Things To Do In Seattle Kid Friendly

Explore The Seattle Aquarium

Family Friendly Things To Do in Seattle!

The Seattle Aquarium is a great way to get an up close and personal look at some of the various sea life in the area. Some of the animals at the aquarium include a variety of stunning fish, along with adorable sea otters! The Seattle Aquarium is currently operating via timed entry ticketing to allow for better social distancing.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Seattle

While the temperature is going to be most ideal in the summer months , this will also be Seattle’s busiest season. If you have flexibility, September and October is the best time of year to visit Seattle.

The winter is rainy, although it is not as cold as in the Northeastern parts of the United States. So, you could come in the winter and participate in the best indoor things to do in Seattle from my list!

Explore Play And Learn At The Seattle Childrens Museum

Cost: $9.25

Yes, another museum in Seattle makes it to our list. But dont be quick to judge that this museum is an uninteresting one. Specifically designed for the kids, the Seattle Childrens Museum welcomes kiddos of all ages, from a 10-month-old baby to a 10-year-old primary student. Within its 18,000 square feet building, this museum allows for a fun-filled exploration and learning time. With around 11 hands-on exhibits and a large play area, the Seattle Childrens Museum promote play-based learning, especially in the fields of science and technology, arts, and culture. They can also climb on a mountain, create clay sculptures, shop in the grocery store, explore weights in the post office, perform onstage in the theater, travel to countries, go to the eye clinic, or build from blueprints in the Dunn Lumber exhibit. Indeed, there are all sorts of activities your kids can do while inside the museum. This is also the best way to pass the time when its raining in Seattle. You can visit the Seattle Childrens Aquarium at the Seattle Center daily, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. Admission tickets cost $9.25 for every guest, child or adult.

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Things To Do In Seattle With Kids

15 Things to Do in Seattle with Kids

Fondly called the Emerald City, Seattle is a bright spot for families with kids. Seattle is one of the largest and most densely populated cities in the United States. It is surrounded by mountains and bodies of water which gives Seattle a welcoming vibe. Families travelling to and those living in Seattle wont find it difficult to get to know the city and all the adventures waiting for them. Seattle is filled with things to explore even with the kids in tow. Were telling you as early as now that going to Seattle for the weekend or trying to discover new attractions in the city wont pose as a challenge for parents like yourself. Large aquariums, special museums, campsites, beaches, amusement parks, shopping centers, indoor play places, parks, zoos, and fountains are just a few places you can take the kids to while in the Emerald City. And dont worry about the rain because most entertainment centers for children are located indoors. Catch our drift? In Seattle, theres no worries about where to treat your kids for some fun over the weekend or in summer breaks. From nature trips to adventure rides, Seattle has it all. To help you out, we have rounded up the best things to do in Seattle with kids.

Experience The Thrill Of Skydiving At Ifly Indoor Skydiving Seattle

Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account

Another exhilarating activity to let your kids enjoy is iFly Indoor Skydiving Seattle. Simulating the environment of sky diving, iFly Seattle gives you a chance to experience the excitement of it all without having to free fall in the sky. As long as your child is above 3 years old and is healthy, nothing is stopping them from enjoying this thrill.

Feel the wind against your face as you hover in the air. Although the flying packages may be expensive, the adrenaline rush you get will make it worth every penny. And if this was enjoyable for you or your kids, perhaps you can consider trying the real deal in the future!

Opening Hours: 9 am – 10 pm , 9 am – 11 pm , 8 am – 11 pm , 9 am – 10 pm

Duration: At least 1 hour

Price: From 69.95 USD

Located in Seattle, Lake Union is the ideal spot to visit for a quick getaway. With its diverse fish species, including sea bass and yellow perch, it is sometimes used for fishing. Chances are your kids wouldnât want to fish, but between paddleboarding and kayaking, there are lots of other exciting activities they can enjoy here too.

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Visit The Space Needle

No list talking about Seattle attractions would be complete without the iconic Space Needle. Located at Seattle Center, the Space Needle offers both a memorable experience and a one-of-a-kind way to view the city below. In addition to a 360 viewing platform, visitors that are feeling bold can also check out the unique rotating glass floor that was recently added. The Space Needle is currently operating with face masks required and limited capacities.

Argosy Cruise Tillicum Excursion

If you would like to learn about Native American culture in Seattle, then a trip to The Tillicum Village is one of the family activities in Seattle. Located on Blake Island in Puget Sound, this four-hour experience is a fun and interesting experiential activity kids will love.

The experience includes a 45 minute ferry to get to Blake Island. Once there, your family will learn about Native American culture, experience a 25 minute performance, explore the village, and enjoy a Chinook Salmon meal. You can also enjoy some time around Blake Island State Park.

This experience is educational and a fun thing to do with kids in Seattle. Use the Seattle City Pass to save on admission on the Argosy Cruise.

