Places to Visit in Seattle: Seattle is a vibrant city with plenty to offer students, whether you’re visiting for a short trip or studying in the area. From iconic landmarks to budget-friendly attractions, the city is a perfect mix of history, technology, and nature. Explore famous spots like the Space Needle, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Pike Place Market, or relax in one of Seattle’s many parks.
If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, this guide will be a great help! We’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Seattle—perfect for students who want to explore, learn, and have fun without spending too much.
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6 Best Places to Visit in Seattle
Seattle is a city full of exciting places to explore, offering a perfect mix of nature, history, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a student visiting for a short trip or studying in the area, there are plenty of must-see spots that won’t break the bank. From breathtaking views at the Space Needle to the lush landscapes of The Bloedel Reserve and Lakewold Gardens, Seattle has something for everyone. Here, we’ve listed 6 best places to visit in Seattle that are perfect for students looking to explore, learn, and enjoy the city.
Woodland Park Zoo
Located in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, Woodland Park Zoo is one of the top places to visit in Seattle for wildlife lovers. It has received various awards in different categories and attracts millions of visitors throughout the year. Interestingly, Woodland Park Zoo is regarded as the world’s first immersion exhibit – a gorilla habitat. This exhibit was founded in the late 1970s under the leadership of the zoo architect David Hancocks.
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Space Needle
The Space Needle is one of the most iconic places to visit in Seattle, built in 1962 for the World’s Fair. It is located in the lower Queen’s Anne neighbourhood and consists of an indoor lounge area which has the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. Here you will be able to enjoy a 360-degree view of Mount Rainier, the Olympic and Cascade mountains, and the downtown Seattle skyline.
Bellingham
Bellingham is one of the best places to visit in Seattle for those looking to explore beyond the city. It is just an hour away from the south of Vancouver and an hour and a half away from the south of Seattle. Apart from this, you can enjoy stunning views conveniently as places like Mount Baker, San Juan Islands and North Cascade Mountains are just a bike ride away. You can even enjoy camping at nearby spots like Thousand Trails Campground and Larrabee State Park on Samish Bay.
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Lakewold Gardens
Located in Lakewood, Washington, Lakewold Gardens is one of the most scenic places to visit near Seattle, covering around 10 acres of beautifully landscaped land. It is a non-profit garden estate which was designed by Mr. Thomas Church and till now it is the best place to experience the beauty of plants, history, flowers and great scenic views. Apart from scenic and nature’s beauty another fascinating part of this place is its history. In the 1900s it is said that Emma Alexander owned a large part of Lakewood Gardens. Later it was passed on to his wife and children. After that family of Alexander purchased another adjacent land and combined both of them.
The Bloedel Reserve
Spread across 150 acres, The Bloedel Reserve is one of the most breathtaking places to visit near Seattle. It is undoubtedly one of the best tourist sites in the USA and is situated at Bainbridge Island. The Bloedel Reserve is a fantastic location to enjoy time with your loved ones while also having the opportunity to take in some of nature’s true splendour. The traditional northwestern woodlands and gardens enable tourists to engage with nature, which is unusual in the busy world we currently live in.
Maury Island
Maury Island is one of the most unique places to visit in Seattle, offering a peaceful retreat in Puget Sound. It is said that the island is largely rural and is made up of forest, farmland and shoreline. Right near the easternmost tip of the island lies the historic tip Robinson lighthouse, which is both stunning and fascinating. The Maury Island Marine Park Natural Area, which covers about 320 acres, and a park with over a mile of unspoilt beachfront, covering about 275 acres, are located on this captivating island.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Places to Visit in Seattle
Now that you know the best places to visit in Seattle, it’s important to consider a few key factors to make the most of your trip. Things like the weather, your interests, budget, and accessibility all play a role in creating a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some important things to keep in mind when deciding where to go in the city.
- Interests & Preferences – Whether you love nature, history, food, or art, pick places that match your interests.
- Weather & Season – Seattle’s weather can be rainy, so check the forecast and plan indoor or outdoor activities accordingly.
- Time Available – Some attractions take more time to explore, so plan based on how long you have in the city.
- Budget – Many places are free, while others require tickets, so consider your budget when making plans.
- Location & Accessibility – Choose places that are easy to reach based on your transport options.
