30 Things to Do in Seattle this Spring (2024)

Seattle is as well known for rain as it is for coffee. But don’t let the moisture fool you. While there can undoubtedly be dreary days, all that rainfall makes for a lush landscape. During the spring, Mother Nature starts to bless the region with sunshine and new growth. 

Flowers abound, turning the plethora of city parks into a colorful playground. Waterfront walks become dazzling displays. Farmers markets start to take on a new life as fresh produce evolves from root vegetables into sweet fruits. 

From sporting events and museums to tours and natural habitats, you’ll find a wide range of things to do in Seattle this spring.

The following list only begins to scratch the surface. Seattle is a city you could explore for months (and even years) and still discover new and exciting things. Nor is this list presented in any particular order. Instead, think of this list of things to do in Seattle this spring as a vision board. Make a few plans, start exploring, and see where the day takes you. There are endless possibilities!

Seattle’s Top Tours & Museums

1. Seattle Seaplane Tours

1. Seattle Seaplane Tours

Let’s call a plane a plane — we’re biased. We think seaplane tours are pretty darn spectacular. We offer two unique Seattle seaplane tours, one departing from Lake Washington and one from Lake Union.

Each narrated tour is roughly 20 minutes and gives each passenger a window seat. During the tour, you’ll be treated to iconic views such as the beautiful University of Washington campus, the iconic Seattle Space Needle, Washington State Ferries sailing through Elliot Bay, and more.

2. Mount Rainier & Mount St. Helens Volcano Tour

The Grand Canyon. Yellowstone National Park. Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. There are just some sights that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Our Volcano Tour departs from Boeing Field in a Cessna Caravan. This is a wheeled plane flight that gets you up close and personal with two of the region’s most iconic mountains. You’ll get so close to the mountains you’ll have a chance to see if Mount St. Helens is smoking!

3. Seattle Whale Watching Tour

Few things are as exceptionally humbling as watching a whale breach the ocean’s surface, its mammoth body lifting up above the water and crashing back down. And spring is an exceptional time to take advantage of a Seattle whale watching tour. 

A host of operators provide tours directly from Elliot Bay in downtown Seattle. These all-day tours require a long boat ride to the Salish Sea, where the whales are typically seen. Alternatively, you could tour with a San Juan Island-based tour company, like San Juan Safaris, that departs from Friday Harbor Marina. These half-day tours allow you to see a plethora of wildlife (seals, eagles, dolphins, porpoises, and more) while still leaving time to explore the San Juans, make it to a dinner reservation, and more!

4. Argosy Cruises

Argosy Cruises offers two unique water-based tours of the city: a Harbour Cruise and a Locks Cruise. Each tour takes you past vantages you can only get from a boat while offering the comfort of an indoor cabin, bathroom, and refreshments.

5. Chihuly Garden of Glass

One of the world’s most popular and influential glass artists, Dale Chihuly’s work can feel otherworldly. The Chihuly Garden and Glass offers a chance to immerse yourself in his genius as your imagination dances among the colors and reflected light. 

Eight different galleries flow through this dazzling museum, with the star of the show found in the breathy Glasshouse. The 4,500-square-foot glass terrarium is flooded with natural light. From the 40-foot tall ceiling hangs a 100-foot glass sculpture in a riot of reds, oranges, yellows, and ambers. 

6. Seattle Underground Tour

The Seattle you know today stands upon its original foundation — quite literally. The city’s first neighborhood, Pioneer Square, rests beneath the sidewalks and buildings that you see today. Small remnants of the underground can be seen from above, most noticeably skylights built into the city’s sidewalks to illuminate the underground.

Guided tours of the long-since evacuated lower level, giving you an up-close look at how the city used to operate, how it developed, and even how indoor plumbing used to work!

7. The Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is a fascinating adventure for those of all ages. It offers interactive exhibits, including a butterfly house and a dinosaur adventure. On chilly, drizzly days, the plethora of indoor activities can be an excellent source of dry entertainment. On sunny days, water exhibits invite outdoor exploring. 

8. Art Walk at the Olympic Sculpture Park

Previously an industrial site, the Olympic Sculpture Park spans nine acres along Seattle’s downtown waterfront. This is the most significant downtown green space in the Emerald City, and it features a stunning collection of sculptures. Plus, it’s free to visit. 

While wandering the zig-zagging path, you may also want to head to the sculpture park’s parent destination — the Seattle Art Museum (SAM). Though there’s paid admission to SAM, it’s one of the most famous museums in the city, offering the chance to view collections from throughout the world.

