Let’s be honest. There’s something magical about visiting Seattle’s Waterfront. From the smell of the salt air to kitschy souvenir shops, fresh seafood, and those iconic views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, Seattle’s waterfront truly has it all!
Under the surface, Seattle’s Waterfront holds a rich history. Originally the docking point for the gold rush in the late 1890s, the waterfront has undergone many transformations. But through it all, some things remain the same, and there are even stores that are still in business from the gold rush days!
As someone born and raised in Seattle, I’ve put together this guide of my favorite things to do when visiting the Seattle Waterfront. From the iconic highlights to the local gems, this list will help you experience the waterfront in a way that’s both unique and memorable – rain or shine!
15 Amazing Things to Do at the Seattle Waterfront
The Seattle Great Wheel
The Seattle Great Wheel is one of the newest additions to the waterfront. Built in 2012 on Pier 57, the 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel features sweeping views of Puget Sound, Downtown Seattle, and even Mount Rainier on a clear day.
Each of the 42 enclosed gondolas holds up to 8 people and is climate-controlled – so you can comfortably ride year-round. If you are worried about the line, it moves pretty quickly. They even have a bar where you can get alcoholic drinks, but be careful – there are no bathrooms aboard, so prepare your bladder for the ride!
When I first rode the Great Wheel, I expected it to be an overpriced tourist trap, but to be completely honest, it’s a great value! The views are incredible, the ride is longer than you expect (a few full rotations), and it’s become one of my go-to things to do when entertaining guests in Seattle.
Great Wheel Pro tip: Ride during sunset. Watching the daylight fade into darkness while the city lights slowly come alive is pure magic!
Ye Olde Curiosity Shop
No trip to the Seattle waterfront is complete without paying a visit to Ye Olde Curiosity Shop. In my opinion, this fun and quirky shop is peak Seattle. Located on Pier 54, it’s been around since 1899!
My father took me there as a kid to view their unique taxidermy collection and Native American artifacts. It was my first experience seeing a real-life mummy. It’s quite the sight to see. They even include fun stories behind the different mummies.
From two-headed birds to skeletons, you could spend an hour at Ye Olde Curiosity Shop looking at their kooky collection. Best part of all – viewing their amazing oddities is free! It’s also a cool gift shop fully stocked with unique and local gifts. If you’re into Harry Potter, you can buy a variety of wands!
Seattle Aquarium
While you’re down on the waterfront, popping into the Seattle Aquarium is an experience in itself!
The aquarium is split between two main buildings.
One is dedicated to the native marine life of the Pacific Northwest, like kelp forests, tide pools, and cold-water species like sea otters and octopus. There’s even an exhibit where you can watch harbor seals swim around!
The newly opened expansion is a tropical environment, and honestly, my favorite part! It’s full of color with coral reef systems and tropical fish. It has a modern vibe with massive floor-to-ceiling tanks. I could spend hours staring at the fish!
Miners Landing
Miner’s Landing at Pier 57 takes the cake for one of the weirdest places in Seattle.
It’s an old historic building with relics of a previous era, but it is now used for food and entertainment.
As you make your way through the wood-paneled hallways, you’ll walk amongst historic images of Seattle’s past, and funky wooden carvings of fishermen, miners, and local Native American artwork.
This historic attraction got its name from the gold strike of 1897, when a ship filled with gold and happy, successful miners docked at the pier.
But the Miner’s Landing of today doesn’t have any miners. Instead, you’ll find unique gift shops, restaurants, an arcade, and a vintage carousel. A must-visit for family-friendly entertainment!
Seattle Antiques Market
Another store oozing with vintage charm is the Seattle Antiques Market. This store is one of the longest-running antique dealers in Washington State, and has been around since 1978.
The market is chock-full with vintage furniture, memorabilia, lighting, clothing, vinyl records, and my favorite – LIFE magazines! All items in the store are for sale, so if you’re looking to add some character to your home, there is no better place to shop.
A core childhood memory of mine is visiting the Seattle Antiques Market with my mom. She purchased me a very special LIFE Magazine – one that featured a photograph of my grandfather during his time in a Japanese internment camp.
Overlook Walk
Seattle’s overlook walk along the waterfront features an elevated view of the Puget Sound, Downtown Seattle, and the Olympic Mountain Range.
It connects the Pike Place Market to the Waterfront seamlessly, and you’ll likely traverse this pathway at one point or another. It’s one of the best places along Seattle’s waterfront to capture a selfie or take a family picture.
