Seattle, often referred to as the Emerald City, is a vibrant destination brimming with activities that cater to families.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city offers a plethora of things to do in Seattle with family that are both educational and entertaining.

Read on to explore the top five family-friendly activities in Seattle, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Top 5 Family Things to Do in Seattle

1. Explore the Iconic Space Needle

No visit to Seattle is complete without a trip to the Space Needle, which is one of the most recognizable structures in the world.

The 605-foot-tall tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains.

The recent renovation introduced the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor, providing a thrilling experience for both kids and adults.

More about the iconic spot:

Observation Deck: Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air deck.
Interactive Screens: Learn about Seattle’s history and landmarks through engaging digital displays.
Family Photo Ops: Capture memorable moments with the cityscape as your backdrop.

The Space Needle is not just a visual treat; it’s an educational journey (for both children and adults) that offers insights into Seattle’s architectural and cultural significance.

Families can spend hours exploring the tower, taking in the views, and learning about the city’s history through interactive exhibits.

The Loupe, with its rotating glass floor, adds an extra layer of excitement, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers of all ages. It’s indeed a visual treat and more!

2. Dive into Marine Life at the Seattle Aquarium

Located on the Elliott Bay waterfront, the Seattle Aquarium is a must-visit for families. This marine sanctuary is home to a diverse array of sea creatures, offering an immersive experience that educates and fascinates. It’s one of the best things to do in Seattle with family.

Window on Washington Waters: A 120,000-gallon tank showcases many types of local marine life, including salmon, rockfish, sea anemones, and more.
Underwater Dome: Walk through a glass dome surrounded by a 400,000-gallon tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and other marine species.
Touch Tanks: Interactive exhibits where children can touch sea stars, sea urchins, and anemones. This one’s sure to be a hit among your kids!

The aquarium also hosts daily animal feedings and educational talks, making it a perfect spot for families to learn about marine conservation while having fun.

Replicating the underwater environment of the Pacific Northwest, complete with native species, the Window on Washington Waters exhibit is particularly captivating.

The touch tanks provide a hands-on experience that’s as educational as it’s entertaining, allowing children to interact with marine life in a safe and controlled environment.

3. Discover the Wonders of the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

For families with an affinity towards creativity and innovation, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a treasure trove of exhibits that celebrate music, science fiction, and pop culture. If this sounds like your family, then it’s one of the top things to do in Seattle with family for you.

What you get to see here:

Sound Lab: A hands-on exhibit where visitors can play various musical instruments, from guitars to drums.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame: Explore artifacts from iconic franchises like Star Trek, Star Wars, and The Lord of the Rings.
Indie Game Revolution: A showcase of independent video games, offering interactive experiences for all ages.

MoPOP’s dynamic and interactive exhibits make it a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring a day filled with exploration and discovery. The Sound Lab is a favorite among visitors, as it allows them to experiment with different instruments and create their own music.

The Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame offers a nostalgic trip through some of the most beloved franchises in pop culture, while the Indie Game Revolution provides a glimpse into the world of independent game development.

4. Stroll Through the Charming Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most beloved landmarks, offering a sensory feast for the whole family. Established in 1907, this historic market is a bustling hub of activity, featuring local vendors, artisans, and food stalls.

Fish Throwing: Witness the famous fishmongers toss fresh fish to each other, a tradition that has become a symbol of the market.
Local Produce: Sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products from local farmers.
Street Performers: Enjoy live music and performances that add to the market’s vibrant atmosphere.

Pike Place Market is not just a place to shop; it’s a wholesome experience in itself and immerses visitors in the local culture and community. The fish-throwing tradition is a must-see, as it showcases the market’s lively and energetic spirit.

The local produce section offers a variety of fresh and organic options, perfect for families looking to enjoy a healthy snack. Street performers add to the market’s charm, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

5. Immerse in Nature at the Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is a 92-acre sanctuary that houses over a whopping number of 1,000 animals from around the globe! This award-winning zoo, renowned for its naturalistic habitats and commitment to conservation, should be on your list of things to do in Seattle with family.

What you get to see here:

African Savanna: Encounter giraffes, zebras, and lions in a habitat that mimics the African plains.
Tropical Rain Forest: Explore a lush environment home to gorillas, orangutans, and tropical birds.
Family Farm: A petting zoo where children can interact with domestic animals like goats and sheep.

The zoo also offers educational programs and seasonal events, making it a year-round destination for families. The African Savanna exhibit is a highlight, as it allows visitors to observe animals in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat.

The Tropical Rain Forest exhibit offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the world, while the Family Farm provides a hands-on experience that is perfect for younger children. Each part of the zoo offers its own unique sights for visitors.

Conclusion

Seattle is a city that offers a rich variety of experiences for families. From the heights of the Space Needle to the depths of the Seattle Aquarium, the city’s attractions are designed to captivate and educate visitors of all ages, from toddlers to adults.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant Pike Place Market or immersing yourself in the wonders of the Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle promises a memorable adventure for every family.

With its blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and interactive exhibits, Seattle is a destination that truly has something for everyone.

Whether you want to go for wine tasting, spend a day on the beach, visit a zoo that offers an immersive experience, go for a hike, or do anything else in and around Seattle, Cheryl’s Northwest Tours will help you plan the best trip ever. Book a tour now from a wide range of tours offering varying activities based on your preferences.

Top 5 Things To Do In Seattle With Family