Seattle Area Excitement

You’ll never run out of things to do in the greater Seattle area. This region comprises Seattle, North Bend, Woodinville, Burien and Redmond. Seattle features a wonderful mix of urban life, innovative culinary experiences, charming parks with water views and an abundance of arts and culture. Northeast of Seattle sits Woodinville, characterized by endearing energy and its multitude of wineries and distilleries. On the outskirts of Seattle, you’ll find Redmond, Burien and North Bend, each offering their own diverse and energetic communities close to outdoor recreation.

Seattle

Seattle is a vibrant and unique city set along the beautiful Puget Sound with proximity to beautiful mountain ranges. From the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, Seattle has something for everyone. Below are the Seattle neighborhoods that help make the city special.

About

Seattle awaits! Get ready to explore its eclectic art galleries, lively music scene, gourmet restaurants and amazing museums! Begin downtown for an unforgettable experience. The heart of the city is Pike Place Market, where you'll find delicious seafood, stunning flowers and a wealth of local produce. Take time to explore Seattle Center too — its iconic Space Needle looms over family-friendly attractions like the Pacific Science Center or the dazzling Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibition. Don't miss Historic Pioneer Square either; this charming area boasts great eateries and coffee spots that will make your visit even more memorable!

Seattle Neighborhoods

To enjoy Seattle as the locals do, visit its neighborhoods. Areas like Capitol Hill, Fremont, South Lake Union and Ballard are the heartbeat of the city. Below is a quick description of a few of the most popular Seattle neighborhoods.

Walking Distance to Downtown

South Lake Union: This thriving Seattle neighborhood sits on the tip of the lake. It is home to Amazon, food trucks, hip bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for some incredible views all around the city, our INNsiders compiled a list of rooftop bars here. Visit MOHI, the Museum of History and Industry, for a look into Seattle’s timeline for innovation or explore the bustling waterfront park and the Historic Ships Wharf.

Capitol Hill: Still looking for things to do in Seattle? Experience the best of city living in one place when you explore this vibrant Seattle neighborhood. From Pike or Pine, ascend to discover its unique urban atmosphere with some amazing coffee shops and eateries — don't forget to look down — artwork and history line the sidewalks! Our INNSiders created the perfect guide to Seattle’s coffee scene here. Make sure you take a stroll along Millionaires Row for an up-close view of majestic turn-of-the century mansions before ending at Volunteer Park & the Asian Art Museum.

You can walk from these neighborhoods to all the local sites, but they are also accessible by public transportation. Both are serviced by Seattle's Metro bus system. Capitol Hill is served by the Light Rail System and South Lake Union has the South Lake Union Streetcar.

To The North

Ballard: Ballard is a charming Seattle neighborhood with an unmistakable Scandinavian touch. Famous for its fantastic music scene and craft breweries, it's the perfect spot to grab a bite or enjoy live entertainment! While there, stop by Hiram Chittenden Locks — you'll be amazed watching boats glide through this canal between Puget Sound and Lake Union. Nearby there are also pretty gardens, where amidst nature’s wonders you can observe salmon ascending fish ladders during spawning season – truly an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away!

Fremont: This is the center of the universe. There is a sign on the Fremont Bridge proclaiming that. This quirky and iconic Seattle neighborhood is home to a statue of Lenin, the Fremont Rocket, the Troll Under the Bridge and a great Sunday Market. There are also plenty of spots for dining. You can also watch from one of the many coffee shops or walk or cycle the Burke-Gilman Trail along the ship canal.

Greenlake: This is where locals go to enjoy nature. Greenlake Park is the ultimate outdoor escape. Its 3-mile paved trail around the perimeter of the lake is perfect for strolling. In summer enjoy canoeing, kayaking or swimming in the lake. You can also put together a picnic and relax under the trees for a serene afternoon or explore the local restaurants and coffee shops just moments away.

West of the City

West Seattle: This Seattle neighborhood has a relaxed and laid-back vibe. The area is lined with shops, eateries and coffee shops. It also provides an escape from the city with the beautiful Alki Beach, which offers a view of the Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline.

