Exploring Seattle with Kids

Seattle is depicted in the movies as having constantly dreary weather. It’s true that Seattle does have some stretches of solid gray days, however, it gets a great number of lovely days each year. Those precious days are when the city truly comes to life. The clouds break, the sun shines, and Seattle’s stunning beauty is on full display.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s something for every little adventurer.

One of our favorite spots to start is the Seattle Children’s Museum at the Seattle Center. It’s a great place for young kids to learn through interactive exhibits and creative play. Whether they’re building forts, experimenting with art, or pretending to shop in a mini grocery store, it’s a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild.

Next, we love hopping on the Seattle Monorail for a quick, exciting ride from downtown to the Seattle Center. The monorail provides stunning views of the city, and it’s a fun way to travel around without having to deal with traffic. Once we’re at the Seattle Center, we always stop by the Space Needle. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the view from the top is always breathtaking—on a clear day, you can see the entire city, the mountains, and Puget Sound stretching out before you.

Spring is also the perfect time to enjoy the Seattle Center’s fountain. When it’s running, the kids love to splash around in the cool water while I sit back and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. After playing at the Seattle Center, we head over to Pike Place Market, where we can pick up fresh flowers, grab a snack, and watch the iconic fish throwers. The vibrant atmosphere of the market is always a treat for all ages.

If you’re looking to see more animals, Woodland Park Zoo is a fantastic option. The zoo’s exhibits are beautifully designed, and the kids love seeing everything from playful monkeys to majestic lions. For a more aquatic adventure, the Seattle Aquarium offers an up-close look at the sea life native to the Pacific Northwest, including otters, seals, and jellyfish.

Another one of our favorite spots is the Ballard Locks. Watching the boats pass through the locks is fascinating for all ages, and during the right season, you can even spot salmon swimming upstream. Afterward, we like to head to Greenlake for a relaxing walk or bike ride around the lake. It’s one of the most peaceful spots in the city, and we often see families enjoying picnics and playing by the water.

Seattle in the spring is a magical time for families to explore, laugh, and make lasting memories. Whether you’re soaking in the views from the Space Needle or enjoying the animals at the zoo, there’s no shortage of activities that will make this season special.