Things to Do in Seattle: Visit Seattle Landmarks

Are you heading to Seattle this summer? If you’re looking for things to do, I recommend visiting these Seattle landmarks during your visit.

Dave Chihuly - Chihuly Garden Glass Museum

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle sits right on the Puget Sound. The city was settled in 1851 and named after Chief Seattle, the Native American leader and chief of the Duwamish, Suquamish, and other tribes of the area. Seattle has a unique landscape, a rich history, and lots to see (although it’s much smaller than West Coast Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles). From Pike Place Market to the University of Washington, I hope this list of Seattle landmarks helps you experience the city!

Pike Place Market

Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101

When friends and family visit, I love taking them to Pike Place Market. Pike Place Market is one of America’s oldest and continuously operating public markets. While it isn’t huge (you could easily explore the market in the morning or afternoon), there’s a ton to see. You can stick your bubble gum onto the gum wall, buy a fresh bouquet, or visit the original Starbucks store inside the market.

If you’re planning on visiting this iconic Seattle landmark, I recommend giving yourself a day to explore the market. Wander through the indoor and outdoor local stalls and businesses and snack your way through the market.

University of Washington

Address: University of Washington Central Plaza Garage, Seattle, WA 98105

I’m a little biased as a local Seattleite and University of Washington grad. Still, I recommend walking through the University of Washington if you’re looking for something to do in Seattle for the first time.

If you’re visiting in March, I recommend wandering through the Quad to check out the cherry blossoms. At any other time of the year, I recommend checking out Suzallo Library (it looks straight out of Harry Potter), Drumheller Fountain, and Red Square.

If you aren’t sure where to park, I recommend parking at the Central Plaza Garage. The parking garage is underneath right Red Square.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Hopefully, you’ve seen his glass art if you haven’t heard of Dave Chihuly before. Chihuly is a local Washington glass artist with his work displayed in over 200 museums worldwide.

The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum opened at Seattle Center in 2012. There are eight galleries, the garden, as well as the Glasshouse. After you’ve wandered through the museum, I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at the Collections Café.

The Space Needle

Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

The Space Needle is arguable Seattle’s most famous landmark. The Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It’s an iconic Seattle landmark with beautiful views of the city, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Mountains.

One of the unique features of the Space Needle is the Loupe, the world’s only rotating glass floor. Plus, the Space Needle offers unique dining experiences. I recommend checking out the Space Needle Lounge to see the latest food and drink experiences they’re offering.

Seattle Public Library – Central Library (Downtown Location)

Address: 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Seattle Public Library - Things to see in Seattle

The Seattle Central Library is in Downtown Seattle. This library is 11 floors with a 275-seat auditorium and plenty of spaces for people to meet, study, and collaborate.

Walk down the Seattle Waterfront

Address: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

Seattle landmarks - things to see in Seattle - www.emmasedition.com

If you’re looking for things to do in Seattle, I recommend checking out the Seattle Waterfront. I recommend:

Book an Argosy Cruise boat tour – The Seattle Original Harbor Cruise is a great way to see the Puget Sound!
Ride the Seattle Great Wheel – I love the unique views of the city from the Ferris wheel.
Eat at Ivar’s – I love the clam chowder and fish and chips.

Visit the Fremont Troll

Address: N 36th St, Seattle, WA 98103

Fremont Troll - unique things to see in Seattle - www.emmasedition.com

If you’re looking for a landmark you can only find in Seattle; I recommend checking out the Fremont Troll. Located on Troll Avenue in Seattle’s Fremont Neighborhood, the Troll originally opened in 1989. Designed by Steve Badanes, the Fremont Troll was inspired by the folktale Billy Goat’s Gruff.