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Seattle Named a Must-Visit for 2026

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Explore all the Festive Happenings

 Nick Hall Photography

25 Things ToDo in Seattle

 Seattle Aquarium Ocean Pavilion Seattle Aquarium
A graphic of a soccer field with Seattle’s Space Needle at the center. Text reads "LET'S PLAY SEA 26" on a purple background with subtle abstract designs.

FIFA WORLD CUP 26™ IS COMING TO THE EMERALD CITY!

We are thrilled to welcome the world to Seattle as a host city for this global event

One of the most anticipated events in sports, FIFA World Cup 26™ will be hosted across North America with games in the US, Mexico, and Canada.

Seattle is excited to host six matches from June 15-July 6.

Learn More >>

TRAVEL ADVISORY

Visitors traveling through Seattle by car during select weekends may encounter increased traffic during Interstate 5 upgrades. More information is available on our Travel Advisory page.

Text overlay on green fern leaves reads: "Visit Seattle, Mother Nature’s City—Where urban energy meets natural beauty." A green button below says "Discover More.

Music, Theatre, Museums, Festivals and More

A clay sculpture of a person wearing a bird-shaped hat, holding a small bird in their hands. The figure has a serious expression and a bird perched on their shoulder, and is dressed in casual clothing.
courtesy Bainbridge Island Museum of Art

Aisha Harrison: Porous Body

Nov 22-Feb 22, 2026
Porous Body, speaks to their focus on life cycles – both human and in nature, while experiencing the world through a mixed-race, queer, mothering lens.

More
A fleet of boats and yachts decorated with colorful, glowing holiday lights float on a dark body of water at night, creating a festive and vibrant scene.
courtesy Argosy Christmas Ship Festival

Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival

Nov 28-Dec 23
Join a dazzling holiday tradition as the Christmas Ship™ brings lights, music, and cheer to Puget Sound’s waterfront communities—an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience.

More
A ballet scene features a dancer in a mouse king costume brandishing a sword at a performer dressed as a nutcracker soldier on the floor, while a child bunny character tugs at the mouse king's tail.
courtesy Pacific Northwest Ballet

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

Nov 28-Dec 28
Experience the sparkle, dancing, music, and magic that only The Nutcracker can bring.

More
A man dressed as an elf stands in snow beside the large, festive word
courtesy The 5th Avenue Theatre

ELF - The Musical

Nov 28-Dec 28
Based on the 2003 holiday film favorite starring Will Ferrell, this musical adaptation is a hilarious, fish-out-of-water comedy that's full of heart, adventure, and holiday cheer.

More
A pair of hands holds a fish against a bright blue background. Large white text reads
courtesy Seattle Rep

Come From Away

Nov 28-Jan 4
Celebrating ten years since Seattle Rep premiered this heartwarming Broadway and international hit, a jubilant new staging by hometown director Brandon Ivie will welcome you back.

More
A person riding a motorcycle up a steep hill loses balance, causing the front wheel to lift off the ground. Dust and plants are visible around the motorcycle. The image is in black and white.
courtesy MOHAI

Kickstands Up! 125 Years of Motorcycling in the PNW

Nov 28-April 26, 2026
Explore 125 years of motorcycle culture with vintage bikes, gear, photos, and stories—celebrating racing, work, and adventure across the Pacific Northwest’s stunning terrain.

More
Stylized illustration of a lion’s face in brown on a yellow background with geometric patterns. Text reads: “Disney The Lion King, The World’s #1 Musical.”.
courtesy Paramount Theatre

Disney’s The Lion King

Dec 4-Jan 4
Feel the magic as The Lion King roars to life—stunning visuals, soaring music, and unforgettable storytelling in Broadway’s most breathtaking theatrical experience.

More
A cartoon pigeon wearing a green elf hat lies on a star atop a Christmas tree-shaped sign that reads,
courtesy Seattle Children's Theatre

The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!

Through Jan 4
Will the Pigeon join in the festivities, or will he run all the way to the North Pole in search of the greatest gift ever?

More
A colorful illuminated sculpture of a moose with large antlers decorated with blue birds and hanging green moss, set against a dark background. The sculpture glows with various shades of light.
courtesy Woodland Park Zoo

WildLanterns

Through Jan 18
Be inspired by the magic of the holiday season as you stroll along the Wonderland Trail past woodland creatures from the Pacific Northwest and marvel at our majestic Mount Rainier.

More
A blue, irregularly-shaped textile with small yellow patterns, a pink dot, a central rectangular design with horizontal stripes, tan ribbed edging on the left, and two small turquoise accents on the right edge.
courtesy Frye Art Museum

An Indigenous Present

Through Feb 14, 2026
An Indigenous Present celebrates an increasingly visible and expanding field of Indigenous contemporary art. Co-curated by artist Jeffrey Gibson.

More
A set of four stainless steel utensils—a knife, fork, tablespoon, and teaspoon—lies on a folded cream-colored paper with text, arranged neatly on a white surface.
courtesy National Nordic Museum

New Nordic: Cuisine, Aesthetics and Place

Through Mar 8, 2026
Explore nature-inspired cuisine and design, blending wild ingredients, local materials, and cultural trends through food, art, architecture, and objects from Nordic restaurants.

