Seattle's Top 10 Must-See Attractions for First Time Visitors

Last Updated: October 9, 2026

Are you new to town? Revisiting the great Pacific Northwest? Or sightseeing in the beautiful Seattle area for the first time?

Whether you're a first-time visitor, a frequent traveler, or a local rediscovering the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle offers an array of iconic attractions you won’t want to miss. From the historic landmarks to thrilling experiences, these top 10 Seattle destinations showcase the best of what the Emerald City has to offer. Start planning your adventure today!

Pike Place Market
Space Needle
Museum of Flight
iFly Indoor Skydiving
Washington State Ferries
Museum of History & Industry
Downtown Waterfront
Seattle Art Museum
Des Moines Waterfront
Snoqualmie Falls

1. Pike Place Market: A Must-Visit Seattle Landmark

Since 1907, the iconic Pike Place Market has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s history and a top tourist attraction for visitors worldwide. Open year-round, this bustling market offers a vibrant array of fresh local produce, including vegetables, seafood, fruits, and artisan cheeses, along with beautiful flowers and handcrafted gifts from Northwest artisans. On sunny summer days, Pike Place Market buzzes with excitement as tourists and locals alike explore the best of Seattle’s culture and cuisine. Don’t miss the famous Pike Place Fish Market, where the lively fishmongers put on a show by tossing fish through the air while chanting—it’s a one-of-a-kind experience! For convenient transportation, take the Link Light Rail from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) directly to downtown Seattle (Westlake Center), it's just a short walk from the market.

2. The Space Needle: An Iconic Seattle Attraction

The Space Needle, a historic Seattle landmark built for the 1962 World’s Fair, stands 605 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the city. Located in the heart of Seattle Center, this area is a must-visit for tourists with plenty of attractions nearby. The Pacific Science Center, just steps away, captivates visitors with interactive exhibits that spark interest in math, science, and technology. Another short walk will take you to Chihuly Garden and Glass, where you can admire the incredible works of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. For easy transportation from Seattle Southside, take the Link Light Rail to downtown, then transfer to the Seattle Monorail, which conveniently connects Westlake Center to Seattle Center.

3. Museum of Flight: A Journey Through Aviation History

The Museum of Flight, one of the largest air and space museums in the world, offers an immersive experience in aviation history and technology. With its vast collection of historic aircraft and space artifacts, the museum presents exhibits that educate and inspire visitors of all ages. From interactive tours to special aviation events, the museum brings to life mankind’s dream of flight. Key highlights include the iconic Red Barn, the original Boeing Company workshop, and exhibits like the WWII Personal Courage Wing, Air Force One, a space shuttle trainer, and an F-18 cockpit. Conveniently located just 5.5 miles from Seattle Southside, the Museum of Flight is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

Pictured: The Museum of Flight in Tukwila, Washington

4. iFly Indoor Skydiving: A Thrilling Experience in Seattle Southside

Experience the exhilaration of indoor skydiving at iFly in Tukwila, Washington, home to the world’s first all-glass vertical wind tunnel. Perfect for all ages (three and up), iFly offers a safe and exciting adventure for beginners and experienced skydivers alike. It’s even rumored that Travis Pastrana of Nitro Circus trained here for his famous parachute-less skydive! The highly enthusiastic staff ensures every flight is safe, fun, and unforgettable. Whether you're looking to explore skydiving for the first time or sharpen your skills, iFly promises an incredible experience in Seattle Southside.

5. Washington State Ferries: Explore the Beauty of Puget Sound

Washington State boasts the largest ferry system in the U.S., offering one of the most scenic ways to explore the Puget Sound region. Whether you’re traveling by foot, bike, or car, the Washington State Ferry system provides access to stunning destinations like Bainbridge Island, Anacortes, Bremerton, Vashon Island, and more. A popular trip is the ferry to Bainbridge Island, where the charming town of Winslow is just a short walk from the terminal. Enjoy dining, shopping, and incredible views as you explore. On the return trip, don’t miss the breathtaking Seattle skyline. With frequent departures and affordable rates, Washington State Ferries offer an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

6. Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI): Discover Seattle’s Past and Present

The Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) in Seattle preserves and showcases the rich history of the Puget Sound region and beyond. As the largest private heritage organization in the Pacific Northwest, MOHAI houses over 4 million artifacts, documents, and photographs detailing the area's fascinating history. The museum offers award-winning programs for both youth and adults, engaging with the community through various local activities. Don’t miss the nearby Center for Wooden Boats, featuring over 100 historic vessels, rental boats, and free vintage boat rides every Sunday. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Seattle Southside, MOHAI is free to visit every first Thursday of the month, staying open until 8 PM.

7. Downtown Seattle Waterfront: A Must-See for Visitors

The Downtown Seattle Waterfront is a bustling destination filled with shops, eateries, and popular attractions along the scenic harbor front. Take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel, a 175-foot tall Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and Seattle’s iconic skyline from its enclosed gondolas. Nearby, explore the Seattle Aquarium or the historic Ye Olde Curiosity Shop. For a unique experience, hop on a harbor cruise with Argosy Cruises, offering sightseeing and dining packages. Whether you’re strolling the pier or enjoying the sights, the waterfront is a must-see for any Seattle visitor.

8. Seattle Art Museum (SAM): A Cultural Gem in Downtown Seattle

On rainy days—or any day—Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is a perfect destination for art lovers. Located in the heart of downtown, SAM showcases a diverse collection ranging from European master paintings and ancient Asian artifacts to contemporary sculptures. Plan your visit around the first Thursday of the month for free admission! Whether you’re traveling by car, light rail, taxi, or bus from Seattle Southside, SAM is easily accessible and offers an enriching experience for all. Don’t miss this cultural gem while exploring the city.

9. Des Moines Waterfront: A Scenic Escape Near Seattle

Located along the east shore of Puget Sound, the Des Moines Waterfront is a serene destination halfway between Seattle and Tacoma, just a short drive from the airport. This beautiful waterfront offers a recreational marina, boat launch, public beach, park, and fishing pier—perfect for families or a romantic stroll along the boardwalk, especially at sunset with the Olympic Mountains in the backdrop. Des Moines is known for its fresh seafood, which you can enjoy at Anthony’s HomePort & Lower Deck. Don’t miss the MaST Aquarium at Redondo Beach, a marine laboratory dedicated to Puget Sound’s marine life. Visit the Des Moines Farmers Market during summer (June-October) for fresh local produce, crafts, and entertainment.

10. Snoqualmie Falls: A Must-See Waterfall Near Seattle

Snoqualmie Falls, a stunning 268-foot waterfall located just east of Seattle on the Snoqualmie River, is one of Washington’s most popular scenic attractions. Known internationally for its appearance in the TV series Twin Peaks, the falls draw visitors from around the world. The site features a two-acre park, gift shop, and ADA-accessible paths leading to two observation decks offering breathtaking views of the waterfall cascading over granite cliffs. Nearby, the Salish Lodge provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of this iconic landmark.

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Make Seattle Southside Your Home Base

Exploring the Seattle area is even easier when you stay in Seattle Southside. With a wide selection of top-rated hotels, convenient access to SEA Airport, and room rates that are often a better value than downtown Seattle, it’s a smart place to settle in for your trip.

Use Seattle Southside as your base camp for exploring attractions throughout the greater Seattle area, then return to a comfortable hotel close to great dining, shopping, entertainment, and plenty of things to do. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, you can spend less on your room and more on the experiences that brought you here.

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