The 20 Best Ideas For A Seattle Family Vacation

When it comes to Washington getaways, it doesn’t get better than a Seattle family vacation. From the glittering waters of Puget Sound to the epic architecture on the shore, the Emerald City promises unforgettable landscapes and adventures. And, as a local travel writer, I can attest to how special visiting Seattle with kids is — children will appreciate the quirky local customs, cityside wildlife and famous music scene as much as the adults. And, thanks to the plentiful public parks, beaches and entertainment options, there are so many free fun things to do in Seattle with kids. 

It’s this something-for-everyone spirit that makes taking a Seattle family vacation foolproof. And all of this is just a Royal Caribbean cruise away via the convenient Seattle cruise port. So, whether you’re on the hunt for fun Washington getaways for all ages, or you’re curious about where to stay in Seattle with family members in tow, read on. Here are the 20 best ideas for a Seattle family vacation.

The Emerald City Is Golden: Why A Seattle Family Vacation?

A Seattle, Washington, family vacation is set up for success. For one thing, the mild weather ensures that a cruise from Seattle (or to it) is a breeze when it comes to packing and safely enjoying the outdoors as a family. 

For another, the cultural and historic tapestry of the city means that this destination can appeal to a diverse group of people. Those taking a Seattle family vacation can enjoy wander-friendly and timeless marinas, splash-worthy fountains, modern sculpture parks, succulent seafood, beachcombing and markets that feel straight out of Europe, all in the same city. In all my travels, in the field and on vacation, I’ve yet to find a more dynamic urban space.

With all of this in mind, Seattle, named after Chief Si'ahl of the Duwamish and Suquamish peoples, might just be the best Royal Caribbean cruise destination for families. Parents should take note of the solid artisan coffee house scene, walkability, indoor/outdoor options and free entertainment (wildlife watching, beach swims, great views, public parks, street musicians, you name it). And there are so many fun things to do in Seattle with kids, from toddlers to teens.

The 20 Best Things To Do On A Seattle Family Vacation

1. Go To The Top Of The Space Needle

It wouldn’t be a trip to Seattle without a trip to the iconic Space Needle. Built in 1962 and standing 605 feet tall, this Emerald City gem offers panoramic vistas of mountains, sea and skyline. Kids will love the glass elevator ride to the top, and the gift shop at the bottom has some pretty great souvenirs, like famous Seattle blown glass.

● Address: 400 Broad St., Seattle, WA 98109.

● Cost: $$-$$$.

● Time needed: 1-2 hours (wait time is at least 30 minutes, so I recommend bringing coffee or fun drinks to sip on while you wait).

● Age group: All ages.

2. Watch The Famous Fish Throwers At Pike Place Market

Anyone taking a Seattle cruise should make time for Pike Place Market, and watching the famous fishthrowers is a must. Right by Rachel the Piggy Bank (rub the snout for good luck), check out the Pike Place Fish Market vendor to see this spectacle. Kids and adults alike will love cheering on the sustainable seafood purveyors as they toss slippery fish to each other in seriously impressive feats.

● Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: Free (unless you buy something while at Pike Place — Pike Place Fish Market can pack your seafood for flights or ship it overnight).

● Time needed: 10 minutes (unless you want to wander the market).

● Age group: All ages, but kids aged 2-10 will especially appreciate it.

3. Embark On A Whale Watching Tour Adventure

There’s a lot of wildlife, even in the city. At least a few times a month, I spot bald eagles from the train, and the local news always seems to have a story up about a new eagle duel had over the sports stadiums, the highway or beachside neighborhoods. However, if your kids are really into animals and they like being on the water, it doesn’t get better than a whale watching tour. FRS Clipper leads tours right off Pier 69, and with locally-sourced snacks in tow and a naturalist as a guide, guests can comfortably spot Salish Sea species like humpback and orca whales, sea lions, porpoises and, of course, bald eagles.

● Address: 2701 Alaskan Way, Pier 69, Seattle, WA 98121.

● Cost: $$$.

● Time needed: 3-5 hours.

