai? You can park in the Republic Parking lot at the AGC building. Ask the front desk (at Mohai) for discounted validation tickets.


When did Mohai open? February 15, 1952.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Address: 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 324-1126

Planning your itinerary through Seattle’s top attractions

Hope our list helps you plan your visit. If you’re looking for a more thrilling activity featuring teamwork, quick thinking and real-life adventures, do check out Seattle’s best escape room.


If you found this blog post helpful, bookmark our blog for convenient access to all our content!


Featured image by Robert Ritchie on Unsplash.





  BLOGS
10 TOP RATED ENTERTAINMENT ATTRACTIONS IN SEATTLE

Not the complete and comprehensive list of everything there is to do in Seattle, but a great start!


Planning a tour of Seattle’s top rated attractions?


Start right here, with our list of the top 10 attractions and things to do in Seattle.

The 10 most popular Seattle attractions

  • Discovery Park

  • The Space Needle

  • The Seattle Center (and its Monorail)

  • Pacific Science Center

  • Pike Place Market

  • Pioneer Square Historic District

  • The Central Library of the Seattle Public Library

  • Seattle Aquarium

  • Woodland Park Zoo

  • Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is a top Seattle attraction, especially for those with active lifestyles.

Image credit: seattle.gov

Located on the shores of Puget Sound, Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle. With spectacular views of Mt. Rainier and Olympic National Park, it is easily one of the best places to explore in Seattle. 


A veritable haven of lush green spaces, natural shorelines and walking trails, the Park offers you the chance to take part in a number of activities - from enjoying a relaxing siesta under the trees to going on a hike and even spending time at the beach.


Is Discovery Park Seattle free? Yes, it is free. However you can consider leaving a donation at the Cultural Center.


A little more on the trails. The Park has over 12 miles of trails, including the Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop, the South Beach and Hidden Valley Loop, the North Beach and Hidden Valley Loop, and the Birds Nest and Lookout Beach.


Any historical and cultural attractions in the Park? Yes. The Park was home to Fort Lawton, a World War II era military installation. Many of the military buildings are still standing.

It’s also home to the Daybreak Star Cultural Center, dedicated to Native American culture. 


Website: Visit its webpage on the City website


Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199


Phone (Visitor Center): (206) 386-4236

The Space Needle

The Space Needle is a Seattle landmark and a top city attraction.

Image by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash.

Built as a landmark - a ‘dominant central structure’ - for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle has since become a cultural landmark of our city.


Reach the observation level via a 43 second elevator ride, see Edward Carlson’s original ‘doodle’ (check below), and catch stunning views from the top including the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay.


And if you’re in the market for an even more exclusive experience, have a shot at the Loupe Lounge!


Why do they call it the Space Needle? Edward Carlson, the chief organizer of the 1962 World’s Fair, was inspired by a broadcast tower with a restaurant that he saw in Germany. He planned a similar structure for Seattle (he doodled it on a napkin) and called it the Space Needle.


3 facts about the Space Needle. The Needle itself is 605 feet tall. The Loupe Lounge, the world’s only rotating glass floor, is 500 feet above ground. The Needle was officially designated as a landmark in 1999.


How much is the Space Needle? For ticket prices and other booking information, visit their tickets portal.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 905-2100

The Seattle Center (and its Monorail)

article-image-1

The Monorail at the Museum of Pop Culture. Image by Hester Qiang on Unsplash.

Another creation of the 1962 World’s Fair, the Seattle Center has since become a top cultural and entertainment complex, and a popular destination in Seattle.


The complex houses a number of attractions including…

  • The Armory, a former base for the 146th Field Artillery and converted into shopping mall and entertainment complex for the World’s Fair, and afterwards.

  • The Museum of Pop Culture (which offers the ‘world’s most immersive pop culture experiences’),

  • The Chihuly Garden and Glass (a museum/exhibit of the work’s of Seattleite Dale Chihuly, a globally acclaimed glassblower), and

  • The KEXP Studio, Seattle’s most popular radio station.


And no talk of the Seattle Center would be complete without mentioning the Seattle Monorail, an elevated monorail line originally made for the 1962 World’s Fair, and now operating as a convenient link between the Center and downtown Seattle.

To learn more about the Monorail, visit their website.


What is the Seattle Center known for? To quote from their website, the Center has ‘transformed into a treasured hub for arts and culture, sports, and community gatherings’, reflecting changes from around the world.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 684-7200

Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is a great place to grow an interest in science. Their motto is ‘Be Curious’, and their exhibits are all planned to try to instigate an interest in science and scientific inquiry among visitors.


Explore galaxies in the planetarium, be amazed by our winged friends at the Tropical Butterfly House, and don’t forget to check out the IMAX theaters.


When did the Pacific Science Center open? On October 22nd, 1962, as a temporary science pavilion during a fair whose name I think you’re tired of hearing by now (the World’s Fair). The pavilion proved so popular that it was decided that it should be turned into a permanent center.


