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Guide to Seattle

Spots with a nice view

You are not interested in the activity unless it comes with a view worth looking at.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront image 1
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront image 2
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront image 3
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Cruise boats offer spectacular waterfront views of city skylines, mountains, and harbors. The atmosphere blends relaxed sightseeing with occasional lively moments like dancing and live narration. Onboard amenities include a full-service bar and snacks, creating a social yet scenic experience.

An hour-long guided cruise offers a fun and informative way to explore the harbor. It combines learning about Seattle's unique features with an enjoyable experience on the water.

Cruising offers amazing views of the Seattle skyline and city highlights. Sitting on the top deck with the tour guide provides the best views during the one-hour ride.

People are saying

"The city and waterfront views from the tour were stunning."

"I learned so many interesting stories and historical facts about the harbor."

"The views of the city from the water are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The cruise lasts one hour and offers great views of the city.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and snacks during the cruise.

3

The cruise departs at 6:45 PM on select days.

02
Bruun Idun - Way of the Bird King image 1

Massive sculptures blend naturally with ocean views and lush greenery. The atmosphere stays peaceful with few people around, inviting quiet walks and picnics. Well-kept trails and open spaces support outdoor activities like cycling and exercising.

Searching for the PNW Trolls offers a fun and engaging adventure for families and anyone who enjoys a playful hunt. Trails like the Way of the Bird King provide enjoyable walks with nice park settings and beach views.

Flat walks offer peek-a-boo water views and tree-lined paths. Elevated spots provide breathtaking scenery of beaches, mountains, and parks.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery with water and mountains."

"I thought the troll sculpture was super cool."

"I found seeking out the trolls to be a fun adventure."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the public parking lot.

2

For a flat, accessible route, park at the southernmost lot near the swings.

3

The hike is long and zigzagging with no clear signs; using Google Maps is recommended.

03
Gas Works Park image 1

Park combines historic industrial structures with expansive green lawns and lakeside views. It offers a spectacular city skyline panorama visible from open picnic areas and walking paths. Activities include paddleboarding, live music events, and lawn games, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring around offers a lot of fun. Picnics and outdoor activities add to the experience, especially in summer.

Climbing the hill reveals stunning views of downtown, the bay, and the mountains. The spot offers breathtaking cityscapes and beautiful skyline views both day and night.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view of downtown Seattle across the lake."

"The views of the city and lake are amazing, especially at sunset."

"The old factory ruins and industrial machines are really interesting."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available for up to four hours at Gas Works Park.

2

Gas Works Park is a great spot for viewing fireworks on the 4th of July.

3

I attended free DJ sets on Sundays near the concrete area by the water.

04
Tuli Lodge image 1

Sauna on a waterfront pier offers spectacular downtown views and a real cedar sauna with adjacent cold plunges. Atmosphere stays friendly and social without feeling crowded, combining peaceful vibes with a casual, refreshing energy.

A fun social vibe fills the space, making it easy to chat with staff and other visitors. It creates refreshing moments even on dull days and leaves behind memorable experiences.

Waterfront views from the sauna and cold plunge are unbeatable and incredible. The downtown pier offers an amazing panorama that stands out.

People are saying

"The sauna has unbeatable waterfront views."

"The waterfront view from the pier is unreal."

"The sauna experience here is great and the vibes are immaculate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Bring your own towel and water bottle for the sauna experience.

3

Monthly passes are available and pay for themselves after six visits.

05
Salish Sea Tours image 1
Tourist attraction

Boat features native American Sumash theme and offers breathtaking views of the city and bay from indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is relaxing with soft native music and narration about local marine activities. Two bars provide alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, enhancing the leisurely cruise experience.

Entertaining narration shares fun facts, economic history, and Indigenous culture. The tour offers amazing views and a warm, relaxed vibe that makes the experience genuinely fun.

Views from the boat include Seattle skyline and the Space Needle near Olympic Park. The tour offers stunning open landscape and channel mouth scenes, great for photos on sunny days.

People are saying

"I saw an awesome view of Seattle from the water."

"The crew made the trip feel warm and genuinely fun."