The Overlook Walk has numerous spots to sit and take in the views. If you bought snacks or a light meal from Pike Place Market, then I recommend enjoying them at the Overlook Walk.
Park Promenade
The park promenade is the newest addition to Seattle’s waterfront. It’s a pedestrian and bike pathway that runs along the waterfront from Railroad Way South to Pier 62. While often overlooked, this new pathway is lined with garden beds and unique art installations.
Along the Park Promenade, there are seating areas and even a public restroom, staffed by a full-time member to ensure the bathrooms are clean.
My favorite seating area along the Park Promenade is the swinging chairs. It’s a fun spot to hang out at if you’re waiting for the ferry. Views are pristine too!
Pike Place Market
As one of the top attractions in Seattle, Pike Place Market needs no introduction. It’s one of the city’s most famous landmarks, but there is a lot more to this market than flying fish and colorful flowers.
What many people don’t realize is that the marketplace actually extends far below street level into a labyrinth of quirky shops, restaurants, and bars. The place is a literal maze, and every time I visit, I end up stumbling into a new store I’ve never noticed before.
The crowds at Pike Place Market can get intense, so I recommend going right when it opens at 8 AM. If you’re visiting with family or friends, I encourage you to split up and explore on your own to be fully immersed in the market. You never know what you might find.
Waterfront Park
If you have children, then the play space on Pier 58 is not to be missed! This playground includes a 25-foot jellyfish-inspired climbing structure and attached metal slide.
Surrounding the jellyfish, there is a smaller slide and other climbing structures, making the new play space the largest and most creative playground in Downtown Seattle.
The Edgewater Hotel
The Edgewater Hotel has a unique claim to fame. Back in 1964, they were visited by a little-known band from England called The Beatles.
During their first world tour, The Beatles stayed at The Edgewater Hotel, right during the peak of the Beatlemania sensation. Due to their crazed fans, no other hotel in the city would accept them as guests – but The Edgewater gladly did! The band famously fished from their hotel room window, a photo that has since become iconic.
The rock n’ roll vibe is now tastefully themed throughout the hotel. If you can’t afford to stay there, I recommend stopping by for a quick visit or having a bite to eat at their Six Seven restaurant!
Olympic Sculpture Park
The north end of Seattle’s busy waterfront fades into the open-air Olympic Sculpture Park.
It’s a vibey oceanside park with paved walking and biking paths that wind through a collection of large-scale art installations set against the backdrop of Elliott Bay. You can even find small beachside coves, if you dare to take a plunge into the Puget Sound!
The park is free to visit and makes for a great stop if you enjoy long walks with interesting scenery. Or just finding a bench and watching the sunset. The mix of modern art, grassy lawns, and coastline makes for a relaxing break in the city.
Ride the Ferry
Along Seattle’s waterfront is the famed ferry terminal! Here you can catch a quick ferry ride to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton.
Riding the ferry is an experience all in itself. These massive ships allow you to walk on, bike on, or even bring your car! Once aboard, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline and Elliott Bay. Food and drinks can be purchased on board, and if you’re lucky, you may see some of the local wildlife on deck! I always enjoyed seeing the jellyfish float by.
Bainbridge makes for a wonderful day trip if you’re looking for gardens, parks, food, and wine!
Read our full blog post: 11 Awesome Things to Do on Bainbridge Island: Complete Guide
Water Taxi
Finishing up your time at Seattle’s waterfront earlier than expected? Not only can you catch the ferry, but there is also a short water taxi ride that can take you to another popular Seattle tourist destination: Alki Beach. Here you can walk along the oceanside boardwalk and visit some of their famous bars and restaurants!
The water taxi is a small commuter ship that connects West Seattle to Downtown Seattle for those who don’t want to drive. It’s a quick and efficient way to traverse the Puget Sound, and it has some pretty incredible views, too!
Argosy Cruises
Looking for a guided tour to learn more about Seattle’s history and waterfront? Look no further than Argosy Cruises! This long-time Seattle staple has been offering a variety of sea tours, including their famous Seattle’s Original Harbor Cruise, since 1949. My stepmother worked for Argosy in her twenties. The first time we met was actually on an Argosy Cruise!
During the 1-hour harbor cruise, you’ll explore Elliott Bay, soaking in panoramic views of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges – including the famed Mount Rainier, amongst the iconic Seattle skyline. There is a full-service bar on board, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks for purchase.
