Best Places to Go in Seattle, Washington State: What to See After Moving in
Washington State is a region that fascinates with its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Here you will find scenic mountains, crystal clear lakes, swift rivers and green forests that attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The state is also known for its beautiful coastline that offers access to water sports and outdoor recreation. At the center of this splendor is Seattle, the main city of Washington State, which attracts attention for its high culture, standard of living, and great places to walk.
Seattle is not only a financially and culturally advanced metropolis, but also a city that has many beautiful places perfect for walking and outdoor recreation. If you’ve moved to Seattle or are just planning to do so, be sure to check out some of the city’s best walking areas.
1. Waterfront Park
Seattle’s Waterfront Park is one of the most scenic places to walk along the Puget Sound waterfront. Located in the heart of the city’s waterfront, this park offers beautiful views of the water, mountains, and islands, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Features and atmosphere
Waterfront Park combines cityscape and natural beauty. As you stroll along the wooden decks of the waterfront, you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views of the bay and the Olympic Mountains. It is the perfect place for leisurely strolls, taking photos and relaxing on the benches set up along the route.
Attractions and entertainment
One of the main attractions along the waterfront is the Seattle Great Wheel, a famous Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city and bay. This 53-meter structure attracts both tourists and citizens, especially at sunset, when the landscape of Seattle comes alive with colors.
There are numerous restaurants and cafes near the park where you can try fresh seafood such as Seattle’s famous salmon. Waterfront Park also hosts street performances and is often home to local musicians and artists, creating a unique atmosphere of creativity and culture.
Activities and walking trails
The park has convenient walking paths that lead along the docks and harbors. From here, you can begin a long walk along the entire Seattle waterfront, exploring nearby attractions such as Pike Place Market or Olympic Sculpture Park.
There are also a variety of tour boats departing from here, offering cruises on the Puget Sound Bay and trips to the islands. This allows you to combine walking with water travel, making Waterfront Park especially appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Views of the islands and sunset
One of the most impressive features of Waterfront Park is the view of Bainbridge Island and other islands located in Puget Sound. This location is perfect for welcoming the sunset as the sun sets behind the mountains, illuminating the horizon with golden rays. The sunsets here are so beautiful that many photographers and artists choose Waterfront Park as their favorite spot to shoot.
Waterfront Park is an emblematic and inviting corner of Seattle that is perfect for relaxing walks, romantic encounters, or outdoor activities. With its convenient location and many activities, the park has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of the waterfront.
2. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of the most famous and lively places in Seattle and is a must-visit after moving to the city. In existence since 1907, this market is not only a place to shop but also an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. It is located in downtown Seattle on the waterfront and attracts both locals and tourists from all over the world.
Atmosphere and History
Pike Place Market is a lively market that retains the atmosphere of old Seattle, with its long tradition of commerce and unique atmosphere. Here you can find fresh seafood, farm produce, local specialties and handmade crafts. The market is known for its street performers, which creates a special atmosphere to stroll through.
Pike Place Market is not only a marketplace, but also a cultural center of the city. Many of the buildings that house the market have retained their historic appearance, making a walk here a true journey into Seattle’s past.
What to see at the market
- Fresh seafood and fish: One of the most famous features of Pike Place Market is the opportunity to watch the fish vendors put on quite a show, throwing huge salmon over the stalls. This spectacle has become a trademark of the market.
- Farm Produce: The market sells fresh fruits, vegetables and other farm produce grown in Washington State. It’s the perfect place to buy locally grown natural products.
- Flower Stalls: Another highlight of the market is the flower stalls where you can find beautiful bouquets of local flowers at affordable prices. Huge arrangements of dahlias, tulips and other flowers attract the attention of every visitor.
- Arts and Crafts: Many artisans and artists sell their wares here. From ceramics and jewelry to paintings and leather goods, unique handmade gifts and souvenirs can be found here.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Pike Place Market is home to many cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood, baked goods and world cuisine. One iconic spot is the Original Starbucks, the first café of the famous chain, which has been open here since 1971.
- Gastronomic Tours: For those who love culinary adventures, the market offers gastronomic tours that allow you to experience the best products and restaurants in the area. You can sample local cheeses, wines, breads and sweets.
Best places to walk near Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is not just a market, but an entire neighborhood full of interesting places to walk. Waterfront Park is just steps away from the market, where you can enjoy views of the Puget Sound Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Also nearby is the Seattle Aquarium, where you can learn more about the region’s marine life.
