Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Seattle with Kids – Best Family Attractions & Activities

Nestled between the sparkling waters of Puget Sound and the majestic Cascade Mountains, Seattle stands as a captivating blend of natural beauty and cutting-edge innovation. This Emerald City, crowned by towering evergreens and kissed by ocean breezes, offers a unique urban landscape where snow-capped peaks meet sleek skyscrapers, and where verdant parks provide breathing room between tech campuses and bustling neighborhoods. The city’s temperate climate, scenic waterfront, and vibrant cultural scene create an enchanting backdrop that captures the imagination of visitors from around the world.

While Seattle has earned its reputation as the birthplace of tech giants and artisan coffee culture, this Pacific Northwest gem is far more than just a haven for caffeine enthusiasts and software developers. Behind the espresso bars and innovative startups lies a wonderfully family-friendly destination that welcomes children with open arms. Seattle is genuinely a city designed with families in mind, offering an impressive array of attractions, museums, parks, and experiences that cater specifically to young explorers and their parents. From interactive science centers to world-class aquariums, from sprawling zoos to waterfront attractions, the city provides countless opportunities for families to create lasting memories together.

This comprehensive guide aims to showcase the best things to do in Seattle with kids, presenting a carefully curated selection of activities that promise entertainment, education, and adventure for the whole family. Whether you’re seeking iconic landmarks that define the Seattle skyline, engaging educational experiences that spark curiosity, or hidden gems off the beaten path, our list covers the spectrum of family-friendly fun. From the moment you arrive in the Emerald City, you’ll discover why so many families choose Seattle as their ideal vacation destination, with attractions ranging from must-see tourist favorites to lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored.

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Here are the Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Seattle with Kids:

1. Space Needle & Seattle Center – The Iconic Family Experience

No trip to Seattle is complete without visiting the Space Needle, the city’s most famous landmark. Rising 605 feet above the ground, this architectural marvel offers panoramic views of downtown, Puget Sound, and the distant snow-capped Mount Rainier. For families searching for the best things to do with kids in Seattle, a trip to the Space Needle is a must. The glass floors and open observation deck make it a thrilling experience even for the youngest adventurers.

Right below the Space Needle lies the Seattle Center, a cultural hub filled with activities perfect for kids. Families can explore the colorful Artists at Play playground, splash around the International Fountain, or enjoy an easy stroll through lush gardens. Parents will appreciate how everything is within walking distance — from museums to eateries and even the famous Chihuly Garden and Glass next door.

Whether you visit during the day for clear views or at night to see the city sparkle, the Space Needle and Seattle Center deliver the kind of family fun that defines things to do in Seattle with kids — memorable, exciting, and full of wonder.

2. Seattle Aquarium – Dive into Underwater Discovery

Located right on the waterfront at Pier 59, the Seattle Aquarium invites families to dive beneath the surface and explore the fascinating marine life of the Pacific Northwest. This is one of the most fun things to do in Seattle with kids, offering hands-on exhibits and close encounters with sea creatures that captivate all ages. From sea otters and harbor seals to vibrant jellyfish and tide pools, children can learn about marine ecosystems in an engaging and interactive way.

The Touch Tanks are a favorite for little explorers — they can gently feel starfish, sea cucumbers, and other marine invertebrates under expert supervision. Parents will enjoy the educational presentations and feeding sessions, which make learning about ocean life both fun and meaningful.

If you’re seeking things to do with kids in Seattle that combine learning and excitement, the Seattle Aquarium offers the perfect blend. Plus, its location near the waterfront makes it easy to pair with a walk on the pier or a ride on the Great Wheel afterward.

3. Museum of Flight – Explore the History of Aviation

For families who love science, history, and a touch of adventure, the Museum of Flight is one of the best things to do with kids in Seattle. Located just south of downtown, it’s one of the largest air and space museums in the world, featuring over 175 aircraft and spacecraft. Kids can step inside a real Boeing 747, explore the cockpit of a fighter jet, or even walk through a space shuttle trainer used by NASA astronauts.

What makes this museum especially family-friendly is its Kid’s Flight Zone, where children can try hands-on flight simulations and learn the basics of aviation through interactive exhibits. Parents will appreciate the balance between educational content and pure fun, making it a perfect family outing rain or shine.

Whether your kids dream of being pilots, astronauts, or simply love airplanes, the Museum of Flight transforms curiosity into inspiration — a must-add to your list of things to do in Seattle with kids.

4. Woodland Park Zoo – A Classic Family Adventure

Few experiences bring smiles to kids’ faces like a day at the Woodland Park Zoo, a Seattle institution for over a century. Home to over 900 animals from around the world, this award-winning zoo focuses on conservation and immersive exhibits. For families looking for fun things to do in Seattle with kids, this zoo offers both excitement and education in one place.

Children can watch giraffes grazing, penguins diving, and lions lounging under the sun. The Zoomazium indoor play area is perfect for younger kids to climb, explore, and learn through play. Parents will love the scenic pathways shaded by tall trees, making it a comfortable outing even on warm days.

From up-close animal encounters to educational talks by zookeepers, the Woodland Park Zoo delivers experiences that spark curiosity about the natural world — a truly timeless activity among the best things to do with kids in Seattle.

