Seattle is blessed with the stunning backdrop of the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. Beyond that, it’s a city that effortlessly blends the classic PNW vibe with the American dream. Known for its innovative spirit, strong connection to tech, and a history that’s as deep and varied as its waterways, Seattle is one of those special places that just forces people to fall in love after only one visit.
Listed below are ten undeniably unique things that make Seattle such a desirable place to lay down roots or rent the perfect place for a little while.
1. Space Needle
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the mountains, and the waters that surround Seattle. This landmark, with its futuristic design, symbolizes Seattle’s forward-thinking spirit, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at the vista from its observation deck or have a meal at the cafe.
2. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Showcasing the art of Dale Chihuly, a native son of Washington, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition blends glass and botanicals in a mesmerizing display. Located near the Space Needle, it offers a visual feast of color and form, illustrating the depth of Seattle’s commitment to the arts.
3. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ markets in the United States. As such, it is also the heart and soul of Seattle. With its famous fish market, countless artisan stalls, and the original Starbucks coffee shop, Pike Place embodies the Pacific Coast culinary craft in all its glory.
4. Central Library
With its innovative glass and steel design by architect Rem Koolhaas, Central Library redefines what a library can be. It’s not only a great place to learn something new but also a public space that encourages community and focuses on Seattle’s commitment to public services and intellectual growth.
5. The Fremont Troll
Tucked under the Aurora Bridge in the quirky Fremont neighborhood, the Fremont Troll is a testament to Seattle’s creative and whimsical side. This massive concrete sculpture, clutching a real Volkswagen Beetle, has become a beloved oddity and a symbol of the city’s eclectic art scene.
6. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is dedicated to contemporary popular culture. Its exhibits, which range from science fiction and fantasy to music and video games, are housed in a strikingly modern building designed by Frank Gehry.
7. Amazon Spheres
The Amazon Spheres are a striking example of innovative urban workspace design, consisting of three glass and steel domes filled with more than 40,000 plants from around the world. As part of Amazon’s downtown Seattle campus, they underscore the city’s status as a tech hub and its commitment to integrating nature within the city limits.
8. Seattle Great Wheel
On Pier 57, the Seattle Great Wheel extends over Elliott Bay, offering riders spectacular views of the city and beyond. As one of the largest Ferris wheels in North America, it lights up the waterfront with its LED light shows, adding a fun twist to Seattle’s already iconic skyline.
9. Olympic Sculpture Park
Managed by the Seattle Art Museum, Olympic Sculpture Park transforms nine acres of industrial land into an open space designed to blend top-tier art with pristine nature. The park features sculptures from internationally acclaimed artists, set against the stunning backdrop of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
10. Ballard Locks
Ballard Locks serves as a gateway between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of the Ship Canal, which flows into Lake Union and Lake Washington. Visitors can watch boats of all sizes navigate the locks and see salmon make their upstream journey via the fish ladder.