Top 9 Things To Do With Family Visiting Seattle Southside

So, you have some family or friends in town and you’re looking for some ideas on how to keep them entertained… Well, look no further, because we’ve got a list of the top things to do in Seattle Southside. Here are some of the top attractions just south of Seattle.

So, you have some family or friends in town and you’re looking for some ideas on how to keep them entertained…Well, look no further, because we’ve got a list of the top things to do in Seattle Southside. Here are some of the top attractions just south of Seattle.

1. Seattle Chocolate Factory Tour

Seattle Chocolate has been the premier chocolatier of the Emerald City for decades, so when they decided to open their factory in Tukwila for tours, those of us with a sweet tooth were elated. The tours don’t disappoint, either. Learn about their sustainably sourced cocoa beans, see the chocolate making process, and try several different delectable delights on this foodie favorite tour.g, when they turn the lights off and the lanes blue as you bowl to your heart’s content and sip delicious fishbowl cocktails.

2. The Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight works to instill that sense of wonder and desire to take to the skies through awe-inspiring exhibits showcasing their massive air and space collection. From WWI/WWII fighter planes, to an original Air Force One, to the space shuttle trainer that the Apollo astronauts trained in, this is one world-class museum that can’t be missed.

3. Defy Gravity with iFLY: Indoor Skydiving and DEFY

If you wish you could fly without the use of a plane, you're in luck. We have two different ways to triumph over the forces of gravity here in Seattle Southside. If you’ve ever wanted to skydive but you’ve been too afraid to jump out of a plane (or didn’t want to cough up the cash), iFLY is a great place to start. The 10-story vertical wind tunnel gives the sensation of skydiving without the fear of a faulty parachute. Step inside and feel the wind lift you off your feet! The best part about iFLY: ages 3 to 103 are all welcome to try it!

Defy is a blast for the kid in everyone. Think of it as a massive trampoline gym mixed with American Ninja Warrior. It’s a free running/parkour paradise that kids and adults can both enjoy. It’s also a fun way to get a workout in, just be sure to pace yourself as there’s a lot of fun to be had in this metropolis of joy.

4. Westfield Southcenter

The largest shopping center in the Pacific Northwest, Westfield Southcenter is a great place to stop for big box and boutique shopping. Not to mention, there’s a diverse selection of restaurants, attractions, and even a movie theatre on the top floor.

5. Get Outside at Des Moines Beach Park, Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, or Olympic Outdoor Center

The beautiful and scenic “hidden gem” of Des Moines, the Des Moines Beach Park is clearly a great place to be for those sunny summer days, but it's also beautiful in the fall and winter. If it's warm out, pack a picnic and enjoy the wide-open spaces, breathtaking views of Puget Sound, and fresh air. And when it's a bit more chilly, enjoy the trails with views of the Sound and beautiful natural environs. The best part? Stick around for the evening when you can catch one of the most stunning sunsets in Western Washington.

Take in the scenic beauty of Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, which is open to the public and free all year. With multiple different gardens which are in peak bloom at different times, you're always sure to find something beautiful, even in the dead of winter.

Or if you have a more active family, rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Olympic Outdoor Center at Redondo Beach. Get out on the beautiful waters of the Puget Sound and enjoy things from a new perspective.

7. Bowlero South Seattle

Bowling has evolved at Bowlero South Seattle. With over 30 lanes, billiards, shuffleboard, arcade, a full bar, great food, and a whole lot more, Bowlero is quite popular on weekends. Try bowling on a Friday or Saturday night to experience their signature “Cosmic” bowling, when they turn the lights off and the lanes blue as you bowl to your heart’s content and sip delicious fishbowl cocktails. Not enough bowling for you? Learn more about how Seattle Southside is the bowling capital of the Pacific Northwest.

7. Explore Local Meaderies at Contrivance and Oppegaard Meaderies

Are you only entertaining the grown-ups? If you have guests who enjoy a drink or two, we've got the ticket for you. Mead, or honey wine, is a drink that is quickly becoming a part of the Seattle Southside food scene. While many people aren't familiar with this beloved Viking beverage, local meaderies Contrivance and Oppegaard aim to make sipping on this delectable golden ambrosia a bit more common. Do you prefer traditional grape wine? Check out our local viticulture scene!

8. Get Your Game On at Waterland Arcade, Dimension XR and Legacy Gaming

Videogaming: it's not just for the kids anymore! Legacy Gaming features state-of-the-art Alienware PCs, all the latest consoles, and three different kinds of VR, but they also have a huge variety of retro games in their Turn Back Time Zone, so that you can relive arcade glory days of Pong, Ms. Pac-Man, and other classic games. Speaking of arcades, the Waterland Arcade not only recreates the classic feel of the arcade, but they also have lots of retro gifts and collectibles available - even VHS tapes! And if you have a competitive bunch, consider a game of virtual laser tag at Dimension XR - a novel change from the usual arguing over board games at the holidays.

Pictured: Virtual Tag at Dimension XR
Pinball at Waterland Arcade
A gaming setup at Legacy Gaming

9. Go Day Tripping

The open road is calling! Seattle Southside's convenient central location makes for the perfect hub for all your Western Washington adventures. With lots of scenic drives and fantastic day trips in the area, the journey never ends, no matter what kind of trip your crew is looking for.

Looking for more ideas? In case this isn't enough, here is the complete list of Seattle attractions and our blog post on fun free activities.​ You can also check out our events calendar to see what's happening in the region. Need somewhere to grab a meal as a family? We've got you covered with our family dining guide.

Author

Nick Tolley