Iconic Seattle: Must-See Landmarks and Hidden Gems for Families

Last Updated on November 5, 2026 by Successful Black Parenting Staff

Looking for the best things to do in Seattle with kids? This guide covers the famous landmarks, the quieter hidden gems, and places where your family can connect with Black history and culture in the Pacific Northwest.

Are you planning a trip to Seattle? The Emerald City draws millions of people to its bustling city streets every year. It’s an eclectic mix of sophistication and history with a dash of breathtaking natural beauty. Seattle is a truly unique location that captivates every type of traveler, whether they’re visiting solo, with friends, on a romantic break, or with their family in tow. 

Seattle is bursting with attractions and experiences that you simply must try! It’s home to world-famous landmarks like the iconic Space Needle and the ever-bustling Pike Place Market, well known for its theatrics and fish throwers! But, away from the hubbub of tourist spots, visitors can also find hidden gems and lesser-known treasures, like peaceful gardens, secret trails, and quirky markets that will also make your trip to Seattle memorable. Once you arrive in Seattle you could easily get yourself a rental car from Seattle airport and drive yourself through this diverse and interesting city – or make use of the public transport system or even hire bikes and get around at a slower pace. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the iconic must-see landmarks in Seattle and some hidden gems that will make your trip worthwhile. 

Iconic Landmarks You Must See

The Space Needle

The Space Needle is a highly recognizable landmark. It stands 605 feet tall and was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It’s incredibly impressive and is regarded as a symbol of the city’s innovative spirit and forward-thinking design. From the observation deck, you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline as well as Mount Rainier and Puget Sound. 

Visitor Tips: If you want to avoid the crowds here, it makes sense to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Coincidentally, these times of day also offer the best natural lighting, so your photos will look great! You can book tickets online and in advance to avoid disappointment, and you can also check out the revolving glass floor if you think you’re brave enough! 

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a great place to get a true sense of Seattle. It’s often referred to as the beating heart of the city, and this vibrant marketplace has been open since 1907! Here you’ll find an array of fresh produce, artisanal crafts, bakeries, and plenty of souvenirs – you may also get up close and personal with some flying fish – as the fishmongers in the market put on a show and toss freshly caught fish to each other across the marketplace. It’s a great experience and one you won’t forget in a hurry. 

Visitor Tips: Naturally, visiting earlier in the day or late in the afternoon is the best way to beat the crowds. You’ll also find the very first Starbucks here and the infamous Gum Wall! There are plenty of street performers too so make sure you have your camera and your spare change at the ready! 

Chihuly Garden and Glass

If you enjoy art, then a trip to Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must. Here you’ll find an amazing exhibit that showcases some of Dale Chihuly’s greatest work, with both indoor and outdoor installations of stunning glass sculptures that make use of color, light, and nature!

Visitor Tips: Make sure you get a photograph of the glasshouse centerpiece – it’s a great shot that features the Space Needle in the background. And if you look carefully in the grass and plants, you’ll also find intricately crafted glass intertwined with leaves and lush plants. 

Museum of Pop Culture

Are you a fan of pop culture? If so, you need to take a trip to the Museum of Pop Culture! MoPOP pays homage to music icons and the science fiction and horror genres, and it houses everything from iconic movie props to immersive exhibitions about famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix. 

Visitor Tips: Skip the lines by buying your ticket online and plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here so you can see everything! It’s also worth checking online if any special events or exhibitions are happening during your visit.

Hidden Gems

Explore the Kubota Garden

If you’re in South Seattle, then why not retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle and spend some time reconnecting with yourself? Kubota Garden is a 20-acre Japanese garden created by Fujitaro Kubota. The park blends traditional Japanese design with the natural beauty of the area and visitors can expect koi ponds, beautiful stone bridges, elegant maple trees, and peaceful walks.

Visitor Tips: Ideal for photographers and nature lovers, consider visiting in the fall to see the color show put on by the stunning Japanese Maples. 

The Underground Tour

Fancy diving into Seattle’s past? Why not take a historic tour of Seattle’s underground? The Underground Tour takes you to the city’s original storefronts and passageways, all of which were built over at the Great Fire of 1889. The tour which is directly under the streets of Pioneer Square is entertaining, eerie, and interesting!

Visitor Tips: Tours sell out quickly, so make sure you book online and in advance. It can get pretty cold going underground, so wear layered clothing and comfortable shoes to manage the uneven walkways.

Georgetown Trailer Park Mall

If you want to try some shopping with a side of quirky charm, then Seattle’s Georgetown Trailer Park Mall has it all. Here you’ll find an array of vintage trailers that are set up as storefronts, each one selling something different and unique such as vintage clothing, handmade goods, and crafts. There are plenty of food trucks here and live music is always in abundance.

Visitor Tips: Most vendors are open on Saturdays, and it’s a great place to find a unique souvenir! 

More Things to Do in Seattle With Kids

The landmarks above are a great start, but families with little ones and curious teens will want a few more stops on the list. Several of these pair well with a day at Seattle Center or a walk through the Central District.

Northwest African American Museum

The Northwest African American Museum is housed in the historic Colman School building, built in 1909, in the heart of Seattle’s Central District. It is a meaningful stop for anyone raising a Black child. If you are building a heritage trip, add it to your list of Black family travel destinations.

Visitor Tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and has free parking in its own lot. Children three and younger get in free. Check the museum’s website for current hours and prices before you go.

Jimi Hendrix Park

The museum overlooks Jimi Hendrix Park, which honors the music legend near where he grew up. Kids can stretch their legs on the paved paths while you walk the timeline of his life and career.

Pacific Science Center

Pacific Science Center offers exhibits, a planetarium, and IMAX films, which makes it a strong pick for a rainy day. It is not open every day of the week, so check the schedule first.

Seattle Children’s Museum

Families with young children should look at the Seattle Children’s Museum, which runs playful programs like story time and hands-on science activities along with its regular exhibits.

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park, a 560-acre natural area on Magnolia Bluff with views of Puget Sound and of the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Bring snacks and rain jackets, and let the kids set the pace on the trails.

Getting Around Seattle With Kids

Getting around is easier and cheaper than many parents expect. Youth 18 and under ride free on all Sound Transit services, including 1 Line light rail, so only the adults in your group need to pay. A little planning helps too. Before you book, read our tips on budgeting for family travel and these useful travel apps for trips with kids.

How to Plan Things to Do in Seattle With Kids

The best things to do in Seattle with kids depend on your children’s ages and the weather. Many of the most popular things to do in Seattle with kids are close together around Seattle Center, which cuts down on driving and whining. Keep a rainy-day backup for each day, and leave room for a slower afternoon.

A Simple 2-Day Seattle Itinerary for Families

• Day 1 morning: Start early at Pike Place Market, before the crowds build.
• Day 1 afternoon: Head to the Space Needle, then choose Chihuly Garden and Glass or the Museum of Pop Culture based on your kids’ interests.
• Day 2 morning: Visit the Northwest African American Museum (Wednesday through Sunday) and walk through Jimi Hendrix Park.
• Day 2 afternoon: Explore Discovery Park if the weather is good, or Pacific Science Center if it is not.
• Weekend bonus: Georgetown Trailer Park Mall is open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it closes for the month of January.

Final Thoughts…

So, there you have it. Whether you’re staying in a boutique hotel or camping in a State Park, visiting Seattle means that you can easily balance visiting some of the world’s most famous attractions and still make time to enjoy the best-kept secrets of the city. Which attraction would you explore first?