Seattle in January: 14 Activities You’d Be Crazy to Miss
Seattle in January isn’t just about rain and coffee (though there’s plenty of both). We’ve rounded up a list of the best things to do that’ll warm you up faster than a cup of Pike Place joe.
Get ready to trade your winter blues for Emerald City hues. Your Seattle adventure starts now!
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1. Explore the Seattle Waterfront
Start your walk at the bustling Pike Place Market. With fewer crowds in January, you can chat with the friendly vendors and take your pick of the freshest produce without the usual rush.
Insider tip: Don’t miss a meal at Ivar’s. With a view of the ferries cruising by, it’s your chance to relax and enjoy some of the city’s best seafood. And the Seattle Aquarium is right there too — watch playful otters and get up close with starfish in the touch pools.
Just up the way, Olympic Sculpture Park presents modern art against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains, lovely even under a winter coat.
2. The WildLanterns At Woodland Park Zoo
Don’t miss the chance to see Woodland Park Zoo transform into a luminous wonderland with WildLanterns. Your evening stroll will be lit up by brilliant, large-scale animal and nature-scape lanterns, each one a colorful work of art.
Be sure to dress warmly and wear comfy shoes because you’ll want to take your time seeing everything. To avoid the crowds and get the best view of the lanterns, try to visit on a weekday.
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3. Visit the Space Needle
The Space Needle stands tall through Seattle’s ever-changing skies, a beacon that calls for attention. On a January day, when the air is crisp and crowd lines shorter, the view from the top is clear, slicing through the chill with panoramic beauty.
Here’s a tip: in the quieter months, linger a little longer at the observation deck. You can really take in the snow-dusted peaks of the Olympic Mountains without the summer bustle.
4. Underground Walking Tour
In the heart of Seattle, an adventure beneath the streets awaits. January’s chill makes the Underground Walking Tour a cozy retreat into history. You’ll tread the hidden subterranean passages that whisk you back to the 1890s. It’s a peek into Seattle’s past, away from the rain and cold.
Don’t just walk; look up and around. The old skylights embedded in the sidewalks become prisms of light underground. Dress warmly; underground spaces can be cooler than you expect, even if they shelter you from the wind.
5. The Museum Of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
The Museum of Pop Culture is a treasure chest of cool stuff from music, sci-fi, and so much more. You can’t miss the massive guitar sculpture that greets you as you walk in. Don’t just walk by; each guitar has its own story.
Inside, the interactive exhibits will let you mix your own beats and feel like a rock star — without the paparazzi. Make sure to bring your camera for the sci-fi section; you’ll want to capture the outfits and props from iconic movies.
And, if you’re into gaming, you’ll get a kick out of seeing how video games have evolved. Check out the indie game section for some hidden gems.
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6. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island
Set sail to Bainbridge Island! You’re in for a scenic 35-minute ride across Puget Sound, packed with views you can’t find anywhere else. Seal sightings? Check. Mount Rainier photo ops? You bet.
Once there, head to Winslow—just a stone’s throw from the ferry dock. Here, the local vibe thrives on island time. Chase away the winter blues in the warm cafes, or find treasures in the art galleries.
Don’t miss the homemade ice cream at Mora Iced Creamery, even in the chill of January it’s a local favorite!
7. Commemorate Martin Luther King Day
In January, Seattle honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a range of events that bring the community together. You’ll find yourself moved by powerful rallies and inspired as you march through the city streets alongside fellow residents.
Feel the energy of impassioned speakers share their experiences and hopes for equality. Capture the spirit of the day by joining educational workshops, where you’ll gain new perspectives on social justice.
8. Annual Polar Bear Dive
Taking a leap into the chilly January waters of Lake Washington is a rite of passage in Seattle. During the Annual Polar Bear Dive, you’ll be amongst a lively group, all shivering with anticipation.
When the signal is given, you all rush in, hearts racing as the cold waves embrace you. It’s your chance to conquer the winter waters alongside hundreds of brave souls.
Bring a towel and a warm change of clothes. And arrive early to soak up the energetic atmosphere. It’s the perfect jolt to kick off your January with a splash!
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9. Explore Pike Place Market
Visiting Pike Place Market in January offers a refreshing start to the new year. Warm up with a steaming cup of coffee from the original Starbucks, right here in this marketplace.
Catch a fish tossing show at Pike Place Fish Market and indulge in some fresh seafood afterwards. Next, head down to the gum wall early to avoid crowds and get your unobstructed selfie with this quirky landmark.
After, seek out the hidden magic of the Secret Rooftop Garden for a quiet moment overlooking Elliott Bay. Remember, always chat with the local crafters for small treasures to take home.
10. Visit The Chihuly Garden & Glass
The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-visit when you’re in Seattle. Think glass sculptures that play with light like nothing you’ve seen. Bright and bold, they stand against Seattle’s grey skies in January – a perfect patch of color.
Visit on a weekday and take your time. You’ll feel like you’ve got the whole place to yourself. Look closely at the details, and you’ll spot the magic in the way each piece transforms with the daylight. Make sure to catch the outdoor exhibits too – they’re a different kind of beautiful with a backdrop of soft, winter light.
11. Attend a Seattle Kraken Game
Heading to a Seattle Kraken game is a must when you’re in the city. The energy of the crowd at Climate Pledge Arena is electrifying! Your heart pounds with each goal and every cheer. Grab yourself a jersey and join the sea of fans rooting for our icy gladiators.
Arrive early and soak in the pre-game buzz, you may even get a puck from the pre-game. Snag a local brew and a hot dog – they come recommended by regulars and are perfect for fueling up before the puck drops.
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12. Snowshoeing at Snoqualmie Pass
Seattle’s snow-capped peaks are perfect for snowshoeing, and Snoqualmie Pass is the place to be. The Pass is just an hour from the city, making it a blissful escape for a day trip.
Strap on some snowshoes and take the Gold Creek Pond trail, where beginners and experienced trekkers find their stride. Start early to catch the sunrise reflecting off the mountain peaks.
Remember to check the weather and avalanche reports before heading out, and always pack the essentials—warm layers, water, and snacks.
13. Discover the Fremont Troll
Tucked under the Aurora Bridge, this giant concrete creature grips a real Volkswagen Beetle, adding a quirky touch to the artsy Fremont district. It’s not every day you get to see a sculpture this large and lifelike!
Grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and visit early when it’s less crowded. You get to enjoy the art and snap some photos without the bustle. And remember to touch the Troll’s left toe — it’s a local tradition said to bring good luck.
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14. Tour the Seattle Central Library
When Seattle’s rain patters outside, the Central Library offers a dry haven, brilliant with daring architecture to brighten any January day. You’ll find vast reading rooms and the famous “Books Spiral,” a four-story concept that displays the library’s collection on a continuous ramp.
The library’s glass escalators offer more than a ride; they frame the city in snapshots, from the bustling streets to the serene sky.
Curious about the view from the top? Take the elevator to the 10th floor, where the Betty Jane Narver Reading Room presents a spread of Seattle that rivals any observation deck.
Remember to check out their self-guided cell phone tour too. You move at your pace, discovering secrets of the library’s design and treasures along the way.
