The Seattle Waterfront is one of the most iconic destinations in the city where you'll find shops, seafood, and stunning views of the tranquil Puget Sound. In addition to the shops and restaurants, you'll find several attractions here that make the waterfront a wholesome attraction packed with a full day's worth of opportunities if not more. Several piers dot the waterfront, and you can use them to venture out onto the water for more adventures if you like.
Don't hesitate to bring the whole family to the Seattle Waterfront, as you'll find plenty for all ages to enjoy across a variety of different interests whether your family wants to learn, eat, shop, or enjoy a combination of all 3. Most people spend about 3 or 4 hours along the waterfront, but there's more than enough to do to make your visit last all day long.
Seattle Waterfront in Seattle - one of the highlights of 11 Best Things to Do in Seattle and 10 Free Things to Do in Seattle (Read all about Seattle here)
What are the highlights of the Seattle Waterfront?
With so many things to do at the Seattle Waterfront, the toughest part of your visit will be deciding what to try first. One of the most popular attractions is the Seattle Great Wheel, an iconic Ferris wheel on the waterfront that offers a relaxing ride and breathtaking views. Additionally, you can stop by the Seattle Aquarium just to the north of the wheel that is home to a diverse array of marine life from the Pacific Northwest shores and beyond.
The Seattle Waterfront is also home to Pike Place Market, one of the most popular shopping areas in the city. You'll find plenty of fresh produce along with crafts created by hand by local artisans. Several parks are located within the waterfront area as well, like the relaxing Victor Steinbrueck Park and Waterfront Park with sculptures, views, and a boardwalk.
Where to eat and drink at the Seattle Waterfront?
Getting something to eat is easy when you visit the Seattle Waterfront. You'll find virtually anything you can imagine, but local restaurants in this area tend to focus on seafood, specifically clam chowder. Just about every pier on the waterfront has some kind of clam chowder on offer, from diners to bars.
You can choose what kind of dining experience you want along the Seattle Waterfront thanks to the plethora of options. Ivar's Fish Bar, for example, has a casual and laid-back atmosphere. If you're feeling fancy, however, you can grab a bite to eat at Elliott's Oyster House or AQUA by El Gaucho. You can also find specialty breakfast and lunch restaurants so you can enjoy culinary delights no matter what time of day you visit.
What else is good to know about the Seattle Waterfront?
When visiting the Seattle Waterfront, there are a few factors you'll want to keep in mind. If you're driving yourself, you'll be happy to discover that parking is free in the Pike Place Market Garage if you buy something along the waterfront. That free voucher is only good for 3 hours, however, so make sure to time your visit accordingly. Purchasing something along the waterfront can mean buying anything from a gift at a shop to some food at a restaurant or a ticket to the aquarium.
Visiting the Seattle Waterfront also puts you close to several other notable locations in the city. Past the northern edge of the waterfront, you can visit Olympic Sculpture Park and its extensive public art installations. Additionally, the Seattle Art Museum is just a short distance east outside of the waterfront district along the same latitude as Waterfront Park.
Seattle Waterfront in Seattle
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Where to stay in Seattle
citizenM Seattle Pioneer Square
The Belltown Inn
Mediterranean Inn
Hyatt Regency Seattle
Executive Hotel Pacific
Renaissance Seattle Hotel
The Arctic Club Seattle
Crowne Plaza Seattle - Downtown, an IHG Hotel
Palihotel Seattle