"The tour guide shared interesting stories and fascinating details."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is $35 per adult for an hour-long tour.

2

Dress warmly as it gets cold and windy on the water.

3

The boarding process is easy and quick, with only a 10-minute wait.

06
Ballard Locks Fish Ladder image 1
Tourist attraction

Fish ladder offers close views of salmon swimming upstream alongside engineering marvel locks. Botanical gardens and rolling hills create a peaceful park setting with free public concerts and abundant wildlife including seals and sea lions.

Watching the salmon run and boats pass through the locks offers a lively scene. Seals often lounge nearby, adding to the fish ladder viewing fun.

Stunning views of ships passing through the locks and the fish ladder offer a unique perspective. The area features peaceful water scenes, abundant local wildlife like playful seals, and amazing underwater views showcasing salmon reproduction.

People are saying

"I watched the salmon swim up the fish ladder."

"Watching the salmon make their way through the fish ladder is a fun activity."

"I enjoyed the nice view of the water and seals."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the attraction is free for all visitors.

2

You can see the salmon migration from late August to September.

3

The park hosts free outdoor concerts during summer weekends.

07
Seward Park image 1

Expansive park features old-growth forest, waterfront views, and rugged hiking trails. Serene atmosphere includes gentle sounds of lapping waves and peaceful spots for relaxation. Amenities support families and groups with playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater.

A path from the playground leads into the forest, offering a unique and fun feature. Dogs enjoy the space, and walks here provide a fun time for everyone.

Views include a mesmerizing Mount Rainier backdrop and a massive bay called Andrew's. Walking paths run along the waterfront and through a beautiful forest and lake setting.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of Mt. Rainier and the lake."

"It's a great spot for kids with a fun playground and open space."

"You can hike, bike, swim, or picnic here for some fun activities."

Good to know

1

Parking is busy on weekends, but free parking is available.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

The park has trails suitable for running and walking dogs.

08
Carkeek Park image 1
City park

City park offers beach access and well-maintained hiking trails through forested areas. It has a family-friendly vibe with playgrounds, picnic spots, and educational features like a salmon slide. Views include Puget Sound and Olympic mountains, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

Interactive play areas and playgrounds offer fun spots for kids. Trails provide great hikes and the beach invites rock hounding and sand play.

Views include Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and a city skyline. Trails wind through forest and river areas with salmon sightings. The beach offers tidepools and scenic train tracks along the water.

People are saying

"The beach here is perfect for watching a spectacular sunset."

"I loved the beautiful views with mountains in the background."

"The beach here is beautiful and offers a fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The park offers plenty of space for group events.

2

You can dig for seafood at the park.

3

In November, the salmon come back to spawn, which is fun to watch.

09
Golden Gardens Park image 1

Scenic beach park with breathtaking water and mountain views and picturesque sunsets. Open grassy areas and volleyball courts create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fire pits and picnic facilities alongside walking paths and an off-leash dog area.

Beach volleyball and an open dog park offer active fun. The playground and nature walks provide relaxing options for all ages.

Views include Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Walking trails and a beach offer spots to enjoy sunsets and watch wildlife like ducks and turtles.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains."

"I thought the sunsets here were amazing and beautiful."

"The views of the water and mountains were breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Parking can be extremely difficult on busy weekends; arrive early to find a spot.

2

Restrooms are available at the park for visitor convenience.

3

The concession stand closes at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

10
Pier 62 image 1
City park

Pier 62 offers expansive waterfront views of the city skyline and Puget Sound, creating a relaxing atmosphere with gentle breezes and natural sounds. The space supports both active recreation like mini soccer and chess, and passive activities such as reading or watching sunsets. Occasional live music and food trucks add to the lively yet laid-back vibe.

Outdoor games include a small turf soccer patch and a life-size chess board. Corn toss and tables add to the variety of fun activities with views of the ocean and city skyline.

Great views of the harbor and Puget Sound surround plenty of seats and free deck chairs. The spot offers a calming mix of city landscape, ocean, and cruise ships with a refreshing breeze and birds.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful place with a fantastic view of the water and city."

