20 of the Best Non Touristy Things to Do in Seattle
Got wanderlust but don’t want to do the same old tourist traps when you visit Seattle? You’re in luck!
Wake up, grab a cup of coffee, and break away from the crowds; explore the Emerald City like a true local.
Forget the Space Needle; it’s time to get off-the-beaten-path and uncover the best hidden gems in the city.
Here are 20 under-the-radar activities that will make your trip truly unique!
1. Elliott Bay Book Company
Visiting Elliott Bay Book Company is like visiting a magical kingdom devoted to literature; you’ll stay tucked away for hours on end without even noticing the time.
With two stories filled floor to ceiling with books, comfy chairs in all corners welcoming you, and events galore featuring renowned authors, this wonderland of reads is definitely a must-visit.
They even have a small cafe in the back; order a latte that comes with a side of art!
2. Visit the Smith Tower Observatory Bar
Ready, set, ascend! Take an elevator ride all the way up to the Smith Tower Observatory Bar and step into a swanky speakeasy with unparalleled views.
Hidden on the 35th floor of a 1914 skyscraper, this chic lounge is perfect for enjoying small plates or craft cocktails while you admire one of Seattle’s oldest landmarks from a whole new perspective.
Just don’t forget that you’ll need tickets to make the trip up!
3. Go on a Seaplane Tour
Shaking off the mundane is as easy as a twenty-minute seaplane joyride over Seattle – we guarantee it!
Get ready to take off in one of these tiny aircrafts, limited to a small posse of five.
Be prepared to be dazzled by the sights of the city, with stunners like the Space Needle, Lake Washington, and Puget Sound: you’ll feel like superman!
Gaze in awe as your pilot narrates stories every so often – it’s definitely an enriching experience not to be missed out on.
4. Catch Live Music at Tractor Tavern
Tractor Tavern in Ballard is a cozy one-stop shop for all your live music needs.
They feature some of the most popular talents, so those visiting can enjoy an intimate live performance of some toe-tappin’, hootin’ and hollerin’ music, from rock ‘n’ roll to country.
Often, shows sell out fast at Tractor, so if you’re keen to jump on board the rocking wagon of sound, grab your tickets early and get ready to join in on the rhythm!
5. Join in on Seattle’s Coffee Culture
Enjoy a different sort of sightseeing as you explore the evolving coffee culture of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Put your tour guide’s local knowledge to use and take in the history, roasting processes and distinctive specialty drinks behind each order at the seemingly never-ending string of trendy cafes, artisanal java stands, and indie coffee shops.
Sip on infused coffee or try something brand new – like a dreamy espresso created exclusively in town.
The options are endless as you discover that there is much more to Pacific Northwest coffee than just getting through your day!
6. Ark Lodge Cinemas
Ark Lodge Cinemas is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Originally a renovated Masonic Lodge dating from 1921, the theater marvelously pairs architectural concepts from the past with current films for an experience that can only be described as swanky.
With Ionic columns decorating its facade and velvet armchairs and loveseats adorning its Prestige Room, if it feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
Locally owned and operated, you’ll get a unique chance to sample both art house films and blockbuster releases without having to sacrifice nostalgia.
7. Warm Up With a Bowl of Noodles
When you’re in Seattle, be sure to add Pho Bac to your food tour – this humble restaurant is Seattle’s birthplace of this iconic noodle soup.
Try something new and order their signature short-rib pho. It really is a meal fit for a king – generous portions, hot flavorful broth, and warm noodles.
Perched atop all that goodness are three large plate-sized pieces of tender short rib.
If you need a pick-me-up afterward, treat yourself to some Vietnamese coffee. It’ll certainly hit the spot!
8. Seattle’s Wine Country
Many visitors of the city don’t know about Woodinville Wine Country – only a 25-minute drive away from Seattle!
Here you can find over 130 wineries, offering tastings with experts that’ll teach you all there is to know about the production process.
You can even head over to Snoqualmie Falls if you want to check out some waterfalls near Seattle.
You may be in Seattle, but your visit here will feel like anything but!
9. Seattle Glassblowing Studio
Seattle Glassblowing Studio offers the opportunity to explore your artistic side, with classes ranging from private to group workshops.
If you’re feeling hesitant about honing your craft, there’s no need to be concerned – they’ll teach you how to make something beautiful!
If all the hard work doesn’t pay off and you end up with a paperweight instead of an exquisite decor piece, don’t worry.
The studio has plenty of one-of-a-kind pieces that you can buy and bring home!
10. Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a true godsend for coffee addicts looking for their next delicious fix.
They’ve gone all out by roasting all of their beans in-house and offer an extensive selection of rare blends to boot.
But that’s not all – they even serve up alcoholic beverages as well, taking this unique Starbucks experience to a whole new level!
11. Eat at Sushi Kashiba
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of high-end sushi in Seattle, look no further than Sushi Kashiba.
