guided tours seattle

THE 10 BEST Seattle Tours & Excursions

Seattle tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Seattle Harbor Cruise

2. Viator Exclusive Day-Tour From Seattle to Mt. Rainier

3. Premier 3-Hour Seattle City Tour

4. Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour

5. Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours

6. Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket

7. Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls Half-Day Guided Tour

8. Evening Colors Sunset Sail Tour in Seattle

9. Forest Hike to Gorgeous Twin and Snoqualmie Falls

10. Half Day Private Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle

11. Same Day Round Trip from Seattle to Victoria

12. Exclusive Leavenworth tour from Seattle

13. Best of Olympic National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Day Tour

14. Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle

15. Sky bound Adventures Snohomish Hot Air Balloon Ride

16. Touring and Hiking in Mt. Rainier National Park

17. 3 Hour Seattle City Tour

18. Mt. Rainier Day Tour from Seattle

19. Early-Bird Tasting Tour of Pike Place Market

20. Seattle Sightseeing City Tour with Hotel Pick-up

21. Seattle Grand 4-Hour City Tour

22. Pike Place Market Tasting Tour

23. Seattle Locks Cruise

24. One Hour Sightseeing Cruise!

25. Viator Exclusive Tour- Olympic National Park Tour from Seattle

26. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

27. Olympic National Park Day Tour from Seattle

28. The Original Food and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market

29. Meet the Market-Food and Fun tour in Pike Place Market-2 hours

30. 2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour

What travelers are saying.

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 Best Seattle Tours

Explore the Emerald City's natural beauty and urban offerings with these guided excursions.

Courtesy of Argosy Cruises

See Seattle's top sights from the water with a tour from Argosy Cruises.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited or ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

Idyllically situated in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a mecca for foodies, tech experts and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're here to see its city-based attractions like the Olympic Sculpture Park or its natural wonders like Mount Si , the best way to experience it all is with a guided tour. Browse through these 7 top Seattle tours, identified by U.S. News using both expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to help you plan your ideal getaway.

Argosy Cruises – Harbor Cruise

Sail through Seattle's Elliott Bay with Argosy Cruises. The one-hour narrated boat tour takes passengers through Puget Sound, by the shipping port and offers city skyline views. The vessel sports a full-service bar with snacks and alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Tour-goers report seeing lots of wildlife and fantastic views. They also enjoy their friendly and informative guides. Seating is first-come, first-served, and boarding begins 20 minutes ahead of departure time. Tickets start at $33 for adults and $20 for kids ages 4 to 12; children 3 and younger ride for free. Tours run multiple times daily during peak summer months; there is an abbreviated schedule in the winter. The company also conducts wine cruises, as well as cruises of Lake Washington, among other sailings.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Tours Northwest – Mt Rainier Tour

A trip to Mount Rainier is a must when visiting Seattle, but if you don't want to navigate to the peak yourself, consider this daytrip with Tours Northwest. You'll ride in an air-conditioned coach bus through incredible scenery en route to the mountain. At the park, you'll have the opportunity to hike as much or as little as you want to see waterfalls, meadows and old-growth forests. Tourgoers rave about their guides' knowledge of the park and its trails. They also relish the beautiful scenery and the frequent stops for photo-ops and exploration. Tours operate May through October. Each tour begins at 7:30 a.m. and lasts about 10 hours. Tickets for adults cost approximately $140 and tickets for children 7 to 12 cost approximately $120. Park fees are included, but you will need to pay for lunch. Tours Northwest also provides tours of Seattle and the Boeing facility.

Customized Tours – Olympic National Park Tour

Olympic National Park encompasses nearly 1 million acres and features a variety of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, mountains and coastline. Customized Tours' daylong outing of the park aims to see each of these ecosystems. The tour begins with pickup from select Seattle hotels before hopping on a ferry ride across the Puget Sound to explore the park. Travelers agree that the park is incredible and the long day (about 12 hours) is worth it. They also advise wearing comfortable shoes; you'll be chauffeured in a bus to different locations, but you will still do a lot of walking. Tickets start at $170 for adults and $145 for children 11 and younger. Pickups start around 7:30 a.m. Tours run Monday, Wednesday and Friday from April through October. The company operates several other Seattle outings, including city tours and trips to Mount Rainier.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

Beneath the Streets

Learn about the formation of Seattle and its original neighborhood, Pioneer Square, on this one-hour Beneath the Streets tour. Expert guides will lead you through underground passageways dating back to the 1890s, sharing historic information, along with stories of the Klondike Gold Rush, the city's architecture and the Coast Salish tribes who originally inhabited the area. Tourgoers describe the experience as full of interesting information and praise their well-educated guides. Tours, limited to 16 people, leave every 30 minutes between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Though tours run daily, there is limited availability on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tickets cost approximately $25 for adults, $22 for college students and teens, and $15 for children ages 7 to 12. The company also operates an adults-only red-light district tour.

Eat Seattle – Food Tour of Pike Place

Taste your way through Seattle's famous Pike Place Market with a chef leading the way. Guides will share insider tips about where area chefs shop and explain the history of the market. Along the way, you could sample chowder, chocolate, pasta and more. Tour-takers say the guides are wonderful and the food is delicious. Many commented the samples are enough for lunch. The two-hour tours depart several times daily, typically between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets cost about $50 per person. Abbreviated, hourlong tours of the market are also available on select days.

Puget Sound Express – Seattle Whale Watching Tours

A variety of wildlife species call Seattle home, including several different types of whales. The Puget Sound Express offers a half-day whale-watching tour that gives visitors the opportunity to see orcas, humpback whales, otters, sea lions and more in the San Juan Islands. The company's speedy boats reach the islands in about an hour and feature indoor seating with large windows, outdoor viewing decks and a cafe serving fresh blueberry buckle. Plus, the Puget Sound Express guarantees you will see whales on your tour or your next trip is free. Tourgoers rave about the courteous crew and all the wildlife spotted thanks to the crew's attentiveness and knowledge of the area. Tours last four to five hours and leave daily from April through October. Exact departure times vary by season. Ticket prices start at $135 for adults and $95 for children 2 to 10, while children younger than 2 ride for free. The company also offers bird-watching and multi-day wildlife cruises.

Shutter Tours – Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour

Travelers enjoy this comprehensive tour because it offers a balance of gorgeous natural scenery and a great overview of the city's top sights. During the four-hour excursion, tourgoers start with a lesson in Seattle history, exploring the Pioneer Square area – the hub of the Klondike Gold Rush. Travelers are then transported to the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls in the Cascade foothills. Next, the tour continues to the famous Fremont Troll and then the Ballard Locks. Finally, it concludes at Kerry Park , a popular spot to snap photos of the Seattle skyline. Reviewers recommend booking this tour your first day in Seattle to get your bearings. Tickets cost approximately $70 for adults, $65 for seniors, and $55 for children 12 and younger. Tours run daily at 10 a.m. Shutter Tours also operates a tour to Mount Rainier and a Tulip Festival tour every April.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Seattle Boat Tours
• The Best Whale Watching in Seattle
• The Best Things to Do in Seattle
• The Best Hotels in Seattle
• The Best Day Trips from Seattle

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Seattle , Travel , Pacific Northwest Vacations , Washington State Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best whale watching in santa barbara.

John Rodwan May 29, 2024

The Best Miami Boat Tours

Gwen Pratesi May 28, 2024

The Best Travel Purses

Rachael Hood May 24, 2024

The Best Beach Games

Gwen Pratesi May 24, 2024

The Best Branson Shows

Carrie A. Back May 23, 2024

The Best Beach Toys for Kids

Amanda Norcross May 23, 2024

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan May 23, 2024

The Best Savannah Tours

John Rodwan and Ann Henson May 23, 2024

The Best NYC Dinner Cruises

Jessica Colley Clarke May 23, 2024

The Best Cooler Bags

Sharael Kolberg May 22, 2024

Sightseeing Tours

Want to get your bearings before exploring the city or hoping to get an insider’s perspective during your trip whether you’re a history buff looking to learn how settlers got all the way to this corner of the country, an adventure enthusiast itching for an outdoor activity, or a photographer wanting to capture aerial images of the iconic skyline, there’s a seattle sightseeing tour for you..

Underground Tour Courtesy of Underground Tour

While the Great Seattle Fire in 1889 wasn’t a happy occasion, it did give Seattle the opportunity to rebuild—which was a fortunate thing, given that the original downtown was prone to flooding due to its proximity to Elliott Bay. As the city rebuilt everything above previous street levels, an entire underground world was born. Today, you can explore its passageways in Pioneer Square on Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour or Beneath the Streets . Both tours offer a healthy dose of history and a walk below ground.

Courtesy Argosy Cruises

Water World

Water is a huge part of Seattle’s story, and what better way to explore its marine history than by going to the source itself? Argosy Cruises has five tour options, including its signature Harbor Cruise. This one-hour trip follows the shoreline of Elliott Bay, getting a closer look at the container ships, cruise ships, and harbor seals that ply the Puget Sound waters. Sailing Seattle puts you on a high-performance racing yacht for a relaxing, wind-in-your-hair journey. Waterways Cruises and Events focuses on dining cruises aboard its 105-foot-long yacht, like the Sunday Supper Cruise that takes a spin around Lake Union and Lake Washington while guests enjoy a buffet stocked with sockeye salmon and apple crisp.

Urban Landscapes

City Sightseeing Tours

Once you shed your sea legs, there’s plenty to see back on land. Because Seattle is a forward-thinking city, it’s only appropriate to explore on Segways, two-wheeled transportation devices that make it easy for you to zip from the waterfront to Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market to Seattle Center, under the guidance of Seattle Segway Tours . Or go at your own pace with City Sightseeing Seattle , a hop-on/hop-off open-top bus that circles around to 16 of the city’s top sites and attractions. If you want to get a little farther out of town, Tours Northwest can whisk you away in a mini-coach to Mount Rainier, in addition to three-hour tours around the city. With longtime tour operator Show Me Seattle , see the city in a small group, or taste your way through Pike Place Market. Cruise passengers, take note: There are special offerings for you from all the shuttle bus companies.

