There’s no doubt about it, summer is one of the best times to visit the Pacific Northwest. In Seattle, the weather evolves from generally rainy to practically perfect for about three glorious months.
Of course, the ongoing sunshine is just one great reason to go. If you’re planning a trip to Seattle soon, strongly consider going in the warmer months and adding these must-stops to your itinerary.
Wander Around “A Sound Garden”
Seattle is often dubbed the pioneer of the ’90s grunge movement, and Soundgarden was one of the bands at the forefront of it. You might call A Sound Garden an homage to sound itself, and it’s absolutely a summer must-stroll.
Overlooking Lake Washington, you’ll find a collection of unique metal art installations that make wind-fueled music on their own. As it turns out, the famed band’s name was inspired by this special Seattle place.
Venture to Washington’s Oldest Winery
You only have to go 20 minutes outside of Seattle to visit Washington State’s oldest winery, and you absolutely should. Chateau Ste. Michelle sits on 105 acres of enchanting Pacific Northwest forest and the tastings go on every Wednesday through Sunday.
If you’re looking to experience something special, there’s much more to this famed chateau than meets the eye. Book a secret garden tasting or private charcuterie-making class. Catch performances from some of the biggest names in music all summer long. This month alone, you can get tickets to see artists like She & Him, John Fogerty, and Norah Jones while you sip.
Read More: America’s Best Wine Vacation Destinations
Put Your Pop Culture Knowledge to The Test
If you love all things trivia, you’ve come to the right city. And if you really want to put your money where your mouth is and test your memory bank, head over to the Museum of Pop Culture.
The exhibits are endless and the fun never stops, so be sure to set plenty of time aside for this one. “MoPOP is home to the world’s most immersive pop culture experiences, showcasing iconic moments in TV, rock n roll music, science fiction, and much more,” per MoPOP.
Explore Tiger Mountain Trail
While Seattle is known as a hustling, bustling, and rainy metropolis, Washington state is adored for its natural beauty.
Once the spring showers have departed, summer is perfect for going off the beaten path and being at one with nature. Tiger Mountain Trail is one of the best places to do just that, especially for mountain bikers and those in need of a nature walk.
Sink Into a Hot Tub Boat
Sitting in water while floating on water might sound like a silly idea, but don’t knock it until you’ve rocked it!
If you take a day trip to Lake Union, you’ll be able to hop in a Hot Tub Boat for a day of fun and fancy free-floating. And the view is nothing to scoff at.
Hop in a Hot Air Balloon
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding in a hot-air balloon over some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, summer in Seattle should be at the top of your bucket list.
Thanks to Seattle Ballooning, you’ll pass by Mt. Rainier, downtown Seattle, Lake Tapps, the Cascades, and then some, while getting a bird’s-eye view most never get the luxury of even knowing about.
Catch Some Live Music
Along with its coffee and evergreens, Seattle remains world-renowned for its music scene. If you don’t spend at least a little time at any of its downtown venues to catch a show, can you really say you truly saw Seattle? I think not.
Music festivals are ongoing and in the summer, you’ll be able to take part in some free outdoor concerts that would rival anything you might pay for elsewhere.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For Local Pop-Ups
There’s no shortage of places to dine in Seattle, and it’s home to some of the best in the world. However, pop-ups appear and disappear quickly, so you may very well be getting a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
These are the hottest Seattle pop-ups right now, according to Eater.
Go Hiking in Discovery Park
The largest city party in Seattle, you’ll find this 534-acre oasis conveniently close to the downtown. There’s no time like this summer to see it.
The trails and magnificent views are stunning year-round, and the weather is just right for a visit during the warmer months.
Peruse the Seasonal Specials at Pike Place Market
Often crowned the best farmers’ market in the country, Pike Place is a Seattle icon for all the right reasons. And while you’re undoubtedly familiar with it, there’s so much more than what they show on movies and the Travel Channel.
At Pike Place Market, you’ll always be able to find something for everyone, and often when you least expect it. Check out the Best Secret Shops in the Market, compliments of Thrillist.
Grab a Sweet Treat at Milk Drunk
Have you heard of Milk Drunk on Beacon Avenue? You’ll be living a summer dream in the most decadent of ways. Popular for its soft-serve sandwiches, cocktails, and fried chicken, there is literally no way to go wrong here. Except, of course, if you don’t go.
The spin-off to its locally adored sister restaurant, Homer, Milk Drunk has the perfect patio for spending your afternoon in the Emerald City.