** Please note this activity is currently suspended through the end of 2021**

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Things To Do In Pike Place Market With Kids

Parking: Anywhere near the market there are many lots and garages.Estimated time to explore Pike Place Market with kids: 3-6 hoursA must-see spot for every Seattle tourist. Locals simply call it Pike Place and you will immediately set yourself apart as a tourist when you add an unneeded s to the nameit is not Pikes Place as it is commonly called. This historic market is home to the first Starbucks and, of course, the famous Flying Fish, but there is so much more to see at this nine-acre marketplace. There are oodles of delicious food options: my favorite way to eat here is to grab a little something from lots of different stalls. The flower market and produce stands are also fantastic and easy to locate on the main floor.

Below are some must-see highlights that are a bit less obvious to find, but absolutely worth visiting, on your day at the market!

Pike Place Market is one of the most recognizable spots in Seattle.

Shugs Soda Fountain And Ice Cream

Kid-friendly activities this weekend around Puget Sound | Q13 FOX Seattle

Its always a good idea to take the kids out for a treat. Shugs Soda Fountain and Ice Cream can be a destination itself, or a perfect way to end a fun day of activities with a delicious treat. This shop has amazing options for everyone choose from sundaes, sodas, floats and more, in a beautiful, light, and modern space in Pike Place.

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Head To The Aquarium And Explore The Seattle Waterfront

TheSeattle Aquariumis a great, mid-sized aquarium located on the Seattle waterfront, in downtown Seattle, just a few blocks from the famous Pike Place Market. The wow factor begins when you first walk in and are greeted by the gigantic Window on Washington Waters.

One of our favorite things to do at the aquarium is watch the Pacific octopuses maneuver their way around their tank, grab food, and even occasionally change colors! We also like the harbor seal exhibit which lets you get really close to the seals as they swim and play and the sea otters are always adorable to watch, too.

The underwater dome exhibit is another highlight. This gigantic dome offers a 360 degree views of a 400,000 gallon tank filled with fish. the tide pool and coral reef are not to be missed either.

When you need a break from all the sea life, theres a nice coffee shop-type eating area upstairs, where you can sit and relax.

After your time at the aquarium, be sure to explore the Seattle waterfront. The entire waterfront area is currently being rebuilt and will surely become one of the citys most popular destinations for families once complete.

In the meantime, take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel, the tallest Ferris wheel on the West Coast. It is 175 feet tall and offers great views of the Puget Sound and Seattle.

Explore more of the state! Check out our top 10 things to do in Washington State with kids!

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

If you are hoping to hit all the great sites in Seattle, a great way to do it is on a hop on, hop off tour. We find these to be great with kids because you get to take in a lot in a short amount of time without your kids getting bored and cranky. You can check out what is included on the tour and prices here.

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Where To Eat With Kids In Seattle

Most restaurants in Seattle are kid-friendly. The only places youre likely to see “No Minors” signs are pubs, gastropubs and dive bars, though many pubs will serve families as long as you dont sit at the bar. Some places introduce a no-kids policy after 10pm.

Pike Place Market has the widest selection of cheap, immediately available food and is a fun place to hang out and eat. Youll struggle to find anyone who doesnt fall instantly in love with the mac ‘n’ cheese cartons sold at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese or the flaky pastries rolled before your eyes at Piroshky Piroshky. Belltowns La Vita é Bella is a traditional family-friendly Italian trattoria. Every youthful visitor to Seattle should be allowed at least one treat from Top Pot Hand-Forged Doughnuts, preferably for breakfast. Ivars Acres of Clams makes a good post-aquarium fish-and-chips lunch. Watch out for the hungry seagulls!

This article was originally published in December 2014 and updated in 2021.

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The Kimpton Alexis Hotel

The Kimpton Alexis Hotel is great if youre looking for luxury family accommodation in Seattle.

Suites are decorated with a real vintage, earthy look if you love the look of natural dark wood and elegant furniture to match, then youll feel right at home here.

Amenities like free wi-fi and a TV to every unit are a given, but what makes this hotel shine is its proximity to Pike Place, one of the most popular local destinations.

Youre free to enjoy the pool , or try out some fo the local restaurants for something different.

If youre looking for the best place to stay in Seattle with your family, the Kimpton Alexis is an excellent choice.

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Mopop Museum Of Pop Culture Seattle Center

The Museum of Pop Culture was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen as the Experience Music Project. The unique Gehry designed building regularly hosts very interesting exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.

I originally took my kids when they were quite young and they were less than impressed . The older they get, however, the more they enjoy it. If you are looking for the best things to do in Seattle with a teenager, this could be a good option for you.

For Hours and Rates: See www.mopop.org.Save Money: The MoPOP is included as an option with the Seattle City Pass.

