The staycation guide to Seattle's best spots
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The waterfront ferry terminal in Seattle at sunset. Photo: Visions of America/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
You don't need to be an out-of-towner to explore Seattle like a tourist, soaking up some of the best sights the city has to offer.
Why it matters: With Seattle schools on spring break next week, we've compiled some of the best ways to harness the spirit of vacation without ever leaving town.
Ballard Locks
Watching the mechanism for lifting and lowering boats is always fascinating, even on repeat visits. Combine it with a stroll through the adjacent garden or a visit to the fish ladder (peak salmon runs are from June to September) and you've harnessed a piece of Seattle's nautical magic.
Washington Park Arboretum
All seasons shine at the Arboretum, where you can wander trails through old pines, see blossoms in bloom or admire brightly colored autumn leaves, depending on the season.
- Don't forget to check out the duck pond.
Overlook Walk and the waterfront
The new Overlook Walk provides the perfect spot for viewing both downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay, making you feel like you're dancing on the edge of the city skyline.
- We like to wander through Pike Place Market, then cross the pedestrian-only Overlook Walk on our way to the revamped waterfront.
Between the lines: For a free taste of the Seattle Aquarium's Ocean Pavilion — another recent waterfront addition — you can peer into one of the main marine habitats through a 17-foot-wide viewing oculus.
- Nearby, the Seattle Great Wheel offers soaring water views.
Yes, but: You can enjoy less expensive boardwalk fun by riding the Miners Landing carousel, visiting the adjacent arcade or boarding a ferry to Bainbridge Island.
Gas Works Park
A peak Seattle experience is climbing the hill at Gas Works Park, looking out over Lake Union and watching boats pass nearby. Bring a blanket if you want to spread out on the grass (goose poop can be an issue) and enjoy the view of downtown and the Space Needle.
- To make a day of it, you can walk over to the Fremont Troll or explore the nearby Fremont Sunday Market.
Seattle Center and monorail
You'll find me at Seattle Center at least monthly, wandering by the Space Needle, visiting one of the campus' many museums or letting my kid run through the International Fountain (which turns into a spray park in summer).
- For $8 round trip, you can board the monorail to Westlake Center, zipping past downtown buildings faster than you'd expect in a 60-year-old train. (Kids ride free.)
Discovery Park
Fallen logs on the beach, waves lapping at the shore — it's hard to find deeper Pacific Northwest vibes than what you'll absorb at Discovery Park.
- I typically hit up the West Point lighthouse, which is easy to access but always makes you feel like you accomplished something by getting there.
Pioneer Square
Bask in the history of Seattle's oldest neighborhood while sipping espresso along the brick-paved Occidental Mall; exploring interactive exhibits at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park; or wandering subterranean passageways with Bill Speidel's Underground Tour.