Weather and Getting There

Summer in Seattle is glorious with blue skies and temperatures in the low- to mid-70s. Winter is misty and rainy with temperatures in the low 50s. If you’re visiting in the summer, take advantage of the 10 best day hikes near Seattle!


Seattle is served by Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Once you arrive, head to the Light Rail center where you can purchase an Orca Card. They are valid on the Light Rail System and the Metro Bus Lines. Even if you arrive by car, consider using the local transit system to save both time and money! Looking to explore the many wonderful Seattle neighborhoods? Consider this 5-day Seattle itinerary by our INNsiders for your trip.

Dining

Canlis

This is Seattle’s premier fine dining restaurant and one of the few that still has a dress code. The restaurant is perched above Lake Union with views of the lake, the Olympic Range and the city. It opened in 1950 and has been THE spot for special occasions ever since.

Elliott’s Oyster House

Enjoy the city’s largest selection of fresh oysters and a wide variety of seafood at Elliott’s Oyster House. Located on the waterfront in downtown Seattle.

Events

Seafair

Since 1950 Seattle has celebrated 10 weeks of summer with Seafair. It is a combination of events including Seafair Summer 4th, Seafair Pirates Landing, a Milk Carton Derby, Triathlon and the Torchlight Parade. The culmination of this summer long festival is the Seafair Weekend Festival in August.

Seattle Pride Fest

PrideFest, a non-profit organization celebrates Seattle PrideFest each June. Celebrate LGBTQ pride in two locations. Visit the Seattle Center or the popular Capitol Hill neighborhood for lots of live music, local art great food and FilmFest.

Find out more

Sporting Events: Mariners | Seahwaks | Seattle Sounders FC

Seattle offers baseball, (Seattle Mariners), football, (Seattle Seahawks) and soccer (Seattle Sounders). Century Link Stadium and Safeco Field are located side by side in downtown Seattle. Check the schedule and join the loyal fans for a game or match!

Tours

Seattle by Foot

This company offers three unique tours of Seattle. Seattle’s Original Coffee Crawl, The Caffeinated City Tour (a private tour), the Seattle Kid’s Tour (a private tour).Find out more

Pike Place Market Food Tour

Go behind the scenes in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Learn about the rich history of the market and taste some of the market’s unique offerings.

Amazon Tours

This retail giant has three tours across their downtown Seattle campus. The HQ Tour offers insight into how and why Amazon chose to invest in urban Seattle. Within headquarter is the Understory, explaining their nature-inspired design in an urban office setting. The Spheres, Amazon’s newest addition, are open two Saturdays a month to visitors by reservation.

Outdoors

Discovery Park Loop Trail

These 2.8-mile loops trail travels through meadows and woods and ends at a bluff overlooking

Burke Gilman Trail

This 27 mile multi-use recreational trail is part of the King County Trail System. The trail begins in the Seattle neighborhood, Ballard and runs along Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, ending in Issaquah.

Mount Si

As you travel on I-90 past North Bend you will see the rocky peak of Mount Si. This is a classic day hike a short drive from Seattle. It is a difficult 8-mile round trip hike, but well worth the trip.

Volunteer Park - Capitol Hill

This green space is centrally located in Seattle on Capitol Hill. It includes the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory.

Discovery Park - Magnolia

This 534-acre park is perched on a bluff overlooking the Puget Sound and is the largest city park in the city of Seattle. This diverse park has 2 miles of tidal beaches with active dunes, grassy flatlands and forested groves.

Alki Beach Park - West Seattle

This 2.5 mile long beach is located on Elliott Bay. This popular summer spot is great for joggers, beachcombers, cyclists and sunbathers. Enjoy panoramic views of the Puget Sound.

Kerry Park - Queen Anne

This little park is a destination for camera buffs. Here you can snap the iconic view of Elliot Bay, The Space Needle, the City Center and on a clear day, Mount Rainier.

Gas Works Park

This 19-acre park is located on north Lake Union. Once a gasification plant for Seattle City Light, the park is now a great spot to stroll, have a picnic and enjoy views of Seattle over the lake.

Greenlake Park

This popular park features a 2.8-paved walking path around the expansive lake. It is a delightful green space serves as a natural habitat for a variety of birds, waterfowl, trees and plants.

