Top Attractions for First-Timers
Space Needle and Chihuly Garden
You can’t come to Seattle without going up in the iconic Space Needle! Take a ride up to the observation deck 520 feet above the city and get a 360 degree view. Afterward, check out the stunning Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit at the base – a wonderland of colorful blown glass sculptures by local artist Dale Chihuly. It’s a can’t miss combo!
Pike Place Market
Dating back over 100 years, the bustling Pike Place Market is a Seattle institution. Spend an afternoon browsing the vendor stalls, watching the fishmongers toss salmon, sampling local treats, and snapping photos of the famous neon Public Market Center sign. Don’t leave without picking up some fresh flowers, artisanal cheese, and of course – coffee!
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Music lovers and pop culture aficionados will have a blast at MoPOP. Check out exhibits on Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, and more Seattle icons. Don’t miss the Sky Church with its eccentric architecture – it hosts concerts and other events. You can even try your hand at playing the guitar like Hendrix in the interactive galleries!
Pioneer Square
Swing through historic Pioneer Square to get a taste of old Seattle. Pop into the original Starbucks store, browse the galleries and antique shops, and be sure to snap a photo next to the iconic pergola, a city landmark dating back to 1909. This district comes alive at night with live music venues, clubs, and bars perfect for grabbing a craft beer.
Kerry Park
For one of the best views of Seattle’s skyline and Elliott Bay, head up to Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill. Bring your camera – this is the classic viewpoint where you’ll get postcard-worthy shots of the Space Needle framed by the city’s hills and waterfront. It’s especially stunning at sunset!
Waterfront
Seattle’s central waterfront along Elliott Bay is always buzzing with activity. Go for a ride on the iconic Great Wheel, visit the Seattle Aquarium, or hop aboard one of the ferries sailing to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. Seafood lovers can feast on fresh oysters and clams at Pier 54 and watch the boats coming in with the daily catch.
How to Get Around Seattle
Public Transportation
Seattle has an extensive public transportation system that makes getting around easy without a car. The Link Light Rail connects downtown to other neighborhoods and the airport. Buses, streetcars, and the Monorail also crisscross the city. Use the ORCA card for seamless pay-as-you-go fares. The Sounder commuter train is another option for travel between Everett, Tacoma, and Seattle.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are easy to hail downtown and rideshares like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city. Compare your options in the apps and go with what best fits your budget and needs.
Charter Buses
For group travel or private events, charter a bus! Party Bus Seattle provides charter bus rentals for groups in the Seattle area. Our fleet of spacious buses features luxury amenities like leather seats, satellite TVs, USB chargers and free WiFi. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate outing, school field trip or night on the town, we’ve got you covered. Call 253-414-1606 for a quote on getting your crew around Seattle in comfort and style!
Ferries
Catch a ferry for fun travel on Puget Sound! Walk-on passengers can sail from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. Take your car or bus on the ferry to Vashon Island for a quaint getaway just minutes from the city. Ferries offer mesmerizing views of the Seattle skyline you can’t get anywhere else.
Rental Cars
For visitors who want to explore at their own pace, rental cars are readily available. Seattle has major outposts of all the national chains, as well as smaller local agencies. Just keep in mind parking and traffic can be challenging downtown. Consider renting for day trips out of the city instead.
Bikeshare
Cycling is a popular way to get around Seattle thanks to miles of designated bike lanes and trails. Grab a Lime or Jump bike using their handy apps for spontaneous, affordable trips. Helmets are provided! Or rent a bike for a full day of cruising along Elliott Bay or Lake Washington.
Family Fun
Seattle offers a wide array of family-friendly attractions sure to please kids of all ages. Here are some top picks for your crew:
Seattle Aquarium
Get up close to sharks, octopus, sea otters and more at this dynamic waterfront aquarium. The marine mammals area is a favorite of many families. Time your visit to catch a sea lion or harbor seal training session!
Woodland Park Zoo
Lions, tigers, bears (oh my!) and hundreds of other creatures call Woodland Park Zoo home. Ride the carousel, explore the tropical rainforest dome, and watch the penguins and puffins play. Families will easily spend a full day connecting with nature here.
Museum of Pop Culture
The MoPOP offers interactive music and sci-fi fun for all ages. Kids love the Sound Lab where they can lay down tracks in a recording studio, and the fantasy exhibit where they can dress up as superheroes. There’s also a lab for making video games!
Seattle Children’s Museum
The Seattle Children’s Museum is located in the Armory in Seattle Center, close to the Space Needle. Kids can splash in fountains, drive toy cars, explore global cultures, and let their imaginations run wild in this playful learning environment.
Argosy Cruises Seattle Harbor Tour
Families can sightsee together on a fun Argosy Cruise around Elliott Bay and Lake Union. Experienced guides will entertain and educate as you view the Seattle skyline, floating homes, Port of Seattle, and more on this engaging one-hour excursion.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you’ve got a game plan for exploring Seattle, it’s time to start your trip planning! Decide if you want to purchase a CityPASS for admission to top attractions, book hotels and transportation, and pack your bags. We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful city. Let the adventures begin! And if you need help getting a group around Seattle, give Party Bus Seattle a call anytime at 253-414-1606. We’ll help you rent the perfect charter bus for sightseeing, weddings, corporate outings, school trips, and more. From spacious 56 passenger coaches to luxury limo buses and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. Let’s roll!