Kenmore Air Courtesy of Kenmore Air

Take Flight

Make like a bird and embark on a scenic “flightseeing” tour for a whole different perspective of Seattle. For a floatplane experience you can’t get just anywhere, Kenmore Air and Seattle Seaplanes both offer 20-minute tours spent soaring past the sports stadiums, famed houseboat communities, and the distinct towers of downtown before landing gently back on Lake Union. Swap the water rudders for a giant propeller and take in the scenery via helicopter with Seattle HeliTours , which offers three routes leaving from Auburn Municipal Airport, and Georgetown-based Atomic Helicopters , with four itineraries covering the city, Snoqualmie Falls, Lake Washington, and marinas of Puget Sound. For an intimate, luxurious experience, book a semi-private or private hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning to get a birds-eye view of downtown Seattle and Mt. Rainier, topped off with a champagne toast at the end of the flight.

Human Powered

It’s great to explore by boat, shuttle, and plane, but sometimes you just want to keep it simple. Get around on your own two feet with the Seattle Free Walking Tours , which cover four topics: Pike Place Market, historic Seattle, and the city’s highlights. As the name implies, there are no high ticket prices here—pay what you feel it’s worth. Those with a particular interest in design will want to check out the walking tours from Seattle Architecture Foundation . With these, you can take a deeper dive into specific subjects like art deco and design details. Combine your history tour with a sweat session from Seattle Bicycle Tours , which has plenty of options for both guided tours on electric or standard bicycles. Keep the human-powered transportation theme going by getting out on the water with Alki Kayak Tours , offering paddles during the day, at sunset, and during every full moon. The particularly adventurous can take an overnight camping trip to Blake Island, where you can explore the forest trails and beaches after paddling across the Puget Sound for a perfect Northwest day.

Tour Partners

Alki Kayak Tours

• Address 1660 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126
• Phone (206) 935-7669

Seattle City Light / Skagit Tours

• Address 500 Newhalem Street, Rockport, WA 98283
• Phone (360) 854-2589

Seattle Architecture Foundation

• Address 1010 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
• Phone (206) 667-9184

Henry Mural Tours

• Phone (206) 849-7908

SUBSCRIBE TO THE SEATTLE LOCALIST

Seattle’s best every month in your inbox.

• OPT-IN: By clicking the "Subscribe" button, I agree to receive emails from Visit Seattle and that I have read and agree to the Visit Seattle Privacy Policy .
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Book Your Trip

Partner Advertisements

• 206-829-9267

• Hop-On Hop-Off

Guided Tours

• LIVE HOP-ON MAP

Discover Seattle

• Ballard Locks
• Chinatown International District
• Gas Works Park
• Historic Seattle Waterfront
• Lake Union Park
• Mount Rainier
• Olympic Sculpture Park
• Pike Place Market
• JOIN OUR TEAM

Book a guided tour with Gray Line Seattle to get expert commentary about the city’s most iconic landmarks. Ask questions, get ‘must-visit’ recommendations, and listen to stories from a local when you book a Hop On Hop Off Seattle Tour today!

Your Passport to Seattle’s Best Locations

Local expertise.

Listen as our guides bring Seattle’s history and culture to life with descriptive guided tours of several must-see landmarks.

Diverse Tour Options

Regardless of whether you prefer a fast-paced walk through the city with an audio guide or a relaxing bus ride to Seattle’s harbor, our diverse selection of tours has got you covered.

Easy Transportation

Enjoy comfortable seating, plenty of legroom, and on-time arrivals when you book transportation with our Hop On Hop Off Seattle service.

Seattle Night Tour

Scenic seattle city tour, must see seattle hop-on hop-off pass.

Our Must See Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off is a fun and flexible way to see the best of the city! With our 24 or 48-hour ticket, you’ll get unlimited access to all of the highlights available on our route —a total of 17 stops!

What Our Customers Say

At Gray Line Seattle, we pride ourselves on ensuring every customer that books with us has an exceptional experience. Our smaller group sizes allow guests to ask more questions and get a customized tour experience based on their specific interests. But don’t take our word for it. Check out what some of our riders — both new and past — have to say about their trip with Gray Line Seattle.

Use code ILOVEMTRAINIER for 10% on tours to Mt Rainier in May 2024!

Seattle Tours & Activities

Featured best seattle tours.

There are so many things to do in Seattle that it can be difficult to fit them all into a few days. A sightseeing tour from Seattle is a great way to get a taste of a city’s attractions and help you decide where you want to focus the rest of your visit. Check out our exciting list of Seattle Tours below so you can make the most of your visit to the Emerald City.

• Most Popular
• January 1 - December 31
• Hour Glass 3 hours
• Users Ages 3+

Premier Seattle City Tour Bus

Our Seattle City Tours have all the best Seattle attractions that you can see from the comfort of our spacious coach buses!

• Now Booking!
• May 1 - October 31
• Hour Glass 10 hours
• Users Ages 5+

Mt Rainier Tour from Seattle

Touring at its finest with knowledgeable guides, comfortable mini-coaches, and 3 convenient meeting locations from downtown Seattle. Experience old-growth forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and thundering waterfalls on this tour of Mt. Rainier.

• Users All ages

Seattle City Tour Package PLUS Hotel Pickup

Combine our 3-hour Seattle City Tour with luxury hotel pickup and drop off!

MORE SEATTLE CITY TOURS

Take a ride behind the wheel on this tour of Seattle neighborhoods and attractions. Our expert tour guides make history come alive as they share their favorite parts of the city, including Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and Ballard Locks.

• April 1 - October 31

Pre-Alaska Cruise Transportation and City Tour

Make the most of your time and money by combining tour and transportation with our Pre-Cruise City Tour! It also includes a 3-hour tour of Seattle. Consider this tour your Seattle hotel cruise port shuttle, with local culture added on top.

PRIVATE SEATTLE TOURS

If you are looking for an even more unique Seattle Experience, we offer private tours, as well as charter bus rentals and transportation services. We’re happy to accommodate our guests in the best ways we have possible. If there’s a private option you do not see available, please reach out so we can work together to make your experience a memorable one.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Private Seattle Tour

Explore Seattle at your own pace on this private and professionally-guided city tour. The tour begins from your hotel, where your personal local expert will pick your party up in a Pearl Chevrolet Suburban LTZ.

Private Snoqualmie Falls Tour

Discover a taste of the Cascade Mountains on this private and professionally-guided Snoqualmie Falls tour from Seattle. The tour begins from your hotel, where your personal local expert will pick your party up in a Pearl Chevrolet Suburban LTZ.

Private Transportation & Seattle Charter Bus Rentals

Private Charters with Tours Northwest are your best option for airport or cruise ship transportation, shuttles to events and business meetings, or regular outings such as school sports events.

• Hour Glass 4.5 hours
• Users Adults , Children 4ft and taller

Private Boeing Factory Tour

Experience a flight enthusiasts heaven inside the world’s largest building at the Boeing Factory. The service begins from your hotel, where your personal local expert will pick your party up in a Pearl Chevrolet Suburban LTZ to provide private transportation to the Future of Flight.

• Hour Glass 6 hours

Private SUV Tour – Seattle in One Day

Make the most of your short time in Seattle by squeezing all of Seattle’s “must see’s”  into a 6-hour whirlwind day. The tour begins from your hotel, where your personal local expert will pick your party up in a Pearl Chevrolet Suburban LTZ.

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK 2-DAY TOUR

Immerse your senses in the otherworldly Hoh Rain Forest, a sea of brilliant green mosses and lichens hanging from trees hundreds of feet tall. Explore the park’s dramatic Pacific coastline, filled with sea stacks, sun-bleached driftwood, forested cliffs, and tide pools where you might find sea stars, anemones, urchins and even wolf eels. The Olympic National Park is an unforgettable place worth experiencing.

• June 4 - September 24
• Hour Glass 2 Days

Olympic National Park 2-Day Tour

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Olympic National Park on this 2-day tour. K nowledgeable guides, comfortable mini-coaches, and 3 convenient meeting locations from downtown Seattle create a smooth, enjoyable experience. This is your chance to wander through alpine meadows and lush rainforests. Cameras at the ready!

PLANNING A SEATTLE TEAM BUILDING EVENT OR CORPORATE OUTING?

Work hard and play hard – Bond over a Mt. Rainier tour, or learn more about our City. We recommend combining learning and fun, by combining your business trip with a custom tour of Seattle. Our team of experience coordinators will create a custom team building experience for groups of any size in Seattle.

OTHER ACTIVITIES TO DO IN SEATTLE & PLACES TO VISIT

When traveling with Tours Northwest, here are just a few places you would see along the way that may spark your interest.

PIKE PLACE MARKET:

Established in 1907, Pike Place Market is one of the longest continually operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. Whether you are looking for a unique souvenir or a delicious bite to eat, Pike Place Market is sure to fit the bill.

PIONEER SQUARE:

Once the heart of the city, this historic neighborhood is home to many of Seattle’s best art galleries and restaurants. You may also want to check out the speakeasy at the top of the Smith Tower or the Klondike Gold Rush National Park.

SEATTLE CENTER:

Seattle Center is where you will find Seattle’s iconic Space Needle, but it is also home to The Monorail, Key Arena, The International Fountain, MoPop, Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, The Pacific Science Center, and Seattle’s Children’s Museum. Needless to say, there is plenty to do there.

The Top 21 Excursions and Tours in Seattle

Headed to the Emerald City sometime soon? We’ve compiled a list of the top tours in Seattle. Try one of our picks!

Located in Washington state in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is famous for many things—its iconic skyline, magnificent scenery, eclectic culture, and, of course, the tech industry and Starbucks. The Emerald City is young and vibrant, smack dab in the middle of pristine nature. You can easily fill your time bouncing between world-class museums, stunning parkland, and welcoming coffee shops and never get bored.

