Seattle is one of those cities where kids can have just as much fun as adults, if not more. From aquariums filled with sea life to parks where they can run wild, it blends hands-on learning with pure adventure.
Add in fresh air, ferry rides, and plenty of places to grab a snack, and you have the makings of a family trip that actually feels relaxing.
Whether you are a parent, a grandparent, or simply traveling with young ones in tow, here are the best places to explore with kids in Seattle.
1. Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium sits right on the waterfront, which already makes it a fun place to visit before you even step inside.
Kids can press their faces against tanks filled with colorful fish, watch sea otters tumble and play, and meet the giant Pacific octopus up close.
The touch pools let little hands feel starfish and sea cucumbers, while the underwater dome surrounds you with salmon, rockfish, and rays gliding past.
The aquarium is great for younger kids because it mixes entertainment with learning. Plan to visit in the morning, then walk along the waterfront for lunch and maybe a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel.
2. Woodland Park Zoo
Woodland Park Zoo is one of the most respected zoos in the country, and for good reason. The habitats are designed to be as natural as possible, so you feel like you’re stepping into the animals’ world.
Kids can watch giraffes stretch their necks for leaves, see penguins splash around in cool water, and listen to lions roaring in the distance.
The zoo also has a dedicated Zoomazium play area for toddlers and preschoolers. In summer, shaded picnic spots and open grassy areas make it easy to take breaks without leaving the grounds.
3. Discovery Park
For families that like to mix city sightseeing with a taste of nature, Discovery Park is a gem. It is the largest green space in Seattle, with trails that lead through forests, across meadows, and down to sandy beaches.
The West Point Lighthouse is a fun destination for a walk, and kids can skip stones into Puget Sound or hunt for shells.
This is also a great spot for kite flying on breezy days. Bring snacks, because it is the kind of place you’ll end up staying longer than planned.
4. Pacific Science Center
The Pacific Science Center is an interactive museum designed to spark curiosity.
Kids can experiment with hands-on exhibits, walk through a butterfly house, and see live science demonstrations.
The planetarium shows are short enough to hold young attention spans but still impressive for older kids.
There is also an IMAX theater for nature documentaries and family-friendly films. If you’re traveling with school-aged kids, this is a must-visit, especially on rainy Seattle days.
5. Seattle Children’s Museum
Located at Seattle Center, the Children’s Museum is built entirely for imaginative play. Different themed areas let kids pretend they are grocery shopping, piloting a plane, or exploring an art studio.
The museum caters mostly to children under 10, with plenty of seating for parents to relax while still keeping an eye on the action.
After your visit, you can explore the Seattle Center grounds, which often host live performances and seasonal events.
6. Gas Works Park
Gas Works Park is one of the most unique open spaces in Seattle.
Built on the site of a former gasification plant, it now features rolling green hills, picnic areas, and incredible views of Lake Union and the city skyline.
The large hill is a favorite for kite flying, and in summer, it’s a great place to watch boats and seaplanes.
The industrial structures left behind are like a giant sculpture garden, giving kids plenty of spots to explore. It’s perfect for a casual afternoon when you just want fresh air and open space.
7. Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder
Visiting the Ballard Locks is like a mini field trip into engineering and biology. Kids can watch boats move between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union.
The fish ladder is fascinating during salmon migration season, with windows that let you watch the fish swimming upstream.
There’s also a small botanical garden nearby for a short, easy walk after exploring the locks.
8. Seattle Great Wheel
The Seattle Great Wheel is one of the largest observation wheels in the United States.
It sits right on the waterfront, so every rotation gives you sweeping views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the city skyline.
Each enclosed cabin is climate-controlled, making it a comfortable ride no matter the season.
For kids, the gentle pace of the ride is exciting without being overwhelming, and the views give them a sense of how the city fits together.
9. Olympic Sculpture Park
While an art park might not sound like a kid magnet, Olympic Sculpture Park is actually perfect for families. It’s free, open year-round, and offers plenty of space to run around.
The giant sculptures double as visual puzzles for kids to figure out, and the park’s location on the waterfront adds to the experience.
Pack a picnic or grab snacks from a nearby café, then spend an hour wandering the paths and taking in both the art and the view.
10. Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
Sometimes the best part of an outing is getting there. A ferry ride to Bainbridge Island is a simple adventure that feels like a big one.
The ride takes about 35 minutes each way, and kids can stand on deck watching for seals, seabirds, and even whales if you are lucky.
Once on Bainbridge, you can explore the small shops, grab ice cream, and take short hikes on forested trails. It is an easy half-day trip that combines city and nature in one package.
Tips for Visiting Seattle with Kids
- Plan around energy levels: Start the day with the most active attractions, like the zoo or Discovery Park, and save calmer activities, like the aquarium or sculpture park, for the afternoon.
- Use public transport: Seattle’s light rail and buses are kid-friendly and help you avoid parking hassles.
- Pack for weather changes: Even in summer, mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. Bring layers, especially for outdoor attractions.
- Snack often: Seattle has no shortage of family-friendly cafés and food stalls, making it easy to keep kids fueled.
Best Time for Families to Visit
Summer is the easiest season for family trips, with long daylight hours and outdoor festivals almost every weekend.
Spring is beautiful with cherry blossoms, while fall offers colorful leaves and fewer crowds.
Winter can be rainy, but indoor attractions like the Pacific Science Center and the Children’s Museum make it a viable option year-round.
Why Seattle Works for Families
Seattle balances big-city experiences with access to nature in a way few cities can.
You can spend the morning exploring tide pools, the afternoon in a museum, and still have time for a sunset picnic in a park.
The variety keeps both kids and adults engaged, while the city’s laid-back vibe makes travel less stressful.
Whether you are here for a weekend or a longer stay, these kid-friendly spots make Seattle a place your family will talk about long after you’ve gone home.