"It's a kid-friendly spot with games like soccer, chess, and cornhole."

"You can enjoy the fantastic views and peaceful atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Reentry is not allowed during events at Pier 62, so plan accordingly.

2

Check the online schedule for free activities like Zumba and yoga throughout the summer.

3

Restrooms are available on site, but they may lack supplies.

11
The Swedish Club image 1
Event venue

Event venue offers spectacular views of Lake Union and a close-knit community vibe. Live music plays during happy hour, creating a welcoming atmosphere with a great bar on site. The space suits special occasions and gatherings with ample parking available.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with energy. Staff bring welcoming smiles that add to the all-ages appeal.

Panoramic views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline stand out, especially in the evening. The space offers breathtaking, spectacular views that impress and take your breath away.

People are saying

"The view of Lake Union here is spectacular."

"I had the best Swedish pancakes I've ever had."

"It's a fun place with great music and loving people."

Good to know

1

The Swedish Club hosts a monthly all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast on the first Sunday.

2

Happy hour is open to the public every Friday with discounted drinks.

3

On-site parking is available in two lots for visitors.

12
Seattle Sauna image 1
Public sauna

Floating sauna offers bright, clean design with beautiful lake and city skyline views. Atmosphere feels friendly and personal, combining piping hot heat with aromatherapy and cold water options for a balanced experience.

Activities here feel fun and relaxing. The overall vibe makes it easy to enjoy your time.

Views include the Seattle skyline and Lake Union from a floating sauna. The upstairs deck offers a unique perspective with hot tub boats passing by, especially striking at night with city lights.

People are saying

"The Sauna host was so friendly and explained the essential oils."

"The views from the upper deck are amazing, especially at night."

"It's so relaxing, I loved the sauna and cold plunge."

Good to know

1

The price is $64 for a 90-minute session.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Bring your own bathing suit as it's not provided.

13
Olympic Rooftop Pavilion image 1

Indoor rooftop space offers breathtaking city views through wall-to-wall windows and features soaring ceilings with sparkling chandeliers. Atmosphere feels intimate and cozy, suited for weddings and live music events with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Large dance floor and adjacent hotel suites add to the venue's appeal.

Cocktails and appetizers in the lobby create a fun atmosphere. The Olympic Rooftop Pavilion hosts engaging shows that add to the entertainment.

Breathtaking views stretch through wall-to-wall windows showing Ballard and the ship canal. Seating areas sit undercover with chandeliers, letting you enjoy the outdoor scenery comfortably.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are perfectly balanced and expertly crafted."

"The views here are breathtaking, overlooking Ballard and the Sound."

"I had a super fun evening and the experience was very fun."

Good to know

1

Parking is very tight below the hotel, so plan accordingly.

2

Arrive 15-20 minutes early if you want a cocktail, as the bar closes early.

3

Food and beverages are available during events.

14
Bywater Sauna image 1

Wood-fired cedar saunas with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle skyline create a serene, warm atmosphere. The space feels spacious and clean, inviting respectful, diverse groups who enjoy social yet meditative sauna and cold plunge experiences by the water.

Offers a unique and fun experience combining sauna and cold plunges. Acts as a social activity with events at various locations, great for hanging out or relaxing with friends.

Views include the Seattle skyline, Olympic Mountain range, and Mount Rainier. The sauna offers a unique perspective of Alki beach and downtown Seattle.

People are saying

"The sauna community here is so welcoming and inclusive."

"The sauna experience is wonderful, and Nate is so welcoming."

"You get a nice view of the Seattle skyline and mountains."

Good to know

1

The sauna is clean and well-maintained for a comfortable experience.

2

Members can sign up for sessions as often as they like.

3

Bring your own sauna towel for convenience, though extras may be available.

15
Green Lake Park image 1

Massive park with amazing lake views and historic bathhouse offers a peaceful atmosphere and diverse recreational options like swimming, kayaking, and sports courts. Huge trees and well-maintained paths create a relaxing, walkable space in the city. The vibe is calm and inspiring, attracting people seeking both activity and tranquility.