Just a warning: You may go broke! Seattle is an expensive city, so budget your trip wisely.

Planning any type of travel can be taxing, so to help you get started with your itinerary, we’ve put together a list of the top excursions and tours in Seattle. This has been created based on the experience of our own in-house travel experts along with TripAdvisor and Google Map reviews.

Enjoy a scavenger hunt in Seatown!

One of the most popular ways to see a new city or rediscover a favorite destination is on a tour, and Let’s Roam offers some of the most unique excursions available! Our Seattle Scavenger Hunt Tours will have you and your travel companions testing your smarts with questions about the attractions you visit. Earn points, take pics, and see who comes out on top!

21 Tours in Seattle

Below you’ll find a list of some of our favorite tours of Seattle including everything from bus tours to wine tastings. These tours can give you a great taste of Seattle and we are sure that they will leave you wanting more!

Seattle City Tours

Here at Let’s Roam, we absolutely adore exploring new cities, and although it’s great to be able to simply wander around on your own, sometimes guided sightseeing tours can help get a much better understanding of a city and what makes it so special. From walking tours to bus tours, these trips are usually well worth the money and can be the perfect introduction to a city, especially if you’re a bit short on time.

1. Three-Hour City Tour

During this sightseeing bus tour brought to you by Show Me Seattle , you can see many of the most popular attractions that Seattle has to offer! Highlights of the tour include Pike Place Market, the first Starbucks, Chinatown, the Seattle Center (home of the iconic Space Needle), Queen Anne Viewpoint, and Ballard Locks. 

The “buses” are roughly the size of minivans so don’t worry about being one sightseeing tour with a huge group of people. Show Me Seattle also offers a food tour and private tours that are perfect for bigger groups as they can work around your schedule.

2. Beneath the Streets Tour

This fascinating Beneath the Streets Tours lets you look deep below the streets of present-day Seattle to see Pioneer Square, the original neighborhood. As you walk through the underground passageway on this one-hour tour, you’ll step back in time to the late 19th century. 

During the tour, you learn the history of Seattle’s early years as well as stories about The Klondike Gold Rush. Tours are limited to 16 people, and departures are a bit limited on Tuesday and Wednesday, so be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information. 

If you want to learn a bit more about Seattle’s dark underbelly, you can also join their after-hours red-light district tour where you can learn about the city’s history with gambling, prostitution, and drinking. These evening tours are only available on weekends and last approximately 75 minutes. 

3. Seattle By the Sound Scavenger Hunt Tour

Here at Lets Roam, we love hunting nearly as much as we love roaming and one of our favorite ways to explore Seattle is by doing a Seattle by the Sound Scavenger Hunt ! This hunt takes you along the Seattle waterfront where you can test your knowledge with trivia associated with Belltown and Pike Place. 

Have you ever wondered how far a fish can be thrown or what Washington State’s greatest wheel is? Here’s your chance to find out! 

During the hunt, you’ll learn more about Seattle’s storied buildings, epic sculptures, and sprawling green spaces, and have a great time doing it! While the tour normally takes about an hour and a half to two hours, it can be done as fast or as slow as you want, giving you plenty of time to stop and grab a coffee or beer along the way.

4. Food Tour of Pike Place

This food tour led by Eat Seattle lets you taste your way around Pike Place Market, one of Seattle’s most well-known landmarks. Led by a professional chef, some of the tastings include things like chocolate, pasta, chowder, and more. 

The tastings are pretty generous and you can usually skip lunch after doing this tour. If you’re a bit short on time but love the idea of doing a food tour, check their schedule as they occasionally offer abbreviated hour-long tours.

5. Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle City Tour

What happens when you combine a Seattle city tour with an excursion to Snoqualmie Falls? One heck of a day! Organized by Shutter Tours , this four-hour trip takes you to many of the top attractions in Seattle such as Pioneer Square. 

After you’ve explored the city, you’ll head out to see the Cascade Foothills and the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls before circling back to see the Fremont Troll and the Ballard Locks. The tour finishes at Kerry Park where you can get some great photos of the Seattle skyline. 

If you love this experience with Shutter Tours, you can always join them for their Mount Rainier Tour. 

6. Seattle Brewery Tour

Seattle, and the entire Pacific Northwest, is famous for its delicious, high-quality craft beers and a Seattle brewery tour is the perfect way to increase your hoppy-ness factor! During this brewery waking tour , you’ll get to visit three different craft breweries where you can taste distinctive beer styles as part of a four-beer flight and learn a lot about the history behind Seattle’s beer scene. Best of all, you’ll discover the things that you need to look out for when beer tasting and you get to take home a souvenir beer tasting glass to remember the tour as well as a souvenir bottle opener. 

There is a multitude of beer tours to choose from including tours going through Old Ballard, Central Ballard, East Ballard, Fishermen’s Terminal, and Georgetown. Tour departure times vary but with frequent departure times throughout the day, you’re sure to find one that suits you perfectly!

7. Sleepless in Seattle Bar Crawl

If you love the idea of doing a pub crawl but would prefer doing it at your own pace, why not try a Sleepless in Seattle Bar Crawl ? This exciting activity will have you racing your friends to complete wacky challenges at some of Seattle’s most trendy bars. Since you can pause the game whenever you want, you can spend a little bit of time talking to that good-looking stranger over by the bar before heading off to the next spot (wink, wink). Just don’t leave your friends waiting for you for too long!

Boat and Kayak Tours

From Puget Sound to Lake Washington, Seattle is surrounded by water. One of the best ways to see this side of the city is on a boat or kayak tour. From wildlife watching excursions to romantic dinner cruises, there are many options to choose from whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, group of friends, or solo travelers!

Wildlife can be seen both near and far on many of the boat tours so make sure to bring some binoculars with you if you can. This helps enhance the overall experience and lets you get a closer look at birds soaring overhead.

8. Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour

Run by the team at Alki Kayak Tours , this two-hour tour of Elliott Bay and the Duwamish River is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Seattle area. While you’re paddling, you’ll be blessed with sweeping views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot California sea lions, bald eagles, harbor seals, and osprey. 

During the tour, the guide will tell you about the history of Seattle and the unique ecosystems of Puget Sound. Tours are run daily and all participants must be at least 18 years old. 

If you’d like a different kayaking experience, Alki Kayak Tours also offers trips to the Alki Point Lighthouse and sunset tours.

9. Harbor Cruise

This one-hour narrated boat tour by Argosy Cruises gives passengers a closer look at the Puget Sound, offering fantastic skyline views along the way. There is a full-service bar on board with snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The staff are helpful and very informative and can help you spot the abundant wildlife found in the bay. 

Tours run frequently throughout the day during the high season with few departures during the winter months. Make sure to get to the departure point at least 20 minutes before the boat is scheduled to leave and keep in mind that seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need some adult time, they also offer wine cruises as well as cruises along Lake Washington. 

10. Seattle Dinner Cruise

On the two-and-a-half-hour yacht cruise operated by Waterways Cruises , you’ll be welcomed with a glass of bubbly before being seated at a private table where you’ll be served a three-course dinner. Throughout the tour, you’ll hear about Seattle’s sparkling city skyline and its beautiful lakes. The service is top-notch and the food is delicious, making this the perfect activity for a romantic evening or a special occasion. 

Dinner cruises are offered from May to October (weather dependent). Tickets can be a bit expensive, so if you want to save a few bucks, you can opt for one of the Waterway Cruises brunch, sunset, or wine cruises. They also offer themed cruises throughout the year, and you can find a full schedule on their website.

11. Seattle Whale Watching Tours

Puget Sound Express gives you the chance to see some of the Seattle area’s diverse range of wildlife on these half-day tours. Some of the wildlife you may spot as you cruise through the San Juan Islands includes humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, otters, and more.

It takes about an hour to get to the islands and during that time, you can gaze out of the large windows, grab a coffee or some snacks at the onboard cafe, or hang out on one of the outdoor viewing decks. While it’s hard to guarantee what animals you’ll see on a cruise, Puget Sound Express promises that you’ll spot whales during the tour or they will give you your next trip for free. 

Tours leave daily from April until October. Since the departure times vary throughout the year, it’s a good idea to check the schedule on their website. 

If you simply can’t get enough of the wildlife adventure, they also offer bird-watching cruises as well as multi-day wildlife cruises.

12. Seattle to San Juan Island Whale-Watching

This is another solid choice for whale-watching excursions, especially if you want to spend a bit more time out on the water. Clipper Vacations offers full-day whale watching adventures on board a high-speed catamaran. 

The trip begins with the voyage to the San Juan Islands, where you can loom for whales with the help of the onboard naturalist. Afterward, the boat will dock in the island town of Friday Harbor and you can spend two hours wandering around this picture-perfect little town. 

The ticket prices for this longer excursion aren’t much higher than the half-day tours on other operators so make sure to shop around a bit before confirming a tour with a particular provider. The tour leaves from Pier 69 in Downtown Seattle from May until October. 

It’s a good idea to schedule a whale watching tour for the beginning of the trip because they also offer a free trip if no whales are seen during your voyage. Clipper Vacations also offers overnight cruises. 

13. Locks Cruise

Run by Argosy Cruises , the Locks Cruise consists of a two-hour narrated tour where you can get a first-hand view of how the Ballard Locks work. Watch as boats are either lowered or raised as they make their way into and out of Puget Sound.

The tour starts in Downtown Seattle from where you’re transported by bus to the starting point of the cruise. The tour then finishes at AGC Marina and they offer a bus service to get back to Pier 55 as part of their Boat & Cruise Excursion. Departure times vary throughout the year, and you can check their website for more details. 

Like many of the other cruise operators on this list, Argosy Cruises also offers harbor tours, wine cruises, and history cruises so if you loved your experience with them, there are plenty more options to choose from.

14. Lake Union Hot Tub Boats 

If you want to try a really unique way to see Seattle, Lake Union Hot Tub Boats may be just the thing you’re looking for! The company offers the “world’s first electric-propelled wood-fired hot tub boats”. The boats hold up to six people and are filled with fresh water, making it a little bit like taking a bath with your nearest and dearest while floating around in the lake and checking out the view of the Seattle skyline. 

