Outdoor Activities in Seattle

In this article, we’re going to share some of the best outdoor activities you can do in Seattle. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or you live here and want new ideas, we’ll give you all the details you need. So get ready to explore Seattle’s great outdoors.

Popular Outdoor Activities in Seattle

Looking to experience the great outdoors in the Emerald City? Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Seattle that highlight the beauty of the Pacific Northwest:

Pike Place Market

Seattle Aquarium

Situated on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium lets you connect with local marine life — a great activity before or after a stroll along the waterfront.

Whale Watching Tour on Puget Sound and the Salish Sea

One of the best ways to enjoy the Salish Sea and Puget Sound is by hopping on a whale watching tour, where you might spot orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales.

Boat Tour around Lake Union and Puget Sound

Whether it’s a relaxing boat tour or an adventurous sailing trip, cruising Lake Union and Puget Sound gives you unique views of the city skyline and floating homes.

Seattle Great Wheel

Boat Cruise

Relax in Hot Tubs with a View of Puget Sound

Some waterfront hotels and spas offer hot tubs overlooking Puget Sound, where you can unwind while soaking in scenic views.

Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is a family-friendly destination set in beautifully landscaped outdoor habitats — a great way to explore wildlife without leaving the city.

Guided Hike on Local Hiking Trails

Seattle is surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest, from Mount Si to Discovery Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.

Seattle Center and Space Needle

The Seattle Center is home to the iconic Space Needle, surrounded by outdoor art, gardens, and public spaces that make it perfect for a day out in the great outdoors.

Scenic Seattle Night Walking Tour with Space Needle 

Exploring Seattle’s nightlife with visits to the Space Needle and Seattle Great Wheel is a must. You will enjoy breathtaking city and Puget Sound views, perfect for capturing stunning photos and experiencing the Emerald City under the stars.

Free Outdoor Activities in Seattle

Want to explore Seattle outdoor activities without spending a dime? Here are some free outdoor activities in Seattle that showcase the city’s natural beauty and urban charm:

The Waterfront and Puget Sound Views

Take a walk along the waterfront for stunning views of Puget Sound and Salish Sea — a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors at no cost..

Walk Around Seattle Center and the Space Needle

Urban Hiking Trails in Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest green space, Discovery Park, offers scenic hiking trails with views of Puget Sound, forests, and beaches — all free to explore.

Kerry Park for Iconic City Views

Olympic Sculpture Park

A free outdoor art museum by the water, Olympic Sculpture Park offers a mix of modern art and stunning Puget Sound vistas.

Is Seattle Good for Outdoorsy People?

Yes! Seattle is awesome for people who love the outdoors. They don’t call it the Emerald City for nothing — it's super green and full of parks, forests, and water all around. If you like hiking trails, there are tons of them close to the city, and many have amazing views of mountains, lakes, and the Puget Sound. You can even go on a whale watching tour in the Salish Sea and see real orcas.

Seattle also has cool places like Lake Union, where you can watch boats or rent a kayak. If you’re into animals, you can visit Woodland Park Zoo, or head to the Seattle Aquarium to learn about sea creatures. Plus, there are fun outdoor spots like Seattle Center, home of the Space Needle, and Pike Place Market to explore. So, if you love being outside and exploring the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is totally for you.

Final Word

Seattle is truly a paradise for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're strolling through Pike Place Market, taking in city views from the Space Needle, exploring hiking trails, or cruising Lake Union and Puget Sound, there are endless outdoor activities in Seattle to enjoy. From free experiences like waterfront parks to exciting tours and whale watching adventures, the Emerald City offers something for everyone. Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and the Salish Sea, Seattle makes it easy to connect with nature and the vibrant city life at the same time. So pack your walking shoes and get ready to explore all the outdoor fun Seattle has to offer.