Spring has sprung and what better way to spend this blooming season than to go out and discover what the Emerald City has to offer. Seattle is known for its beautiful scenery, delicious food and drink, and exciting attractions. In this article, we put together a list of experiences and exhibits that are sure to delight you and your loved ones:
1. Get transported into space at the interactive Infinite space exploration experience
Have you always wondered what it feels like to be an astronaut? The world’s largest collective immersive experience, the Infinite, is here to get you as close as you can to being in space. Journey to the International Space Station in an awe-inspiring interactive and immersive experience, inspired by NASA Missions. Witness the daily life of astronauts and see Earth like you’ve never seen it before. Don’t forget to get your tickets before they sell out. You can grab your tickets here.
2. Travel back to the Jurassic at the Dinos Alive exhibit
Go back millions of years to a land ruled by giants! Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience brings you face to face with the fearsome and spectacular dinosaurs that dominated the animal world for 140 million years. From the turkey-sized Velociraptors to the mighty T-rex, interact with life-sized, moving animatronics of a large variety of species, and see these magnificent creatures in their natural Jurassic habitat. Step into another world and learn something new in an experience that’s fun for the whole family! And tickets are available for purchase here.
3. Dive into Van Gogh’s awe-inspiring painterly world
Following its massive success in cities across Europe, Asia and the Americas, the incredible Van Gogh Exhibition has arrived in Seattle. Take an awe-inspiring journey into the incomparable universe of Van Gogh, one of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 19th century. Explore his life, his work, and his secrets as never before through cutting-edge 360 degree digital projections, a one-of-a-kind VR experience, and a uniquely atmospheric light and sound show. Hurry up and get your tickets before it’s too late!
4. Delight your taste buds at this unique dining in the dark experience
This confidential culinary experience isn’t just your average dinner party. Experience a unique dining experience, with a surprise menu to enjoy in pitch-black darkness. Studies show that 80 percent of people eat with their eyes; with that sense eliminated, the theory is that the other senses—namely taste and smell—take over to elevate your meal to a whole new level. Get your tickets here.
5. Party on Seattle’s best rooftop bars
Seattle rooftop bars are in high demand once the weather starts to warm up. Our top three suggestions are Mbar in South Lake Union, the Mountaineering Club in the University District, and The Nest downtown.
6. Take photos for your Instagram in front of all the spring flowers
Cherry blossom season is a big deal in Seattle. The best place to go see them is indisputably the University of Washington campus. You may also want to make the trip to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival to see the colorful fields of tulips in the spring.
7. Get fresh produce at farmers markets
There are so many farmers markets in Seattle. Pike Place Market is the most famous by far, and you can certainly find plenty of fresh produce and other goods there. That being said, every neighborhood boasts its own farmers market so you don’t have to go downtown to Pike Place to support your local farmers.
8. Eat and shop your way through several spring fairs
The U District Street Fair, the Washington Spring Fair, the Edmonds Spring Fest, the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, and the Northwest Folklife Festival are just a few of the popular spring fairs you can go to in Seattle and the nearby area.
9. Take a hot tub boat out on Lake Union
Spring is the perfect season to rent one of the famous hot tub boats on Lake Union. It is still much too cold to swim, and kayaking will feel miserable if it’s drizzling (as it is wont to do in Seattle in the spring). The hot tub will keep you nice and toasty while you enjoy views of the Seattle skyline.
10. Enjoy brunch al fresco
All of Seattle shows up for weekend brunch as soon as the springtime sun is out. See our list of the best Seattle brunch spots with outdoor seating here.
11. Find a treasure at a weekend flea market
Weekend flea markets are plentiful in Seattle. Take advantage of the nice weather and stroll among the vintage and handmade treasures at the SODO Flea, the SLU Saturday Market, the Georgetown Flea, and the Seattle Night Market.
12. Enjoy a meal on a waterfront patio
There’s nothing quite like a waterfront view to sharpen the appetite. Check out our list of Seattle waterfront restaurants with a view.
13. Take in the iconic Seattle view at Kerry Park
Speaking of views, it’s a not-well-kept secret that Kerry Park offers the most iconic view of the Seattle skyline. The park itself is very small but it’s worth a visit for the classic presentation of the Space Needle and Mount Rainier.
14. Go for a hike in one of our many state and national parks
Seattle is a dream place to live for those who love the outdoors. So many amazing camping and hiking opportunities are within a short drive from the city. Check out our list of some of our favorite Washington state parks here.
15. Schedule a whale-sighting tour
Yes, you can spot whales and orcas all around Seattle! Spring is one of the best times to try to see a pod. We created a handy guide to whale sighting here.
16. See the West Seattle flower house in full bloom
Spring is the perfect time to take a drive to Alki Beach on West Seattle. On your way home, be sure to cruise past the famous flower house to see all the blooms.
17. Have a picnic at Gasworks Park
There is no shortage of Seattle parks to picnic in. Gasworks Park is a favorite due to its incredible view of the Seattle skyline across from Lake Union. Go there just before sunset and watch the city light up at dusk. The people-watching at Gasworks Park is always fun too.
18. Go for a stroll or bike ride around Green Lake
Green Lake is encircled by a three-mile walking path where you can jog, bike, or stroll with your furry friend. Just be sure to take note of the signs pointing you in the right direction to walk! You can also take your kayak or paddleboard out onto the large, placid lake.
19. Buy fresh flowers at Pike Place Market
The Pike Place Flower Festival typically happens in early May, but you can buy fresh flowers at Pike Place Market anytime. Make sure to check out all the fresh seafood, handmade goods, and delicious treats while you’re there.
20. Go shopping at University Village
University Village is a destination shopping plaza ten minutes from downtown Seattle. Since it is an outdoor mall, it’s always a nicer experience when the sun is out. You’ll find popular stores such as Everlane, Reformation, and a brand-new Mejuri—plus Shake Shack!
21. Explore the Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum is a must-see year-round, but it’s particularly lovely in the spring when everything is in bloom. It is open daily, free of charge.
22. Soak up the sun at an outdoor brewery
Seattleites love their breweries. Many of them offer outdoor seating, which makes them a nice activity on sunny spring days. Fremont Brewing’s Urban Beer Garden, Standard Brewing in the Central District, and many of Ballard’s dozens of breweries have outdoor spaces.
23. Get an ice cream cone or sandwich in a fun new flavor
Seattle ice cream shops tend to offer something for everyone. Whether you’re dairy-free, bored of traditional vanilla, or just want the classics, you’ll find something to entice you. We love Frankie & Jo’s, Molly Moon’s, and Salt & Straw. See our list of the best places to get an ice cream sandwich in Seattle!
24. Take your pup out to eat with you
Seattle is an extremely dog-friendly city. There is no shortage of places that will welcome your dog, including restaurants. Here are 10 pup-friendly bars and restaurants in Seattle.
25. Embark on a scenic bike trail around the city
Seattle is also a very bike-friendly city. You can rent a bike if you don’t own one and get out on a trail on a sunny day! Everyone knows about the Burke-Gilman trail that unfurls for 27 miles throughout Seattle. For a few more scenic bike trails, check out our list here.