16 Things to Do in Seattle Southside This Summer

Some of the best Seattle attractions are in Seattle Southside, and there are all kinds of things to do near you this summer!

It’s our favorite time of year to get outside. The sunshine just feels better in the Pacific Northwest, especially with average temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s most days. So, if you’re looking for some things to see in Seattle and around Puget Sound, we’ve got a few recommendations for you.

Waterfront Adventures

Parks and Rec

Treat Yourself

sunny day at Redondo Beach in Washington

Waterfront Adventures

1. Hit the Beach

One of the most popular local destinations during summer is Des Moines Beach Park, where you can catch spectacular views of Puget Sound, walk down a long stretch of beach, and explore the marine life in the tide pools.

2. Hit the Trail

While at the park, take a walk or jog up the Des Moines Creek Trail. This paved, well-maintained path winds past a babbling creek, lush foliage, and lichen-daubed alder trees.

3. Drop a Line

At the neighboring Des Moines Marina, you can drop your line and sinker at the public fishing pier. Read our fishing guide for tips, tricks, and regulations.

4. Savor Local Seafood

When it's time to eat, enjoy fresh seafood at one of several neighboring restaurants. We love Anthony's HomePort and Lower Deck for fresh, wild-caught seafood dishes and stellar waterfront views.

girl crossing stream on stepping stones at Des Moines Beach Park

5. Watch Live Music

Many festive events take place at and around Des Moines Beach Park in the summer, like weekly live music and the Poverty Bay Blues and Brews Festival at the end of August. (Find dates and details on our event calendar).

6. Shop at the Farmer's Market

The Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from June through September. It's one of several amazing farmer's markets around Seattle Southside.

7. Learn About Marine Life

A little further to the south, you’ll find Redondo Beach, which features a boat launch, boardwalk, and rocky shores perfect for exploring sea stars and other marine life. While you're there, check out the aquarium at the Marine Science & Technology Center (MaST). This fascinating aquarium is home to hundreds of native sea creatures, many of which float into the tanks on their own through a special flow-through seawater system. It's located right on the shore, with free, public "Discovery Days" every Saturday and Sunday during the summer (check the MaST website for specific dates and hours).

3 bicyclists Crusin' Redondo Beach Washington Boardwalk and Bike Path

8. Explore a Forest and Beach Rolled Into One

Get a group together and grill up some BBQ at Saltwater State Park, an 88-acre beach park nestled along Puget Sound. Centrally located between the cities of Tacoma and Seattle, the park is home to 1,445 feet of saltwater shoreline. Here, you’ll discover some of the most beautiful views in Western Washington and plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities. The park is a favorite for scuba diving, picnics, hiking, and shore fishing. (It also offers camp spots, but they are temporarily closed). The park also has two kitchen shelters, and 147 unsheltered picnic tables. Most picnic sites are near the beach or along McSorley Creek.

Sunny day at Angle Lake Park in SeaTac, Washington

Parks and Rec

9. Spend a Day at the Lake

Angle Lake Park provides the perfect summer getaway for the entire family. Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Rainier on clear days while playing on a sandy beach, fishing on the dock, or taking out a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Large Evergreen trees offer plenty of shade, and the playground and grassy lawn will keep kids busy for hours. And if you’re looking to cool down, this park has an epic spray park play area with many fun water features. Picnic tables and shelters make for a great place to sit down for a meal with the crew.

4th Of July events at Fort Dent in Tukwila Washington

10. Play at the Park

Spanning 54 acres, Fort Dent is the largest park in Tukwila, and it's conveniently located right near Westfield Southcenter Mall and tons of restaurants where you can grab food to-go for a picnic. Considered the “go-to” park for many locals and families, it offers many amenities, including two kiddo-approved play areas, a picnic area, hiking trails, and a soccer field. It's also the access point for the Green River Trail, a popular walking and cycling route. Don't forget to take a cute family photo at Fort Dent Bridge.

woman walking dog across Bridge at Green River Trail in Tukwila Washington

11. Go for a Bike Ride

Get those wheels turning on a car-free, paved bike route, like the Green River Trail or the Interurban Trail. (Or both! They connect at two points, creating a loop). Starting at Fort Dent Park, the Green River Trail runs along the scenic Duwamish and Green Rivers, before entering the city of Kent and, later, Auburn. Along the way, feast your eyes on a variety of gorgeous rural terrain and industrial landscapes, including Briscoe Park, Tukwila's Bicentennial Park, and the Green River Natural Resources Area.

Rose garden at Highline SeaTac Botanical Gardens in SeaTac

12. Stop and Smell the Roses

If you love plants, a trip to the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden is a must! This serene space is free and open to the public, with well-maintained walking paths, benches to rest on, and plenty of gorgeous flowers to admire. Don't miss the traditional Japanese garden and areas dedicated to specific species such as rhododendrons, fuchsias, irises, and roses. The center of the Seattle Rose Society Celebration Garden offers a beautiful and fragrant gathering place for weddings and events.

13. Go Off-Road Cycling

Surrounded by trees and greenery, North SeaTac Park is an urban paradise for bikers. Located under the flight path of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), the trails were created with off-road (bicycle) racing in mind. Bike enthusiasts should know, though, that the trail is ideal for intermediate skill levels. Check out this video for more ideas on how to make the most of your visit to North SeaTac Park.

Treat Yourself

14. Dine Al Fresco

Why eat inside when you can be in the fresh air? Check out our guide to the best places for outdoor dining to choose your patio, whether you're craving a waterfront view, BBQ with a side of golf, or a place to rest after a shopping spree.

15. Sample Sweet Treats

From Japanese shaved ice to Mexican frozen treats to fresh smoothies and boba, Seattle Southside is full of globally-inspired sweet treats.

16. Cool Off

Too hot to be outside? Westfield Southcenter Mall is an air-conditioned paradise on super hot days. Watch a movie at the theater inside, explore the food court for global bites and boba, and shop for summer essentials.