Table of Contents
🏖️ 1. Alki Beach: A West Seattle Summer Staple
Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach is the go-to destination for beachgoers. Whether you’re biking along the paved path, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging in the sand with a view of the Seattle skyline, Alki offers classic summer vibes.
What to do:
- Rent scooters or bikes
- Watch beach volleyball games
- Enjoy fish and chips from Spud or Salty’s
🚣 2. Water Adventures on Lake Union and Lake Washington
When it comes to Seattle summer things to do, hitting the water is a must.
Options include:
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Union
- Renting an electric boat with friends
- Taking a sailing class on Lake Washington
- Swimming at Madison Park Beach
🌼 3. Washington Park Arboretum & Japanese Garden
This beautiful 230-acre park near UW is a lush escape in summer. Walk shaded trails, explore curated plant collections, and enjoy peaceful moments in the Japanese Garden.
🛍️ 4. Explore Seattle’s Vibrant Summer Markets
Farmers markets in Seattle offer more than just produce.
Top summer markets:
- Ballard Farmers Market (Sundays) – street musicians and berries galore
- University District Market (Saturdays) – less touristy, very local
- Fremont Sunday Market – antiques, food trucks, and handmade goods
- South Lake Union Market (Thursdays) – techies and lunch bites
🎡 5. Attend the Seafair Summer Festival Series
Seattle summer things to do wouldn’t be complete without Seafair. This citywide celebration includes hydroplane races, parades, marathons, and the famous Blue Angels airshow.
Don’t miss:
- Torchlight Parade
- Seafair Weekend on Lake Washington
- Neighborhood parades & community fairs
🎸 6. Catch Live Outdoor Music & Theater
From large concerts to Shakespeare in the Park, Seattle offers incredible outdoor entertainment during the summer.
Popular series and venues:
- Woodland Park ZooTunes
- Summer Concerts at Marymoor Park
- Shakespeare in Volunteer Park or Magnuson Park
- Pier 62 waterfront performances
🧺 7. Plan a Picnic in a Scenic Seattle Park
Pack a blanket and head to a park for a classic summer afternoon.
Great picnic spots:
- Discovery Park (views and quiet)
- Gas Works Park (vibrant and lively)
- Volunteer Park (close to Capitol Hill restaurants)
- Jefferson Park (playground and views of Mt. Rainier)
🌄 8. Hike Near Seattle for a Day Adventure
Seattle is surrounded by stunning trails—perfect for nature lovers.
Top hikes within 1 hour:
- Rattlesnake Ledge: Short and iconic
- Twin Falls: Waterfall hike for families
- Snoqualmie Falls: Easy, with epic views
- Mount Si: A challenge with major reward
🍻 9. Discover Rooftop Bars & Beer Gardens
Seattle’s best bars take it outside in the summer.
Where to sip in the sun:
- Fremont Brewing Urban Beer Garden
- Mbar (South Lake Union rooftop)
- Rooftop Brewing Co.
- Optimism Brewing (Capitol Hill)
🎨 10. Visit Seattle’s Free Art Walks and Summer Installations
Art walks bring local galleries and vendors to the street once a month.
Check out:
- Pioneer Square First Thursday Art Walk
- Ballard Second Saturday ArtWalk
- Georgetown Art Attack (Second Saturdays)
- Olympic Sculpture Park’s outdoor installations
🍦 11. Cool Off with Iconic Seattle Summer Treats
Nothing says summer like ice cream, coffee over ice, and seasonal desserts.
Try:
- Salt & Straw or Frankie & Jo’s for ice cream
- Marination Ma Kai’s shave ice
- Rachel’s Ginger Beer seasonal blends
- Iced cold brew at Milstead & Co.
🎥 12. Watch a Movie in the Park
Pack a lawn chair and snacks for outdoor cinema nights.
Movie series to catch:
- Movies at the Mural (Seattle Center)
- Rainier Beach Summer Movie Nights
- West Seattle Outdoor Cinema
- Volunteer Park screenings
🐘 13. Visit Woodland Park Zoo or Seattle Aquarium
Perfect for families and kids!
Summer bonuses:
- Splash play areas
- Live animal feedings
- Educational pop-up talks
🚂 14. Ride the Monorail to the Seattle Center
A fun way to get around for families and visitors. Stop at the Space Needle, MoPOP, Chihuly Garden, and more.
🌊 15. Take a Ferry to Bainbridge or Vashon Island
Enjoy a scenic ride and spend the day exploring small-town charm.
Bainbridge highlights:
- Local boutiques
- Eagle Harbor trail
- Waterfront wineries
🚤 16. Rent a Hot Tub Boat or Duffy Boat
Yes, Seattle has hot tub boats. Book one for a unique experience on Lake Union with incredible skyline views.
🌸 17. Enjoy a Summer Garden Tour
Check out seasonal garden events like:
- Bellevue Botanical Garden tours
- Heronswood Garden open days
- Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands
🌃 18. Experience Seattle’s Summer Nights
Stay out late for warm breezes and glowing city views.
Top night ideas:
- Rooftop movie screenings
- Glow-in-the-dark paddleboarding
- Night markets in Chinatown-International District
🎆 19. Celebrate the 4th of July at Lake Union
Watch fireworks reflect off the water from Gas Works or a boat. It’s one of the most memorable Seattle summer things to do!
📷 20. Capture the Moment with Photo-Worthy Views
- Kerry Park at golden hour
- Sunset from Hamilton Viewpoint Park
- Sunrise over Mt. Rainier from Beacon Hill
🙋♂️ FAQ: Seattle Summer Things to Do
Q: What’s the weather like in Seattle during summer?
A: July and August are sunny, warm (65–85°F), and mostly dry—perfect for outdoor adventures.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Seattle in summer?
A: Use the light rail, water taxis, bike rentals, or walk. Traffic can be heavy, especially downtown.
Q: Are pets welcome at Seattle parks and beaches?
A: Yes, many parks are dog-friendly! Visit Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area or Golden Gardens.
Q: Where can I see summer flowers in Seattle?
A: Head to the Arboretum, Kubota Garden, or the Volunteer Park Conservatory.
Q: Can I take kids to summer events in Seattle?
A: Absolutely—zoo concerts, outdoor movies, splash parks, and festivals have family-friendly options.
Q: Are there day trips from Seattle in summer?
A: Yes! Popular spots include Leavenworth, Snoqualmie Falls, Mount Rainier, and Deception Pass.