The Best Things To Do in Seattle During Summer

As the summer months approach, Seattle, Washington, offers a plethora of activities for young professionals to enjoy. With the sun shining and the city buzzing with energy, there is no shortage of things to do.

Here are some of the best activities to add to your summer itinerary.

With over 20 unique neighborhoods, each one having its own flavor, Seattle draws in young people from around the world. As a result, it’s easy to make new friends and professional connections wherever you go. 

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Seattle in the summer, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of some standouts from the city and beyond.

What To Do In the City

Seattle is a place for everyone, with scores of foodie-approved restaurants, world renowned art and cultural museums, and outdoor activities. You can never be bored here if you take the time to explore. If you are a student at the University of Washington, some of the best things to do in Seattle are right on your doorstep.

As the summer months approach, Seattle, Washington, offers a plethora of activities for young professionals to enjoy. With the sun shining and the city buzzing with energy, there is no shortage of things to do. Here are some of the best activities to add to your summer itinerary.

Take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island

A trip to Seattle is not complete without taking a ferry ride across Puget Sound. Take a scenic 35-minute ride to Bainbridge Island, where you can stroll through the quaint town and visit local shops and restaurants. Enjoy stunning views of Seattle's skyline and Mount Rainier while relaxing on the ferry.

Visit Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is one of the most iconic destinations in Seattle. It's a bustling marketplace where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and unique artisanal crafts. Take a stroll through the market's maze of stalls and vendors, watch the fishmongers toss fish, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls.

Explore the Seattle Center

The Seattle Center is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, and the Pacific Science Center. Take a ride up to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city or explore the colorful glass sculptures at the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum.

Go on a hike in the Cascades

Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature with a hike in the nearby Cascades. The region offers plenty of trails with breathtaking views of waterfalls, lakes, and mountain vistas. Take a day trip or plan a weekend camping trip to fully experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Attend a music festival

Seattle is known for its vibrant music scene, and the summer months bring a variety of outdoor music festivals. From the popular Capitol Hill Block Party to the Bumbershoot Music & Arts Festival, there is something for every musical taste.

Visit the Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is a unique museum dedicated to the celebration of music, science fiction, and popular culture. Explore exhibits on Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, and other iconic musicians, or get lost in the world of science fiction with exhibits on Star Trek and other classics.

Go on a food tour

Seattle's food scene is a melting pot of flavors and cultures. Take a food tour and explore the city's diverse neighborhoods while sampling local cuisine. From fresh seafood at Pike Place Market to artisanal donuts in Capitol Hill, there is no shortage of delicious food to try.

Catch a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park

Nothing says summer like a day at the ballpark. Catch a Seattle Mariners game at T-Mobile Park, one of the best baseball stadiums in the country. Enjoy a hot dog and a beer while cheering on the home team.

Visit the Olympic Sculpture Park

The Olympic Sculpture Park is a stunning outdoor art exhibit overlooking Puget Sound. Explore the park's collection of contemporary sculptures and take in the breathtaking views of the water and mountains.

Take a brewery tour

Seattle is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of local breweries and taprooms. Take a brewery tour and sample some of the best beer the city has to offer. From IPAs to stouts, there is a beer for every palate.

Visit the Woodland Park Zoo

Located just a few miles north of downtown Seattle, the Woodland Park Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Spend the day wandering through the exhibits and learning about the animals and their habitats. Highlights include the Tropical Rain Forest exhibit, the African Savanna, and the Humboldt penguin exhibit.

Take a sunset sail on Lake Union

Experience Seattle from a different perspective with a sunset sail on Lake Union. Sail past the city's famous houseboats, the Fremont Bridge, and Gas Works Park while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline. Many companies offer sunset sail tours with refreshments and snacks included.

Visit the Seattle Aquarium

Located on the waterfront in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Aquarium is a great place to learn about the marine life that inhabits the Puget Sound. See sea otters, harbor seals, octopuses, and many other creatures up close. The aquarium also has a touch tank where visitors can touch and learn about sea stars, anemones, and other marine invertebrates.

