12 Unique Things to Do in Seattle

Over the past few years, people have been flocking to Seattle — and with good reason. It's one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and booming companies such as Amazon and Microsoft have helped with that increase of population and tourism. But what is there to do in Seattle? People often head immediately to Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but there is so much more to the Emerald City than what you've seen on Grey's Anatomy. Whether you're already a Seattleite or want to visit and find unique things to do, check out this list of 12 spots.

01
Molly Moon's

Molly Moon's

This tasty cold treat shop has many locations all over the Pacific Northwest, but the best spot is the Molly Moon's on Capitol Hill. With seasonal flavors to taste and a rainbow crosswalk as a backdrop for photos, it's the best place to satisfy your sweet tooth and get adorable Instagram shots.

02
Ferry Ride

Ferry Ride

Puget Sound has many islands, and the best to get to most is by taking a ferry ride. From Seattle, you can take a trip directly to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton. If you drive outside the city a bit, you can take a boat trip to Whidbey Island, Kingston, or Vashon Island, which are all places worth exploring.

03
Copal

Copal

Down in Pioneer Square (an area of Seattle that feels like you've stepped back in time a bit) is a Mexican restaurant called Copal. With its white and turquoise interiors, it's a millennial's dream. The food is great and they serve alcoholic slushies that are the grown-up version of your favorite childhood Summer treat.

04
Rainbow Crosswalks

Rainbow Crosswalks

Capitol Hill is the most LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood of Seattle. And what a better way to celebrate this than by splashing beautiful rainbow crosswalks throughout the area? Be careful of not stopping traffic to get a photograph — for too long, at least.

05
Mystery Coke Machine

Mystery Coke Machine

Also in Capitol Hill is the mysterious haunted Coke machine. There's a local legend surrounding it that claims no one knows who refills it. There are six mystery buttons that each give you a surprise when you press them. It's often filled with rarer sodas and only costs $1.

06
Oddfellows

Oddfellows

If you are in need of an Instagrammable spot for your camera roll, Oddfellows in Capitol Hill not only has amazing food, but is in a beautiful old-timey building with a gorgeous interior. There's also an outdoor courtyard in the back that lights up at night and feels incredibly chic. It's very popular on the weekends, so get there early.

07
Fortune Teller

Fortune Teller

In Pike Place Market, there's a quirky magic shop that has a Zoltar-style fortune teller machine out front. You've probably seen one in the film Big, and they're very silly and fun to pop some coins into to get a card with your fortune.

08
Gum Wall

Gum Wall

If you wander down one of the alleys in Pike Place Market, you'll find the famous gum wall. Over the years, it has accumulated people's chewing gum. You'll either find it disgusting or fascinating. It's colorful and the entire space smells of sweets. Plus, it's the perfect backdrop for photos.

09
Kerry Park

Kerry Park

Looking for an iconic shot of the Space Needle with Mount Rainier floating in the background? Head over to Kerry Park in Queen Anne for the best view of the city. Sunsets here are particularly breathtaking.

10
Suzzallo Library

Suzzallo Library

If you need a bit of Hogwarts inspiration, you can visit the library on the University of Washington's campus. It's open to all for a viewing and is the most Harry Potter-like place you'll find in the Pacific Northwest. If you go over a school break, it'll be empty for the perfect shot.

11
Morsel

Morsel

In the University District, the best biscuit breakfast you'll ever eat exists. Morsel is an eatery that serves thick and crumbly biscuits and coffee. You can get a traditional plate with butter and jam or spice it up with eggs and sauces that are worth the long wait on the weekend.

12
Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park

For another view of the Seattle skyline, go to Gas Works Park, a lovely little spot across the water on the site of a former gasification plant. The architecture of the old plant makes this park stand out compared to your usual playground. This is another great place to watch the sun go down.