Race Together At Traxx Indoor Kart Racing

Cost: $7 to $21

In one way or another, your kids will ask you to do something active and daring. If that time comes, take them to Traxx Indoor Kart Racing in Mukilteo and do kart racing together. And yes, even children as young as 3 years old can participate in the race. Even though it sounds adventurous , the safety of the kid racers are the centers first priority, so kid karts only go up to 10 miles per hour on a separate childrens track. Hence, you shouldnt worry theyll be flagged for over speeding or bumping other karts. Make sure, however, that you all wear closed-toe footwear when you visit the Traxx Indoor Kart Racing Facility for safety reasons. The activity lasts for around 30 minutes, and costs $7 for children with ages 3 to 5, $9 for those aged 6 to 10, and $21 for all other guests.

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The Fairmont Olympic Hotel

The Fairmont OlympicHotel is located in one of the best parts of Seattle, and makes one of the besthotels for kids in Seattle just because of the fact that youll find most ofwhat you and the family want to see and experience located right around thehotel.

If youre looking foran option with both an indoor and outdoor pool suitable for colder months,consider staying at the Fairmont for your next vacation.

Added ameneties like a laundry service is available, and theres a kitchen to every unit if you like sticking to your regular routine to get a start to your day.

Theres also free wi-fi throught the entire Olympic, which is great if the kids want to stay in for a movie night.

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More Chocolates And More Fun At The Theo Chocolate Factory Tour

Kid-friendly activities in Washington during hot weather

Cost: $8 to $10

So your kids are still craving for some chocolates even after the two-hour tour? Dont worry, theres another one which theyll also love. Theos Chocolate Factory is voted as the 2015 Best Chocolatier in Seattle, and you certainly wont let your kids miss the chance to see how the best chocolates in the city are made. Plus, the Theo Chocolate Factory Tour is a lot cheaper than the Chocolate Indulgence Tour, as it costs as low as $10 per participant. During the tour, the kids will be taken to the chocolate factory in Seattles Fremont neighborhood where they can witness an engaging presentation of the bean-to-bar process, explore the actual manufacturing area, and get free chocolates and other freebies. If youre lucky enough to come on a weekend, Theo also offers a Chocolate Story Time for smaller kids, which include a factory tour and freebies. The Theo Chocolate Factory Tour is so popular among locals and tourists in Seattle and slots are filled swiftly, so book yours in advance. The tour is open for children from ages 6 and above. The Theo Chocolate Shop is open daily, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., although factory tour schedules vary per season.

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Seattle Center Kids Activities Seattle

One of the top family things to do in Seattle is explore Seattle Center. There are a multitude of cultural festivals held here throughout the year. Its also home to the iconic Space Needle, which recently had its first full renovation since it open for the 1962 Worlds Fair.

The Pacific Science Center is a great stop for families with kids of all ages. From their IMAX theater and planetarium to their butterfly garden and toddler play area, theres something for everyone. You can buy tickets for the Pacific Science Center here.

The Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum is a stunning stop for families who love the arts. You can read more about the museum below. You can buy combo entry tickets to the Space Needle and Garden and Glass here.

Be sure to find out which production is playing at the Seattle Childrens Theatre. They offer amazing shows for younger kids and they have one of the best gift shops.

The Experience Music Project rebranded itself a few years ago and its now the Museum of Pop Culture. This is where families with older kids will have fun testing out indie video games, playing instruments, seeing famous science fiction memorabilia, and learning more about the Seattle music scene.

A fun way to explore the Seattle center with kids is by doing this fun scavenger hunt of the area. Check it out here.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Family Activities in Seattle

Seattle Childrens Museum

Discover Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is another iconic Seattle location. Pike Place is home to historical sites such as the first Starbucks, as well as unique attractions like the Gum Wall. The Market itself also features dozens of shops offering everything from comic books to fresh fish. Pike Place is currently operating, though some shops, restaurants, or attractions may be closed.

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Let Your Kids Roam Free At Playdate Sea

Editor’s Note: Photo taken from the establishment’s official social account

Featuring high levels of fun and excitement, PlayDate SEA is an indoor play area made just for kids. With dance floors and obstacle sets, your kids will find themselves climbing and crawling throughout the playscape. Split into 2 sections by age, PlayDate SEA ensures that it caters to all ages with suitable toys. The toddler area is specifically for those under 3 years old, while the main area is for those between 4 and 12 years old.

You, the parents, are even welcome to join in the fun for free! Bring out your inner-child as you play alongside your kids. There is also a cafe for you to relax in if you prefer to just let your kids run around freely. A free puppet show is also available every Friday for your enjoyment.

Address: 1275 Mercer Street, Seattle, WA 98109

Opening Hours: 9 am – 8 pm , 9 am – 9 pm

Duration: At least 30 minutes

Price: 8 USD , 12 USD on weekdays 12 USD , 18 USD on weekends*Admission for adults is always free

Contact: +1-206-623-7529

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