15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Uncover Seattle's Hidden Gems
Seattle, the Emerald City of the Pacific Northwest, is known for its iconic sights like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. But beyond these famous landmarks lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. From secret gardens to underground tunnels, Seattle offers a plethora of unique experiences that will leave you enchanted and craving for more.
One of the hidden gems of Seattle is the stunning Kubota Garden. Tucked away in the Rainier Beach neighborhood, this Japanese garden is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. As you meander through the beautifully landscaped pathways, you'll be greeted by picturesque ponds, vibrant flowers, and carefully pruned trees. The serenity and beauty of Kubota Garden offer a welcome escape from the urban hustle and bustle, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and peace-seekers.
For those who crave a touch of mystery, Seattle's Underground Tour is an extraordinary journey into the city's past. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you beneath the streets of Pioneer Square, where you'll explore the forgotten tunnels that once served as the city's main roadways. As you walk through the dimly lit passages, you'll hear fascinating stories of Seattle's early days, from its rough-and-tumble beginnings to the Great Fire of 1889. The Underground Tour is a captivating experience that transports you back in time, immersing you in the rich history of the city.
Another hidden gem that shouldn't be missed is the Fremont Troll. Nestled under the Aurora Bridge, this quirky and larger-than-life sculpture is a whimsical addition to the city's landscape. As you approach the troll, you'll be greeted by its imposing figure, clutching a real-life Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. The Fremont Troll is not only a work of art but also a symbol of Seattle's vibrant and eccentric spirit. Snap a photo with this iconic resident of Fremont and join the ranks of those who have discovered its charm.
Seattle is also home to a thriving street art scene, and one of the best places to witness this is in the neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Stroll along the streets and you'll be treated to colorful murals, thought-provoking graffiti, and hidden art installations. Each piece tells a unique story and adds to the vibrant tapestry of the city. Take your time to explore the nooks and crannies, as you never know what artistic masterpiece you might stumble upon.
The hidden gems of Seattle offer a chance to see the city through a different lens, uncovering its lesser-known wonders and embracing its offbeat charm. Whether you find yourself wandering through a hidden garden, delving into underground tunnels, or stumbling upon captivating street art, these experiences will leave a lasting impression and remind you that there's always more to discover.
What else is in this post?
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Uncover Seattle's Hidden Gems
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Discover the Natural Beauty Surrounding the City
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Coffee Culture and Beyond: Seattle's Love Affair with Caffeine
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - The Sky's the Limit: Admire the Cityscape from Iconic Observation Decks
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - A Journey Through Time: Seattle's Fascinating History and Museums
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Artistic Delights: Immerse Yourself in Seattle's Thriving Arts and Culture
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Outdoor Adventures: Embrace the Pacific Northwest's Natural Playground
- 15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - From Pike Place to Local Markets: Exploring Seattle's Food and Craft Markets
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Discover the Natural Beauty Surrounding the City
Though Seattle may be best known for its bustling downtown, the emerald city is actually surrounded by awe-inspiring natural landscapes that are begging to be explored. From rugged coastal cliffs to snow-capped mountain peaks, the Pacific Northwest offers a bounty of outdoor adventures just beyond the city limits.
One of the most iconic natural attractions near Seattle is Mount Rainier. This 14,410 foot active volcano looms large on the horizon southeast of the city. Its picturesque symmetrical peak is often swathed in brilliant white glaciers, drawing mountaineers and nature lovers from around the world. Adventurous hikers can traverse well-maintained trails through wildflower meadows and old-growth forests, keeping an eye out for mountain goats, black bears and yellow-bellied marmots along the way. Or take a scenic drive along the Sunrise park road, stopping at scenic lookouts to marvel at epic views of the mountain and its surrounding valleys.
The Salish Sea - encompassing Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the San Juan Islands - also boasts incredible biodiversity and sweeping coastal vistas. Visitors can take a ferry from downtown Seattle out to the San Juan Islands, where they’ll find secluded beaches, sheltered coves filled with seals and sea lions, lush forests and tranquility. Kayak among the rocky islets and keep an eye out for passing whales during prime migration seasons.
The sublime Olympic Peninsula, just across Puget Sound to the west, is another convenient nature escape from the city. Rugged shorelines give way to the forested slopes of the Olympic Mountains, which are bisected by the roaring Elwha River. Hike through temperate rainforests draped in vibrant green mosses and stop at tumbling waterfalls like Madison Falls along the way. Cap off an adventurous day outdoors with an evening watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean during low tide at Rialto Beach.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Coffee Culture and Beyond: Seattle's Love Affair with Caffeine
It's no secret that Seattleites share a deep passion for coffee. After all, the Starbucks empire grew from humble beginnings as a single coffee shop in Pike Place Market. To this day, caffeine consumption flows through the veins of locals and visitors alike. This city's relationship with “joe” goes far beyond just fueling up with a morning latte - it’s very much a way of life.
