Seattle holidays

How to reach Seattle

• Flight time: Flights to Seattle from London take around 9 to 10 hours. Other major UK airports, such as Manchester and Edinburgh, have connecting flights that take a little longer – typically around 13 to 14 hours when you factor in the stopover.

• Transfer time: Once you land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the Link Light Rail will get you to downtown Seattle in about 40 minutes. A taxi or rideshare takes approximately 30 minutes without traffic.

• Price: The Link Light Rail costs around $3 for a one-way trip. If you prefer a taxi, this will set you back roughly $50–$60.

Weather and best time to visit Seattle

The best time of year for Seattle holidays depends largely on what you want to get out of your trip. Luckily, the city has something year-round to suit all tastes.

• June to August is the high season. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C. Rainfall is minimal, and you can expect about 10 to 11 hours of sunshine daily. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals but also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

• September to November offers a quieter experience with temperatures cooling down from 20°C in September to around 10°C in November. Rain becomes more frequent, especially in October and November, with about 75–150mm and 8 to 9 hours of sunshine.

• December to February is the low season, with temperatures hovering between 3 and 8°C. There’s a good amount of wet weather with rainfall averaging 100–150mm and about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine daily. This period is perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of rain and want to experience Seattle’s cosy indoor attractions.

• March to May is when the city starts to wake from its winter slumber. Temperatures gradually rise from 8°C in March to 16°C in May. Rainfall varies from 75–100mm, and you’ll get around 6–9 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken.

• Local habits and customs: Seattleites are known for their politeness and love of coffee. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a “hello” or “hi.” Tipping is standard practice in restaurants, typically around 20 percent for good service.

• Health and safety: Seattle is generally safe, but like any city, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

• Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is used. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and there are plenty of ATMs around.

• Getting around: Seattle’s public transport includes buses, the Link Light Rail and ferries. A standard one-way bus or light rail fare is around $3. The ORCA card is a convenient way to pay for all public transport and can be purchased and reloaded at various locations or online.

• Electricity and plug types: The voltage is 110V, and the plugs are type A or B. You’ll need an adapter for UK appliances.

• Time zone: Seattle is in the Pacific Time Zone, 8 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers can enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program for up to 90 days. However, you must apply for ESTA approval online at least 72 hours before travelling.

Local dishes in Seattle

One of the great delights of holidays to Seattle is indulging in the city's diverse and delicious culinary scene.

Some typical dishes

• Seattle Dog: A hot dog topped with cream cheese and grilled onions, often with added jalapeños or other toppings.

• Pho: Seattle has a large Vietnamese community, and pho, a fragrant noodle soup with herbs, is a local favourite.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Dungeness Crab: This fresh and sweet crab is often solo, with a simple butter dipping.

• Salmon: In summer especially, you’ll find wild-caught Pacific salmon grilled, smoked or cured in many local dishes.

• Geoduck: This unique and slightly quirky shellfish is a local delicacy, often served raw as sashimi or lightly cooked.

Street food

• Food trucks: Seattle's food truck scene is vibrant and varied. Look out for Marination Mobile, famous for its Korean-Hawaiian fusion dishes like kimchi quesadillas and spam sliders.

• Pike Place Chowder: Located at Pike Place Market, this award-winning chowder spot is a must-try, especially for the New England Clam Chowder.

Sweets and desserts

• Theo Chocolate: Indulge in some locally made organic chocolate from Theo’s, offering a variety of flavours and artisanal chocolates.

Local drinks

• Seattle’s Best Coffee: You can’t leave Seattle without trying its coffee culture. Visit one of the many local coffee shops for a classic Seattle latte or mocha.

• Craft beer: Seattle boasts a thriving craft beer scene. The most notable breweries include Fremont Brewing and the Pike Brewing Company.

• Washington Wine: The nearby wine regions of Woodinville and Walla Walla produce excellent wines. Look out for their selections on wine lists throughout the city.

• Cider: For something a little different, try a locally produced cider from places like Seattle Cider Company.