Multiple areas invite frolic and play, including courts for pickleball and basketball. Pedal boats offer a fun way to explore the lake, while walking trails provide a relaxing route to watch people and dogs.

Open and beautiful views surround the peaceful lake, framed by majestic trees. The scenic views offer a stunning water backdrop close to downtown.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with amazing lake views and stunning scenery."

"I found so many fun activities, from walking to pickleball."

"I loved the beautiful lake views from the path."

Good to know

1

The Lantern Parade occurs annually and is a must-see event.

2

Summer brings boat races and music events at Green Lake Park.

3

Free dodgeball games are held every Wednesday night at the community center.

16
Volunteer Park image 1

City park offers stunning skyline views including the Space Needle and features big trees alongside a historic brick water tower. It maintains a peaceful, spacious atmosphere with well-kept green areas and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and water features. The park blends nature, art, and history in a quiet urban setting.

A large playground offers plenty of space for kids to run and learn. Climbing the water tower provides a fun way to see the city, while the conservatory showcases a variety of plants to explore.

Climbing the water tower offers a panoramic view of the city and the Seattle skyline. The park provides stunning scenery with great views of the Space Needle and vast green areas.

People are saying

"The park offers an iconic, cinematic skyline view."

"The city skyline view from here is truly iconic."

"I loved the fun sculptures and gorgeous views here."

Good to know

1

Live shows occur every Thursday during the summer months.

2

Free outdoor concerts are held regularly at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events at the park.

17
Lake Union Park image 1

City park offers beautiful lake views and an open, airy layout with a boardwalk and beach area. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with activities like kayaking, sailing, and watching seaplanes. Visitors enjoy scenic urban landscapes including views of the Space Needle and nearby headquarters.

Water toys rentals offer active fun on the water. The park hosts art events and has an informative museum that adds variety to the activities.

Stellar lake views surround the park, offering a beautiful sight of the water. The area also provides great city views from all sides along with excellent walking paths.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the lake and city skyline."

"I loved all the water activities, especially sailing and paddleboarding."

"It's a cool, low-key urban escape with a unique vibe."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on weekends at Lake Union Park.

2

The park hosts free yoga classes on Wednesdays during the summer.

3

Cider Summit at Lake Union Park features local cider tastings and runs all day.

18
Pier 55 image 1
Tourist attraction

Traditional pier blends old and modern charms with amazing waterfront views of the harbor and city skyline. Atmosphere stays vibrant and lively even in dreary weather, attracting an international crowd. Offers seafront amusements like a ferris wheel, swings, and scooter rentals alongside restaurants and shops.

Waterfront offers scooter fun and a nostalgic boardwalk feel. Plenty to explore makes it a fun spot for all ages.

Waterfront spots offer amazing views of the harbor, city skyline, and Olympic mountains. Watching the sun set over the water creates a magical atmosphere. The Ferris Wheel and bay add to the scenic charm.

People are saying

"It's a touristy spot with great views and lots to explore."

"I enjoyed the great scenic view of the water and sky."

"I found plenty of fun activities for the kids here."

Good to know

1

Parking at Pier 55 costs around $30 per hour and can be difficult.

2

There are no public restrooms available at Pier 55.

3

The harbor tours from Pier 55 offer great views of Seattle.

19
Smith Tower image 1
Historical landmark

Vintage skyscraper offers 360ยฐ city views from a speakeasy-style bar atop an observation deck. The atmosphere feels elegant and extravagant, with a historic vibe enhanced by a period elevator ride. It attracts those seeking a unique, less crowded experience away from typical landmarks.

Interactive exhibits kick off the visit with engaging fun. The tour shares stories about the building's history and illicit activities. The lounge and bar at the top offer unique drinks and a relaxing atmosphere with great views.

A full 360ยฐ view from the restaurant and bar offers an impressive skyline and downtown cityscape. The vantage point provides a unique perspective not found elsewhere in the city.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view of the city from the top."

"The bar at the top offers incredible views of Seattle."

"The views from the top are amazing and offer a full city panorama."

Good to know

1

Boozy High Tea is available on weekends; reservations are recommended.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm daily.

3

Cocktail classes are held monthly; check the schedule for dates.

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