Don’t waste your time and money at these overrated places in Seattle.
We already talked about locals’ picks for the most underrated places in Seattle. Today, we’re diving into the most overrated places in Seattle. We asked our Seattleites on Instagram and Facebook what they think are the most overrated attractions in Seattle—and what they would recommending doing instead. We’re also sharing our tried-and-true recommendations to ensure that you get the most authentic and enjoyable Seattle experience possible!
Here are the top six most overrated places in Seattle:
1. The original Starbucks
Why it’s overrated: The “original” Starbucks located at Pike Place Market always has a long line of tourists and is, in fact, actually the second-ever Starbucks. As one local puts it: “Skip the line, it’s nothing special.” This truly may be one of the most overrated attractions in Seattle.
What locals recommend instead:
- Espresso Vivace (532 Broadway Ave East)
- Retro Coffee (920 5th Ave #150)
- “Get a flight from Elm Coffee Roasters” (240 2nd Ave S #103)
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery (1124 Pike St). “Skip going to the ‘original’ Starbucks and instead head to the Seattle Roastery to see how it’s made. Much cooler experience.”
- “Go to any one of the independent roasters. You have plenty to choose from.” This local suggests Herkimer Coffee, Seven Coffee Roasters, Broadcast Coffee, Stampact Coffee, Fulcrum Coffee Roasters, and Conduit Coffee.
- “Fonté Coffee! They just opened a coffee/cocktail lounge.” (1321 First Avenue)
- Local coffee shops. “I would highly recommend trying other local coffee shops to actually experience the Seattle coffee culture,” one local suggests. “Go to any coffee shop other than Starbucks,” says another.
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: Local coffee shops are definitely the move in Seattle. Every Seattleite has their favorite, but don’t overthink it: just explore the neighborhood that you’re in and you’re sure to find an excellent coffee shop with its own unique charm.
If you must get your Starbucks fix while in Seattle, we agree with locals who suggested the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill. You can easily walk there from Pike Place Market and you’ll be able to enjoy coffee cocktails, an impressive food menu, and unique experiences.
2. The Gum Wall
Why it’s overrated: Variations on “gross” and “disgusting” were the most frequent reasons given for why Seattle’s infamous Gum Wall is overrated. The main thing that this attraction has going for it is that it’s free. Plus it’s a quick and easy detour if you’re already at Pike Place Market. But if you’re easily grossed out, this is not for you.
What locals recommend instead:
- “The many small vendors in [Pike Place Market]. So many local florists and potters and craftspeople who vend a few days per week. Those stalls you see set up? They’re usually one or two person businesses, locally owned and working their butts off!”
- “If you’re in the market already, hit up The Confectional which is locally owned and run by real Seattle humans, and has amazing treats you won’t get anywhere else.”
- “The stores deep in [Pike Place Market]. There’s a ton of vintage media shops that have old publications and movie/event posters, etc.”
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: If someone in your group insists on viewing the Gum Wall, don’t fight them on it. While they take photos of themselves pretending to lick strangers’ discarded gum, you can visit the adjacent Ghost Alley Espresso window for an excellent coffee. Afterwards, take the locals’ advice and explore everything else Pike Place Market has to offer.
3. The Space Needle
Why it’s overrated: Locals call the Space Needle “overpriced,” and “boring and expensive with a long wait.”
What locals recommend instead:
- “Go to Kerry Park and Volunteer Park for excellent free views.” See the view of Kerry Park pictured above!
- Smith Tower. Not only does Smith Tower offer excellent views, but it also has a restaurant, fun events, and more. Read about things to do at Smith Tower.
- “Go to the Columbia Tower if you really want a high-up view of the city.”
- The Seattle Great Wheel. “I love the wheel. It’s a ride and you still get great views.”
- “One of the many rooftop bars.” This local recommends Fog Room.
- Wings Over Washington
- The Seattle Spheres
- Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: This Seattleite puts it best: “I think everyone should do the Needle once or you’ll have FOMO. Once you’ve done it once you’re set for life though.” If you’ve already done the Space Needle once or it’s just not in the budget, we recommend getting brunch at Smith Tower, dinner with a view, or drinks at one of these Seattle rooftop bars. On a budget? Go check out the view at Kerry Park in Queen Anne!
4. The Seattle Monorail
Why it’s overrated: The Seattle Monorail only makes two stops. It goes between Seattle Center and Westlake Center. It’s a convenient way to avoid a 15-minute walk, but that’s about it. If you’d like to ride it for the novelty it can be fun, but don’t go out of your way for the experience.
What locals recommend instead:
- A ferry ride.
- “Go on a seaplane from Kenmore Air to get a great once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
- “If you’re inclined, and have a designated driver, take a wine tasting tour in Woodinville.”
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: If you want a unique transportation experience in Seattle, hop on a ferry to one of the nearby islands (see our guide for visiting Vashon Island) or take the water taxi from downtown to West Seattle. If you have several days free for an adventure, take one of these scenic train routes from Seattle.
5. Downtown
Why it’s overrated: Although there are plenty of things to do in downtown Seattle during the daytime (such as the Seattle Art Museum and the stunning Seattle Central Library, pictured above) it’s definitely not locals’ favorite neighborhood to explore. Other than tourists, much of the foot traffic downtown is made up of people who work there—which may explain why everything closes so early.
What locals recommend instead:
- “Fremont is the way.”
- “Go to Ballard and walk through the farmers market and check out all the little shops and restaurants. So many cool places to check out and most are dog friendly.”
- “Take a water taxi and explore West Seattle. We have a farmers market on Sundays, absolutely beautiful Chinese gardens, Alki of course, but also other beaches and parks, and a really cool speakeasy (The Alley) playing jazz rivaling world-class venues.”
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: We recommend spending a minimal amount of time downtown and instead exploring as many of Seattle’s other neighborhoods as possible! Each Seattle neighborhood has its own unique vibe and cool things to do. Check out our guides to Capitol Hill, Ballard, Fremont, Queen Anne, and Pioneer Square, for a start.
6. Pike Place Market
Why it’s overrated: Pike Place Market itself isn’t overrated, in our opinion. It’s full of incredible food and is one of our favorite places to get fresh flowers and unique gifts. However, the crowds can be overwhelming and it can be easy to miss the market’s hidden gems.
What locals recommend instead:
- “The underground part of Pike Place Market is better than the street floor.” Not to mention less crowded!
- The Ballard Farmers Market
- The West Seattle Farmers Market
- The Georgetown Trailer Park Mall
- Bainbridge Island. If you love shopping for unique, locally-made goods and eating delicious, fresh food then you should take the ferry to Bainbridge Island.
Secret Seattle’s recommendation: If you’ve already been to Pike Place Market and want to do some shopping and eating while surrounded by fewer tourists, check out the many Seattle farmers markets. Also be sure to check out our Seattle weekend markets roundup that gets updated every week. Finally, if you find yourself at Pike Place Market and you’re wondering what there is to do besides eat and shop, we recommend catching an improv show at Unexpected Productions.