Wintertime Fun

Winter Bucket List in Seattle Southside

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

Cozy up to winter in Seattle Southside for your next winter escape and discover the perfect blend of warm eats, outdoor adventures, and cozy indoor fun.

According Nia at @Espressoandmartini these are the top things to do in Seattle Southside this winter.

Pictured: Nia and her husband enjoying the sunset at Saltwater State Park.
Credit: @Espressoandmartini

The Ultimate Seattle Southside Winter Bucket list :

1) Warm up at Dong Thap Noodles (Pho + Vietnamese Comforts)
Why go: Steaming bowls of pho, fragrant fried rice, and strong Vietnamese iced coffee, exactly what a chilly day calls for.
What to try:
House pho (ask for extra herbs + lime)
Fried rice (shareable)
Vietnamese iced coffee (sweet, bold, perfect dessert substitute)

Pro tips:
Timing: Aim for an early lunch or late afternoon to dodge the rush.
Make it cozy: Ask for extra broth if you like it super soupy.
Pair it: Follow with a short riverside walk at Fort Dent Park to stretch your legs (see #2).

Related: Where to Eat in Seattle Southside (Winter Edition)

2) Scenic Walks at Fort Dent Park (Duwamish River Views)
Why go: Easy paths, big-sky river views, and a peaceful place to watch the seasons turn. Great for solo resets or family time (play/picnic areas and soccer fields).

How to do it:
Start near the Duwamish River overlook and make a mellow loop.
Bring binoculars for birds; winter light = gorgeous photos.
Pack a thermos; there are benches with prime views.

Pro tips:
Footing: Paths can be damp; wear waterproof shoes.
Kid-friendly: Let little ones “photo hunt” for textures (moss, bark, reflections).
Extend it: Connect to the Interurban Trail for a longer, paved stroll or ride.

Related: 10 of the Best Trails, Parks & Beaches in Seattle Southside

3) Highline Heritage Museum (Rainy-Day Favorite)
Why go: A compact, engaging look at the people and stories of the Highline area, perfect when the weather turns.

How to do it:
Give yourself 60–90 minutes to browse exhibits at a relaxed pace.
Ask staff about rotating displays and kid-friendly activities.

Pro tips:
Before you go: Check current hours and special exhibits.
Make it a two-stop day: Pair with pho (see #1) or hot cocoa nearby.
Conversation starter: Have each person share one new fact they learned.

Related: Rainy Day Fun in Seattle Southside

4) Family Fun Center (Stay Warm, Keep Playing)
Why go: Arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and more, weather-proof fun for friend groups and families.

How to do it:
Load a game card once and set a budget to keep things simple.
Start with a group activity (laser tag or bowling), then free-play in the arcade.

Pro tips:
Peak times: Weekends and holidays are busy, so consider going earlier or on a weeknight.
Split & swap: Trade game genres (racing vs. rhythm) to keep everyone engaged.
Snack strategy: Share a few appetizers between rounds to avoid hangry bowling.

Related: Indoor Activities in Seattle Southside

5) Zain Restaurant & Bakery (East African Comforts + Pastries)
Why go: Hearty East African dishes and from-scratch pastries, an underrated winter treat.

What to try:
Savory plates (ask for recommendations if you’re new to the cuisine)
Daily pastries (don’t miss the Tres Leches and Coconut cake)

Pro tips:
To-go box ready: Order an extra pastry for tomorrow’s coffee.
Share the love: Split a few entrees family-style to sample a wide variety.
Sweet stroll: Take dessert to the car and chase sunset at Saltwater State Park (see #6).

Related: Seattle Southside Sweets & Treats

6) Saltwater State Park (Sunsets, Forested Trails & Tidepools)
Why go: A classic PNW mix—cool green forest, rocky beach, tidepools, seabirds, and wide-open winter skies. Sunsets here can be spectacular.

How to do it:
Walk a short forest loop, then pop out to the shoreline for golden hour.
Check tide tables if tidepooling is on your list.

Pro tips:
Layers win: It’s breezy by the water; hats and gloves help.
Footwear: Waterproof shoes with tread for wet rocks.
Respect the habitat: Wet hands can harm intertidal life; look, don’t touch.

Related: Things to Do in Winter in Seattle Southside & What Marine Life Lives in Puget Sound?

Handy Winter Essentials
Waterproof layer + warm mid-layer
Beanie, gloves, and a small umbrella
Reusable water bottles + thermos
Portable phone charger (photos + maps + tide charts)

Bottom line: Winter turns Seattle Southside into a cozy playground, steamy bowls, playful arcades, riverside rambles, and moody Puget Sound sunsets. Pick one or two ideas for this week, then keep exploring with our seasonal guides:

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