Top 5 Things To Do On Rainy Day In Seattle
Despite being an amazing place to explore in any season, Seattle’s rainy days create the perfect setting for indoor adventures. The city offers a mix of art, culture, and cozy escapes.
There are multiple places to visit and things to do on rainy day in Seattle on rainy days here. While Chihuly Garden and Glass displays stunning glass sculptures in bright colors, visitors at MoPOP can explore music, film, and gaming exhibits.
Pike Place Market has hidden shops, tasty food, and unique finds in its lower levels. The Seattle Aquarium brings visitors close to sea life, including playful otters and massive underwater tanks.
For a peaceful retreat, a number of bookstores and cafes provide warmth and comfort you might crave during the rainy weather. Rain in Seattle is not a reason to stay in—it’s a chance to explore things to do Seattle rainy day and view the city differently altogether.
5 Things to Do in Seattle on Rainy Days
Image credits: Chihuly Garden and Glass
1. Explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass
Seattle is home to one of the most breathtaking glass art exhibits in the world. Chihuly Garden and Glass, located at Seattle Center, showcases the stunning work of world-renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly. This exhibit is a feast for the eyes, featuring intricate, colorful glass sculptures that feel almost alive.
Here’s what all you can see at this spot:
The Glasshouse – This 40-foot-tall structure contains a massive suspended glass sculpture, glowing in shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Eight Immersive Galleries – Each gallery takes visitors through Chihuly’s artistic journey, with displays inspired by nature, Native American culture, and Venetian glassmaking.
The Outdoor Garden – While partially open-air, this space blends glass sculptures with real plants, creating a magical fusion of nature and art.
A visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass is an unforgettable experience in every way. The vibrant artwork, set against Seattle’s gray skies, makes the colors pop even more, making it a treat for your eyes!
The on-site theater also offers short documentaries about Chihuly’s process, perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into the art of glassblowing.
2. Immerse Yourself in Culture at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Seattle has a deep connection to music, gaming, and science fiction, making the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) a must-visit on a rainy day.
Housed in a striking building designed by Frank Gehry, MoPOP celebrates creativity across different entertainment genres. It’s easily one of the top things to do on rainy day in Seattle.
What all to see here?
The Sound Lab – Visitors can play electric guitars, experiment with mixing consoles, and learn how music is made.
Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix Exhibits – These exhibits showcase Seattle’s legendary contributions to rock music, including rare artifacts, handwritten lyrics, and iconic instruments.
The Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame – This exhibit honors the greatest writers, filmmakers, and artists in the genre, with props from movies like The Lord of the Rings and Blade Runner.
Horror Film Exhibit – Fans of the macabre will love the deep dive into horror cinema, featuring costumes, behind-the-scenes stories, and chilling interactive displays.
MoPOP is not just a museum—it’s an interactive experience where visitors can step into the worlds of their favorite movies, games, songs, and so much more. Rainy days are the perfect excuse to spend hours exploring its various exhibits.
3. Wander Through Pike Place Market’s Hidden Gems
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s top attractions, and while many associate it with outdoor stalls and fish-throwing vendors, you should know that there’s also plenty to do indoors! Beneath the bustling main level lies a wide range of shops, cafes, and other unique finds.
Explore these amazing spots at the market:
Lower Levels of the Market – Many visitors miss this underground section, filled with antique stores, record shops, and hidden bookstores.
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Watch cheesemakers in action through glass windows and try their famous mac & cheese, often called the best in Seattle.
The Pink Door – A hidden Italian restaurant with live jazz and burlesque performances, perfect for a cozy meal.
Market Magic & Novelty Shop – A vintage magic store selling tricks, props, and rare collectibles, making it a fun stop for families.
The market’s cozy atmosphere, combined with its endless indoor discoveries, makes it a fantastic way to spend a rainy afternoon. Whether you're enjoying fresh seafood, exploring vintage treasures, or sipping on a hot cup of coffee, Pike Place Market never disappoints.
4. Experience the Seattle Aquarium
Located on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium is a perfect rainy-day destination, offering a deep dive into the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, stunning underwater views, and opportunities to get up close with fascinating creatures.
What you can see here:
Window on Washington Waters – A massive 120,000-gallon tank filled with local fish species, providing a glimpse into the waters of Puget Sound.
Underwater Dome – This glass-encased exhibit offers a 360-degree view of sea life, including sharks, stingrays, giant rockfish, and more.
Sea Otter Habitat – These knowingly playful animals are a visitor favorite, known for their adorable floating behavior and energetic swimming.
Tide Pool Touch Zone – A hands-on experience where visitors can feel sea stars, anemones, and other tide pool creatures!
The Seattle Aquarium is both educational and entertaining, making it a great choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, a perfect place to escape the rain.
5. Cozy Up in an Independent Bookstore and Cafe
Seattle has a deep literary culture, making its independent bookstores and coffee shops the perfect retreat from the rain. Nothing beats curling up with a good book while sipping on a rich, hot espresso, among the best things to do on rainy day in Seattle.
Here are some of the best recommendations:
Elliott Bay Book Company – A legendary bookstore in Capitol Hill with towering bookshelves, creaky wooden floors, and a cozy café tucked inside.
Third Place Books – A community-oriented bookstore with multiple locations, each offering a café and frequent author readings.
Ada’s Technical Books & Cafe – A haven for science and technology lovers, featuring a bookstore, a coffee shop, and a quiet reading space.
Little Oddfellows – Located inside Elliott Bay Book Company, this café serves locally roasted coffee and delicious pastries, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Pairing a hot latte with a new book is a simple pleasure that feels even more special on a rainy Seattle day. These cozy spots provide the perfect escape, allowing visitors to slow down and enjoy the city at a different pace.
Final Thoughts
Seattle’s frequent rain showers are part of its charm, and they don’t have to put a damper on your plans. From immersive museums and stunning art exhibits to hidden market treasures and cozy book nooks, there are countless ways to enjoy the city while staying warm and dry.
Whether you’re discovering local artists, learning about marine life, or simply savoring a cup of Seattle’s finest coffee, a rainy day in the Emerald City can be just as magical as a sunny one.
Whether you’re visiting Seattle on a sunny day or a rainy one, whether you plan to go for wine tasting, explore museums, 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.