Things to Do with Kids in Seattle: 20 Ways to Explore the Emerald City Together

Start your Seattle adventure with the Space Needle, where glass elevators whisk you 605 feet above the city in just 41 seconds. Families love the rotating glass floor and panoramic views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the city skyline.

It’s not just a photo op—it’s one of the best family activities in Seattle because kids can point out ferries below while adults enjoy the view with a latte in hand. Be sure to visit early in the morning or at sunset for shorter lines and jaw-dropping skies.

Pike Place Market is more than a place to grab flowers or seafood—it’s a full-on family outing. Watch the famous fishmongers toss salmon through the air, then swing by Beecher’s Handmade Cheese to see the magic of cheese-making in action.

Hungry? Piroshky Piroshky serves pastries warm from the oven that kids can munch while exploring the quirky shops tucked into every corner.

Step into an enclosed gondola on the Seattle Great Wheel and glide high above Elliott Bay. This towering ferris wheel is perfect for families because the cabins are weatherproof and large enough to fit your crew comfortably.

Kids love the gentle sway, while parents appreciate the unique view of the waterfront and skyline. For a more private experience, visit on a weekday when it’s easier to snag your own cabin.

Located on Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium brings the marine world right to your fingertips. Kids can touch sea stars in the tide pools while adults marvel at the graceful sea otters and Pacific octopus.

As one of the most popular attractions in Seattle, it’s both educational and entertaining, with exhibits highlighting local marine life as well as species from the coral triangle. Don’t miss the underwater dome where 360-degree windows put you in the middle of a fish-filled wonderland.

Chihuly Garden and Glass is a burst of color and creativity that surprises both adults and kids. Dale Chihuly’s intricate glass sculptures shimmer in galleries and spill into the outdoor garden like giant, glowing flowers.

Children are fascinated by the scale and shapes, while parents can’t resist snapping a hundred photos. It’s the perfect stop to balance outdoor fun with an inspiring indoor experience.

Head to the 73rd floor of Columbia Center and you’ll find the Sky View Observatory, the tallest public viewing spot in the Pacific Northwest. Unlike the Space Needle, this stop gives you sweeping, uninterrupted views that stretch from Mount Rainier to the Olympic Mountains.

Families love the extra space here—plenty of room for strollers, snack breaks, and those inevitable “look how tiny the cars are” moments. To avoid the crowds, plan for a late afternoon visit and watch the city transform as the lights flicker on below.

MoPOP is where sci-fi, music, and video games collide in one colorful, kid-approved space. Families can step inside exhibits dedicated to superheroes, fantasy worlds, and even test their DJ skills in the Sound Lab.

For parents, the rock ‘n’ roll archives are a nostalgic walk down memory lane, while kids are just thrilled to push every button they see. It’s one of the most unique things to do with kids in Seattle because it feels like playtime disguised as a museum.

Located right at the Seattle Center, this museum is designed for curious minds that can’t sit still. From a planetarium show to hands-on exhibits explaining everyday science, there’s something to spark excitement in every age group.

The butterfly house is a must-visit—kids love the chance to walk among hundreds of fluttering wings. Parents will appreciate that the interactive exhibits can keep the little ones occupied for hours without feeling like “just another science lesson.”

Prepare for wide eyes and dropped jaws at The Museum of Flight, the world’s largest air and space museum. Families can walk through a Concorde jet, peek inside JFK’s Air Force One, and even try a flight simulator.

With thousands of artifacts spread across hangars, there’s no shortage of inspiration for kids dreaming of outer space or piloting planes. Set aside at least half a day here—the collection is massive, and you’ll want time to explore without rushing.

Seattle Children’s Museum is built with little imaginations in mind, from pretend grocery stores to global culture exhibits. Everything is hands-on, giving toddlers and elementary-aged kids a safe space to learn through play.

Parents can sit back and relax in the Armory while the kids explore nearby exhibits. It’s a lifesaver on rainy days, offering indoor fun that keeps the whole family happy.

