With a beautiful location, great museums, notable landmarks, and more, Seattle is a great place to visit with kids. Based on our experience, we feel that the summer was the best time to visit the Emerald City and the Pacific Northwest in general. The weather is generally warm but not too hot, and the rain isn’t usually a problem. However, if you experience a rainy day, there are plenty of things to do. Note that we received some complimentary admissions during our trip.
Space Needle
This icon of Seattle, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, is a must-visit during your Seattle family vacation. The Space Needle went through a full renovation in 2018, and it offers amazing views of the city. It’s one of the best things to do in Seattle with kids. Learn more here.
Pike Place Market
This public market is one of the most popular places to visit in Seattle. Open daily, it’s located right in the center of town by the waterfront. As you walk through the various stalls and shops, you’ll find produce, fish, meat, cheeses, and honey, as well as nonperishables like artwork, crafts, and souvenirs. If your room has a kitchen, you may want to pick up some items for dinner.
Pacific Science Center
If your kids love science and interactive exhibits, you’ll want to visit the Pacific Science Center right in Seattle Center. Adjacent to the Space Needle, the Pacific Science Center is made up of several buildings offering so much for kids to enjoy. There are lots of hands-on exhibits, and it’s also a great place to visit if there happens to be a rainy day during your trip.
Hiram M Chittenden Locks
The Ballard Locks were created by the US Army Corp of Engineers in 1971 and are located where the salt water of Puget Sound meets the freshwater of Lake Washington and Lake Union. The locks manage the water levels. There’s a visitor center where you can learn more about the locks and a botanical garden that you can walk through. In the summer months, you may want to visit the salmon ladder to see the salmon swimming. It’s best to visit the fish ladder during high tide – we were there during low tide and didn’t see them.
Seattle Aquarium
Located on the Seattle waterfront on Alaskan Way, the Seattle Aquarium is a fun place to visit with kids. Little kids will love it, although my teens enjoyed the visit as well. The aquarium offers interactive exhibits, feedings, and more.
Argosy Cruises
During our vacation to Seattle, we enjoyed a 60-minute cruise on Argosy Cruises. There’s a restroom and snack bar on the boat, and waiter service is available if you don’t want to get up. During the hour-long journey, you’ll get some narration about the waterfront and the history of Seattle. We really enjoyed the trip and recommend it.
The Museum of Pop Culture
MoPOP, as it’s now known, was originally the Experience Music Project (EMP). It was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and features exhibits filled with memorabilia of popular culture. The musical roots of the museum are still apparent as you visit the various exhibits.
Gas Works Park
If you are looking for a place to get your kids’ energy out, you’ll want to visit Gas Works Park. This free public park is located on the waterfront and is in the former home of a Seattle Gas Light Company plant. It’s not located right downtown – you’ll need to drive there.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
This exhibition hall, garden, and glasshouse is one of the attractions in Seattle Center. It’s best for the oldest kids – younger kids won’t appreciate the exhibits and will need to be watched around all of the glass. Chihuly’s work is gorgeous and unique, and this museum does a fantastic job showcasing everything among the beauty of Seattle. It takes about an hour to go through. In addition to the exhibits, Chihuly Garden and Glass also offers a gift shop and cafe.
Seattle Waterfront
During your trip to Seattle, you’ll want to visit the Seattle waterfront. It’s located downstairs from Pike Place, although elevators and a shuttle bus are available. On the waterfront, you’ll find lots of fun things, including shops and restaurants. The waterfront is also where you will find the Seattle Aquarium and dock for the Argosy Cruises. There’s also the Seattle Ferris Wheel, called the Seattle Great Wheel. Read more about things to do in Seattle here.