Salish Sea Tours
Salish Sea Tours is another option if you want to experience the city via boat. Aboard this catamaran, you’ll take a cruise around the bay for an hour and get a comprehensive tour of Seattle and the surrounding areas. You have the option to enjoy a salmon meal or sandwiches, along with two full-service bars serving beer, wine, spirits, and alcoholic beverages.
Where to Eat on the Seattle Waterfront
There is no shortage of good seafood in Seattle, let alone on the waterfront! Here you will find a plethora of seafood restaurants, some featuring their own tiered system from fine dining to fish and chips. If you’re with picky eaters or seafood isn’t your thing, don’t worry! All restaurants listed below include land options to satisfy the whole family.
Fish and Chips
In my opinion, no trip to the waterfront is complete without making a stop at Ivar’s or Anthony’s for clam chowder and fish and chips!
Ivar’s Fish Bar @ Pier 54
Ivar’s Fish Bar is a Washington State staple serving their famous fish and chips since 1938! They have my favorite salmon chowder, and their fish and chips are perfectly fried and crispy. The outdoor seating area is an interesting place to watch seagulls play. There is also a covered seating area away from the birds.
The fish bar is fast and casual, but if you’re looking for something a little fancier, they do have a sit-down restaurant directly next door.
Anthony’s Fish Bar @ Anthony’s Pier 66
Anthony’s Fish Bar is the spot for fish and chips when you’re on the north end of the pier. Here you can find a variety of fish and chips, sandwiches, tacos, and of course, clam chowder. I love their halibut fish and chips. Never had a bad meal here!
Shellfish & Seafood
Elliott’s Oyster House
Without a doubt, my go-to shellfish platter is at Elliott’s Oyster House. It’s become a yearly tradition for me and my family. Here’s what to order: it’s called “The Celebration” and includes 10 oysters, 6 prawns, 6 snow crab claws, and 6 half-shell scallops. The seafood is so fresh and tasty – a visit might become a yearly tradition for you, too!
The Crab Pot
If seafood boils are your thing, then look no further than The Crab Pot. The restaurant has a fun and casual vibe where they provide giant steamed buckets of seafood that are dumped directly onto the table. If you have little ones or pickier eaters, their menu also features chicken, burgers, and sandwiches. Fun for the whole family!
Anthony’s Pier 66
Anthony’s is a classic Seattle seafood chain with their main location on Seattle’s Waterfront. They occupy quite the real estate, with three different Anthony’s restaurants all in one location: Anthony’s Fish Bar, Bell Street Diner, and Anthony’s Pier 66.
Each restaurant is more upscale than the other.
Anthony’s Fish Bar is a casual walk-up and take-out dining experience. Bell Street Diner is a mid-tier eatery offering a more casual setting. They often have 3-course dinner specials with local catches for $36/person.
Anthony’s Pier 66 is the more upscale restaurant where you’ll find entrees in the $50-$100 range.
Fine Dining
Six Seven Restaurant
Six Seven is the fine dining restaurant at The Edgewater Hotel. Here you can enjoy amazing water views. You are literally on the water, while chowing down on some delicious seafood!
Trey ordered the Cedar Plank Salmon, which was cooked perfectly – had an amazing, subtle smoky flavor. I ordered the Bouillabaisse, a saucy mixture of scallops, prawns, fish, mussels, tomato-saffron broth served with grilled ciabatta and rouille. It was so tasty, I think about it often. Dipping the bread in the sauce was so delicious, I wished I had more bread! The Bouillabaisse is known to be one of their most popular menu items.
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Are You Following Our Seattle Blog Series?
We’re based in Seattle and have done so many awesome things in this city. To help fellow adventurers, we’ve put together guides to the best places we found. You can check them out by clicking the links below.
- Our Seattle travel guide: 29 Incredible Things to Do in Seattle
- Our Seattle hiking guide: 11 Incredible Hikes Near Seattle
- Our Seattle Waterfront guide: 15 Amazing Things to Do at the Seattle Waterfront
- Best day trip from Seattle: 11 Awesome Things to Do on Bainbridge Island
- Best Space Needle photo spots: 8 Incredible Views of the Space Needle
- Best national park near Seattle: 12 Unique Things to Do in Mount Rainier
- Best winter weekend trip from Seattle: 8 Amazing Things to Do in Leavenworth in Winter
I hope you enjoyed my guide to all the amazing things to do at the Seattle Waterfront! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions 🐸
