11 Famous Seattle Landmarks That Every Tourist Must See, At Least Once

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Did you know that over 41 million people visit the Seattle, Washington area each year?

Once you experience the Evergreen State in person, it’s easy to understand why so many tourists add Seattle to the top of their travel bucket lists. Whether you love cities or nature, there’s something there for every unique taste.

Are you planning a trip to Seattle and want to ensure you have the best time ever? Keep reading this guide that breaks down famous Seattle landmarks that you have to add to your itinerary.

The Space Needle

Out of all of the Washington state landmarks out there, nothing is more iconic than the Space Needle. This observation deck is just over 600 feet tall and you can get breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. As if that isn’t cool enough, Seattle’s(Amazon link) Space Needle even has a rotating restaurant that lets you enjoy dinner with a view as well.

Make sure your phone is charged since you’ll want to take hundreds of photos and videos of your experience there.

Lake Union

Lake Union is perhaps one of the most popular natural landmarks in Seattle because it’s the perfect place to take in some beautiful views and get active. Visitors have the opportunity to walk around the green space in the surrounding area or even rent a kayak. Since it’s so close to downtown Seattle, you’ll have no trouble accessing it.

To get the most out of your time there, you should grab some takeout from a nearby restaurant and set up a scenic picnic.

The Freemont Troll

The Fremont Troll is a large public sculpture in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. It’s located under the north end of the George Washington Memorial Bridge (aka the Aurora Bridge) at Troll Avenue N. and N. 36th Street. 

Notable for holding actual Volkswagen Beetle automobile in one of its hands, the 18 foot tall weird statue is made of durable material, including steel rebar and concrete. Climbing is encouraged.

Before the Fremont Troll sculpture was constructed, the freeway underpass was a popular dumping ground. Now it’s a famous Seattle landmark and a must-visit location for all Seattle tourists.

The people in Fremont like the troll so much that they celebrate its birthday, October 31, every year with a public festival called Trolloween.

But Fremont Troll is not without its critics. The sculpture was originally erected to deter homeless people from sleeping under the bridge as a result of a competition held by the Fremont Arts Council. Critics have called it an example of hostile architecture

Chihuly Garden And Glass

If you’re looking for more places where you can escape the buzz of the city, then you can never go wrong with a trip to Chihuly Garden and Glass. Here you can wander through the gorgeous garden and take in the phenomenal sculptures of Dale Chihuly. There’s also a theater, a cafe, a lecture space, and so much more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass is so popular that many people plan their trip to Seattle just to go to this attraction.

Museum Of Pop Culture

If you’re on the hunt for fun activities in Seattle, then it’s worth stopping by the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) for an afternoon. The architecture of the building is so vibrant and awesome, so you know that you’re in for a treat before you even step inside.

At MoPOP, you’ll be treated to dozens of interactive exhibits that excite your senses. You can revisit your favorite moments throughout pop history and learn more about their lasting impact on our culture.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is another one of the top Seattle historic landmarks that will help complete your trip. Pike Place Market may be classified as a farmers’ market, but it’s guaranteed to be unlike any other farmers’ market you’ve visited before. Not only is this place massive, but there’s such an impressive range of goods that you can buy.

From fresh seafood to comic books and handmade crafts, you’ll have a blast wandering through all of the stalls there.

Seattle Aquarium

What’s cooler than visiting a massive aquarium that’s located right by the sea? You can feel good about supporting the Seattle Aquarium because the staff is dedicated to educating the public and furthering marine research and conservation.

People of all ages will love watching the majestic sea creatures and touching them in the aquatic petting zoo area.

T-Mobile Park

You don’t even have to be a baseball fan to appreciate a couple of hours at T-Mobile Park. The lively atmosphere and top-notch ballpark food will put you in great spirits.

After watching a game here, you may turn into a Seattle Mariners fan and meet some new friends. All of your friends will be jealous when you share photos of this ballpark on your social media.

Discovery Park

Who says that you have to go to Miami or Cape Cod to see some stunning beaches? Discovery Park in Seattle is 534 acres of diverse landscapes and walking trails. Beaches, bluffs, forests, and prairies await you.

While you have 12 miles of walking trails to choose from, you have to make time to visit West Point so you can see the dreamy lighthouse.

Seattle Public Library – Central Library

You might be wondering why you should spend time at a library if you don’t plan on checking out any books. The reason why the Seattle Public Library is so famous is that the architecture is out of this world. The Central Library building is made with enough glass to cover up to five football fields.

There’s also a quaint gift shop inside as well, which means that you can find some amazing trinkets to commemorate your trip to Seattle.

The Triple Door

Are you someone who loves dressing up for a night out at the theater? Going to the Triple Door is a special experience because the shows are eclectic and the setting is intimate. You’ll even be able to eat while you marvel at the live talent.

You can keep an eye on their calendar so you’ll be able to time your trip during a show that interests you.

You Don’t Want to Miss Out Seeing These Famous Seattle Landmarks

Although there are tons of fantastic Seattle landmarks to choose from, your vacation may not be long enough for you to get to everything you’d like. If you prioritize checking out the places on this list, then you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time there.