Tucked into Pioneer Square, this free museum brings Seattle’s Gold Rush history to life in a surprisingly interactive way. Families can trace the journey of hopeful prospectors who set out for Alaska, complete with artifacts and storytelling.

For kids, it feels like a treasure hunt through time, while adults get a new appreciation for Seattle’s role in shaping history. Best of all, it’s an official national park site, so you can check another one off your family’s park list.

Woodland Park Zoo is a must for families exploring Seattle for kids, with more than 300 animal species spread across lush, themed habitats. Highlights include the indoor play space called Zoomazium, perfect for toddlers needing to burn off extra energy.

Parents will appreciate how the zoo blends conservation with entertainment, making it feel more meaningful than just a stroll past enclosures. Pack a picnic or grab a snack onsite—you’ll easily spend a half day wandering here.

At 534 acres, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space, offering trails, sandy beaches, and postcard-worthy views of the Olympic Mountains. Families can hike easy loops or head down to the lighthouse for a breezy picnic spot.

The park is stroller-friendly in many areas, but also adventurous enough to keep older kids engaged. If you’re looking for a free way to immerse in nature without leaving the city, this park delivers.

Boarding a Washington State Ferry is an adventure in itself, especially for little ones who think boats are the coolest thing ever. These rides are perfect for kids and adults, day trips, views of the city, Puget Sound, and that unforgettable skyline moment as you pull away from the docks.

Bainbridge Island is a favorite destination, with ice cream shops and beaches waiting on the other side. The bonus? The ride feels like a mini-cruise but costs just a few dollars per passenger.

Alki Beach in West Seattle brings classic seaside vibes, complete with sand, waves, and a long paved path perfect for bikes or strollers. Families can pack beach toys, rent bikes, or grab fish and chips from one of the casual waterfront spots.

Kids love building sandcastles while adults enjoy a chance to relax with sweeping views of downtown Seattle across the water. On sunny days, this spot feels like a vacation within the vacation.

Known locally as the Ballard Locks, this engineering wonder fascinates kids as boats rise and fall between Puget Sound and the Ship Canal. A glass-sided fish ladder gives families a rare look at salmon migrating upstream during summer months.

Parents can stroll the botanical gardens nearby, making it a peaceful yet engaging outing. It’s one of those places that sneaks in education while still feeling like an afternoon of exploration.

Right in the heart of downtown, Westlake Center is a four-story shopping hub that doubles as a convenient family stop between attractions. It’s a handy spot to grab a quick bite, rest tired feet, or ride the light rail from the station beneath.

During the holidays, kids are dazzled by the festive lights and giant Christmas tree in the plaza. While it’s more practical than flashy, families will appreciate having this central hub on their Seattle itinerary.

Seattle Children’s Theatre is one of the nation’s largest theaters dedicated to young audiences, and it’s right at the Seattle Center. Productions range from beloved storybook adaptations to original plays that spark imagination and conversation.

Parents love the professional quality of the shows, while kids are captivated from the opening scene to the curtain call. If you’re wondering what to do in Seattle with kids that feels both enriching and entertaining, this is it.

Plan to be at West Green Lake Beach, October 11 to 12, 2025, when the Seattle Water Lantern Festival transforms the lake into a glowing wonderland. Families gather to decorate lanterns, enjoy live music, and sample local food vendors before releasing their creations onto the water.

It’s the kind of evening that feels both magical and grounding, offering a chance to slow down together. With its relaxed vibe and welcoming setup, this festival is the definition of family friendly.

Held annually at the Seattle Center Armory on October 11 to 12, 2025, Turkfest is a celebration of Turkish and Turkic cultures that welcomes all ages. Families can enjoy traditional dance performances, live music, and art displays alongside authentic Turkish cuisine.

Kids love the hands-on craft stations, while parents can soak up the cultural richness of the event. Best of all, admission is free, making it an easy addition to your fall weekend plans.