8 Seattle activities that will guarantee a great visit to this rainy city written by a local Seattleite. From the famous pike place market to some hidden gems, this guide will be sure to give you the full Seattle experience and no, you shouldn’t visit the space needle.

Attribution to the talented blogger Lauren, the founder of ‘Thetravelingmoore’. You can find more of her incredible blogs @https://thetravelingmoore.com/ and follow her adventures on Instagram @https://www.instagram.com/thetravelingmoore/

1. Pike Place Market

Yes, the market is super touristy but that is okay! Some Seattle activities are so touristy because they are essential places to visit. The fun stalls and landmark stores of the market make it a must visit. Some must see places in the market:

• Flying fish- another super touristy attraction but its iconic! Wait around the fish counter for someone to order to see fish flung across the counter
• The Pink Door- this is my favorite restaurant in Seattle, hands down. It is delicious Italian food in a unique setting. If dining for lunch, sit out on the patio and admire the views of Puget Sound. If visiting for dinner, plan to see aerial performers while you eat—so cool!
• Local vendors- there is a stretch of the market with stalls of local artists and farmers. Taste fresh fruit, buy some local crafts, and pick up a (cheap) and beautiful bouquet
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese- visit this store to see them making the cheese and sample some as well. If you are here during a mealtime or want a good snack, you must get the mac and cheese. It lives up to its name as the “world’s best”
• Wander around and explore different stores- there are a ton of hidden gems in the market and I am always finding new places worth seeing

2. Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island

One of the lesser-known Seattle activities involves getting out of the city. Channel your inner Derek Sheppard (where are my Grey’s Anatomy fans at) and take a ferry boat across the Sound to Bainbridge island. On the boat ride, make sure to go out on the deck and soak in the views. If you have time, wander around the cute town of Bainbridge or wander the beaches. If you don’t have time, the ferry ride is a fun activity in itself.

3. City Views from Kerry Park

Kerry park is a small neighborhood park in an area known as Queen Anne. The best part of the park is the stunning view of the city! I recommend going at night to get a beautiful skyline view including the iconic Space Needle.

4. Explore Capitol Hill Neighbourhood

Capitol Hill is a fun, quirky Seattle neighborhood that will give you a small taste of Seattle culture. Walk the streets and wander into shops that interest you- you really can’t go wrong! Swing by Optimism Brewing for some locally brewed beer and fun food truck bites.

5. Go to a Local Sports Game

Good or bad, Seattleites love our sports teams. Depending on the season, visit a Mariners, Sounders or Seahawks games. Although the Mariners aren’t the best team, the tickets are cheap, the stadium is nice, and nothing really beats baseball on a warm day. For a super fun American soccer experience, catch a Sounders game! The crowd is electric, and the team has had a lot of success the past few seasons. To experience the full power of the 12^th man, go to a Seahawks game and be ready to yell loud.

6. Hike Rattlesnake Ledge

To experience the full “Seattle package” you must leave the city! Drive to the nearby town of Snoqualmie and hike the scenic known as Rattlesnake Ledge. The relatively easy 3-mile hike will reward you with stunning views of a crystal-clear alpine lake and the very green Cascade mountains. Afterward, reward yourself with a cool beer at Snoqualmie Brewing.

7. Wander Discovery Park

Discovery park is just outside of downtown Seattle but will transport you to the outdoors. Follow the various walking paths around the park to see some of the natural beauty that Seattle has to offer. Make sure to make your way down to the beach for the best views.

8. Woodinville Wine Tasting

Another stop a bit outside of the city but well worth it. Woodinville is the Napa of Washington. Home to a bunch of up-and-coming wineries and tasting rooms, it guarantees a great time. I recommend visiting Chateau St Michelle, Delille and Columbia winery. For non-wine drinkers, Woodinville Whiskey is always a great time!