- Crowds & Peak Hours – Popular spots can be busy, so visit early or on weekdays for a better experience.
- Local Events & Festivals – Check for special events that might enhance or impact your visit.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Exploring Seattle’s Best Places
Seattle is a vibrant city filled with stunning views, rich history, and unique attractions—but experiencing its best spots doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for affordable adventures, these budget-friendly tips will help you explore Seattle without stretching your wallet.
Getting Around
- Use public transport (buses, Link Light Rail, streetcars) – Get an ORCA card for discounts.
- Walk or bike – Seattle has many pedestrian-friendly areas.
- Ride the Seattle Center Monorail ($3.50 one way) for a fun and cheap trip.
Free & Cheap Attractions
- Visit Pike Place Market – Explore shops, watch street performers, and see the famous fish-throwing vendors.
- Go to Kerry Park for a stunning, free view of the Seattle skyline.
- Walk along the Waterfront & Olympic Sculpture Park for art and ocean views.
- Hike at Discovery Park – Seattle’s largest green space with scenic trails.
- See the Fremont Troll & Gas Works Park – Great for unique photos and city views.
- Visit Volunteer Park Conservatory ($4–$6) for a peaceful botanical escape.
Low-Cost Activities
- Explore the Seattle Public Library (Central Library) – A stunning, free architectural site.
- Visit museums on free admission days (Seattle Art Museum, Museum of Flight).
- Take a cheap ferry ride to Bainbridge Island ($9 round trip) for amazing views.
Affordable Food Options
- Try clam chowder at Pike Place Market – Delicious and budget-friendly.
- Eat in the International District for cheap and tasty Asian food.
- Look for happy hour deals in downtown restaurants.
- Check out food trucks for great meals at lower prices.
Saving on Attractions
- Buy a Seattle CityPASS for discounts on major attractions.
- Attend free local events like farmers markets, outdoor movies, and festivals.
- Check websites like Groupon or Goldstar for discounted tickets.
This was all about the best places to visit in Seattle. From famous landmarks like the Space Needle to peaceful parks and exciting markets, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or exploring more as a local, Seattle is full of great experiences waiting for you!
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FAQs on Places to Visit in Seattle
Space Needle is one of the most visited places in Seattle. It was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair and since then it has been regarded as the symbol of the city.
Seattle is a wonderful tourist destination where you will be able to do a lot of exciting things. If you are someone who loves greenery and going to outdoor spaces then Seattle will definitely won’t disappoint you with its amazing mountain views, lush greenery, and opportunity to engage in activities like camping, hiking, and kayaking.
Mentioned below are some of the food items that you must try when visiting Seattle:
– Clam Chowder
– Salmon
– Coffee
– Oysters
– Teriyaki
– Rainier Beer
Families visiting Seattle will love the Seattle Aquarium, where kids can see sea otters and touch starfish. The Woodland Park Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, while the Pacific Science Center features planetariums, interactive science exhibits, and a butterfly house. The Museum of Flight allows kids to explore real planes, and the Seattle Children’s Museum offers hands-on activities.
The best time to visit Seattle is June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and moderate temperatures, while winter is rainy but good for indoor attractions.
Yes! The Link Light Rail connects downtown to the airport, and there are plenty of buses, ferries, and the Seattle Streetcar to help you explore the city.
Rattlesnake Ledge is a moderate hike with an epic view, while Mount Si offers a challenging climb with rewarding scenery. Twin Falls is a short and scenic waterfall hike, and Snoqualmie Falls is great for an easy yet beautiful walk. For an in-city hike, try Discovery Park, which has stunning coastal trails.
The University of Washington Quad is the best spot, drawing visitors every spring. The Seattle Japanese Garden offers a peaceful setting, and Washington Park Arboretum has various flowering trees, making it perfect for a springtime stroll
Visit Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style Christmas village, or enjoy the Seattle Center Winterfest with ice skating and holiday lights. Skiing at Snoqualmie Pass is a great option, and WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo is a must-see light display.
Go kayaking on Lake Union, take part in the Seafair Festival, or enjoy outdoor concerts at Marymoor Park. Gas Works Park is perfect for picnics and sunsets, and nearby Olympic National Park is ideal for hiking.
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