The water is kept warm thanks to a wood-burning stove, and everything is as environmentally-friendly as possible. You can rent the hot tub boat for two hours or more 

Seattle is surrounded by some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. While this accessibility to nature is without a doubt the reason why many Seattle-ites choose to live there, it’s also easy to get out into the natural landscapes as a tourist! 

There are plenty of day trips that you can do to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Although a day tour isn’t nearly enough time to see everything that these amazing parks have to offer (you would need months for that!), they can still give you a taste of the pristine landscape lying just outside Seattle’s doorstep.

15 Mt. Rainier Tour

One of the best things to do in Seattle is taking a day trip to Mount Rainier and Tours Northwest is waiting to take you there. The excursion begins with a drive through some spectacular scenery in an air-conditioned coach as you make your way to the mountain. 

Once you have arrived at Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll have plenty of time to do some of the park’s shorter hikes where you can see rushing waterfalls, idyllic meadows, and pristine old-growth forests. The tour guides are very experienced and can give fascinating information about the flora and fauna that call the park home and can help you choose the best trails to hit.

Tours last approximately ten hours and run from May until October. Even with the extended length of the trip, each full-day tour excursion should get you back in Seattle in time for dinner. Park fees are included in the total price so make sure to keep this in mind when you’re comparing the tour prices.

16. Olympic National Park Tour

With nearly one million acres of land and an enormous array of ecosystems, including mountains, coastline, and temperate rainforests, Olympic National Park is big… like really, really big. No trip to Seattle is complete without seeing this amazing natural attraction. This full-day excursion with Customized Tours helps you catch a glimpse of each of the different ecosystems. 

The 12-hour tour begins with a picturesque ferry ride across the Puget Sound before heading into the park which kind of turns it into a nature tour and boat trip in one! Although a bus takes you through the different sections of the park, there is still plenty of time to walk and it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. The tour price includes pick-up from select Seattle hotels, and tours run from April through October. 

Customized Tours also operates their own Mount Rainier Tour so if this is something that you’re also interested in, you can ask your tour guide for more details.

17. Leavenworth Day Trip

While the Seattle area is known for many things, the one thing that people may not realize is that there is a quaint German village located just a short drive away! Operated by Oktay Tour , this Leavenworth day trip whisks you from the streets of Seattle to the charming streets of Bavaria in the blink of an eye. 

Each tour lasts around 8-9 hours, and you’ll pass by Snoqualmie Falls and Lake Washington before reaching Leavenworth. There, you’ll have a few hours to spend browsing through the shops, and checking out the local eateries. ‘

Wine Tasting Tours

Besides being lucky enough to be surrounded by epic scenery, Seattle also has more than its fair share of wineries. In fact, with more than 1,000 wineries located across Washington state, it’s the second-largest wine-producing region in the United States behind California.

During a wine tasting tour, you can try some of the best wines that are produced in the region. Most wine tours include transportation which means that you don’t have to worry about having a designated driver and everyone can join in on the fun! Plus, they tend to be small group tours, which means that you have plenty of time to get to know the other guests. You might even find some new friends!

18. Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wine tasting option, Bon Vivant offers guided tours of Washington’s largest (and smallest) wineries. Depending on availability, they usually include a wide range of wineries which gives you the chance to experience the intoxicating array of wine options that Washington can offer! 

The tour usually includes a stop for lunch, and it’s a good idea to budget around $20 per wine tasting and roughly $25 for a “progressive lunch” where you have one course at each of the wineries. Our stomachs are rumbling just thinking about it!

If you’re traveling as a group or simply know exactly the types of wineries you would like to try, you may want to consider a private tour. This customized wine tasting tour by Bon Vivant is perfectly designed with your group’s tastes in mind! 

Before the tour begins, the expert guide will ask about your preferences and create an itinerary that fits your palette. Keep in mind that the tour prices do not include the wine tasting themselves and these should be budgeted separately. 

19. Snoqualmie Falls & Seattle Winery Tour

If you can’t decide whether you want to spend a day exploring natural wonders or want to spend a day visiting wineries (although you could argue that wine is a natural wonder in its own right!) this six-hour tour lets you do both! 

The tour visits Snoqualmie Falls and two wineries and the price of the tour includes pick-up service at Sea-Tac Airport and many Seattle tours. You start the day with a drive through the Cascade Mountains before reaching the 268-foot-tall waterfall where you can get some great photos. Next, the tour heads to Woodinville which lies about 30 minutes away from Seattle. 

Note: There’s a quick stop at an artisanal candy shop, so you can stock up on tasty treats!

20. Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour

If you love the idea of visiting the falls and wine tasting on the same day but you’re looking for something a bit fancier, you may want to check out this eight-hour tour Operated by Evergreen Escapes . The tour starts with a pickup in Seattle, where you’ll begin your journey through the Cascade Mountains. 

After spending time admiring this rush waterfall, you’ll head to Woodinville, where you’ll have a gourmet picnic lunch and stop at three top-notch wineries. Learn how to sip like a sommelier during a fun, and informative, wine tasting lesson and get the chance to meet the winemakers behind the magic. 

When all is said and done, you should be back in the city with plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.

21. Mount Rainier National Park and Yakima Valley Wine Tasting Tour

This twelve-hour excursion operated by Evergreen Escapes combines a 3.5-mile hiking experience in the famed Mount Rainier National Park combined with wine tasting in one of Seattle’s top wine-producing areas. The tour visits two wineries and includes coffee and pastries for breakfast, a family-style lunch, and plenty of snacks throughout the day. 

This tour is the perfect way to explore Mt. Rainier (and burn some calories) and try some of the excellent wines of the Yakima Valley. 

Ready to roam?

We hope that this list has left you inspired to pack your bags and visit Seattle! As you can see, the city has a ton of amazing things to do and there truly is something for everyone! First-time visitors simply can’t help but gaze in wonder at the national parks, be dazzled by the city skyline, and fall in love with this amazing city Repeat visitors just keep finding more incredible things to see and do.

As always, we would love to hear your feedback, so please let us know if there are any hidden gems that we may have missed! 

If you need more information on the city, make sure to check out our lists of “ The Best Things to Do in Seattle ” and “ The 22 Best Day Trips from Seattle .” We also recommend downloading our adventure app and purchasing tickets for one of our scavenger hunts ! Each experience is a great way to learn more about the city! 

Happy hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many tours in Seattle and the surrounding areas, and if you’re a wine lover, you can’t miss out on tours of Washington wineries . Try a tour by Bon Vivant or Evergreen Escapes.

If you’re looking for fun in the Emerald City, try any of the Let’s Roam scavenger hunt tours in Seattle . Exciting options include sightseeing , scoping out street art , and spending a night on a bar crawl .

Seattle’s proximity to Puget Sound makes it a prime location for whale-watching tours . Try the Seattle to San Juan Island Whale-Watching Tour from Clipper Vacations or the Puget Sound Express.

If you’re in Western Washington, reserve a day for at least one boat tour in Seattle ! We recommend the Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour, dinner on a Waterways Cruise, or a fun Lake Union Hot Tub Boat!

Featured Products & Activities

Customized Tours | Seattle's Fun Tour Guide

• Private Tours
• Frequently Asked Questions
• 888.554.8687

Customized Tours shows you The Emerald City like no one else. With over 30 years in the business, we know which world class spots to show you for maximum enjoyment.

Public tours.

Mt. Rainier Day Tour

Enjoy a fun-filled, day-long tour of the breathtakingly beautiful wonderland that is Mount Rainier National Park.

DURATION: 10-12 Hours PRICE: $175 Adult, $135 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now Gift Card

Seattle Grand Four Hour City Tour

This city tour, spanning four hours, offers an excellent beginning for those seeking a close and personalized introduction to the marvels of the Emerald City.

DURATION: 4 Hours PRICE: $107 Adult, $96 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now Gift Card

Winery + Waterfall Tour

Embark on a delightful wine-tasting journey to Woodinville, a charming destination just outside Seattle, providing an intimate tasting experience with boutique wineries. The adventure extends to the majestic Snoqualmie Falls, inviting exploration of its beautiful gardens and trails.

DURATION: 6 Hours PRICE: $135 Adult, $100 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now Gift Card

Olympic National Park Tour

Olympic National Park is well known for having several different ecosystems to explore: subalpine forest, wildflower meadows, temperate rain-forest, and the rugged Pacific Shore.

DURATION: 12 Hours PRICE: $230 Adult, $182 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now Gift Card

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Day Trip

**Call to check availability**

Brighten up your spring with a day trip from Seattle to the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, one of the most magnificent floral displays in the US! (ENTER PROMO CODE “TULIPS24” to receive a special 50% discount now) DURATION: 8 Hours PRICE: $250 Each MORE INFORMATION

‘Faithful Hands’ Farm Tour

Come and engage your senses in our interactive farm tour and learn what we do to run our farm. Visit the gardens and greenhouse and see what we grow. Our hope is that you will leave feeling inspired, encouraged and empowered to try it yourselves.

DURATION: 1.5 Hours PRICE:  $25 Adult, $15 Child MORE INFORMATION Book Now

Leavenworth Village of Lights Festival

Visit the Village of Lights Festival in the picturesque Bavarian-themed mountain village of Leavenworth, Washington. (ENTER PROMO CODE: LIGHTS24 to receive a special 50% discount now)

DURATION: 12 Hours PRICE: $198 Each MORE INFORMATION Book Now Gift Card

Boeing Factory Tour

The Future of Flight Tour is currently being offered for private transportation only. (Please see our Private Tour Section)

See What People are Saying

Easy and relaxing.

I can tell you this: from start to finish, the day was perfect. Touring with Customized Tours was easy, relaxing, and so lovely.