Take a bike ride on the Burke-Gilman Trail

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a 27-mile trail that runs from Seattle to Bothell, passing through several neighborhoods along the way. Rent a bike and spend a day exploring the trail, which runs along the shore of Lake Washington and offers stunning views of the water and mountains.

Visit the Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. Located near Seattle's Boeing Field, the museum features over 150 aircraft, from early biplanes to modern jets. Exhibits explore the history of flight and the science behind aviation.

Go kayaking on Lake Washington

Experience the beauty of Lake Washington up close with a kayaking trip. Several companies offer kayak rentals and tours of the lake, which is surrounded by scenic parks and waterfront homes.

Attend the Seafair Festival

The Seafair Festival is a month-long celebration of Seattle's maritime culture. Events include the Seafair Pirates landing, hydroplane races on Lake Washington, a parade, and a torchlight run. The festival culminates with the Seafair Weekend, which includes the Blue Angels air show and a fireworks display.

Take a day trip to the San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located north of Seattle, accessible by ferry or seaplane. Take a day trip to explore the islands' scenic beauty and charming towns. Highlights include whale watching, kayaking, and visiting the quaint village of Friday Harbor.

Visit the Fremont Troll

The Fremont Troll is a quirky public art installation located under the Fremont Bridge. The troll, which is over 18 feet tall, is made of concrete and rebar and holds a real-life Volkswagen Beetle in its hand. It's a popular spot for photos and a unique piece of Seattle's eclectic culture.

Go to a rooftop bar

Seattle has many rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to catch up with friends, there is a rooftop bar for every occasion. Some popular options include the Nest at the Thompson Seattle, Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails, and Mbar.

Mount Rainier

On a clear day, you can view Mount Rainier looming in the distance with its snow capped peak that reaches 14,410 feet. While technically an active volcano, Mount Rainier is closely monitored so that visitors can safely enjoy the national park without worry.

While it takes about two hours driving time to reach the park from downtown Seattle, it is well worth the journey this summer as there are diverse hikes for all levels where you’ll see glaciers, waterfalls, wildflowers in bloom, and jaw-dropping vistas. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Seattle during the summer when the weather is nice.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is just a hair further from Seattle than Mount Rainier. It will take you around 2.5 hours to reach from downtown if you are driving. Visit this national park if you are a fan of the beach, as Olympic is famed for its scenic sandy trails.

Spanning 922,651 acres, this park is full of other attractions for visitors, including waterfalls, the Sol Duc Hot Springs, sea stacks, and mountain trails. There are no roads through this park, which preserves the peacefulness and beauty of the wild landscape. The Hoh River Trail through the rainforest is a don’t-miss.

North Cascades National Park

The largest of the three parks, North Cascades is another option for family-friendly hikes as well as more steep inclines. Also a 2.5 hour journey from Seattle, this park is very rugged, with 90 percent of its land remaining uninhabited. Among many other assets, the North Cascades play host to sparkling alpine lakes, like Ross Lake and Diablo Lake. Planning a day trip to hike and swim in one of these lakes is one of the best things to do in Seattle with friends in the summer. 

Where to Live in Seattle

Maximize your summer in Seattle by staying close to the city center in a contemporary and modern apartment. With properties all over the Seattle area, including several options in the University District, Tripalink offers that home away from home feel that will give you the ability to make the most of your living experience without breaking the bank.

All of the Tripalink properties in Seattle are new, spacious and ready to move in. You even have your choice of top-of-the-line appliances and modern finishes through all of the properties. Whether you are starting work in Seattle, or plan to attend the University of Washington in the fall, Tripalink apartments are conveniently located, safe and affordable. Each property has different amenities, including things like on-site laundry, a weekly cleaning service, car garage, and smart lock system.