How long does it take to go through the Pacific Science Center? Obviously, it depends on how fast you walk, how much time you spend at the exhibits and shows, and so on…but a good rule of thumb is four or more hours.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 443-2001

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market remains a top Seattle attraction for all kinds of travelers.

Image by Jason Leung on Unsplash.

Ah, you were wondering when this was going to come up, weren’t you? Pike Place Market, one of the most famous farmers’ markets in the country, and a place for ‘locally sourced, artisan and specialty foods’.


Apart from that it has a whole range of shops ranging from antique dealers, family-owned restaurants, collectibles dealers, and various craft shops.


Apropos of nothing, it is a great place to celebrate your birthday in Seattle.


Why is Pike's market place so famous? There are many reasons the market is so famous, like being the oldest farmers’ market in the USA that’s still in business. A top draw is the fishmongers flinging their catch in the air to the counter for packaging.


What's really in the Pike Place Market? It’s built on top of a steep hill and has several levels. Each level houses a variety of unique shops.


What is the best day to go to Pike Place Market? According to their website, the market is fullest Thursday through to Monday; and on any day the crowd starts building from noon.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101


Phone: (206) 682-7453

Pioneer Square Historic District

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s original downtown, described as our city’s ‘first neighborhood’. It’s known for its historical buildings and architecture.


One of the most popular places to visit with your friends is the 42 floor Smith Tower. It is a historic skyscraper, the oldest one in Seattle and one of the tallest buildings outside New York City when it was built.


For a truly unique experience, book a spot on Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour (phone: (206) 682-4646), a guided tour through ruins of Seattle streets that were buried after an 1889 fire.


Why is it called Pioneer Square? The name comes from Pioneer Place, a plaza at the corner of First Avenue and Yesler Way.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Email: info@pioneersquare.org

The Central Library of the Seattle Public Library

article-image-2

Image by Yiyang on Unsplash.

You don’t need to be a ‘book lover’ to visit the library. You can visit it just to gaze at the marvelous architecture. It’s said to have enough glass to cover more than five football stadiums!


There’s a reading room on the 10th floor that also offers views of Elliott Bay.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104


Email: info@pioneersquare.org


Phone: (206) 386-4636

Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Aquarium is a top Seattle attraction for anyone interested in marine life and conservation.

Would you like to touch a sea anemone like this? Image by Yiyang on Unsplash.

Located on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium is a top draw for anyone that’s interested in watching and experiencing marine life up close.


They also feature a lot of exhibits and information on our impact on marine life and conservation.


If nothing else, visit to watch scuba divers feed the fish, meet a few cute otters, and so on.


Why is the Seattle Aquarium famous? It provides visitors with a treasure trove of experiences like watching various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean ranging from giant clams to salmon and sharks first hand. You can also touch creatures like sea anemones at the touch pool.


How long does it take to go through the entire Aquarium? This will vary from person to person, and on whatever shows and events they have going. It may take anywhere from 30 minutes to over 2 hours.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 1483 Alaskan Way Pier 59, Seattle, WA 98101


Email: contactus@seattleaquarium.org


Phone: (206) 386-4300

Woodland Park Zoo

Another top attraction in Seattle - the Woodland Park Zoo.

Image by Joani Dorse on Unsplash.

Well, if you visit the Aquarium, you better check out the zoo as well, right?


This 92 acre facility features numerous threatened species from across the world. It might interest you to know that Woodland Park Zoo was the first to feature naturalistic exhibits.


Before visiting, check their website for animal feeding times, any programs that might be ongoing, and the hours for the solar-operated carousel.


How long does it take to go through the Woodland Park Zoo? As long as you want it to. However, if you don’t stop too long at any exhibit, you’d take three to four hours to cover it all.


Can people take their own food to the Zoo? Yes you can, but you can eat only in certain designated areas. Alcohol is prohibited.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page


Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103


Email: contactus@seattleaquarium.org


Phone: (206) 548-2500

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Mohai chronicles Seattle’s rise as a port city, and celebrates our rise as a top center for innovation and technology.


Catch a glimpse of historical events like the Klondike Gold Rush.


Enjoy 360 degree views of the city through a real World War II periscope at the maritime exhibit.


And for some water travel and activities, drop in at the The Center for Wooden Boats next door!


Is there parking at Mohai? You can park in the Republic Parking lot at the AGC building. Ask the front desk (at Mohai) for discounted validation tickets.


When did Mohai open? February 15, 1952.


Website: Visit its website


Contact page: Visit its contact page (inquiry form)


Address: 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109


Phone: (206) 324-1126

Planning your itinerary through Seattle’s top attractions

Hope our list helps you plan your visit. If you’re looking for a more thrilling activity featuring teamwork, quick thinking and real-life adventures, do check out Seattle’s best escape room.


If you found this blog post helpful, bookmark our blog for convenient access to all our content!


Featured image by Robert Ritchie on Unsplash.





  BLOGS