Here Are 10 Unique Things to Do in Seattle, Suggested by Locals

Surrounded by the ocean, mountains, and lakes, Seattle is a beautiful city that is rich in history, culture, and benefits from a gorgeous geography. Nicknamed the “Emerald City” because of the lush evergreen forests surrounding it, there is no shortage of fun activities to do in and around Seattle, from sailing and hiking, to visiting unique places and enjoying the local food.  

Whether you’re renting an apartment in Seattle, WA, settling down in your own home, or simply visiting as a tourist, there are many things that you can do here. To give you the most authentic recommendations, we asked locals to give us their favorite hidden gems to check out in Seattle. Here’s what they told us. 

1. Escape to Pier 62 

“If you’re making your mandatory visit to Pike Place Market, escape the crowded dining in the market and take some food to go down to Pier 62,” recommends Patrick Hyde of Curran. “This revitalized waterfront locale has been recently renovated as part of Seattle’s larger Waterfront Park initiative. It has ample seating to enjoy some food from the market – I recommend a gourmet deli sandwich from DeLaurenti’s or some seriously tasty tacos served in heirloom tortillas from Maíz, a small taqueria next to the original Starbucks.”  

“After your meal on the pier, take a stroll to the nearby nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park or venture a few blocks away from the waterfront to experience the spell-binding Chihuly Garden, located in the shadow of the Space Needle.” 

2. Catch the Local Sightings Film Festival 

“Local Sightings is a celebration of the diverse creative communities from the Pacific Northwest,” says Derek Edamura, executive director of Northwest Film Forum. “The 2023 program, which runs from September 15–24, features a competitive selection of curated short film programs and feature films, inviting regional artists to experiment, break, and remake popular conceptions around filmmaking and film exhibition.” 

“Films include comedies, horror thrillers, historical documentaries, boundary-pushing pieces of art, and everything in between. As an audience member, it is a great way to get to know the local filmmaking community in an intimate and accessible way, and perhaps be inspired to make something of your own. Plus, the festival has the best parties of the year!”  

3. Visit the NAAM  

“The Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) is a gem in the cultural landscape of the Pacific Northwest,” their team told us. “Situated adjacent to the Jimi Hendrix Park, NAAM showcases the vibrancy of Black art through a variety of thought-provoking exhibitions. NAAM also displays the inspiring regional stories of Black history and culture. This museum is an important gathering place for reflection, connection, and conversation, featuring a Community Living Room as well as rental spaces for events.” 

4. Go to Seattle Rep 

Next door to the iconic Space Needle at Seattle Center is the home of Seattle Rep. Seattle Rep puts theater at the heart of public life, collaborating with extraordinary artists to create productions and programs that reflect and elevate the diverse cultures, perspectives, and life experiences of the Pacific Northwest.  

Seattle Rep is recognized nationally not only for each story on stage, but also for programs that engage both longtime and younger theatergoers, including Public Works, the annual Next Narrative Monologue Competition for teens, Pay What You Choose, and other affordable ticketing options. From new musicals to adaptations of classic plays, to cirque spectaculars, and more, there is truly something for everyone all season long at Seattle Rep! 

5. Explore Hidden Waterfalls  

Exploring hidden waterfalls in Seattle is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with nature. Whether you are looking for a short and easy walk or a challenging and adventurous scramble, you can find a waterfall that suits your mood and skill level — but be sure to wear sturdy shoes and clothing that’s appropriate for the weather, and don’t forget to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen!

If you’re feeling adventurous, Wild Sky Adventure Guides offer unique Waterfall Rappelling Canyoneering tours. “As the only service to offer canyon tours, we take you to hidden waterfalls, accessible only through canyoneering techniques,” says Sam Keller of Wild Sky Adventure Guides. “Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, our tours cater to all skill levels, and our experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.” 

6. Visit the Smith Tower & Surroundings 

Adventure travel bloggers Zach and Meghann from The Grah Life recommend taking in your view of Seattle from the Smith Tower. “It’s common knowledge that you can get great views of the Seattle skyline from the Space Needle and the Sky View Observatory in the Columbia Center, but our favorite place, the Smith Tower, happens to be lesser known and offers a bit of history to compliment the views.” 

“When you’ve had your fill of unique Seattle history, head upstairs to the speakeasy-inspired Observatory Bar for cocktails and appetizers. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Puget Sound and Seattle skyline while you’re there.” 

“When you’re finished at the Smith Tower, you’ll find yourself in Pioneer Square —Seattle’s first neighborhood. It’s full of quaint brick buildings, art galleries (art walks on the first Thursdays), boutique shops, great food, and nightlife. The Underground Tour, Flatstick Pub, and Foster/White Gallery are our favorite spots here.” 

“Bonus: it’s easy to make a whole day of exploring near the Smith Tower. From Pioneer Square, it’s a quick walk or bus ride to Seattle’s sports stadiums, the International District, Pike Place Market, Seattle’s best museums, and the waterfront.”  

7. Grab a Bite at Bowriders Grill 

Lisa Samuelson of Samuelson Communications recommended this hidden gem for a unique dinner. “It’s a little hard to find, but that’s what makes Bowriders Grill so special. This on-water speakeasy can only be accessed via a small side gate. Those curious enough to take the walk down a long path, past racks of boats, will be rewarded with waterfront dining and sweeping views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. It’s a great place to hang out and watch the float planes take off and land and the boats and paddle boarders go by. For cooler nights, diners can gather around an epic “boat fire pit” created from a deconstructed vintage boat.” 

8. See the Sunset on Bremerton or Bainbridge Island

Professional fine art nature photographer Lars Gesing recommends some nature-inspired things to do in Seattle. “One thing I love to do with visitors here in Seattle is take them on a ferry ride at sunset. Even if you don’t have a car, you can just walk on one of the ferries around sunset and take them either to Bremerton or Bainbridge Island, stay there for a drink or a bite and then take the ferry back. The views toward the Olympics at sunset are spectacular, and coming back toward downtown Seattle in the dark with the skyline aglow is a fantastic sight.” 

9. Go Shopping at the Commons Mall 

“The Commons Mall is a favorite family-friendly destination in Federal Way for residents and tourists alike,” says Brandon Fischer of Pet Supplies Plus in Federal Way, “offering a number of essentials and indulgences. In addition to the wide assortment of shopping, dining and entertainment options, The Commons Mall hosts seasonal events during Easter, Halloween, and Christmas. Throughout the year, local businesses and artists come together in The Commons to create free events open to the public. This past summer they have held free concerts with local musicians, hosted trading card trade shows, and celebrated the grand opening of a number of new stores with community celebrations.” 

10. Leave the City for a Paragliding Experience in Issaquah 

Issaquah Washington is just 20 minutes east of downtown Seattle, so if you’re looking for a quick getaway for the weekend, this is a perfect location. According to Christy Garrad, representative of Visit Issaquah, the city is “world-renown as a prime paragliding location. Tandem rides are very popular!” Also, you could enjoy the local chocolate factory, and “Tree House Point, a magical location along the Raging River, where they have 9 tree houses and lodge-style meeting spaces, and they serve breakfast.” 

Are you ready to explore? Seattle has so many incredible sights and experiences that it’s likely you’ll want to stay a while.