Our Honeymoon Trip

"Cory, our tour guide greeted us directly in our hotel lobby. We were the last of the tour to be picked up, so we were immediately on our way to the first winery! The tour does not include wine tasting fees, but there was a free tour that included some wine tasting (Chateau Ste. Michelle). We even had time to enjoy a glass of wine before the tour. Our tour guide took care of getting us our boxed lunches as we were at the winery! The next stop was Goose Ridge Winery, where we enjoyed lunch and another wine tasting. My husband saw that they also had cider tastings so he was able to taste cider! Our tour guide was very informative and personable, making the trip enjoyable. We had ample time to spend at each location. The falls were magnificent and it was convenient to be dropped off right at the falls! The last stop at the chocolate factory was a sweet end to our tour! We would highly recommend this tour!"

4-hour seattle city tour

We enjoyed our tour and our tour guide was very good about taking us to all the popular places as well as some side stops. (ex: Theo's chocolates, fisherman's landing, Kerry Park, Klondike National Park/museum). She was very knowledgeable and very informative about Seattle. We would recommend this tour and it is very reasonably priced.

Great Time!

Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour

Cory, the guide made this trip so much fun! I would highly recommend this trip it was the best part of my Seattle visit! (January 2020)

Most beautiful place in Washington State with super friendly and knowledgeable guide

Wow, what a day! I wasn’t sure what to expect with it being pretty cold and wet, but this tour was a blast. It had everything, beautiful lakes, waterfalls, beautiful lush forest, ocean beaches, hiking (be prepared to do a fair bit, at least 5 or 6 miles). Cresent Lake is breathtaking and Tongue point was a beautiful surprise at low tide with all the tide pools. Joel did an excellent job of showing us all the diverse landscape and some super cool hidden gems. There were even a few things we missed due to road closures so I will definitely be going back on another tour when the weather warms up. This place is truly spectacular and I couldn’t have asked for a more friendlier and knowledgeable guide.

Read Our Latest TripAdvisor Reviews

These are just our last 10 reviews. We have over 1,000 Reviews on TripAdvisor! Read more of our REAL reviews on TripAdvisor.

WE'VE GOT YOUR SEATTLE AND AIRPORT HOTEL-PICKUP COVERED!

See our hotel list under "learn more".

Join us for Seattle Food Tours, Walking Tours, and More!

• Hour Glass 4.5 hours

Boeing Everett Factory Tour from Seattle

Experience the modern marvel of commercial jet production on this one-of-a-kind tour.  Includes admission to the Boeing Future of Flight factory tour and guided transport to and from downtown Seattle.

• Walking Tour
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Pike Place Market Food & Culture Tour

Join us on an intimate guided food tour of the world-famous Pike Place Market as we explore the back alleys, narrow corridors, and tiny storefronts in search of our favorite places.

Early-Bird Food Tour of Pike Place Market

Early birds are rewarded with this food and culture tour of Seattle’s most famous attraction!  This intimate and tasty tour gives you a valuable a head start on the crowd of 30,000 people who visit the Market each day.

2 Hour Seattle Snapshots Tour

Designed to help you create the ultimate Seattle photo album – 7+ iconic photos of the best spots, all in 2 hours!

• Hour Glass 3 hours

3 Hour Sightseeing Seattle Tour

Experience the best of the city with a small group of no more than 14 guests! Great way to get to know all of Seattle in a short amount of time, we’ll explore all the major attractions and give you a glimpse into the charming neighborhoods that make Seattle unique.

Post-Cruise City Tour

End your cruise vacation with our award-winning 3 hour Show Me Seattle City Highlights Tour. Cruise pickup and airport dropoff included. Got time to kill before your flight? Add on a Blast Pass to The Space Needle and shopping at Pike Place Market!

• Private Tour

Build Your Own

Let us create an unforgettable Seattle experience for you, we’ll help you design an itinerary customized around your interests and our expertise.  Local hotspots, best-kept secrets, and charming neighborhoods make for a truly Epic day.

Why Book Seattle Tours with Show Me Seattle?

Small-group seattle food tours.

Our small group food and city tours are limited to 14 passengers or fewer, so you get a more intimate experience, greater access to local landmarks, and more personalized attention.

Amazing Seattle Tours by Locals

We have one goal: to exceed your expectations. We go out of our way to attract the best tour guides Seattle has to offer. Each guide brings unmatched passion to every tour they lead.

Unique Seattle Food Tours

We offer unique experiences that showcase Seattle’s cultural history, dynamic food scene, innovative businesses, and beautiful geography.

Join Our Highly Rated Seattle Food Tours!

We made several stops where we got out of the van, including a lengthy tour of the Ballard Locks led by our guide. Our tour guide, Lucky, was extremely knowledgeable and made the tour exceptional. The tour gave us a great overview of the history of Seattle, its culture and its many interesting sites. I would highly recommend the tour.

Truly the best part of our trip to Seattle. Seattle Food Tour was yummy and the information was great, Marcia has so much energy and definitely knows her way around the market. I look forward to doing another tour in the future.

The Pike Place Market food tour was fantastic. And Lucky Lane, our tour guide, was super entertaining and helpful, providing us with additional tips for visiting Seattle and dropping us near places of interest, e.g. space needle, on the way back.

We only had a couple of days in Seattle and this tour gave us a comprehensive overview of all of the major sights of the city. Our guide Dave (Elvis) was brilliant. Friendly, funny and wonderfully informative about the city. Thank you for a lovely tour and great value for money.

Dave (Elvis) picked us up on time in a nice comfortable mid-sized coach. When we arrived at Boeing a Dreamlifter was just about to take off and he made sure we got to the roof to see it and video it. He made sure we understood the processes and procedures involved in the tour. The factory is engineering on a huge scale and we saw the production lines for 747, 777 and Dreamliner. An excellent trip all round.

Simply AMAZING!!!!!! Great food tour! Had such a fantastic time! The walking is very doable and the scenery of the market is amazing!

• Seattle Private Tours
• Specialty Experiences & Tours in Seattle
• Custom Experiences
• Step-On Tours
• About Us – The Story Behind Totally Seattle

Private Seattle Tours

Guided tours of Seattle led by local experts – custom tours options available

Over 100 5 Star Reviews

The most definitive “insider/secret gems” tour available in Seattle. I personally have scoured this city and he still managed to pull some incredible spots out that I had not experienced. The ability to tailor these private tours to specific interests is endless. 

If you’re looking for a private tour, don’t bother researching other companies. Book Totally Seattle Tours and thank me later.

Michelle V. 

If you’re looking for a day trip to learn about the history and culture of Seattle, Colin is the guy. If you’re looking for small group guided tours of Seattle’s most popular sites, Totally Seattle Tours is definitely your only choice.

William L. 

Why Book a Guided Tour with Totally Seattle Tours?

Our private Seattle Sightseeing Tours are for your group only. No other Seattle tour experience gives you so much freedom to experience the city how you want. Care to stop for lunch? Do some shopping? You are the sole focus of your guide throughout your time on tour!

Looking for a Seattle walking tour guided by a local? Looking to learn about the history and culture of the city ? Totally Seattle Tours has created a huge range of pre-designed tours and we can also push personalization even further with our Customized Seattle Tours — see Seattle your way, but with the help of local guides who know all the best spots, both on and off the beaten path.

Seattle Sightseeing: The City and Beyond

Snoqualmie Falls Tours from Seattle: Salish Lodge and Spa

Seattle City Tour: History & Landmarks

Soar, Sip & Sail Seattle (Available May – Oct)

How we make our guided tours of seattle unique.

At Totally Seattle Tours, we are passionate about hospitality, offering a luxury service unlike anything else currently available.

Our private Seattle sightseeing tours include treats unique to the Puget Sound region. We are focused on ensuring that your group experiences the real Puget Sound, and we endeavor to help your group have a truly special experience that goes off the beaten path, offering features no other tour operator can provide.

If you’d like to know more, please feel free to get in touch — we’re always happy to hear from people interested in our unique corner of the United States.

Seattle Culture Connoisseurs

Totally Seattle Tours loves nothing more than giving sightseeing tours of the region. We are passionate about what makes Seattle culture unique and beautiful. Our goal is always to make certain that our guests understand where our love and passion comes from during each of our tours of the Pacific Northwest. Take a look at our entire range of Seattle Private Tours to start planning the best part of your trip to Seattle or day trip from Seattle to the beautiful Puget Sound Region!

Totally Seattle Tours is permitted and licensed by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) to operate tours in the Pike Place Market Historical District. The PDA requires any business or person conducting paid tours within its properties and in the public areas of the historical district to be pre-approved and to have a license for this activity.

Popular Seattle City Tours and Tours from Seattle

Sign up to our newsletter, totally seattle blog.

Where Should I Stay in Seattle? (An Unofficial Seattle Accommodation Guide)

What Are the Best Day Trips From Seattle? 

How to get around Seattle as a tourist

Join our adventure community. We'd love to stay in touch! Sign up here.

Escape Your Everyday and Explore the Wonders of the PNW

Maximize your vacation.

Our naturalists' guides know the PNW like the back of their hand and will lead you to the best trails, views, and picnic spots, so you get the most out of your day in the park!

All Inclusive Experiences

We make planning your adventure effortless with our all-inclusive tours. We like to take care of all of the details to ensure your trip is smooth, easy, and fun from start to finish!

Connect with Nature

Our beautiful home, Washington State, is home to an abundance of natural wonders. See and experience what many visitors never do with your expert guide!

Choose Your Escape!

Our tours in Washington state and Oregon feature small groups, all-inclusive days, and TripAdvisor ‘Hall of Fame’ guides. We’ll pick you up, take care of the details, bring plenty of food and drink, and maximize your time exploring.

Small Group Adventures

Escape for the day (or multiple days) to Washington State’s National Parks & Monuments, Beaches, Wineries and Natural Wonders.

Private Escapes

Looking for something more initimate? Choose from any of our existing tours or a private only itinerary for your own custom escape with family or friends.

Corporate Experiences

Reconnect with one another and nature at the same time. Our guided corporate tours will get your team outside and energized, while our team handles all the logistics.

