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About this guide

From a thriving arts and culinary scene to iconic landmarks, Seattle, Washington, celebrates diversity in every corner of the city. Known as the Emerald City, Seattle provides plenty of spaces for authentic exploration. Black-owned businesses, cultural activities, and welcoming communities create opportunities to connect with the local heritage while experiencing stunning natural landscapes. Whether looking for the top foodie spots or outdoor adventures, Seattle offers rustic charm and inclusive concepts for every traveler.  

  • Best time to travel: June to September (peak season), November to March (off-season), April to May and October (shoulder season) 
  • Time zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
  • Currency: USD ($)
  • Language(s): English 
  • Noteworthy: Seattle International Film Festival (May), Seattle Pride (June), Seattle Christmas Market (December), Capitol Hill Art Walk (year-round)
  • Best for: Outdoor Enthusiasts, Craft Cocktails and Coffee Lovers, Digital Nomads, Business Travelers, Wellness Retreats

Get Away: Getting To And Around Seattle, Washington

By Air 

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, commonly known as Sea-Tac, serves as the primary gateway to this coastal city. Seattle has numerous direct flights from major U.S. cities and international destinations, making it easily accessible from most cities. 

By Car

When exploring areas outside the city, like Mount Rainier or the nearby islands, getting around Seattle by car may work best. While downtown traffic can be heavy during rush hours, major highways like I-5 and I-90 connect the city to surrounding regions. Parking can be challenging and expensive in busy areas, but many hotels and attractions offer garages and street parking with time restrictions.

By Public Transit

Seattle’s public transit system offers an efficient way to explore the city as the Link Light Rail connects key areas, including downtown, Capitol Hill, and the University of Washington. King County Metro buses provide extensive service throughout the city and surrounding neighborhoods. Additionally, the Seattle Center Monorail offers a quick ride between downtown and Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle and other attractions.

Explore Seattle, Washington On Foot

All the most popular attractions, like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and the waterfront, are within close proximity in Downtown Seattle. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square offer visitors unique shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. Many areas are perfect for leisurely strolls—just be prepared for some hills along the way!

Quick facts

Pacific Standard Time (PST)

USD ($)

English

Good For

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Craft Cocktails and Coffee Lovers

Digital Nomads and Business Travelers

Wellness Retreats

Keep in mind

  • Seattle International Film Festival (May)
  • Seattle Pride (June)
  • Seattle Christmas Market (December)
  • Capitol Hill Art Walk (year-round)

Gourmet

Gourmet: Places To Eat In Seattle, Washington

Osteria La Spiga

For a taste of Northern Italy, Osteria la Spiga uses fresh, seasonal ingredients in each of the authentic Emilia-Romagna recipes. This Italian restaurant serves house-made pasta, signature sauces, and rustic entrees right in the heart of Seattle.

Plum Bistro

Capitol Hill's beloved Black-owned vegan restaurant, Plum Bistro, serves innovative plant-based dishes. Chef Makini Howell creates a diverse brunch, lunch, or dinner menu featuring everything from hearty burgers to flavorful pasta.

Communion Restaurant And Bar

In Seattle’s Central District, the Communion Restaurant and Bar honors the city’s Black, Asian, and East African communities. Each of Chef Kristi Brown’s dishes blends her deep roots into a unique menu with her famous black-eyed-pea hummus and fusion fried catfish po’mi.

Métier Brewing Company

Métier Brewing Company, Seattle's first Black-owned brewery, offers a welcoming space where beer lovers from all backgrounds can break bread together. With family-friendly locations throughout Seattle, this community spot is perfect to kick back and enjoy a cold one. 

Island Soul Seattle

Head to Island Soul Seattle for Caribbean-inspired soul food with dishes like oxtail stew, jerk fried chicken, and Jamaican patties. This Black-owned spot in Columbia City pairs delicious rum cocktails with a fun atmosphere, perfect to indulge and unwind.

Shewa-Ber Bar And Restaurant

The Shewa-Ber Bar and Restaurant offers authentic Ethiopian dishes like Sambusa, Kitfo, and Gomen Besega in a warm and inviting atmosphere. This spot also offers traditional Ethiopian coffee and desserts like Ethiopian Baklava for a true cultural experience.

Play

Play: Things To Do In Seattle, Washington

Seattle Coffee Culture Tour

The Seattle Coffee Culture Tour explores Capitol Hill’s vibrant coffee scene with samples of three unique coffee styles. Guests learn about Seattle’s rich coffee history, roasting techniques, and the progressive culture that shaped the city.

Chef Guided Food Tour Of Pike Place Market  

This Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market takes visitors to Seattle’s iconic landmarks with insider access to top food spots. This two-hour excursion shares local favorites like Beecher's famous mac and cheese and Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt.

Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour

The Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour goes through Seattle’s hidden underground pathways in Pioneer Square, dating back to the 1890s. From its Indigenous roots to the Gold Rush era, the historic neighborhoods hold fascinating histories.

Forest Hike To Gorgeous Twin And Snoqualmie Falls 

Take a Forest Hike to Gorgeous Twin and Snoqualmie Falls through lush old-growth forests to see breathtaking Pacific Northwest landscapes. This half-day adventure also includes visits to charming historic towns and a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains.

Epic Hike On Mount Rainier

The guided Epic Hike on Mount Rainier goes through the Burroughs Mountain Trail with dramatic views of Washington’s largest volcano and the Winthrop Glacier. Adventurous travelers will love this moderate-to-challenging hike that starts at the breathtaking Sunrise Visitor's Center.

Intro to Mushroom Foraging 

The Intro to Mushroom Foraging adventure teaches guests how to confidently find and identify mushrooms in Seattle’s picturesque forests. Even first-time foragers enjoy this expertly guided hands-on adventure just outside of the city.

Space Needle

See breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle’s skyline from the iconic Space Needle, like surrounding mountains and the Puget Sound. With glass floors and a rotating observation deck, the city’s most iconic landmark is an unforgettable experience.

Yuan Spa

Take a day off to relax at the Yuan Spa to indulge in Eastern and Western wellness treatments. Services include luxurious massages, hydrotherapy, soaking pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, and dry saunas.