Walk down any street in Seattle and you’ll spot cafés bustling with customers meticulously crafting their ideal brews. Whether pouring over a pour-over or debating espresso profiles, residents take their coffee seriously. Going to your “regular” shop is a treasured routine, and friendly baristas know your order by name. Such strong community ties are what set Seattle's café culture apart from larger chains. Hidden indie gems like Anchorhead, Herkimer and Slate offer cozy ambiances to linger over a mug and get work done, plus participate in the coffee “third wave.”
But aficionados here also recognize that exploring new roasters is part of the fun. From Rain City Roasters to Artisan Coffee downtown, adventurous patrons seek novel bean origins and preparation methods. Micro-lots, washed process coffees and brew bars accommodating Chemex or Woodneck allow experimentation beyond run-of-the-mill beans. For those seeking to deepen their coffee knowledge, Origin Roasters even offers educational cupping classes in their casual Ballard café. After all, knowing what you’re drinking is half the battle in honing preferences.
Of course, no java journey in Seattle is complete without visiting the original Starbucks Reserve Roastery. This cavernous roastery-turned-tasting-room provides a sensory overload of sights, smells and sample drinks. From a 43-foot cascading casking tower to experimental brews utilizing bespoke equipment, the Reserve showcase coffee extraction in its most over-the-top form. Immersive tours lead patrons through the process from green bean to finished beverage too. Whatever your prior relationship with coffee, the Reserve is sure to leave a lasting impression.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - The Sky's the Limit: Admire the Cityscape from Iconic Observation Decks
Seattle truly comes alive when viewed from on high. Looking down upon the sparkling downtown skyline, harbors and surrounding landscapes provides a newfound appreciation for the Emerald City's impressive scenery. Several lofty perches invite visitors to ascend to heavenly heights, taking in breathtaking panoramas along the way.
Reigning over it all like a modern colossus is the iconic Space Needle. Ever since hosting the 1962 World's Fair, this 605-foot rotating tower has captured imaginations worldwide. Sweeping 360-degree views from the flying saucer-shaped observation deck stretch an incredible 80 miles on clear days. Beyond the hustling waterfront and crowning Mount Rainier on the horizon lies a vast scene straight from a postcard. Even those with a fear of heights cannot deny the pure wonder elicited while observing the miniature metropolis from up top. An amazing new glass floor installation on the deck means onlookers now literally walk on air too.
Not to be outdone, the Columbia Center's 73rd floor observatory delivers downtown panoramas almost 50 stories higher than the Space Needle. At over 900 feet in the sky, it offers a record-setting vantage point unmatched in the entire city. Stunning moving image screens oriented by compass points cleverly correlate cardinal directions with surrounding attractions too. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure observers are never too removed from the action below either. High-speed elevators transport guests swiftly and smoothly to the zenith with ease.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - A Journey Through Time: Seattle's Fascinating History and Museums
Step back in time to explore Seattle's storied past at the city's treasure trove of museums. From pioneering beginnings to technological triumphs, the Emerald City's history is brought to life through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
The Museum of History & Industry, known as MOHAI, chronicles Seattle's transformation from a rugged frontier town to the vibrant metropolis it is today. Permanent galleries like True Northwest and the Bezos Center for Innovation trace the city’s emergence as a shipping and lumber hub, while temporary exhibitions spotlight defining movements like Nirvana and grunge music. But it’s the everyday objects that often prove most fascinating, like relics from the city’s early Chinese restaurants and a recreated 1950s suburban home. Standout interactive displays let you pilot a Model T car or operate industrial machines for an immersive glimpse into days past.
Aviation buffs will soar over to the Museum of Flight just south of Seattle. As the largest independent, non-profit air and space museum in the world, it brings aviation’s greatest milestones to life through more than 175 aircraft and spacecraft. Marvel at Concorde and Air Force One planes up-close, then journey through collections centered on WWI combat, Alaska bush pilots, Apollo lunar modules and beyond. Make your own imaginative leaps in the Aviation Learning Center’s Flight Simulators too. From pioneering 19th century gliders to supersonic jets, this museum covers it all in thrilling fashion.
For a poignant look at more difficult times, the Wing Luke Museum examines the experiences of Asian Americans in Seattle and throughout the West. Named for the first person of color elected to city office, the museum originated in a historic 1920s building that once housed immigrant tenants. Today, it continues honoring those stories through impactful shows like "Social Justice Sewing Academy" and "A Remembrance of Asian Pacific American Veterans." But inspiration persists, as exemplified by the uplifting "Journey Home" installation tracing refugees' resettlement. The Wing Luke remains a powerful voice keeping often overlooked narratives alive.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Artistic Delights: Immerse Yourself in Seattle's Thriving Arts and Culture
Seattle is renowned not only as a hub for coffee connoisseurs but also creative minds. Various artistic offerings abound within the Emerald City, nurtured by a culture that reveres independent spirit and outside-the-box thinking. Whether your interests lie in visual, performing or musical arts, this eclectic city guarantees inspired discoveries.
Consider first venturing to the Seattle Art Museum downtown or its newly reimagined sister campus in Bellevue. SAM's renowned Nordic collection takes center stage, depicting the region's natural landscapes through eyes like Emil Nolde or Edvard Munch. Yet contemporary installations also provoke, like Ai Weiwei's massive wire sculptures commenting on human strife and mass movements. The museum thoughtfully spotlights both heritage and social issues through an international lens.