9. Learn About Seattle’s History at MOHAI

Seattle’s origins are layered with innovation and development. It was here that the first seaplane was developed, and a major IT innovator (Microsoft) put down roots. MOHAI, the Museum of History and Industry, allows you to walk through the city’s development with a series of informational and interactive exhibits. 

Seattle’s Top Parks & Flower Displays

10. Discovery Park

Discovery Park, which spans 534 acres, is nestled along the coastline. It’s home to various hiking trails that wind through natural habitats and offer expansive views. Several paths provide beach access, including the park’s iconic West Point Lighthouse (a fabulous place to watch the sunset). 

11. Wander Beneath the Cherry Blossoms at the University of Washington

During the spring, March specifically, the University of Washington’s quad bursts into an idyllic floral wonderland. Twenty-nine cherry blossom trees have been planted in and around the quad, and at their peak bloom (when 70 percent of the blossoms are out), they look a bit like balls of cotton candy from the sky.

Come here to wander, snap selfies, and enjoy flower viewing. The quad can get quite crowded though, so it’s best to come early in the day if you want to wander with fewer folks. For an even more unique perspective of the blooms, head up to the sky with a Seattle Scenic Tour!

12. Gas Works Park

Located on the northern edge of Seattle’s downtown Lake Union, directly facing MOHAI, Gas Works Park offers sweeping city views. The waterfront park (though there is no beach) also offers views of mega yachts, sailboats, kayaks, and hot tub boats. It’s the perfect place to picnic while seaplanes take off and land or explore the children’s play area. 

A former gas plant, you can still see some of the machinery. But be sure to view it from behind the fence. That section is off-limits. 

13. Ballard Locks

Arguably the most heavily used locks in the United States, the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks is also one of Seattle’s top tourist attractions. (The site is also known as the Ballard Locks or simply ‘the Locks.’) Completed in 1917, it allows boats to sail from Puget Sound’s salt water to Lake Union’s freshwater and into Lake Washington.

Boats as large as 760 feet and as small as a kayak can be seen making this water exchange. But it’s not just people and vessels who make this trek. Fish also migrate back to freshwater to spawn, using the specially designed fish ladder installed at the locks. Additionally, the locks are home to the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, one of the most beautiful parks in Seattle. 

14. Kubota Gardens

Hidden in South Seattle, the Kubota Gardens is often an overlooked gem of the city. It spans 20 lush acres, showcasing native Northwest plants with the concepts of a traditional Japanese garden. Waterfalls and streams are interlaced throughout the grounds with ponds, ornate bridges, and rocky outcroppings. The colors of this park are particularly stunning during the spring. 

15. Tulips, Tulips, Tulips at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

While not technically ‘in Seattle,’ the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is an event not to be overlooked. Just a short road trip from the city, the fertile farm ground along the Skagit River becomes a brightly colored quilt of flowers, tulips, and daffodils of all colors and varieties. 

If possible, go on a weekday. It can be quite crowded during the weekend. And be sure to bring a camera. You’ll want to capture this stunning sight. Looking to take your Tulip Festival game? Consider chartering an exclusive scenic flight to see the patchwork of blooms from above.

16. Seattle’s Arboretum

Seattle’s Washington Park Arboretum (known to locals as ‘the Arboretum’) spans 230 acres along Union Bay and inland, past some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. The managed grounds range from natural wetlands interwoven with boardwalks and forested walking trails to finely manicured gardens and expansive playgrounds.

Guided tours are available, but exploring on your own is also particularly enjoyable. Be sure to stop by the Japanese Gardens. They are one of the most beautiful spots in the Arboretum. 

17. Seattle’s Sandy Beach at Alki Beach

Head over the West Seattle Bridge to visit Alki Beach, one of the few sandy beaches in the area. I love taking a long stroll here on sunny spring days in Seattle and observing the people coming out of winter hibernation to play volleyball on the beach or rollerskate on the sidewalk.

18. Waterfall Garden Park

Another hidden Seattle gem, Waterfall Garden Park, is an urban oasis. While a pocket park, it’s filled with intrigue, including a 22-foot-tall waterfall that delivers a charming ambiance to the space. This is a favorite destination for a midday break or lunch. But keep in mind, it’s only open during the day. 

19. Iconic Seattle View at Kerry Park

Arguably the most photographed view of Seattle, Kerry Park’s skyline is beautiful day and night. While small, the park has several benches and a few art installations. Spots along the railing (the best spot for shooting pictures) can be competitive to snag. If you’re looking to shoot the sunset, arrive early. 