Things to See

Seattle Art Museum, Asian Art Museum & Olympic Sculpture Park (SAM)

SAM is comprised of three unique museums. The Seattle Art Museum, located on 1st Ave. houses modern and contemporary works from across the world. The Asian Art Museum, located at Volunteer Park on Capital Hill, is housed in a beautiful Art Deco building constructed in 1933. It is a must see for Asian Art enthusiasts. The Olympic Sculpture Park is located on Western Ave. along the Puget Sound. The contemporary art installations cover 9 acres with views of the Space Needle, the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound.

MoPOP

The Museum of Pop Culture features unique ideas of those willing to take a risk. First started as a rock n roll museum it has branched out with exhibits of todays pop culture icons.

Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)

The Museum of Pop Culture features unique ideas of those willing to take a risk. First started as a rock n roll museum it has branched out with exhibits of todays pop culture icons.

Space Needle

Visit the newly remodeled Space Needle, the centerpiece of The Seattle Center. Dine at the Atmos Café or relax at the Atmos Wine Bar. Experience the views from this Seattle landmark.

Pike Place Market

This is the center of fresh and local in Seattle. Pike Place is known for beautiful flowers, displays of colorful produce and the fresh seafood piled on mountains of ice. The market includes several levels with restaurants and shops. The surrounding area has popular spots like Beecher’s Cheese and the first Starbucks coffee shop. This is a vibrant, colorful area with something for everyone.

Pioneer Square

Established in 1852, Pioneer Square is considered Seattle’s first neighborhood. This area is rich in history and known for it’s Romanesque Revival architecture. Enjoy Thursday art walk, vibrant nightlife and plenty of spots to dine or shop.

Fremont Troll

Since the Fremont Bridge was constructed there have been stories of troll sightings under the bridge. In 1990 this public art sculpture was created under the start of the span in Fremont. Head to Troll Ave. in Fremont and snap a picture with this unique part of Seattle.

Seattle Gum Wall

The Market Theater Gum Wall is located under Pike Place Market. This wall, covered in chewed gum, has become a local landmark.

Sidewalks in Seattle

Look down. Throughout the city and its neighborhoods you will find art and history embedded in the sidewalks. You will find an invitation to dance along Broadway on Capitol Hill. Walking along Eastlake, you will find colorful flora and fauna at your feet. Famous Seattleites are commemorated along 5th and Pine including Dale Chihuly, Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Even the Metro is filled with art.

Featured Places to Stay in Seattle

North Bend

North Bend is a small, inviting town nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The area is known for a wide variety of hiking trails, beautiful rivers and scenic views.

About

North Bend, Washington, is a picturesque escape situated in the foothills of Washington state's breathtaking Cascade Mountains. Take your pick from an array of spectacular hiking trails and quiet rivers, or just take it all in with its stunning views! Located conveniently within driving distance to both Seattle (30 miles east) and Snoqualmie Summit (20 miles west), this locale offers something for everyone — even Mount Si Trail, one of Washington's most beloved single hikes, is hidden away just 2 1/2 miles outside North Bend!


There are plenty of things to do in North Bend. Visitors have a wide range of adventures to experience in the Snoqualmie Valley. The local Train Museum offers rides on their refurbished dining cars. First board the train in North Bend, then stop at the overlook of the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls. Antiques, art galleries and fine dining are all within walking distance. Wind down at Twede’s Cafe, made famous by the television show, “Twin Peaks,” and enjoy their legendary cherry pie. 


If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, North Bend is a must-see! Known for having the most diverse and exciting hiking trails in Washington State, here you can take on challenging paths up Mount Si or stroll through ancient old growth forests. Additionally, a short drive brings you to eight more hiking trails to explore ranging from easy to difficult — guaranteeing something incredible no matter your experience level! Our INNSiders recommend skiing the nearby Snoqualmie Pass for an exciting winter activity. Winter season weather tends to be chilly, with temperatures falling into the 30s, while summertime brings sunny days and pleasant highs around 80°F. And don't forget about all that rain (averaging 96 inches per year)! North Bend, Washington, lies only 30 miles east of Seattle along I-90 – go check it out now before everyone else does!