● Age group: All ages, but best for kids 7 and up.

4. Visit The Original Starbucks

Anyone who loves coffee or history should visit the original Starbucks at least once in their lives. Sitting right across from the neon Pike Place Market sign, the shop got its start celebrating the maritime coffee trading traditions of old (“Starbucks” should be a clue, as it’s named after a “Moby Dick” character). Though the brand is now global, this quaint storefront offers a window into 1970s Seattle coffee culture, and teens a chance to tell their friends that they’ve been to the first-ever Starbucks (help them get pictures to prove it).

● Address: 1912 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: $.

● Time needed: 30 minutes-1.5 hours (the line will look massive, but it moves quickly if you go in the morning).

● Age group: All ages, tweens and teens will appreciate it most.

5. Go Museum Hopping Across The City

Of the many fun things to do in Seattle with kids, museum hopping has got to be up there, thanks to the many museums to choose from. Teens and tweens will be obsessed with the Vikings and Scandinavian design exhibits in the National Nordic Museum, and the pop culture theming of the MoPop. Meanwhile, younger kids will be excited about the fossils in the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture and the planes inside the MOHAI — pick three or four Seattle museums, or let everyone pick one, and make a day of it! 

● Address: Various.

● Cost: Free-$$.

● Time needed: 2-4 hours.

● Age group: All ages, but best for those 10 and up.

6. Marvel At Architecture In Seattle Public Library

Anyone taking a Seattle family vacation should be prepared with a great indoor activity at the ready in case it rains or you need a shade break. Seattle libraries have really cool locations around the city, but even those without a library card will love hanging out in the Central Library of the Seattle Public Library system. From the strikingly futuristic design of the exterior to the Instagram-famous Red Floor (the entire fourth level is covered in 13 shades of scarlet), there’s loads to explore, so take a self-guided tour (they have ones catered toward different age groups), visit the different art pieces around the building, relax at the Fountain of Wisdom and, if you’re lucky, take part in a free workshop.

● Address: 1000 Fourth Ave., Seattle, WA 98104.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 1 hour.

● Age group: All ages.

7. Go Tidepooling In West Seattle

There are great beaches in Seattle, but West Seattle offers the best for tidepooling. Families who love being outside, wildlife fans and waterbugs will especially enjoy this beachside activity. Take the King County Water Taxi from downtown and check out spots like Constellation Park (to the south of Alki Point) to see anemones, sea stars, crabs and other creatures in the wild.

● Address: 3521 Beach Drive SW, Seattle, WA 98116.

● Cost: $.

● Time needed: 2 hours.

● Age group: Age 6 and up (due to a lack of public restrooms, this might not be the best fit for potty-training toddlers).

8. Take An Underground Tour Of Seattle

After floods and the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, a new city was built on top of the old foundations — today, it’s this second version that Seattleites and visitors enjoy. Brave kids and curious adults who want to see the original streets and subterranean passageways can do so with companies like Beneath The Streets or the famous Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour. Wear comfortable shoes and a jacket (it gets cold down there) and get ready for some fascinating history and immersive storytelling.

● Address: Various.

● Cost: $$.

● Time needed: 1-1.5 hours.

● Age group: Kids 10 and up (note that this isn’t stroller-friendly).

9. Explore Overlook Walk

Linking the waterfront to Pike Place Market, this urban green space is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon (it’s also my favorite place to eat whatever I picked up at the market, since the seating areas inside can get crowded) or just enjoy some accessible views for a moment. Parents will love that play areas, like the Bluff Walk Playground, feature both spaces for kids to climb and explore and for parents to relax while in sight. Meanwhile, the whole family can people-watch from the Salish Steps & Plaza, check out the native plants and mountain views at the Ocean Pavilion Rooftop and look for art installations along the way.

● Address: 1505 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 20 minutes-2 hours.

● Age group: All ages, but kids 10 and under will love the play areas.

10. Enjoy Breathtaking Views Atop Smith Tower

Opened in 1914, Smith Tower has long been an Emerald City icon. And, anyone taking a Seattle family vacation who wants a great view should seriously consider going to the top. Take a self-guided tour of the historic building before riding the Otis elevators up to the open-air observation deck on the 35th floor, where you’ll find mountain and sound views.