Walking Impressions
A walk through Pike Place Market is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a vibrant and dynamic Seattle. It’s always bustling with life, with people exchanging smiles, sampling fresh produce and enjoying street performances. It is especially worth strolling here in the morning, when the market is just starting to come to life, or in the evening, when the sunlight reflects off the buildings and creates a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Pike Place Market is a place that combines tradition, culture and modern life in Seattle. For those who have just moved to the city, a stroll through this market will be a great way to familiarize yourself with the culture and rhythm of life of the locals.
3. Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park, covering approximately 534 acres on the west side of the Magnolia neighborhood. It is one of the most beautiful and diverse places to walk in the city, combining wildlife, spectacular views of the mountains and Puget Sound Bay, and a rich history.
Atmosphere and natural features
Discovery Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy nature right within the city limits. Located on the Puget Sound coastline, the park is characterized by its diverse landscapes: forests, open meadows, coastal areas, and cliffs with views of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains.
The shoreline is one of Discovery Park’s greatest assets. A walk along the shoreline allows for great views of the water, as well as wildlife sightings such as seals and various bird species. The park is also a great place to watch bird migration.
Walking Routes
Discovery Park offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty and duration, making it suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
The Loop Trail is the main route, which is about 4.5 kilometers long and passes through the different landscapes of the park: forests, fields and coastal areas. This route gives you the opportunity to see the beauty of the park, as well as visit interesting sites such as the historic West Point Lighthouse.
Beach Trails – Beach trails offer walks along the shore where you can enjoy the sounds of the waves and stunning views of the bay. One popular trail is the trail to the West Point Lighthouse, which is located on the coast and is a great place to watch the sunset.
South Beach Trail – This trail runs along the southern part of the coast and offers views of the Olympic Mountains. A walk along this trail is especially scenic on clear days when the mountains are clearly visible.
Wildlife
Discovery Park is known for its rich flora and fauna. The park is home to many species of animals, including deer, coyotes, and foxes. It is also one of the best places in Seattle for bird watching. The park is home to native species as well as migratory birds such as eagles, falcons, and hawks.
In addition to animals, Discovery Park features many plant species typical of coastal and forested areas in Washington State. This creates a unique atmosphere and an opportunity to enjoy nature in all its diversity.
History of the park
Discovery Park also has historical significance. The park was home to the Fort Lawton military base, which was active from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. Today, you can find historic buildings and monuments that remind you of the area’s past.
The West Point Lighthouse, built in 1881, is one of the park’s main attractions. It is a place where you can enjoy stunning views of the bay and mountains, as well as stroll along the coast.
Best time to visit
Discovery Park is beautiful at any time of the year, but it is especially beautiful during the spring and summer months when nature is in full bloom. In the fall, the park is decorated with golden leaves, creating a cozy and peaceful atmosphere. Walking in the park in winter is also possible, especially if you like peace and quiet.
Discovery Park is a great place to walk for those new to Seattle and locals alike. Its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical heritage make it a unique part of the city. A walk through this park allows you to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of peace and solitude while still remaining within the confines of a major metropolis.
4. Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a small but incredibly popular park in Seattle, located in the Queen Anne neighborhood. Although it is only 1.26 acres in size, it is known for its stunning views of the city and is considered one of the best places for photos.
Views and atmosphere
Kerry Park is known for its incredible views of the Seattle panorama. It offers a classic view of downtown with the majestic Space Needle in the foreground, and on clear days, the snow-capped Mount Rainier Peak can be seen in the background. This view is often used on postcards and in movies, making Kerry Park one of the city’s most recognizable locations.
The park sits on a hillside, providing unrivaled views both day and night. Sunsets at this location are especially beautiful when the city is illuminated by the soft evening rays and then immersed in the lights of Seattle at night.
The perfect place to relax
Despite its modest size, Kerry Park is a great place to take short walks, relax, and enjoy the views. The park is ideal for those who want to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still remain within walking distance of downtown.
You can picnic on the small lawn or just sit on the benches overlooking Puget Sound Bay, the ferries running back and forth, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. It’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll or to spend time with family or friends.
Art in Kerry Park
One of the features of the park is the “Changing Form” sculpture by Doris Chase, installed in 1971. This abstract steel sculpture attracts the attention of tourists and locals alike, often becoming the backdrop for photographs. Interestingly, through the sculpture you can “look” at the panorama of the city, which adds to its uniqueness.
Proximity to other attractions
Kerry Park is located in the Queen Anne neighborhood, which is an interesting place to walk around in its own right. After visiting the park, you can explore the surrounding streets, which are home to historic homes, many of which are Victorian in style. Queen Anne Boulevard and the famous Queen Anne Hill are also within walking distance of Kerry Park, offering equally impressive views of the city.
