The Ultimate Guide to Spring in Seattle: Activities for Every Occasion
We’re lucky to live in an area with so many incredible things to do, but sometimes, it’s easy to forget what’s right in our own backyard! I wanted to put together a list of fun ways to enjoy Seattle this spring—not just for myself, but for my friends, family, clients, and anyone looking for new adventures. While I haven’t personally tried everything on this list (yet!), I’ve done the research to find a mix of unique, exciting, and worthwhile experiences. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or just something fun for yourself, I hope this gives you some great ideas to make the most of the season!
Things to Do with Kids: Explore Seattle’s Children’s Museums
Seattle and the surrounding areas have fantastic children’s museums where kids can play, learn, and explore hands-on exhibits. Here are some of the best spots for a family-friendly outing:
Seattle Children’s Museum (Seattle Center) – A multi-room museum with interactive exhibits, a play grocery store, and a construction zone.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum (Bellevue) – Encourages creativity with STEM activities, a water gallery, and an outdoor climbing structure.
Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu, Bainbridge Island) – A short ferry ride from Seattle, this museum offers imaginative play and science-based learning.
Imagine Children’s Museum (Everett) – Features a rooftop playground, an aviation-themed section, and hands-on art exhibits.
Museum of Flight (Seattle) – Not exclusively a children’s museum, but it has plenty of interactive exhibits and a space-themed play area for kids.
Things to Do on a Date Night: Romantic and Fun Springtime Experiences
Looking for a memorable date night? Seattle has plenty of unique experiences beyond the usual dinner and a movie.
Seattle Japanese Garden – Take a peaceful stroll through this beautifully landscaped garden, especially magical when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Mystery Picnic by AmazingCo – Solve clues together to uncover hidden picnic locations and gourmet food stops around the city.
Glassblowing Experience at Seattle Glassblowing Studio – Get creative together and make a custom piece of art to take home.
Things to Do with Your Teens: Cool, Interactive, and Adventurous Activities
Entertaining teens can be tricky, but these activities are guaranteed to impress:
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – With exhibits on everything from video games to Marvel superheroes, this is a great spot for teens who love pop culture.
Underground Tour in Pioneer Square – A quirky and humorous look at Seattle’s underground city, filled with fascinating history.
Board Game Night at Mox Boarding House (Bellevue & Ballard) – A café where you can play hundreds of board games while enjoying great food.
Things to Do When Company Comes to Town: Unique Seattle Experiences
Seattle is full of iconic attractions, but if you want to impress your guests with something a little more unique, try these lesser-known experiences:
Take a Ferry to a Quaint Island – Instead of just admiring the ferries from the shore, hop on one! Bainbridge Island is a great option, with charming shops, scenic waterfront views, and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (which offers free admission). If you want a quieter getaway, head to Vashon Island for a peaceful day of exploring farm stands, art galleries, and the quirky Bike in the Tree.
Explore the National Nordic Museum – If your guests love history and culture, this museum in Ballard offers a deep dive into the Nordic heritage that shaped much of the Pacific Northwest. The beautifully designed space features fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and a cozy café serving Scandinavian treats.
The Electric Boat Company – Lake Union Tour: Rent a heated and enclosed electric boat for a self-guided tour of Lake Union. Their GPS-guided audio tour highlights significant sites, including Gas Works Park and the famous “Sleepless in Seattle” houseboat.
Visit the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall – This funky open-air market features vintage trailers converted into tiny shops selling handcrafted goods, retro finds, and local art. It’s a quirky, only-in-Seattle experience perfect for visitors who love discovering hidden treasures.
Tour the Center for Wooden Boats – Located on the shores of Lake Union, this interactive maritime museum offers free Sunday public sails, where guests can ride on historic wooden boats. You can also rent a rowboat or paddleboard to explore the lake at your own pace.
Things to Do in Nature: Breathtaking Outdoor Adventures
Seattle’s natural beauty shines in the spring. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
Washington Park Arboretum & Foster Island Walk – A peaceful trail featuring cherry blossoms, wetlands, and beautiful lake views.
Rattlesnake Ledge Hike (North Bend) – A short but steep hike that rewards you with one of the best panoramic views in the region.
Snoqualmie Falls & Picnic at Salish Lodge – Visit the famous 268-foot waterfall and enjoy a scenic picnic nearby.
Gas Works Park Picnic – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline from this one-of-a-kind industrial park-turned-green space.
Things to Do If You’re a Foodie: Culinary Experiences Worth Savoring
Seattle’s food scene is full of exciting experiences, from gourmet dining to casual eats.
Deep Sea Sugar & Salt – Decadent Layer Cakes – This hidden gem in Georgetown serves some of the most indulgent cakes in the city, with flavors like London Fog and Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt. Get there early—they often sell out!.
Chef-Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market – A curated culinary adventure led by a local chef, with tastings of artisan foods.
Pike Place Chowder – Award-Winning Chowder – This legendary spot in Pike Place Market serves some of the best clam chowder in the country. Their New England-style chowder has won multiple national awards, and the line out the door proves it’s worth the wait!
Things to Do If You’re a Bookworm: Literary Adventures in Seattle
For those who love getting lost in a good book, Seattle offers plenty of literary-inspired activities.
Elliott Bay Book Company (Capitol Hill) – A beloved indie bookstore with a cozy café, author events, and an extensive selection.
Third Place Books - a beloved independent bookstore with locations in Lake Forest Park, Ravenna, and Seward Park, offering a carefully curated selection of books, a welcoming community space, and frequent author events.
Literary Walking Tour of Seattle – Explore the city’s literary history, including spots connected to famous authors like Tom Robbins and Sherman Alexie.
Seattle has something to offer in every season, and spring is just the beginning! Whether you’re getting outside to enjoy the sunshine, planning a fun night out, or trying something new, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this time of year. I’ll be sharing a new Things to Do in Seattle post each season, so be sure to check back for fresh ideas. Summer is right around the corner, and I can’t wait to highlight the best ways to soak up the longer days and warm weather!