● Address: 506 Second Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98104.

● Cost: $$.

● Time needed: 1-3 hours. 

● Age group: All ages, but wait time can be as high as 1.5 hours, making this a better experience for older kids.

11. Cheer On Seattle Sports Teams

Whether your kids are hockey, baseball, soccer, basketball or football fans, there’s a stadium for everyone. Sports-loving families should check out Lumen Field for football and soccer matches, T-Mobile Park for baseball games and the Climate Pledge Arena for ice hockey and basketball games. The latter is situated on the same campus as the Space Needle, and the other stadiums can be accessed easily via the 1 Line train (get on at the Westlake or Symphony stations from downtown and ride it a few stops south to the Stadium station).

● Address: Various.

● Cost: $$-$$$.

● Time needed: 2-4 hours.

● Age group: All ages, but best for those 7 and up.

12. Sample Goodies Across Seattle Bakeries

Seattle is known for its bakeries, and they’re the best places in the city to find sweet treats or a casual lunch for the whole family. For a taste of local Scandinavian fare, try Nielsen’s Pastries in Lower Queen Anne or Byen Bakeri in north Queen Anne. For flawless bread, head to Sea Wolf Bakers in Fremont, or stop by Bakery Nouveau in Capitol Hill for stunning macarons (the best I’ve ever had) and sandwiches.

● Address: Various.

● Cost: $.

● Time needed: 20 minutes-2 hours.

● Age group: All ages.

13. Try Your Hand At Glass Blowing

Seattle is known for glass blowing, as showcased by Chihuly Garden and Glass at the foot of the Space Needle and the endless glass souvenirs for sale around downtown. However, there’s no better way to partake in the tradition than by trying it for yourself — in fact, one of the best things to do in Seattle with kids is to take a glass-blowing class together. Come to the Seattle Glassblowing Studio to participate in cast and press workshops for littles and public or private lessons for those 11 and up.

● Address: 2227 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.

● Cost: $$$.

● Time needed: 20 minutes-3.5 hours.

● Age group: Ages 5 and up.

14. Try The Locally-beloved Soup At Pike Place Chowder

If you’re visiting Seattle with kids, it doesn’t get better than sharing hot chowder and seafood rolls, and Pike Place Chowder has the best soup in the city. The Seared Scallop Chowder, Seafood Bisque and Crab & Oyster Chowder are all locally beloved (if you want a sandwich, go with the buttery and bright Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll or the Dungeness crab variation), and vegans will adore the Lime & Coconut Chowder. Get it to go and eat it at one of the public seating areas in Pike Place Market, like Hillclimb Level 3 or the counter next to Sound View Cafe, which both have cover from the elements, tables, chairs and ridiculously good views.

● Address: 1530 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: $.

● Time needed: 20 minutes-1 hour.

● Age group: All ages.

15. Ride The Seattle Great Wheel

One of the best views in the city can be found via a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel, the tallest Ferris wheel on the West Coast. Each gondola compartment can hold up to 8 riders, and moves over the edge of the pier for remarkable vantage points of Elliott Bay and the skyline. It’s one of the best Seattle vacation ideas for families looking for an activity that’s somehow thrilling and chilled out at once (that’ll happen when you’re lounging 175 feet in the air).

● Address: Pier 57 - Miners Landing, 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: $$.

● Time needed: 20-40 minutes.

● Age group: All ages (but note that this is very high up, and can be scary for younger children).

16. Visit The Spheres

Situated on the Amazon campus downtown, The Spheres are a biophilic masterpiece, creating another urban green space in the lush city. Those taking a Seattle family vacation will appreciate the jaw-dropping look of massive futuristic orbs sticking out between skyscrapers, and if you come on the first or third Saturday of the month, you can register for free entrance. See the tropical Amazon Plant Collection from within or kick back in the public seating areas outside and enjoy the otherworldly views.