Photos and sunsets
Kerry Park is especially popular with photographers and tourists looking for the perfect shot of Seattle’s views. In the evening and at sunset, you’ll often find people with cameras here trying to capture the sky lit up with pink and orange hues. After sunset, the city is lit up with lights, creating a stunning nighttime view.
Kerry Park is a must-see for both locals and those who have just moved to Seattle. Its views and tranquil atmosphere make it the perfect place for a short walk, photography, or just to enjoy the beauty of the city.
5. Green Lake Park
Green Lake Park is one of Seattle’s most popular and scenic walking destinations. Centered around the eponymous Green Lake, this park offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxing walks against the backdrop of nature.
Green Lake Park covers an area of about 259 acres, including the lake itself, which spans 3 square kilometers. This picturesque place attracts locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of outdoor activities.
The main attraction of the park is Green Lake, which offers water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by walking and biking paths, making it an ideal place for a morning or evening stroll.
Walking Trails
One of the main reasons for Green Lake Park’s popularity is its walking trail, which surrounds the lake and is about 4.5 kilometers long. This route is ideal for walking, running or biking. Here you can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the water and surrounding nature.
The trail around the lake is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it popular with families with children, joggers, and those who enjoy quiet walks. Along the trail, there are benches and small seating areas where you can sit down to enjoy the views of the lake.
Nature and wild life
Green Lake Park is a true wildlife oasis in the heart of downtown Seattle. A variety of bird species such as ducks, herons, and gulls can be seen around and around the lake, making the park a popular spot for birdwatching. Swans and geese can often be seen swimming on the lake itself.
In addition to birds, there are many species of trees and plants, including willows, poplars, and maples. Depending on the time of year, the park changes its colors, creating a magnificent atmosphere, especially in autumn, when the trees light up with golden and red hues.
Entertainment and outdoor activities
Green Lake Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities. In addition to walking and running, the park provides opportunities for sports such as:
- Swimming. During the summer months, the park offers equipped swimming areas.
- Kayaking and paddling. Boats, canoes and kayaks can be rented on the lake for leisurely floating on the water.
- Tennis and Basketball. The park has equipped sports courts for tennis, basketball, and even volleyball.
- Picnics. Green Lake Park is a great place for family picnics. There are several equipped barbecue areas, as well as large lawns where you can relax in nature.
Social atmosphere
Green Lake Park is also known for its friendly atmosphere. On weekends, many families, friends, and active people gather here, creating a large community feel. It’s a place where you can meet friends for a run, enjoy a picnic together, or just relax by the water with a book.
Features for families with children
Green Lake Park is a great place for family outings. The park has several playgrounds for children, as well as plenty of active play and picnic areas. Soft lawns and comfortable trails make it perfect for young children and parents with strollers.
Green Lake Park is a great place for those who appreciate nature and outdoor activities. It is one of Seattle’s best parks for walking, sports and family vacations. The wealth of nature and activities at Green Lake makes it a true heart of the city and a must-see after moving to Seattle.
6. Washington Park Arboretum
Washington Park Arboretum is one of the most beautiful and tranquil places to walk in Seattle and is a nature and botanical lover’s paradise. Located on the south shore of Lake Washington, this 230-acre park offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich diversity of plants and scenic landscapes in the center of the city.
Park Description
The Washington Park Arboretum was founded in collaboration with the University of Washington and the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation, and over the decades has become a destination for locals and tourists alike. It is a nature preserve that contains a vast array of plants and trees from all over the world, making it the perfect place for botanical enthusiasts and relaxing walks.
The park is divided into different botanical zones, each dedicated to plants from a specific region of the world. The azalea garden, Japanese garden and magnolia collection are just a small part of what can be seen at the Arboretum.
Walking trails
There are many winding walking trails that wind through the park through shady alleys of trees, past flowering shrubs and along picturesque bodies of water. One of the most popular trails is the Arboretum Loop Trail, which covers a large portion of the park and offers great views of the lake and surrounding wooded areas. This 3.5 km long trail is perfect for leisurely walks and jogs.
Seasonal Beauties
The Arboretum is especially attractive during the spring and fall months. In spring, magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons bloom, transforming the park into a veritable flowering garden. At this time, the park is literally filled with bright colors and fragrances. In autumn, the trees turn deep gold, orange and red, which makes walking through the park especially picturesque.
In winter, the park retains its appeal, becoming a quiet and peaceful place to stroll, where you can enjoy the solitude and beauty of evergreens.