Seasonal Day Tours

Summer is on its way! Check out our tours departing from Portland and Seattle. Green everywhere, snow clinging to the highest mountain peaks, and waterfalls booming with melting snow mean we can’t wait to play outside!

See all the latest updates by visiting our page dedicated to Coronavirus travel information.

SEE OUR DAY TOURS

SEE OUR SEATTLE DAY TOURS

SEE OUR PORTLAND DAY TOURS

Seattle Day Tours

Portland Day Tours

The Best Guides & Tours in Washington State & Oregon

All-Inclusive Small Group Experiences: This should feel like a day out with friends.

We believe that the amazing natural wonders surrounding Seattle and Portland are the true “must sees ” of any visit to the Pacific Northwest. Our professional nature guides have a deep love for our home and are excited to share it with you. We pioneered outdoor tours from Seattle beginning in 2006, adding Portland departures in 2010. Our all-inclusive tours blend jaw dropping natural wonders, comfortably paced outdoor adventure, local knowledge and first-rate customer service into relaxing small group tours departing daily from Seattle, WA and Portland, OR year-round .  

See What People Are Saying About Us

Our Sister Companies

FOOD TOURS IN SEATTLE

BUY TICKETS

“The best food tour ever. Don’t miss this!”

Seattle refined.

See Seattle like a Local

Learn from a Culinary Pro

Small Group Experience

Chef guided food tour, pike place market.

Buy Tickets

See Details

STREET FOODS

South lake union tour, coffee crawl & vip morning tour, happy hour tour, drinks & bites.

Buy Gift Cards

Gift Experience

“THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO immerse YOURSELF IN THE TRUE LOCAL, authentic EXPERIENCE OF PIKE PLACE MARKET”

Featured in.

“Chef Sean was THE best. Of course taking this tour I have to acknowledge my bias for good food, but I was blown away by the way Chef Sean interwove not only incredible food across Pike Place Market, but also the rich history of the area and the stories of the people there today. You can tell how much he honors the hardworking families that make up this space and it was a breath of fresh air to hear how much the people that work (and live!) in the area care for one another and stepped up during Covid. This is an absolute MUST while in Seattle – don’t explore the market before you learn all the ins and outs of it first – you will appreciate it that much more when you finish the tour and go back in to get some goodies (with many discounted because of the tour!!) Thank you Chef Sean and team!”

“We took this tour with Sean Welsh and it was great! 11/10 recommend! The vendors we visited were awesome and it was so cool to learn about them and the history of the market! The food we sampled was delicious! Definitely give yourself time for another hour or so in the market after the tour ends. It’s a must to revisit the highlights and do a little shopping. Again we cannot recommend this tour enough! “‘

“ This company has five stars across the board for a reason! Sylas was our tour guide and, although I have only done it once, I’ll bet we had one of the best guides! This tour is worth every penny you spend. Several times throughout the tour, employees came over to say hi to Sylas. That lets me know this company is legit. If you’re on the fence, this is your sign to do it! Honestly, we might go a second time because we had such a great time. Thank you for the awesome experience!”

” Eric was great! He was knowledgeable about the market and food, and he made us feel the close relationships he had with all the vendors in the market! He gave us some history lessons as well as taught us about the food we were tasting. Would highly recommend taking this tour!”

YOUR TASTE BUDS WILL THANK YOU

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

Sign up to be first in the know, #eatseattletours.

Alki Kayak Tours

Review Highlights

“ As part of the sunset tour , we had great views of the Olympics, Cascades and Downtown. ” in 11 reviews

“ I went this past Saturday for their SUP-U and got received a two hour lesson + "tour" of parts of Elliot Bay . ” in 8 reviews

“ I've been to this place a few times over the years and you can't ask for a more scenic place to go kayaking . ” in 10 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

1660 Harbor Ave SW

Seattle, WA 98126

S Fairmount Ave & S California Way

Serving Seattle Area

You Might Also Consider

Sweeterman Guiding

Book a Fishing Trip Now! We offer well equipped charter boats and guide services for unforgettable walk and wade and float trips 12 months a year. This includes, The Mckenzie River, Willamette, Deschutes, Umpqua, Siuslaw, Lake… read more

DK Elite Watercraft’s

Chelan’s newest boat rental and delivery company! We’re where luxury and convenience come together! Our boats are new and ready for you to enjoy. We deliver anywhere on Lake Chelan or the Columbia River. Our goal is to make boat… read more

Torex ATV Rentals

Torex ATV Rentals has direct dune access and can serve over 100 people each hour. At Torex, we specialize in creating a fun and safe experience on the sand dunes for the entire family. With the best machines on the market, direct… read more

in Atv Rentals/tours

Amenities and More

4 More Attributes

About the Business

Business owner information

Business Owner

Guided Sea Kayak Tours of Elliott Bay, the Duwamish River, and Puget Sound focusing on the natural history and human history of the Alki Peninsula. Guided Sunset Sea Kayak Tours. Rental Kayaks for Experienced Paddlers. Rental Kayaks for Beginner Paddlers. Rental Stand Up Paddleboards. Lessons/Classes for Beginner to Advanced Stand Up Paddleboarders. Lessons/Classes for Beginner to Advanced Kayakers ACA Certified Instructors. Inline Skate Rentals and Sales. Fishing Boat Rentals. Cruiser Bike Rentals. Longboard Rentals. Kayak Sales and Demo Center for Eddyline, Native Watercraft and Wilderness Systems! …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Got a question about Alki Kayak Tours ? Ask the Yelp community!

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

128 reviews

I bought my husband a gift certificate for a sunset sea kayak tour for two TEN years ago, for his 40th birthday. Life, kids, work, etc. got in the way and we never got around to doing the tour. He recently found the certificate and called to see if we could still use it and add a second two-person kayak for our kiddos. No problem at all. Ethan, our guide, was fantastic! He's friendly, personable, knowledgable, and did a great job teaching us how to paddle. I can't say enough good things about the sunset tour and how much fun we had. The kayaks are well-maintained, the staff great, and the entire experience was top notch. Highly recommended!

Fast and easy to get you out on the water with reasonable prices for paddle boards and kayaks. They bring out the paddle board for you and provide lockers so all you need to do is show up. Thanks! We had a great time.

My fiance and I were in Seattle for a few days pre Alaska cruise and decided to spend an afternoon touring around Alki. I had been very briefly before with my best friend and I knew I would love to see more of the island. I reserved a pair of bikes online beforehand from Alki Kayak Tours as they are quite literally, right next to the ferry drop off on Alki. When we arrived, the bikes were ready to go and we were able to take off within minutes. We spent a few hours riding around the island, stopping for ice cream and to snag a beer at one of the local breweries. It was such a fun way to take in the beautiful views of downtown Seattle, the bay, the gorgeous homes, and Mt. Rainier. We were about 30 minutes late in returning our rentals and they didn't charge us or even really care and returning the bikes was seamless. I highly recommend this as an activity and would 100% do it again!

It's the sea my good gentleman and lady that beckons me to ring my final hour into the ever engulfing darkness that seeps through my oxygen and makes me float like an angel on the surface! (Oh... ._. Uhhh hmmm maybe too intense. I'll take it down a notch) *cough* Do you guys like the water? *smiley face* Well look no further because this your place to be and have fun! Let's paddle are way into this review and check out why this place is a great spot to kill sometime. Atmosphere: For once this is easy, It's Elliot bay and gimmick you haven't gone there... Well I thinks it's high time you get your patooty there! With a gorgeous site to Seattle city (You'd be crazy not to insta it. Unless your old like me and then in that case insta it too! Lol) The building where you rent the kayak is pretty chill. Customer Service: Customer Service is pretty straight forward. They're just cycling people as fast they can unto the waters but do instruct you for safety rules and to be mindful of boats on the water crossing. (It's like they care!) As well as instruct you to wear a life jacket while on their paddle boards and kayaks. Overall very friendly people. Experience: It was awesome, it makes you work out muscle that you wouldn't mostly use. While taking in the gorgeous atmosphere of the ever dark waters luring underneath you. Buuuuut it's pretty. Would recommend three important things... number one... WEAR SUNSCREEN!! OMG... JUST DO IT. YOULL THANK ME. MY LEGS LOOKED LIKE THE RED LOBSTER LOGO FROM RED LOBSTER FOR A WHOLE WEEK.... Number two.. go to the bathroom beforehand.. omg just do it. Even if you don't have to. Because if you're really far away and it hits you... that rowing back is the sweatiest you'll ever be.. number three just have fun. That's all lol Conclusion: No joke a great time to spend outside while doing a light but fun exercise activity. Highly recommend coming with a group of people or alone to escape the ever cluttering noise.

Booking online was easy but the process of checking out the gear was disorganized. They're old us to grab life vests and paddles from the rack but it was empty. We had to wait about ten minutes for them to give us gear and actually get launched which ate into our rental time. No one ever checked our name off a list when we returned the items which made me wonder how they are keeping track of items if they are stolen. The view was beautiful and we ended up seeing a seal along the ride. I would return for a rental since the view was worth it but service could definitely be improved.

We had a great time cruising the sound on our sup boards! Staff was super friendly, helpful & very customer service oriented! We would come Back and rent again!!

I've been to this place a few times over the years and you can't ask for a more scenic place to go kayaking. I mean, look at the pictures! The space needle, downtown Seattle, ferries going by - are you on the set of Grey's Anatomy or what? The most recent time I went we rented a double kayak for a self-guided trip out. I found service to be straight forward and matter-of-fact and focused on getting us in the water quickly - probably within seven minutes of arriving we were out in the water. They were very clear about COVID regulations - everyone was masked up and there was a "sanitization station" making their cleaning practices very visible. Equipment was clean but definitely well-loved - it was all still functional though. They didn't offer to put the rudder down for our kayak which made it a bit harder to steer but it was all fine. We paddled down to Alki Beach and then back up which took about 90 minutes and we were not over exerting. We saw an otter and sea lions and were able to social distance very nicely. Tip: if you are new to kayaking, make sure it's calm weather, and consider taking a tour instead of being self-guided. I've taken two tours here and enjoyed both. This is open water and BIG ships go through as well as a lot of boaters that don't know exactly what they are doing and it's worth the extra money to get some basic instruction and someone looking out for you. Plus the tour is pretty interesting!