● Address: 2111 7th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 30 minutes-1 hour.

● Age group: All ages, but teens will especially appreciate the architecture.

17. Climb Queen Anne Hill To Kerry Park

Washington getaways are famous for hiking opportunities, but don’t worry if you’re taking a Seattle family vacation: The city has hikes too. At the top of the 456-foot Queen Anne Hill is Kerry Park, home to those picture-perfect Seattle views seen in shows like “Grey’s Anatomy.” Get pictures with each other of the skyline in front of Mount Rainier before making the trek down — climbing the very steep Queen Anne Hill is a feat, even for adults, so only attempt it on foot if your family consists of good hikers or strong walkers.

● Address: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 2 hours.

● Age group: Age 12 and up.

18. Wander The Seattle Center Campus Grounds

There’s a ton to see at the Seattle Center Campus Grounds, and spending the afternoon there is one of the most underrated Seattle family vacation ideas. All in one place, visitors can explore gardens, view art installations, splash in The International Fountain (a must on summer days), picnic in the fields and enjoy the Artists at Play playground if littles are in tow. The Pacific Science Center, Gates Foundation Discovery Center and other super popular Seattle sites are also at Seattle Center, making this site ideal for families and big groups with lots of interests.

● Address: 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, WA 98109.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 2-5 hours. 

● Age group: All ages.

19. Embrace Seattle Quirkiness At The Gum Wall

Unless the idea of chewed gum is unsettling to you, The Gum Wall is a really fun thing to do in Seattle with kids. Though the wall was solely home to the used gum of Unexpected Productions workers and visitors in the 1990s, today, people come from around the world to stick their gum on the designated wall in Post Alley. Teens will especially love sticking their gum to the wall, getting pictures and looking for art amidst the blobs (some people make their initials or fun shapes with the gum before sticking it on).

● Address: 1428 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101.

● Cost: Free.

● Time needed: 5-10 minutes.

● Age group: All ages, but best for older kids.

20. Slurp Down Famously Delicious Seattle Ramen

Thanks to a thriving APAC community, outstanding ramen can be found around the city. Featuring diverse goodies, heartwarming broths and addictive noodles, it’s a perfect meal to have on a Seattle family vacation. Check out Ooink, Slurp Station, Biang Biang Noodles or Southeast Asian Food Hall for the best and most accessible bowls in the Emerald City.

● Address: Various.

● Cost: $-$$.

● Time needed: 45 minutes-2 hours.

● Age group: All ages.

How To Plan A Seattle Family Vacation

Consider The Season

Here’s what to expect during different times of the year in Seattle:

● June-August: Expect sunny days between 50 and 70 degrees with up to 16 hours of daylight. This is salmon and festival season, and it’s great for hiking and swimming.

● September-November: Expect cloudy and often rainy days between 40 and 55 degrees. This is humpback and orca season, and it’s great for indoor activities or leaf peeping.

● December-February: Expect cloudy and very rainy days between 30 and 40 degrees and up to about 8 hours of daylight. This is holiday and waterfront lights season, and it’s great for festive or snowy activities.

● March-May: Expect blustery and rainy days between 40 and 65 degrees. This is tulip and blossom season (come to the UW campus for cherry blossoms), and it’s great for whale watching or layered outdoor fun.

Pack Well

Here’s everything you need to pack if you’re taking a Seattle family vacation via cruise:

● Light clothing layers for summer, heavier layers for winter.

● Comfortable walking shoes (I like watershoes like Chacos in the summer).

● Sunscreen and/or sunhat.

● Sunglasses.

● Cash for tipping or certain vendors at Pike Place Market.

● Binoculars for wildlife viewing.

● Rain jacket.

● Ziplocks or waterproof bags to keep phones and stow beachcombing finds.

● Waterbottle (there are plenty of places to fill up around the city).

● Swim suit (if you plan on swimming).

● Chargers.