For an immersive performance, catch a show at Intiman Theatre. This institution helped launch the careers of esteemed actors like Lena Olin and Tom Hanks in smaller productions. Today its summer series in a woodsy yard maintains an intimate vibe, allowing audiences to appreciate nuanced storytelling up close under the stars. Nearby theater district venues like the Paramount or Fifth Avenue also regularly host musicals, spoken word evenings, comedy routines and more for larger crowds.
In grittier Belltown, the intimate Triple Door conjures a speakeasy atmosphere perfect for jazz, cabaret or funk sets. Acclaimed artists make pilgrimages to this historic watering hole as much for its legendary cocktails as phenomenal acoustics. Meanwhile those craving audacious creations flock northwards to THEATRE OFF JACKSON, which produces groundbreaking works featuring unusual design elements like fully submerged seating or multi-room progressive storylines.
On weekends, mosey through South Lake Union to catch live music wafting from the Museum of Pop Culture. Past its towering Chihuly glass exterior, indie bands may serenade visitors amidst pop culture artifacts. Meanwhile, the Seattle Symphony, known locally simply as SSO, captivates crowds at Benaroya Hall with repertoire spanning classical titans to movie scores and beyond.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - Outdoor Adventures: Embrace the Pacific Northwest's Natural Playground
The Pacific Northwest is a veritable paradise for outdoor adventure seekers. With its unspoiled forests, rugged coastline and towering peaks, the region invites exploration on foot, by paddle or while soaring through trees. Countless trails crisscross landscapes ready to induce wonder at every turn. With mild weather much of the year, there truly is no excuse not to get out and play in this natural wonderland.
One can’t go wrong lacing up for a hike in spectacular Olympic National Park, about an hour’s drive west of Seattle. Over 900 miles of trails weave through emerald rainforests teeming with ferns and moss before opening onto deserted beaches along the wild Pacific Coast. Along the way, keep eyes peeled for black-tailed deer, grey wolves and even rare gray whales while catching views of craggy mountains plunging jaggedly into foaming surf. Recent hikers recount spotting a massive Roosevelt elk bull with magnificent antlers mere feet from the trail, a true highlight among already arresting scenery. After refueling at a tucked away beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood, travel a bit farther to admire the thunderous Hole-in-the-Wall’s breakers crashing into sea stacks below.
North Cascades National Park features equally epic fjord and alpine landscapes in a more remote setting, but its trails remain satisfyingly lonely. Following the east bank of serpentine Lake Chelan, which snakes between towering cliffs for over 50 miles, leads past abandoned orchards, wildflower meadows and vineyards of cherries and grapes. Beyond this bucolic lake, entering the Pasayten Wilderness rewards with panoramas of rugged peaks draped in glaciers, shining green valleys and crystal clear streams perfect for replenishing water stores. Whether exploring through huckleberry bushes in fall or traversing groves of ancient cedar giants year-round, these wild lands hold true frontier magic begging continued discovery.
15 Eclectic Things To Do in Seattle, From Hot Tub Boats to Suspended Glass Bubbles - From Pike Place to Local Markets: Exploring Seattle's Food and Craft Markets
Stepping into Pike Place Market is like entering a bustling farmers market that never sleeps. As one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in the country, Pike Place embodies Seattle's independent spirit; it's home to scores of family-owned shops, eateries and produce stands. Wander through the market's 9-acre historic district to view diverse wares like artisanal cheeses, fresh-cut flowers grown locally, and crafts from regional artisans. Stop at the famous fish vendors and watch them theatrically toss salmon to one another, or grab an image of the neon Public Market sign as an iconic memento. Pike Place isn't just a tourist magnet either - it's a beloved community space where locals gather to support small businesses.
Beyond Pike Place, Seattle hosts smaller neighborhood farmers markets adding to the city's bounty. Ballard Farmers Market in particular draws crowds Sunday mornings with its emphasis on sustainability and relationships with regional growers. Vibrant bouquets burst with dahlias, peonies or hydrangeas from Floret Flowers' farm in the Skagit Valley just 60 miles away. Shoppers juicing at home can load up on produce from seasonal powerhouses like cherries, strawberries, peppers and more. Those craving a nibble can grab authentic dim sum, naturally-leavened bread or ethnic bites reflecting the city’s diversity. An intimate, almost small-town feel persists thanks to tight vendor curation.
West Seattle also transforms weekly into an open-air oasis at the West Seattle Farmers Market in Junction. Alongside booths brimming with just-picked blueberries and vine-ripened tomatoes, shoppers will discover prepared foods like house-made chorizo tacos from Mexico or Vietnamese pho. It's a prime spot to grab picnic provisions before heading to nearby Lincoln Park. Kids delight at meeting baby goats and sampling freshly baked cookies too. Bringing people together through community and nourishment, West Seattle Farmers Market retains a distinctly welcoming neighborhood vibe.