Dining

Twedes Café

Now for something totally different. For those fans of the series “Twin Peaks”, this café located in North Bend is a must stop. Here you can get cherry pie and “a damn good cup of coffee”!

Snoqualmie Falls Brewery

Located near-by, boasts the Tap Room restaurant. The favorite item on the menu is the “Sampler’s Beer Platter”, a taste of the favorites of the house.

Events
Festival at Mt Si

This traditional festival is held in North Bend each August. There are plenty of local artisans, food vendors and a great beer garden. Events include a Chili Cookoff, a Cherry Pie Eating Contest and the Burstin’ With Blueberries dessert contest.

Outdoors

Mount Si

As you travel on I-90 past North Bend you will see the rocky peak of Mount Si. This is a classic day hike a short drive from Seattle. It is a difficult 8-mile round trip hike, but well worth the trip.

Snoqualmie Falls

Take the short, scenic drive to nearby Snoqualmie Falls, one of the top three attractions in the state. 

Snoqualmie Pass

Visit the summit of Snoqualmie Pass, just a short twenty five minute drive on I-90 East. Explore one of the most popular ski resort in the state. Besides skiing, cross country and downhill, they also offer snow-shoe treks and down-hill tubing.

John Wayne Trail

The John Wayne Trail is a popular and well used trail. Winding through the valley, it is used by hikers, joggers, bicyclists and equestrians. It is a onetime railroad right of way that has been converted for public use.

Things to See

The North Bend Outlets

Located just off I-90. The Outlets are a popular stop for visitors looking for value shopping.

Tree House Point

You can tour the tree houses for a modest fee. Reservations required.

Featured Places to Stay in North Bend

Woodinville

Woodinville is located in the beautiful Sammamish River Valley. It has become a wine tasting destination with over 100 tasting rooms and a wide variety of restaurants. It is home to Chateau Ste, Michelle Winery and their great summer concert series.

About

Woodinville WA is a small town boasting several wineries, craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries, and over 100 wine tasting rooms. Spend an afternoon or several days exploring Woodinville wineries and tasting rooms. Larger establishments give tours while smaller ones often offer a “backroom” glimpse of the planning and experimentation that goes into their products.

Restaurants range from gourmet destination dining to ethnic delights, casual family dining and happy hour venues. Of course there are also many coffee shops to choose from!

In city recreation includes several city parks, ball fields, and a beautiful pedestrian and bike trail that runs along the Sammamish River. Consequently this is a popular spot for local fun runs, marathons and triathlons. The river is great for canoeing and kayaking, and there is a nearby adventure park complete with zip lines and high and low elements. Within an hour’s drive experience snow skiing, golfing, antiquing, hiking, horseback riding, beach combing, boating and hot air ballooning.

Woodinville WA is also home to Molbak’s Garden+Home, a very large and well-know northwest nursery and gift shop. Visit 21 Acres, a sustainable farm and farmer’s market. Stroll through Saturday market from May through September. Visit the small shopping malls, movie theaters, and paint and glass art studios.

Summer brings big name concerts to the grounds of Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery and nearby Marymoor Park, and outdoor movies at Red Hook Brewery. The Celebrate Woodinville Festival in late July and early August means concerts in the park, the Basset Bash, street fair and a community parade. All times of the year you’ll find music events at local tasting rooms, wine walks, and other more impromptu events.

History of Woodinville

The area was first inhabited by the Sammamish people then was settled by Ira and Susan Woodin in 1871. It began as a logging community, then became a farming center and was incorporated in 1993. It is now a Seattle suburb best known for its many wineries and tasting rooms.

In 1969, Woodinville was home to the northwest’s own version of Woodstock, the Seattle Pop Festival. The 3 day festival held at Woodinville’s Gold Creek Park, attracted about 50,000 fans.The bands included The Byrds, Chicago Transit Authority, The Guess Who, Led Zeppelin, Santana, Ike & Tina Turner and Alice Cooper.

Woodinville Weather and Getting There

Woodinville WA has a Mediterranean climate with dry warm summers and mild winters. Thanks to our rainfall we are surrounded by evergreen forests, lakes and rivers. But almost no one carries an umbrella!

Woodinville is easily accessible by car from Seattle from I-405.