In this chic restaurant with stunning views, the legendary grandmaster of local sushi Shiro Kashiba is still delighting guests decades after he first opened his restaurant.
Many of the city’s best sushi chefs even trained under him!
When you decide to eat at Sushi Kashiba, take the plunge and go truly Omakase-style! It means “I leave it up to you” in Japanese.
For $150 (or $180 for a more personal experience at the sushi bar), Kashiba will give you a delectable smorgasbord of 17 pieces of sushi and five items from the kitchen.
Let the master work his magic – you won’t regret it!
12. Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square is the original cool kid. You can’t ignore Seattle’s oldest area featuring those oh-so-classy late 1800s Romanesque Revival buildings, now filled with galleries, trendy bars and coffee spots galore.
Unwind in Waterfall Garden Park or grab a bite from one of many Occidental Square food trucks.
And don’t forget all the little diversions that Pioneer Square has to offer – giant outdoor chess, ping pong, merry-go-rounds, and local boutiques.
It really is the place to be – modern but timeless all at once!
13. Museum of Pop Culture
When you think of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), its striking exterior immediately comes to mind.
Composed of 21,000 individually cut aluminum shingles, it’s an artful reflection of the museum’s mission: to genuinely embrace and celebrate the ever-changing flexibility of music.
Make your way through their massive collection of film and music memorabilia, which stretches from the latest in pop culture to a plethora of artifacts from music history.
But let’s not forget, MoPOP isn’t all facts and figures. Get ready for plenty of fun too!
Test your skills as a DJ in their Sound Lab or take part in some community-focused projects; MoPOP never fails to provide a space for exciting entertainment, learning, and engagement.
14. Board a Sunset Cruise
If you’re looking for the best way to take in the beauty of Seattle and all its surrounds, a sailing tour aboard a ship is definitely something worth considering!
You’ll meander through the tranquil Puget Sound waters while passing by awe-inspiring sights.
And when evening rolls around, watch the sunset over the Olympic Mountains. Now that’s how you wrap up a night!
15. Orient Express
Orient Express in Seattle not only serves a delicious variety of Chinese and Thai dishes, but also offers karaoke.
You can sing your heart out as you wolf down that mouthwatering food!
With classics like Pad See Ew, Pad Thai, and various Thai curries, as well as savory Chinese staples like salt and pepper squid, ginger scallion beef, and BBQ pork fried rice, this menu is sure to satisfy any palette.
Fun fact? This jazzy spot has been around since the days of FDR, when the old train car it occupies was operational.
So take a step back in time at Orient Express; it’s all about having a good time with great food!
16. Check Out Fremont Sunday Market
If you’re looking to make Sunday mornings a little more fun, check out the Fremont Sunday Market.
Held all year round, this European-style street market in Seattle is the perfect place to add some pep to your shopping routine.
Enjoy discovering unique hand crafts, savory street food and amazing vintage finds as you wander through this lively marketplace.
Plus, with local farmers selling their fresh produce, you can finally say goodbye to those boring supermarket runs!
17. Lake Union Hot Tub Boat
Need some relaxation time? Lake Union Hot Tub Boat offers seriously luxe vibes with ample views.
Rain or shine, float around and soak up the serenity of Seattle’s waterways – all from the comfort of your own bubbly personal retreat.
So grab some snacks, maybe invite your closest friends, and top off the day with a dip in the Hot Tub Boat!
18. Olympic National Park
If you’re looking for some nature therapy in the Pacific Northwest, pay a visit to Olympic National Park.
Worthy of bragging rights with over 70 miles of magnificent coastlines, one million acres of forestry, and its peak Mount Olympus reaching 2430 meters above ground.
It’s no wonder the park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Make sure to bring your hiking gear because the park’s natural terrain will give you your fill of challenging adventures.
But don’t worry if hiking isn’t your strength – there are many other attractions, such as a mineral hot springs. Ahhh..the perfect nature-filled weekend getaway!
19. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
If you’re looking to strike gold, forget the shovel and pickaxe and head over to the incredible Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
You could get your hands on all sorts of valuable information about the 1896 Yukon gold rush, such as stories about fortune-seekers who arrived with next to nothing and not even a clue where to start.
It’s an amazing place that allows visitors to learn and have fun at the same time.
Seeing is believing, so make sure you check it out – loaded with history and bursting with culture, it certainly won’t disappoint!
20. Brunch it Up at Cafe Campagne
Fancy a little sophistication to your Sunday morning? Look no further than the beloved Cafe Campagne.
Serving decadence between it’s warm sunlight and vibrant Parisan posters, you can dream of taking the next flight to Europe while dining on the tasteful French-inspired dishes this cafe has to offer.
Enjoy a cozy brunch in their quaint oasis tucked away in downtown Seattle and don’t forget to take a few insta-worthy shots – it would be rude not too!