Rented kayaks for a camping trip to Blake Island. Had a few email exchanges and conversations with the shop and they gave us more than enough help and info we would need to make such a trip. On the day that we did the trip they were welcoming and accommodating in helping us get set up. Would definitely recommend anyone use them for a kayak rental!

Photo of outside the shop

Getting our skirts on before launching

We had pre-booked 2 double Kayaks. The renting place was kind of disorganized or low staffed. The view of downtown Seattle, and Alki was worth it. I would come back to kayak for the view. We had docked our kayaks at the wrong bay and the staff was really nice to kayak it back to the correct bay.

Miya was our tour guide for the West Seattle Sunset Tour. First, it was a beautiful and different way to see the city. We had a great time. Second, Miya made it accessible for multiple skill levels, and had fun things to share about the area that were new to us, even as locals.

13 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Outback Team Building & Training - Seattle

in Team Building Activities, Escape Games, Scavenger Hunts

Tongass Treks

Get away from the crowds and out in nature while visiting Sitka, Alaska! All hikes include transportation to and from the trailhead, a knowledgeable local guide, and bear and wilderness safety to make for a safe and enjoyable trek! read more

Collections Including Alki Kayak Tours

To Visit While in Seattle/Washington (for Tourist, New In Town & Everyone Looking For Adventure)

By Jeanelle S.

Seattle Guidebook by @thegreenroomseattle

By Alicia E.

Part 1 of Entertaining Out-of-Towners

By Yiling W.

West Seattle Neighborhood

Seattle Vacation

By Angela T.

Parks & Recreation

By Alanna M.

Seattle Favorites

By Samantha L.

Getting the heart rate up in West Seattle...

By Katrina D.

Fitness & Sports

People Also Viewed

Northwest Outdoor Center

Ballard Kayak

Mt Baker Rowing and Sailing Center

The Center For Wooden Boats

Washington Surf Academy

Issaquah Paddle Sports

REI Boathouse at Enatai Beach Park

Exotic Aquatics Scuba & Kayaking

Best of Seattle

Things to do in Seattle

People found Alki Kayak Tours by searching for…

Active Life Seattle

Bike Rental Seattle

Boat Rental Seattle

Fishing Rental Seattle

Kayak Rental Seattle

Outdoor Activities Seattle

Paddle Boat Rentals Seattle

Rollerblade Rental Seattle

Seal Beach Seattle

Stand Up Paddle Board Lessons Seattle

Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals Seattle

Water Activities Seattle

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Things to Do

Campgrounds

Limo Service

Other Places Nearby

Find more Boating near Alki Kayak Tours

Find more Paddleboarding near Alki Kayak Tours

Find more Rafting/Kayaking near Alki Kayak Tours

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Scenic Seattle, Portland and Oregon Coast

Seasonal Sale

Save up to $420

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

8 Day USA Tour to Seattle, Portland and the Oregon Coast

8 days, 1 country and 10 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

Connect with rugged wilderness, scenic landscapes, cities and coastal towns as you blaze through lush Olympic National Park, wine taste at a Be My Guest Experience in the Willamette Valley, enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at TMK Creamery, and meet a local farmer at an organic lavender farm in Sequim.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

8 days itinerary trip from Seattle to Portland visiting 1 country and 10 cities

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Astoria Riverfront Trolley, Sequim Lavender Farm, Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, Columbia River Maritime Museum with a Local Specialist

Discover Conduit Coffee Company, Hibulb Cultural Center, Sequim lavender farm, Astoria, Columbia River Maritime Museum, Kramer Vineyards and TMK Creamery with a Local Specialist

Visit Pike Place Market, Olympic National Park, Astoria Column, Newport, Hood River

See Mt. Hood, Oregon Coast, Washington Coast, Mt. Rainier

View Multnomah Falls

Scenic Cruise along Puget Sound

Scenic Drive along Olympic Peninsula

Visit Pike Place Market

Tick the must-see attraction of Pike Place Market off your bucket list. At the oldest, continuously open farmers’ market in the country, take your time exploring the market’s stalls and shops spread across nine acres. Visit the historic arcade and make your way down winding alleys, stairways and lower levels for a sensory tour of sights, sounds and tastes. Be sure to stop by the Pike Place Fish Market, famous for its vendors who toss fish back and forth. Founded in 1930, the Pike Place Fish Market is an enduring Seattle institution and a one-of-a-kind experience.

The Seattle Space Needle

Unlock incredible views of the Emerald City from the Seattle Space Needle. Built in 1962 for the World’s Fair, this 605-foot-tall icon continues to represent the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of Seattle. Stroll around the circular deck, offering unique vantage points of the city’s neighborhoods.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

All transport and transfers shown

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

Scenic Seattle, Portland and Oregon Coast trip reviews

#ttscenicseattle.

Real moments from real travelers, creating the greatest travel stories they’ll ever tell

Or search for something else

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

The Perfect Self-Guided Walking Tour of Seattle

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Please refer to my Disclosure Policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Seattle, Washington. The heart of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a city renowned for grunge music, Starbucks Coffee, and rain. With an abundance of awesome sights, from the (kinda icky) Gum Wall at Pike Place Market to the towering Seattle Space Needle, the best way to admire all of these iconic landmarks is on a self-guided walking tour of Seattle !

As I was born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve frequently embarked on a weekend trip to Seattle. And in all my time there, I’ve never gotten bored of a few key areas: the Pike Place Historic District, Seattle Center, Pier 57… and with all these spots being within easy walking distance, the best way to visit them is by foot.

Needless to say, you’ll be visiting all of these top Seattle spots on this walking tour . So without further ado, let’s begin: this is my self-guided Seattle walking tour.

Before we dive into all the stops on our walking tour of Seattle, remember that you can make whatever changes and modifications you’d like. That’s the best thing about self-guided walking tours ; you have the ultimate freedom to decide where to go!

With that being said, according to Google Maps, this Seattle walking tour covers 1.9 miles (3.06 km) and will take 40 minutes to complete. However, it doesn’t include all the time (and steps) you’ll spend browsing around. So, I recommend taking a full day out of your itinerary to complete the tour.

Now, once again, let’s begin!

First, let’s start our free walking tour of Seattle at Pier 57.

Home of the Seattle Great Wheel and Miner’s Landing , Pier 57 is the perfect place to start our walking tour. Filled with unique retails shops, stunning ocean views, various family entertainment, and several popular restaurants including The Crab Pot and The Fisherman’s Restaurant, Pier 57 is a vibrant, fun-filled wonderland perfect for those traveling with family and friends.

Here are the three best things to do at Pier 57 in Seattle:

• The Seattle Great Wheel : Offering panoramic views overlooking Elliot Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel is a relatively new yet iconic Seattle landmark. Adult tickets cost $15, and it’s typically open from 11 am to 10 pm.
• Miner’s Landing Pier 57 : Housing the most popular restaurants in addition to Wings Over Washington, Salish Sea Tours, and the Carousel, Miner’s Landing is filled with entertainment (perfect for kids!).
• Seattle Aquarium : For those interested in the diverse sea life of the Puget Sound, the Seattle Aquarium is the best educational resource . Adult tickets cost anywhere from $24.95 to $34.95 (depending on the day you’re visiting), and the aquarium is open from 9:30 am to 6 pm.

• Pier 57 Address : 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Next, walk along the waterfront to Pier 62. The first completed section of Waterfront Park, Pier 62 offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, as well as some delightful art installations and a floating dock. Admire the incredible ocean scenery before heading to our next stop: Pike Place!

• Address : 1951 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 5 minutes to walk from Miner’s Landing Pier 57 to Pier 62.
• Hours : 6 am to 10 pm, open daily.
• Website : https://waterfrontparkseattle.org/pier-62/

Planning to visit the Canadian Rockies? If so, check out my 7-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary!

Pike Place Market

Next, it’s time to explore Pike Place Market. One of the most popular Seattle tourist attractions (and an essential stop on all walking tours of Seattle), Pike Place Public Market is my absolute favorite district in Seattle.

Historic and vibrant, Pike Place is filled with life. First opened in 1907, Pike Place remains one of the oldest farmer’s markets in the USA . From comic book stores, antique dealers, fresh fish and produce, artisan crafts, and more, Pike Place Market offers a plethora of goods.

While visiting Pike Place, don’t forget to check out these key sights:

• The Gum Wall : While I personally find it a bit gross, Seattle’s Gum Wall is a prominent local landmark worth checking out. On the side of the Post Alley’s Market Theater, it’s one of the most popular Seattle photo spots!

• Rachel the Pig : Located under the iconic red Public Market Center sign, Rachel the Piggy Bank is a bronze sculpture based on the 1985 Island County Fair prize-winning 770-pound pig. Here, you can take some photos and donate some coins to help support Pike Place Market.
• The Original Starbucks : While the Starbucks located in Pike Place Market is commonly referred to as the Original Starbucks, it is actually the second store that opened. Nevertheless, as the first Starbucks no longer exists, the Starbucks located in Pike Place is the closest we can get to the original. Drop by for some souvenirs and great photo ops!
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese : While I’m not a huge cheese enthusiast, I still adored having some of Beecher’s macaroni and cheese. Stop by to try some handmade artisan cheese!

With so many sights to see in Pike Place Market, don’t rush this part of our walking tour of Seattle. Take your time and explore the shops and restaurants, before heading to our next stop!

• Address : 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 7 minutes to walk from Pier 62 to the Pike Place Public Market.
• Hours : Most businesses are open from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Website : http://pikeplacemarket.org/

Victor Steinbrueck Park

Next, walk from Pike Place Market to Victor Steinbrueck Park. A small but charming park offering pleasant ocean views, it is worth visiting en route to our next destination. However, there are occasionally some sketchy characters hanging around, so be aware and stay safe!