Pick Activities That Suit Your Family’s Needs

If you’re doing Seattle with kids, it’s important to keep in mind that with such a dynamic city, there are activities and spaces for a diverse range of personalities. And, with it being so walkable, everything feels very accessible (plus, if transit is needed, there are clean trains, buses, streetcars and even ferries to pick from). You can just wing it, or you can plan some indoor and outdoor activities ahead of time that will work for your group’s ages and priorities.

Here are three recommendations for each age group and interest area that anyone taking a Seattle family vacation should consider:

● For younger kids: Bakeries, beaches and walkable parks.

● For the older kids: MoPop, famous sites and coffee houses.

● For multigenerational groups: Pike Place Market, the waterfront and neighborhood farmers markets.

● For outdoorsy families: Whale watching tours, beach time and the aquarium.

● For artistic families: Central Library, the Olympic Sculpture Garden and the SAM.

Book A Great Pre- Or Post-cruise Stay

If you want to see more of the Emerald City, booking a hotel before or after your Royal Caribbean cruise is a great way to do it. Picking out where to stay in Seattle with family travelers can feel overwhelming due to the number of options. So, I’ve narrowed down the top six most kid-friendly hotels in Seattle — these recommendations are ideally located near the sites mentioned in this article, and offer certain perks for those taking a Seattle family vacation:

● Inn at the Market: With a location as close as you can get to Pike Place Market, town car service and cruise package bookings, this is a stay that’s as quaint as it is convenient. 86 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101

● Seattle Marriott Waterfront: Situated across from the cruise port, each room has both mountain and water views. Paired with the indoor/outdoor pool and fitness center on the property, it’s the best stay for active or outdoorsy families. 2100 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, WA 98121

● Mayflower Park Hotel: This stay is connected to the Westlake metro and monorail stations, has luggage storage options and a shuttle service to the cruise port. It’s a great hotel for those seeking smooth travel. 405 Olive Wy, Seattle, WA 98101

● Palihotel: Located across from Pike Place Market, this hotel also ensures that the biggest tourist sites are easily accessible. And with bunkbed options and a complimentary candy bar, it’s perfect for big families or those with littles. 107 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101

● Hotel Ändra: Thanks to its proximity to the Westlake metro and monorail stations, and a fitness center, this stay is an easy pick for travelers wanting comfort and ease. And, it happens to be across the street from Serious Pie, home to the best pizza in the city. 2000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121

● The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle: Sitting very close to the ferry landing, and boasting both a fitness center with a rock climbing wall, this hotel is great for active families who want to fully explore the area or have kids who need to get the wiggles out. With a fun orca mascot called “The Marquis of Seattle,” it’s a quintessential Seattle stay. 1007 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

More Tips For Visiting Seattle As A Family

Finally, here are a few other tips for ensuring that your Seattle family vacation ideas play out as smoothly as possible:

● Get an ORCA card or download the Transit Go app for easy public transit.

● If your kids are feeling antsy post-cruise, head to Open Water Park right off Pier 91.

● Bundle attractions for savings via City Pass.

● To get from the cruise port to the Space Needle, walk 2.5 miles along the waterfront or take the bus (King County Metro 24 bus runs every 15 minutes).

● Embrace free attractions.

● Sample a little from lots of places instead of picking just one or two places to eat big meals.

● Have an indoor and an outdoor plan ready.

● Take the ferry for extra time on the water or affordable skyline views from the sea (bring binoculars and look for sea life).

● If you need a quiet space, check out POPS (Privately Owned Public Spaces) around Seattle, from rooftop gardens with giant chess boards to tiny parks hidden by hedges.

● Rent a free rowboat for an hour at The Center for Wooden Boats (they seat four people) if your kids want more time on the water or you’re looking for a fun way to exercise.

● Snag the best souvenirs in the museum gift shops or on the lower levels of Pike Place Market, where locally-made goods abound.

● Most of the main museums are free on the first Thursday of the month.

● Visit the Shoreline Street Ends (public beaches where the streets end) for uncrowded cityside beaches.

● Skip the traffic and take the Link light rail 1 Line train directly to the airport from the Westlake, Symphony or Pioneer Square stations.

From Sound To Space Needle: Your Seattle Family Vacation Awaits