Dining

The Herb Farm

This iconic restaurant, located in Woodinville, features fresh, local ingredients. They offer a 9 course tasting menu paired with 5 or 6 wines. Much of what they serve is grown onsite in their own gardens. The menu changes based on seasonal offerings. Reservations are a must.

Events

Celebrate Woodinville

Woodinville comes alive each summer with a series of concerts that culminate in the Celebrate Woodinville Festival in August. This traditional festival kicks off with a pancake breakfast. The parade is just one of many family friendly activities.

Chateau St Michelle Concert Series

This concert series features award winning wines and award winning music artists. Since 1984 the stage has hosted some of the best artists in jazz, rock, blues and contemporary music. Buy your tickets early!

Outdoors

Paradise Valley Conservation Area

This 793-acre conservation area has a 13-mile natural trail system for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use.

Wine Tasting

Woodinville Wine Districts

Just 30 minutes from downtown Seattle is the Woodinville Wine Country. Nestled in the Sammamish Valley this are is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms.

Woodinville is made up of 4 “Districts” that each offer a variety of tasting rooms, dining and distilleries.

Hollywood | Warehouse | Downtown | West Valley

Featured Places to Stay in Woodinville

Redmond

Redmond was once a lumber and agricultural area, but is now best know as the home of Microsoft. It is within easy reach of downtown Seattle and is a short drive to 150 tasting rooms featuring local wines, craft beers and ciders.

About

Redmond experiences mild weather year around. Summer highs are in the high 70’s. Winter daytime temperatures are in the 40’s to 50’s. May through September is the driest period with average rainfall at less than 1 inch/month. Redmond is accessible by car from Seattle via WA-520 E or from SeaTac Airport via I-5 N to I-90 E to I-405 to WA-520. Buses run from the Overllake Transit Center in Redmond to downtown Seattle.

Redmond offers several attractions itself. Within 30 minutes by car or public transit are biking, hiking, shopping and the very active nightlife of Seattle. Wine making and tasting are a significant industry and tourist attraction. Within 12 miles of Downtown Redmond are more than 150 tasting rooms. Enjoy a full spectrum of our world-renowned NW wines, beers, ciders and spirits. Redmond is surrounded by extraordinary culinary experiences as well. Local chefs have been featured on TV gourmet shows, but perform their magic in local restaurants every night.

Marymoor Park, The Sammamish River Trail and the Redmond Watershed offer outdoor recreation opportunities within minutes of downtown. They also are home to concerts all summer and to traveling shows such as Cirque du Soleil each year. Redmond is the aptly named “Bike Capital of the Northwest.” From the Northwest’s only velodrome in Marymoor Park to the 100 or so miles of off-street bike trails woven through Redmond, you are literally surrounded by attractive options for biking, walking and running.

Dining

Sages Restaurant

Sages features rustic Italian and European cuisine in a relaxed elegant atmosphere. This little gem is a Redmond favorite.

Events

Concerts Marymore Park

Head to Redmond with your blanket and cooler to enjoy the outdoor concert series. Concerts are offered throughout the summer. Tickets can be purchased online or at one of three convenient Box Office locations.

Outdoors

East Sammamish Lake Trail

This King Country Trail connects Issaquah, Sammamish and Redmond. It is 11 miles long and welcomes cyclists, walkers and runners.

Burke Gilman Trail

This 27 mile multi-use recreational trail is part of the King County Trail System. The trail begins in the Seattle neighborhood, Ballard and runs along Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, ending in Issaquah.

Marymore Park

This popular park is located on Lake Sammamish. It includes great trails for strolling and bird watching. Marymore is also home to Washington’s only Velodrome (indoor bicycle racing) and also has a 40-acre off leash dog park.

Things to See

Microsoft Store and Visitor's Center

At the Microsoft Store and Visitor Center you can learn about the company, past and present. Learn about how this “garage” startup became an industry leader. Choose a guided tour or explore on you own. Learn more about AI, Xbox Gaming, Mixed Reality, Minecraft and more.

See Places to Stay

BECOME A WASHINGTON TRAVEL INNSIDER!

Sign up for Washington travel tips, recommendations and updates delivered to your inbox monthly