• Address : 2001 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 3 minutes to walk from Pike Place to Victor Steinbrueck Park.

Olympic Sculpture Park

From Victor Steinbrueck Park, walk for 14 minutes to Olympic Sculpture Park. Spanning nine acres and associated with the Seattle Art Museum, this award-winning park is a great place to relax, offering clean amenities, enchanting views, and interesting sculptures. And with no entrance fee, it is one of the best cheap things to do in Seattle.

• Address : 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 14 minutes to walk from Victor Steinbrueck Park to Olympic Sculpture Park.
• Cost : Free
• Website : https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/olympic-sculpture-park

Seattle Center

Finally, the last stop on our walking tour of Seattle is Seattle Center, which includes four key museums and sites: the Seattle Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Pacific Science Center.

While this free walking tour of Seattle is officially over, you can easily spend hours exploring the museums around Seattle Center, especially since they all offer something different and unique. So, make sure you have enough time!

• Address : 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Time to Get Here : It’ll take 8 minutes to walk from Olympic Sculpture Park to Seattle Center.
• Website : http://www.seattlecenter.com/

The Space Needle

One of the most popular and exalted tourist attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and stands at 605 feet (184 m) tall. While tickets aren’t cheap, there’s no better place to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle!

• Address : 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : General admission tickets for adults costs $35 (but you can buy a combined ticket with Chihuly Garden and Glass for $57!).
• Hours : Their core hours are from 12 pm to 5 pm, but additional hours will be added 2-4 weeks in advance.
• Website : https://www.spaceneedle.com/

Chihuly Garden and Glass

One of the coolest art galleries I’ve ever visited, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum showcases the fantastic glass blowing sculptures and art pieces of Dale Chihuly, a celebrated artist from Tacoma, Washington.

With eight galleries, three Drawing Walls, and the Glasshouse and Garden offering fabulous views of the Seattle Space Needle, you won’t be bored at Chihuly Garden and Glass!

• Cost : General admission tickets for adults cost $32 (but you can buy a combined ticket with the Space Needle for $57!).
• Hours : 9 am to 6 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 9 am to 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Website : https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/

The Museum of Pop Culture

If you’re a music or film enthusiast, you have to visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) on your Seattle free walking tour. A nonprofit museum focused on contemporary popular culture, they offer exhibits on the Seattle Sound (with a focus on Nirvana and Pearl Jam), science fiction, and horror films.

• Address : 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Cost : Adult tickets cost anywhere from $26.75 to $34.50 (depending on the day you’re visiting).
• Hours : 10 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 6 pm on the weekend.
• Website : https://www.mopop.org/

The Pacific Science Center

A nonprofit museum perfect for those traveling with young children, the Pacific Science Center offers fascinating educational experiences and exhibits focused on science and discovery.

• Address : 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
• Hours : Temporarily closed
• Website : https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/

Thinking of visiting New Orleans, Louisiana? If so, check out my 3-day New Orleans itinerary , for ideas on where to go and what to see!

Other Fabulous Things to Do in Seattle

Now that we’ve finished our walking tour , you’re probably looking for an extra couple things to do in Seattle. So, here is my list of 10 additional awesome places to visit:

• Kerry Park : Seattle’s best photo spot, Kerry Park is located on Queen Anne Hill and offers breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, Elliot Bay, and Mount Rainier. It is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in Seattle!

• Seattle Art Museum : Located near Pike Place, the Seattle Art Museum offers a wide variety of gorgeous art pieces completed by artists from around the globe.
• South Lake Union : A scenic lake located in central Seattle, South Lake Union is the perfect place to relax and people-watch. It also offers some great Seattle outdoor activities, with both paddle board and kayak rentals!
• Gas Works Park : Located on the north shore of Lake Union, Gas Works Park is the former site of a Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant. With fascinating remains and delightful views, this unique park is one of the best in Seattle.

• Pioneer Square : A rustic and charming neighborhood in the heart of old Seattle, Pioneer Square is a delightful historic area with cute boutiques, delicious restaurants, and striking murals.
• The Smith Tower : Located in Pioneer Square, the Smith Tower, built in 1914, is Seattle’s oldest skyscraper. With charming architecture and stunning views from the observatory and bar, the Smith Tower is one of the best things to do at night in Seattle.

• Chinatown-International District : The epicenter of Seattle’s Asian-American community, the Chinatown-International District can be split into three sections: Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon. Regardless of the area you’re exploring, the Chinatown-International district will offer the best Asian cuisine in Seattle!
• The Museum of Flight : The world’s largest nonprofit air and space museum, the Museum of Flight is a fascinating spot that will enthuse all flight enthusiasts, holding both the original Boeing Aircraft factory and a NASA space shuttle trainer!

• Seward Park : Offering some of the best Seattle walking trails, Seward Park holds 300 acres of enchanting forests, lovely beaches, and a delightful native plant garden.
• Day Trips from Seattle : From Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, and Mount Saint Helens, there are numerous incredible day trips from Seattle; I’ve even written an article about it! Click here to read my article on the most amazing day trips from Seattle .

Or, if you’re looking for a Seattle day trip that takes you out of the US and into Canada , check out my articles on Vancouver and the Gulf Islands:

• 18 Spectacular Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• The Ultimate Self-Guided Vancouver Walking Tour
• The 15 Best Hikes in Vancouver
• 22 Incredible Hikes near Vancouver
• 6 Epic Whistler Hikes
• 11 Fabulous Things to Do in Salt Spring Island

The Best Time to Visit Seattle

To avoid Seattle’s infamous rain, one of the best times to visit Seattle is in the summer, from June to August. With average high temperatures ranging from 71°F to 79°F (22°C-26°C), the weather is warm and sunny.

However, as this is Seattle’s high season, the crowds are consequently bigger and accommodations tend to cost more (so it’s not the best time for budget travelers ).

In my opinion, the best time to visit Seattle is in the shoulder season (spring and fall), with either September or October being the best month to visit Seattle. It’s also a great time to go on some walking tours in Seattle, as the weather isn’t too hot!

And That’s It for our Walking Tour of Seattle!

I hope you enjoyed reading this article, and I hope you’ll love this walking tour of Seattle. Remember, as this is a self-guided walking tour , you have the final say in where you go and what you do. Best of luck, and happy travels.

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

Photos by Mia and Pixabay.

Planning a Oahu vacation, and wondering what to do? If so, click here for my list of the best hikes in Oahu , and click here for the best Oahu waterfalls .

About to embark on a trip? Here are some helpful articles to make your trip as awesome and stress-free as possible:

• How to Travel Without Breaking the Bank
• 15 Things to Do Before a Trip
• How to Start Hiking: 15 Beginner Hiking Tips
• 15 Incredible Day Trips in Seattle

And here are some additional helpful links:

• Click here for my walking tours
• Click here for my hiking guides
• Click here for more posts on North America
• Click here for more posts on destinations in the US
• Click here for more resources

Like this post? Share it!

Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

One Comment

Thanks for the awesome walking guide! We followed your advice and ideas from our cruise ship port and through city center! Great fun facts and sites! Thank you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Rant & Rave: Reader’s family enjoyed visit to Bellevue Botanical Garden

RAVE to the Bellevue Botanical Garden, where our family enjoyed a free guided tour of the gardens on Mother’s Day. The docent was very informative and entertaining, and we learned a lot in just over an hour. 

RANT to whoever stole a Fremont Solstice Parade float trailer, one of the few the Fremont Arts Council has. Please bring it back so the community members who want to decorate it for the parade can do so. It has a whole lot of bad juju associated with stealing it from a community nonprofit. Bring it back, or the old troll will hunt you down!

RAVE to the amazing person who found my wallet on the bus and turned it in to Metro’s lost and found. Everything was still inside, including my driver’s license, which is incredibly important to have on me. Your honesty and kindness truly reduced the worry and hassle of canceling my cards. A big thank you also to the Metro service for promptly notifying me that my wallet had been found. Your efficient and helpful process is greatly appreciated.

RANT to audio dropouts. I’ve experienced them regularly while watching streaming shows. It happens on Hulu, Max and Prime Video among others. I figured the problem was internet connectivity. But it happened yesterday when I was in my car, listening to my favorite station over regular FM. I’m wondering if my radio has the same problem because that station is available via the web. I thought the technology was improving, but apparently not.

RAVE to the owner of Egan’s Ballard Jam House and their good Samaritan customer. I lost my wallet on Market Street the other evening. Early the next morning, I received a call from the owner of Egan’s that one of their customers had found it and turned it in. Thank you!

RANT to conference organizers, especially for conferences with an environmental theme, who persist in foisting more “swag bags” upon us. Enough with the bags! We don’t need or want any more. 

RANT AND RAVE Rant to the person who placed their dog poop in my garbage cart that was in my RV shed. Rave to you for bagging it and keeping it off others’ property — just take it home!

RANT AND RAVE Rave to our neighbor for using the warm weather to air dry their laundry. Rant to them for hanging it so close to our house. We are also thrilled to have the warm weather to enjoy and don’t want to be looking at your underwear. Either move it to a different location in your yard or inside your home.

RANT AND RAVE Rant to whoever left the back end of a rental scooter poking out between two buildings on First Hill. I tripped over it onto the sidewalk resulting in a broken finger, a cut lip requiring six stitches, and two cracked teeth. Rave to the kind young person who took me into the lobby of their apartment building, where they and the concierge helped stanch the flow of blood and offered to call for help. Their kindness made what would otherwise have been a miserable accident just a little more bearable.

Most Read Life Stories

• Seattle's Wing Luke Museum closes after staff walkout over exhibit
• Hop aboard the Kingston fast ferry for a quick day trip from Seattle VIEW
• Youngest climber to complete WA’s Bulger List featured in new movie
• Summer travelers beware: Hidden fees are everywhere
• An antipasto tuna salad puts all those refrigerator jars to good use

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.