5. Pacific Science Center – Hands-On Learning at Its Best

If your family loves to explore, experiment, and discover, the Pacific Science Center is one of the top things to do in Seattle with kids. Located near the Space Needle, this interactive science museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that make learning fun. From life-sized dinosaurs to laser domes and planetarium shows, every corner of this center inspires curiosity.

Kids can experiment with robotics, explore the wonders of the human body, or learn about the cosmos in the planetarium. Parents will enjoy how the exhibits blend play with education, encouraging children to think, ask questions, and explore.

For families looking for fun things to do in Seattle with kids that go beyond simple entertainment, the Pacific Science Center is a must. It’s a place where kids don’t just learn — they experience science in action.

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6. Seattle Great Wheel – A Scenic Ride for the Whole Family

Standing tall at Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel offers one of the best vantage points in the city. Each gondola provides sweeping views of the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains. It’s one of the best things to do with kids in Seattle, especially during sunset when the city glows golden.

Children love the gentle thrill of being lifted high above the water, while parents can relax and soak in the panoramic scenery. The ride lasts about 15 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your waterfront itinerary.

When it comes to fun things to do in Seattle with kids, few experiences match the simple joy and beauty of this iconic ferris wheel. Don’t forget your camera — those family photos from the top are unforgettable!

7. Discovery Park – Nature and Adventure Combined

For families who enjoy the great outdoors, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space and one of the most refreshing things to do with kids in Seattle. Spanning over 500 acres, it features forest trails, open meadows, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Kids can enjoy short nature hikes, search for shells along the beach, or simply run freely in the open fields. The park’s Environmental Learning Center also offers family-friendly programs that introduce children to local wildlife and ecosystems.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, a nature walk, or just a peaceful break from the city buzz, Discovery Park is an essential stop for those seeking fun things to do in Seattle with kids that combine exploration and relaxation.

8. Chihuly Garden and Glass – A Colorful Artistic Wonderland

Adjacent to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a mesmerizing fusion of art and imagination. This museum showcases the breathtaking glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly — vibrant, organic shapes that seem to come alive in color and light. It’s one of the best things to do with kids in Seattle for introducing children to art in a fun, accessible way.

The indoor galleries feature intricate installations that spark creativity, while the outdoor garden offers a magical atmosphere perfect for photos and quiet walks. Kids often find themselves fascinated by the glowing glass creations that mirror flowers, sea creatures, and abstract forms.

For families searching for unique things to do in Seattle with kids, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-visit — it transforms art into an immersive, unforgettable experience.

9. Pike Place Market – Seattle’s Lively Family Playground

One of the most famous landmarks in the city, Pike Place Market is far more than a shopping destination — it’s a lively cultural experience and one of the fun things to do in Seattle with kids. Watch as fishmongers toss fresh catches through the air, explore colorful flower stalls, and enjoy local treats like mini donuts and handmade crafts.

Kids will be fascinated by the buzzing energy of the market, while parents can sample delicious foods from around the world. Don’t miss the famous Gum Wall for a quirky photo stop — it’s a weird yet beloved Seattle tradition.

For families wanting to experience authentic local life, Pike Place Market is among the best things to do with kids in Seattle — vibrant, flavorful, and full of surprises.

10. Ballard Locks – Boats, Salmon, and Learning in Motion

End your Seattle adventure with a visit to the Ballard Locks, officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. This engineering marvel connects Lake Union to Puget Sound and offers one of the most unique things to do in Seattle with kids. Children will love watching boats move between different water levels, guided by massive gates that open and close before their eyes.

The nearby Fish Ladder is an educational highlight, especially during salmon migration season. Families can observe salmon swimming upstream through glass windows — a fascinating look at nature in action.

Ballard Locks combines engineering, biology, and outdoor fun, making it one of the most underrated yet fun things to do in Seattle with kids. It’s the perfect spot to relax, learn, and end your family trip with something truly memorable.

Tips for a Family Vacation in Seattle with Kids

Planning a trip filled with things to do in Seattle with kids? Here are some enthusiastic tips to make your adventure smooth and memorable.

Transportation Tips

Seattle’s public transit is family-friendly—use the Link Light Rail from Sea-Tac Airport to downtown for $3 per adult (kids under 5 ride free). The Monorail connects Seattle Center to Westlake, perfect for quick hops with strollers. For flexibility, rent bikes or e-scooters via apps like Lime, but stick to paths in parks like Discovery. Ubers and Lyfts are plentiful, but consider the ORCA card for buses and ferries to Bainbridge Island for day trips. Walking downtown is doable, but pack comfortable shoes for hills!

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Opt for hotels like the Hyatt Regency Seattle or Kimpton Hotel Monaco, offering cribs, kids’ menus, and pools. Airbnbs in Capitol Hill provide kitchens for easy meals. Look for places near attractions to minimize travel—Seattle Center hotels put you steps from multiple fun things to do in Seattle with kids.

Food Tips

Seattle shines with kid-approved eats—try Pike Place for fresh fruits and chowder, or food trucks at Seattle Center for variety. Kid favorites include Dick’s Drive-In burgers or Molly Moon’s ice cream. For picky eaters, pack snacks, but explore international options in the International District. Many spots offer high chairs and allergen info, ensuring enjoyable dining.

 

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