Japanese Garden
One of the gems of Washington Park Arboretum is the Seattle Japanese Garden, located on the south side of the park. Designed in traditional Japanese style, this garden includes carp ponds, stone bridges, manicured walkways, and a tea house. The Japanese garden is a great place for meditation and quiet
walks, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Plant Collections
The park boasts unique plant collections, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the region. Plants from North and South America, Asia, Europe and Australia are represented here. Particularly famous are:
- The magnolia collection is one of the largest in North America.
- The azalea garden – turns into a paradise of flowers in spring.
- Maple Collection – especially beautiful in the fall.
- European and Asian trees – rare species collected from all over the world.
Wildlife Watching
In addition to its botanical richness, Washington Park Arboretum is home to many species of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching. Tits, woodpeckers, wrens and many other native birds can be seen here, as well as the occasional sighting of squirrels and raccoons.
Entertainment and activities
The Arboretum also offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including guided tours, lectures, and botany workshops. This makes it not only a place to walk around, but also an educational center for people of all ages.
Features for families with children
Washington Park Arboretum is ideal for family outings. Not only can you enjoy nature here, but you can also spend time with your kids exploring the different trails and plant collections. The park also has picnic and recreation areas.
Washington Park Arboretum is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty in downtown Seattle that is a must-visit after moving to the city. It’s a place to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the peace and solitude, and learn more about the rich plant life.
7. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of Seattle’s most unique and popular walking destinations, located on the north shore of Lake Union. This park offers visitors not only beautiful views of the city, but also an unusual atmosphere related to its history.
History of the park
Gas Works Park was built on the site of a former gas works that had been in operation since the early 20th century. The plant was closed in 1956, but instead of removing its structures completely, the decision was made to preserve some of the factory structures as a remembrance of the city’s industrial past. These ruins have become a central feature of the park, giving it an unusual industrial charm that blends with the green lawns and beautiful views of Seattle.
Walks and views
One of the highlights of Gas Works Park is its stunning views of Lake Union and downtown Seattle. The park rises above the water and offers a panorama of skyscrapers, the Space Needle space tower, boats and seaplanes, making it an ideal place for picnics, walks and relaxation.
The centerpiece of the park is a high, hilly area known as Great Mound, which offers the best views of the city. It is a popular spot for both relaxing on the grass and flying kites, which attracts many families and tourists.
Architecture and industrial landscape
The old gas plants and pipes have been partially preserved and painted in bright colors, giving the park a distinct industrial flavor. These ruins, which have become art objects of their own, are of great interest to visitors. The park thus combines history, nature and modern urban style, making it an unusual place to walk.
For those interested in industrial history or just looking for something unusual, Gas Works Park offers an exciting journey through time through the ruins of an old gas works.
Activities and events
As well as walking, the park provides opportunities for a variety of active entertainment. Festivals, concerts and other cultural events are often held here. Within the park, you can watch yachts and boats passing on Lake Union or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
In summer, the park attracts many citizens who come here to relax on the grass, do yoga, or have a picnic with friends. With its expansive green space and great water views, Gas Works Park is also a popular place to watch the Independence Day fireworks.
Sports activities
Outdoor enthusiasts will also find something for themselves in the park. The windy terrain makes it a great place to fly kites. Bicyclists and runners often use the trails around the park for exercise and walking. Gas Works Park is also connected to a number of other parks and recreation areas along the shores of Lake Union, making it part of a larger trail for walking and outdoor activities.
Family Recreation
For families, Gas Works Park offers spacious play areas for children to explore the strange and fascinating ruins of old gas plants. It’s a great place for picnics and leisurely family walks. Street performers, musicians and entertainers are also often found within the park, making a visit here even more fun for kids and adults alike.
Gas Works Park is the perfect place for those looking for a unique blend of nature, urban architecture and industrial history. It is one of the most unusual places to walk in Seattle, offering both a relaxing vacation and the opportunity to enjoy an active pastime amidst stunning views of the city.
Attractiveness of Seattle and Washington State for relocation
Seattle attracts people not only for its natural and cultural attractions, but also for its high quality of life, developed infrastructure and economy. The city is constantly evolving, offering excellent working and living conditions. Due to its geographical location, Seattle residents can easily enjoy both city life and outdoor recreation. If you’re looking for a city that combines an active cultural life, beautiful natural areas, and development opportunities, Seattle and the surrounding area is the perfect place to relocate.
We are ready to help you with your relocation
Moving to a new city is always a big decision, and our moving company is ready to take care of all the worries associated with the process. We offer a wide range of services to make your move to Seattle or any other part of Washington State easy and hassle-free. With us, you can rest assured that everything will go smoothly and comfortably.
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