Seattle's temperate climate and beautiful scenery entices families out into the open air for things to do. As the largest city in the Puget Sound region, Seattle offers families scenic glaciers, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains for hiking; shimmering lakes for canoeing, fishing and other water sports; expansive parks for runners and the leisurely family stroll; and energetic urban neighborhoods for families seeking local culture. Seattle's prime location presents families with a plethora of things to do.
Farmers Markets
Start the morning with fresh, local produce, seafood and bakery goods selected from a farmers market. Neighborhood markets include Capitol Hill, University Heights and Lake City. Look for market events such as the "Health Fair Cooking Demo." Called the "soul of Seattle," Pike Place market overlooks Elliot Bay and features a fishmonger's tradition of throwing fish to one another when prepping an order.
Musuems
The greater Seattle area is home to 30 museums. For families with young children, make the Children's Museum, located in the lower level of the Center House, the choice for physical activity. Designed for children aged 1 through 10, exhibits fill 22,000 square feet and emphasize a hands-on approach.
Increase brainpower with older children by exploring the Pacific Science Center, once home to the 1962 Seattle World's Fair Science Pavilion. The center contains six acres of hands-on science exhibits, including science demonstration stage shows, tropical butterfly house, planetarium show, IMAX Theater and a Movie Ride Motion Simulator.
The Experience Music Project/Science Fiction Museum examines both creativity and innovation in music along with promoting awareness and appreciation of science fiction. EMP highlights interactive exhibitions using cutting-edge technology. The museum focuses on rock 'n' roll origins and its influence on other musical genres, while SFM explores possibilities of the future.
Sightseeing
Capture a 360-degree view of Seattle, Mount Rainier and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains on the deck of the Space Needle at a height of 605 feet. Dine healthy at Sky City restaurant located above the observatory. After a nourishing meal and breathtaking panorama, cross the street for a one-mile ride on the 1962 World's Fair monorail to view Seattle's cityscape.
Amusement
Unleash energy at the Fun Forest Amusement Park in the Seattle Center equipped with park rides, laser tag, miniature golf, climbing wall and video arcade. Fun Forest hosts the "Bite of Seattle" and Seattle's annual music and arts festival, "Bumbershoot."
Parks and Lakes
Seattle maintains more than 400 parks and open areas, according to Seattle Parks and Recreation. A local favorite, Green Lake Park functions as a natural preserve of flora and fauna. Runners, bikers and skaters can undertake the 2.8-mile loop around Green Lake or its adjacent 3.2-mile trail.
Let loose at Gasworks Park, which occupies 20 acres on the north end of Lake Union. Fly a kite atop the hilltop and behold panoramic vistas or Fourth of July fireworks. Access to Gasworks Park Lake Union is restricted; this includes boating, swinging, fishing and wading.
Lake Union north of downtown is a haven for sailboats, kayaks, canoes and tour boats. From May through October, follow or participate as a family in the weekly "Duck Dodge" regattas, a Seattle tradition for 36 years.
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