Best things to do in Seattle

The city pairs natural beauty with urban sophistication, offering visitors a plethora of things to see and do during holidays to Seattle.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Space Needle: The quintessential Seattle landmark. Head up to the observation deck for unsurpassed city views, the Puget Sound waterways and the surrounding mountains.

• Kerry Park: A photographer's favourite, this small park offers a top-notch view of the Seattle skyline. It’s especially stunning at sunset.

• Sky View Observatory: Located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, this observatory offers the highest public viewing area in the city, with 360-degree views.

The best districts

• Pike Place Market: This historic market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, artisanal goods and quirky shops. Don’t miss the famous fish-throwing fishmongers.

• Capitol Hill: Known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining options and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.

• Fremont: Often called the ‘Centre of the Universe,’ this quirky neighbourhood boasts a troll under a bridge, eclectic shops and great eateries.

• Ballard: A trendy area with a rich maritime history. Visit the Ballard Locks to watch boats pass through and spot salmon in the fish ladder.

Parks and gardens

• Discovery Park: Seattle’s largest green space, offering kilometres of trails, beautiful beaches and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

• Washington Park Arboretum: A botanical haven featuring diverse plant collections and walking trails. Visit the Japanese Garden for an especially tranquil retreat.

• Gas Works Park: This unique park on the site of a former gas plant offers panoramic views of Lake Union and the city skyline. It’s popular for picnics and kite flying.

Historical monuments

• Pioneer Square: Seattle’s oldest neighbourhood, rich with history and charm.

• Smith Tower: Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, this iconic skyscraper offers a glimpse into Seattle’s early 20th-century grandeur.

• Seattle Central Library: A modern architectural marvel designed by Rem Koolhaas, it’s worth a visit for its striking design and panoramic views from the upper floors.

Day trips in the area

• Mount Rainier National Park: About a 2-hour drive from Seattle, this majestic park is home to the iconic Mount Rainier and offers hiking trails, wildflower meadows and wonderful vistas.

• San Juan Islands: Accessible by ferry, these islands are perfect for a day trip filled with whale watching, kayaking and charming coastal towns.

• Snoqualmie Falls: Just a short drive from the city, this 82m-high waterfall is a natural attraction worth visiting. Nearby are hiking trails and a picturesque lodge.

Activities for families in Seattle

Seattle is a city brimming with family-friendly activities that cater to kids of all ages.

• Aquarium and zoos: The Seattle Aquarium offers an engaging experience with its underwater dome and interactive tide pools. Woodland Park Zoo is another fantastic, family-friendly destination home to over 1,000 animals.

• Interactive museums: The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and the Pacific Science Center are must-visits. MoPOP has hands-on exhibits spanning music, science fiction and pop culture, while the Pacific Science Center features interactive science collections, a butterfly house and an IMAX theatre.

• Parks and playgrounds: The Seattle Center has several green spaces and gardens, but the big draw is undeniably the Artists at Play playground. Discovery Park, with its expansive trails and beaches, is also ideal for a day of exploration.

• Theme parks and adventure: The Seattle Great Wheel, located on Pier 57, is a family-friendly ride with good views of the city and Elliott Bay. For more adventure, head to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park just outside Seattle, which features rides and water attractions suitable for all ages.

Free things to do in Seattle

If you’re sticking to a sightseeing budget, Seattle offers plenty of free or low-cost things to see and do.

• Free events: Seattle hosts numerous free events throughout the year, including concerts at the Seattle Center and festivals like the Fremont Solstice Parade (June) and Seafair (August).

• Free museums: The Frye Art Museum offers free admission and showcases a stunning collection of paintings and sculptures. The Center for Wooden Boats provides free public sailing every Sunday.

• Explore Seattle by public transport: Hop on a Metro Transit bus and explore the city for just $2.75 per ride. Route 70 takes you from the University District through downtown and ends at the International District, encompassing many of Seattle’s top sights.

• Pike Place Market: It doesn’t cost a dime to wander through this iconic market, watch the fishmongers, and enjoy street performances – all for free. Don’t miss the gum wall for a quirky photo op.