Seattle’s Top Spring Farmers Market

20. Pike Place Market

Seattle’s original farmers market, Pike Place Market, operates year-round. Its vendor footprint expands during the warmer months, peaking during the summer. But no matter when you visit, you will find many locally grown and locally produced products.

This iconic destination is a tourist hit that bustles with long lines throughout the day. If you want a more ‘local’ experience, come early. The fish might not be flying, but the piroshkis will be hot, getting a cup of coffee at Starbucks’ first location won’t take an hour, and the produce vendors will have longer to tell you about the season’s best picks. 

21. Ballard Farmers Market

One of the best pop-up farmers markets in the greater Seattle area, the Ballard Farmers Market operates year-round. The weekly event offers an extensive array of local produce, freshly baked bread, live music, and local artisans. 

22. Fremont Sunday Market

Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood is anything but traditional. This funky little enclave has dubbed itself the Center of the Universe, marking the location with a sign at North Fremont Avenue and North 35th Street in the early 1970s. 

A year-round market, it offers a wide array of locally grown products, a host of food purveyors, and eclectic arts. The neighborhood is also home to the Fremont Troll, a lifesize troll under the Fremont Bridge holding an actual VW Bug. 

Seattle Sporting Events

23. Watch a Hockey Game

Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena (formerly Key Arena) recently underwent an extensive remodel. No detail was overlooked as this stadium was transformed into one of the premier indoor sports stadiums.

An eco-conscious design, it also showcases an array of local food vendors. But indeed, the most exciting thing about Climate Pledge Arena is the chance to see Seattle’s new professional hockey team — the Seattle Kraken.

Do you love hockey and want to get your fill? Head north to the Angel Of The Winds Arena, where the Everett Silvertips play. (Pro Tip: Everett is also home to Paine Field, one of two Seattle area locations where Kenmore Air offers regularly scheduled wheeled plane flights to the San Juan Islands.)

24. Watch a Soccer Game

Make sure you wear your standing shoes. You aren’t likely to sit down during a soccer game in Seattle. Home to the Seattle Sounders (Seattle’s professional men’s team) and the Seattle Reign FC (Seattle’s professional women’s team), this Pacific Northwest city has an avid fan base. From the pitch at Lumen Field (formerly CenturyLink Field), you can join the raucous fun of cheering on the local championship teams.

25. Watch a Baseball Game

Few things say spring quite like enjoying a hot dog at a baseball game. Unless you’re in Seattle, then garlic fries might be more your style. Seattle’s professional baseball team, the Seattle Mariners, starts their regular season at the end of March. And a game at T-Mobile Park is a must for visitors and locals alike. 

Seattle’s Most Relaxing Spring Activities

26. Seattle Staycation

Enjoy a rejuvenating staycation. Stay at the State Hotel, a central location in the city, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse culinary offerings. Take advantage of our unique package and pair your overnight stay with a Seattle Scenic Flight Tour for the ultimate Seattle immersion. 

27. City Escape (without the drive)

Like a hidden gem, The Lodge at St. Edward sits at the center of 366 acres of wooded waterfront property just 15 minutes from Seattle’s downtown core (and 5 minutes from Kenmore Air Harbor). This recently renovated seminary is now a high-end resort with luxurious accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and exquisite surrounding grounds. You can get a bird’ s-eye view of The Lodge by booking one of our hotel packages, which includes accommodations and a ride on our Lake Washington Scenic Tour departing from our headquarters in Kenmore. 

28. Candlelight Concert

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of a Candlelight Concert, where soft-glowing lights illuminate performances ranging from The Nutcracker to Sci-Fi movie scores and contemporary artist tributes to Coldplay and Taylor Swift, promising a unique musical journey. This concert experience, accompanied by the flicker of thousands of candles, ensures a memorable time, whether enjoyed with your partner or a group of close friends.

29. Astra Lumina in Seattle

Embark on a captivating evening beneath the Seattle sky with Astra Lumina! Traverse a magical garden, uncovering a path adorned with lights, ethereal cosmic visuals, and celestial melodies. A remarkable escapade for stargazers of every age, this enthralling event guarantees a fusion of projections and astronomical tunes, turning the garden into a breathtaking canvas of the universe.

30. Hot Tub Boats

Named fittingly, Hot Tub Boats accommodate up to six individuals, perfect for families or friends. With an electric motor propelling the vessel at a maximum speed of five miles per hour, operating it requires only a valid driver’s license. Additionally, each boat has a diesel heater, so the hot tubs maintain a constant temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit — ensuring you stay comfy no matter the weather.

More Fun Things to do in Seattle