From its breathtaking natural attractions to the must-visit cultural landmarks, you will never run out of things to do in Seattle. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and parklands, this bustling city with a fascinating past and trendy neighborhoods has plenty for anyone looking to have a good time.
Whether you are road-tripping around the country or getting to know your city better, sightseeing in Seattle by car sounds like a good plan. There is no need to worry about parking in Seattle – the sprawling metropolis has many parking lots to keep your car safe while you enjoy the best sights and experiences. Read on to know more about the must-visit places in Seattle and where to find parking near them.
Space Needle
No Seattle city tour is complete without a visit to the iconic and timeless Space Needle. The 605 ft tall futuristic tower has always been a tourist hotspot since it opened way back in 1962. You cannot possibly imagine a Seattle skyline without this historic landmark. This must-visit attraction in Seattle treats you to panoramic views of the city’s downtown skyscrapers as well as the Elliott Bay and the islands in Puget Sound. The Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and Seattle’s verdant forests are hard to miss from this vantage point.
Located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, reaching the Space Needle by car is easy. Make sure you book passes for your visit in advance for a hassle-free experience. Though valet parking is available at the Space Needle, you can find safe and cheaper Seattle parking lots nearby at Yale Avenue and University Street.
Pike Place Market
If walking through the hustle and bustle of a local marketplace is your idea of getting to know a city, Pike Place Market is the place to be. You’ll find yourself among some of the oldest shops in Seattle, family-owned restaurants, crafts and collectibles, antique dealers, small farmers, fresh produce, and so much more on the different levels and hallways of the market. Don’t miss the original Starbucks, the famous Gum Wall in Post Alley, and the Pike Place Market’s mascot ‘Rachel the Piggy Bank’ on your list of things to do in Seattle.
Built on the edge of a steep hill overlooking Elliott Bay, the historic Pike Place Market is located between Pike Street and Virginia Street. When driving through, you won’t miss the iconic market sign. Parking in Seattle might seem pricey in the downtown area, but you will find affordable Seattle parking lots at Seneca Street and Pine Street near the Pike Place Market.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Lose yourself among the spectacular gardens and glass exhibits at this one-of-a-kind Seattle attraction. Showcasing the incredible work of glass artist Dale Chihuly, the glasshouse and garden will inspire you with the graceful grandeur of the sculptures set in a natural environment. There are eight galleries to explore; one of Chihuly’s largest sculptures can be seen suspended inside the glasshouse and changes colors as sunlight passes above it. You can also munch on pizza and sip wine outside in the garden while watching a glassblower at work. There are daily tours and talks as well as video presentations that tell you more about the artist.
Located in the Seattle Centre, right next to the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibits are one of the must-see places in downtown Seattle. You can park your vehicle at one of the cheaper Seattle parking lots on 3rd Avenue or Yale Avenue.
Olympic Sculpture Park
The best places in the city are where locals spend their time, like Seattle’s Olympic Sculpture Park. Maintained by the Seattle Art Museum, the outdoor sculptures and indoor pavilions are open to the public year-round. Located at the edge of Elliott Bay, close to the tourist hotspots in downtown Seattle, the Olympic Sculpture Park is the ideal place to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. Take a walk along the beach here, with the Seattle skyline on one side and the Puget Sound on the other. And don’t forget to get a pic of the city’s skyscrapers with the Space Needle among them.
The Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle is located on Western Avenue, close to Seattle Centre and Pike Place Market. You can easily find cheap Seattle parking spaces nearby on Seneca Street or Pine Street.
Discovery Park
Less than 20 minutes from the city center, the Discovery Park in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood is a wonderful escape from the cityscape. Forest, bluffs, beaches, prairies make up the landscape spread across more than 500 acres. At the western end of the park, jutting out into the Puget Sound stands the West Pont Lighthouse with great views of mountains and the islands of the Sound. Walking trails crisscross the park, including the 3-mile Discovery Park Loop trail, awaiting active visitors. It’s no secret that Discovery Park is the most popular among things to do in Seattle for both locals and travelers.
Safe but cheaper Seattle parking lots close to the Discovery Park Boulevard are at Yale Avenue North and East Republican Street.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEATAC)
14-miles south of downtown Seattle, the SEATAC airport is a major hub and international getaway. Whether you are a Seattle local or a visitor, chances are you fly in and out of SEATAC airport to domestic and international destinations served non-stop by 30-plus airlines. Killing time while waiting to board your flight or spending a layover could be like a mini vacation with SEATAC airports many attractions and amenities. Start at the bright and open Central Terminal, watching the planes take off beyond the window-wall on one side. Catch up on shopping at the high-end boutiques and standalone stores or sample the local fare at the restaurants. The Terminal and Concourse B have some great artwork for you spent time admiring. And if you are just looking to relax, try the Massage Bar in the North Satellite or catch a live concert at the terminal.
Paid on-site SEATAC Airport parking is available at the airport. You will also find affordable parking options nearby on the International Boulevard.
Rich culture and heritage, abundant natural wonders, gastronomical delights, and a city vibe that will never fail to impress — all the things to do in Seattle will keep you busy throughout the day or more. While you experience all that the vibrant city has to offer, make sure you are not worried about how to get around; explore from the comfort of your own car! Just make sure to book your Seattle parking spaces in advance to avoid the hassle of getting stuck during busy hours.
