Seattle, also known as the Emerald City, is a nature lover’s paradise. With its lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why Seattle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Seattle has something for everyone. Here are some of the best outdoor attractions in Seattle that you don’t want to miss:
1. Mount Rainier National Park
Located just a few hours from Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. With its towering peak, stunning glaciers, and diverse flora and fauna, this park offers an unforgettable experience for hikers, campers, and climbers alike. You can explore the park’s vast network of trails, take a guided tour, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from one of the many lookout points.
2. Discovery Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat within the city, Discovery Park is the perfect destination. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood, this 534-acre park offers stunning views of the Puget Sound, as well as miles of hiking trails, beaches, and meadows. You can also visit the park’s historical landmarks, such as the West Point Lighthouse and the Fort Lawton military museum.
3. Olympic National Park
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Spanning over a million acres, Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse and scenic national parks in the United States. With its rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and snow-capped mountains, this park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. You can hike to the summit of Mount Olympus, explore the Hoh Rainforest, or take a dip in the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
4. Alki Beach
Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach is one of the city’s most popular destinations for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. With its sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the city skyline, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, or take a leisurely bike ride along the beachside trail.
5. Seattle Japanese Garden
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If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis within the city, the Seattle Japanese Garden is the perfect destination. Located in the heart of the city’s Arboretum, this 3.5-acre garden offers a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can stroll through the garden’s winding paths, admire its stunning water features, and learn about Japanese culture and traditions.
6. Lake Washington
With its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and stunning views of Mount Rainier, Lake Washington is the perfect destination for boating, fishing, and water sports. You can rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard, or simply relax on one of the lake’s many beaches. You can also take a scenic drive along the lake’s shoreline, or explore the nearby parks and trails.
7. Gas Works Park
Located on the site of a former gas plant, Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s most unique and iconic destinations. With its towering rusted pipes, stunning views of the city skyline, and sprawling grassy fields, it’s the perfect place for picnics, kite flying, and outdoor concerts. You can also explore the park’s many trails, or take a leisurely bike ride along the nearby Burke-Gilman Trail.
8. Seattle Great Wheel
If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling way to see the city, the Seattle Great Wheel is the perfect destination. Located on Pier 57, this 175-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains. You can also enjoy a variety of carnival games, food, and entertainment on the pier.
9. Kerry Park
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to take in the city’s skyline, Kerry Park is the place to be. Located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, this small park offers stunning views of the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the city skyline. You can also explore the nearby shops and restaurants, or take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood’s historic streets.
10. Bellevue Botanical Garden
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If you’re a fan of flowers, plants, and nature, the Bellevue Botanical Garden is the perfect destination. Located just a few miles from Seattle, this 53-acre garden offers a stunning collection of native and exotic plants, as well as a variety of themed gardens, such as the Japanese Garden and the Waterwise Garden. You can also take a guided tour, attend a workshop or event, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens.
11. Elliott Bay Trail
If you’re a fan of biking, jogging, or walking, the Elliott Bay Trail is the perfect destination. Located along the waterfront, this 3.4-mile trail offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, the city skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. You can also explore the nearby parks and attractions, such as Myrtle Edwards Park and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
12. Seattle Waterfront
The Seattle Waterfront is one of the city’s most popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. With its stunning views of Elliott Bay, a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, and a bustling boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to spend a day or evening. You can also take a scenic ferry ride to nearby destinations, such as Bainbridge Island or Vashon Island.
13. Lincoln Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded beach within the city, Lincoln Park is the perfect destination. Located in West Seattle, this 135-acre park offers stunning views of Puget Sound, as well as miles of hiking trails, a saltwater beach, and a heated saltwater pool. You can also explore the park’s many historical landmarks and attractions, such as the Colman Pool and the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal.
14. Woodland Park Zoo
If you’re a fan of animals, the Woodland Park Zoo is the perfect destination. Located in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood, this 92-acre zoo offers a stunning collection of exotic and native animals, as well as a variety of shows, exhibits, and attractions. You can also attend a zoo camp, take a behind-the-scenes tour, or participate in a conservation program.
15. Golden Gardens Park
If you’re looking for a relaxing and scenic beach within the city, Golden Gardens Park is the perfect destination. Located in Ballard, this 87-acre park offers stunning views of Puget Sound, as well as miles of hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a fishing pier. You can also explore the park’s many attractions, such as the Bathhouse and the Off-Leash Area for dogs.
16. Green Lake Park
If you’re looking for a scenic and peaceful oasis within the city, Green Lake Park is the perfect destination. Located in the Green Lake neighborhood, this 323-acre park offers stunning views of the lake, as well as miles of hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a variety of water sports activities. You can also explore the park’s many attractions, such as the Bathhouse and the nearby Woodland Park Zoo.
17. Seattle Center
The Seattle Center is one of the city’s most iconic and popular destinations. With its stunning views of the Space Needle, a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, and a bustling cultural hub, it’s the perfect place to explore the city’s history and culture. You can also attend a variety of events, such as concerts, festivals, and exhibitions.
18. Lake Union
If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling way to see the city, Lake Union is the perfect destination. Located in the heart of the city, this 580-acre lake offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as a variety of water sports activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as the Museum of History and Industry.
19. Kubota Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful and tranquil escape within the city, the Kubota Garden is the perfect destination. Located in the Rainier Beach neighborhood, this 20-acre Japanese garden offers a stunning collection of plants, trees, and water features, as well as a variety of cultural and educational programs. You can also attend a guided tour or workshop, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden.
20. Seward Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded oasis within the city, Seward Park is the perfect destination. Located on the shores of Lake Washington, this 300-acre park offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, as well as miles of hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a variety of water sports activities. You can also explore the park’s many attractions, such as the Audubon Center and the nearby Columbia City neighborhood.