Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Seattle

Pacific Coast Highway Travel picks ten fun family things to do in Seattle, including Space Needle, museums, a zoo, aquarium and a ferry ride.

Little Boy Watching a Sting Ray in the Seattle Aquarium

Little Boy Watching a Ray in the Seattle Aquarium

Seattle is a city break destination for all the family, wit several museums appealing to children both young and old, plus a zoo, aquarium, the Space Needle. and the chance to take a ferry ride.

Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Seattle

1. Visit the Seattle Center & Space Needle

City View from Seattle's Space Needle at Night

The Seattle Center is a hub of family-friendly attractions, with the iconic Space Needle as its centerpiece. Kids will love the panoramic views from the observation deck, and the interactive Loupe, the world’s first rotating glass floor.

Nearby, the Pacific Science Center offers hands-on exhibits, while the International Fountain provides a fun splash zone in summer. Seasonal events like Winterfest and outdoor concerts make this a year-round destination.

Phone: (206) 905-2100 (Space Needle)
Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109
Website: spaceneedle.com

2. Explore the Woodland Park Zoo

Mother and Baby Gorilla at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle

One of the best zoos in the U.S., Woodland Park Zoo features over 1,000 animals across 92 acres. Kids can see gorillas, lions, penguins, and red pandas in naturalistic habitats.

Family of Owls at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle

The Zoomazium is an indoor play area for younger children, while daily keeper talks and feeding demonstrations add excitement. Seasonal highlights include WildLanterns (winter light display) and Boo at the Zoo (Halloween event).

Phone: (206) 548-2500
Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Website: zoo.org

3. Discover the Museum of Flight

Seattle's Museum of Flight

Aviation enthusiasts of all ages will love the Museum of Flight, home to historic aircraft, including a Concorde and Air Force One. The Kids’ Flight Zone lets little ones climb into cockpits, while the Space Gallery features a full-scale replica of the International Space Station. Interactive simulators and weekend family workshops make this a must-visit.

Phone: (206) 764-5720
Address: 9404 E Marginal Way S, Seattle, WA 98108
Website: museumofflight.org

4. Play at the Seattle Children’s Museum

Family Fun at the Seattle Children's Museum

Located at the Seattle Center, this museum is designed for kids aged 10 months to 10 years. Exhibits include a mini grocery store, construction zone, and global village. The Cog City ball maze and Art Studio encourage creativity and problem-solving. Toddler-specific areas ensure even the littlest visitors have fun.

Phone: (206) 441-1768
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Website: seattlechildrensmuseum.org

5. Ride the Great Wheel & Visit the Seattle Aquarium

The Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel offers stunning waterfront views from 175 feet high. Nearby, the Seattle Aquarium features an underwater dome, touch tanks, and playful sea otters. The Pacific Coral Reef and Marine Mammals exhibits are crowd-pleasers, while daily dive shows educate and entertain.

Pools in the Seattle Aquarium

Great Wheel Phone: (206) 623-8600
Great Wheel Address: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
Aquarium Phone: (206) 386-4300
Aquarium Address: 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
Aquarium Website: seattleaquarium.org

6. Stroll Through Pike Place Market

Outside Dining at Pikes Place Market in Seattle

A sensory delight, Pike Place Market offers fresh produce, flying fish at the Pike Place Fish Market, and quirky shops like Magic Mouse Toys. Kids love the Gum Wall, mini doughnuts at Daily Dozen, and watching street performers.

Phone: (206) 682-7453
Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
Website: pikeplacemarket.org

7. Enjoy a Day at Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest park has beaches, forests, and hiking trails. The West Point Lighthouse is a scenic spot, while open meadows are perfect for picnics. The Visitors Center offers nature programs for families.

Phone: (206) 386-4236
Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199
Website: seattle.gov/parks

8. Experience the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Seattle's Museum of Pop Culture

A paradise for music, sci-fi, and gaming fans, MoPOP features exhibits on Star Trek, Jim Henson, and Nirvana. The Sound Lab lets kids play instruments, while the Indie Game Revolution area is great for teens. For more information see our page on the Ten Best Things to See at the Museum of Pop Culture.

Phone: (206) 770-2700
Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Website: mopop.org

9. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island

Ferry Going Between Seattle and Bainbridge Island

A short ferry ride from Seattle offers stunning skyline views. On Bainbridge Island, visit the Kids Discovery Museum, explore Bloedel Reserve, or enjoy ice cream at Mora Iced Creamery.

Ferry Info: wsdot.wa.gov/ferries

10. Play at Green Lake Park

This popular park features a 2.8-mile loop for walking/biking, paddleboat rentals, and swimming at Green Lake Small Craft Center. The playground and picnic areas make it ideal for families.

Phone: (206) 684-4075
Address: 7201 E Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98115
Website: seattle.gov

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