More
A monochrome illustration of a woman wearing a patterned kimono. She appears to be amid glowing orbs, with her head bowed and eyes closed. The background is dark, creating a contrast with the lights and her flowing attire.
Kuchibeni Suisen © Miyako Maki; MoPOP

Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form

Through Jan 4, 2026
Showcasing the evolution of visual storytelling, this exhibit features the largest-ever selection of original Asian comic artworks.

More
A room illuminated with intricate, symmetrical patterns in red and blue, projected from a central light source. The geometric designs cover the walls, ceiling, floor, and a raised platform in the center.
courtesy Seattle Asian Art Museum

Anila Quayyum Agha: Geometry of Light

Through Apr 19, 2026
Anila Quayyum Agha’s "Geometry of Light" features large-scale sculptural installations of laser-cut steel cubes that project intricate shadows, reflecting her experiences.

More
Minimalist art gallery with white walls displaying black and white abstract artworks. An open doorway in the center leads to a dark room with the phrase
courtesy Henry Art Gallery

Kameelah Janan Rasheed: we leak, we exceed

Through Apr 26, 2026
we leak, we exceed will draw together threads from physics, Black critical thought, and information theory to create an immersive environment.

More
A close-up of a woven cream-colored garment with fringe, adorned with patterned bands in red, tan, and brown, featuring circular and chevron designs, and fastened with a small white bone toggle.
courtesy Burke Museum

Woven In Wool: Resilience in Coast Salish Weaving

Through Aug 13, 2026
This exhibit showcases historical and contemporary woven items, exploring the weaving cycle from gathering materials to intricate designs, with insights from skilled weavers.

More
A large wooden troll sculpture stands in a forest, its hand resting on a tree. A child plays at its feet, surrounded by tall trees and green foliage.
The Six Forgotten Giants, Little Tilde. Copenhagen, Denmark. Courtesy Thomas Dambo.

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King

Ongoing
Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo has a worldwide following for his large, inventive trolls made from recycled materials. Now you can discover six new friends in the PNW!

More

<< Previous

Next >>
A clay sculpture of a person wearing a bird-shaped hat, holding a small bird in their hands. The figure has a serious expression and a bird perched on their shoulder, and is dressed in casual clothing.
courtesy Bainbridge Island Museum of Art

Aisha Harrison: Porous Body

Nov 22-Feb 22, 2026
Porous Body, speaks to their focus on life cycles – both human and in nature, while experiencing the world through a mixed-race, queer, mothering lens.

More
A fleet of boats and yachts decorated with colorful, glowing holiday lights float on a dark body of water at night, creating a festive and vibrant scene.
courtesy Argosy Christmas Ship Festival

Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival

Nov 28-Dec 23
Join a dazzling holiday tradition as the Christmas Ship™ brings lights, music, and cheer to Puget Sound’s waterfront communities—an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience.

More
A ballet scene features a dancer in a mouse king costume brandishing a sword at a performer dressed as a nutcracker soldier on the floor, while a child bunny character tugs at the mouse king's tail.
courtesy Pacific Northwest Ballet

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

Nov 28-Dec 28
Experience the sparkle, dancing, music, and magic that only The Nutcracker can bring.

More
A man dressed as an elf stands in snow beside the large, festive word
courtesy The 5th Avenue Theatre

ELF - The Musical

Nov 28-Dec 28
Based on the 2003 holiday film favorite starring Will Ferrell, this musical adaptation is a hilarious, fish-out-of-water comedy that's full of heart, adventure, and holiday cheer.

More
A pair of hands holds a fish against a bright blue background. Large white text reads
courtesy Seattle Rep

Come From Away

Nov 28-Jan 4
Celebrating ten years since Seattle Rep premiered this heartwarming Broadway and international hit, a jubilant new staging by hometown director Brandon Ivie will welcome you back.

More
A person riding a motorcycle up a steep hill loses balance, causing the front wheel to lift off the ground. Dust and plants are visible around the motorcycle. The image is in black and white.
courtesy MOHAI

Kickstands Up! 125 Years of Motorcycling in the PNW

Nov 28-April 26, 2026
Explore 125 years of motorcycle culture with vintage bikes, gear, photos, and stories—celebrating racing, work, and adventure across the Pacific Northwest’s stunning terrain.

More
Stylized illustration of a lion’s face in brown on a yellow background with geometric patterns. Text reads: “Disney The Lion King, The World’s #1 Musical.”.
courtesy Paramount Theatre

Disney’s The Lion King

Dec 4-Jan 4
Feel the magic as The Lion King roars to life—stunning visuals, soaring music, and unforgettable storytelling in Broadway’s most breathtaking theatrical experience.

More
A cartoon pigeon wearing a green elf hat lies on a star atop a Christmas tree-shaped sign that reads,
courtesy Seattle Children's Theatre

The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!

Through Jan 4
Will the Pigeon join in the festivities, or will he run all the way to the North Pole in search of the greatest gift ever?

More
A colorful illuminated sculpture of a moose with large antlers decorated with blue birds and hanging green moss, set against a dark background. The sculpture glows with various shades of light.
courtesy Woodland Park Zoo

WildLanterns

Through Jan 18
Be inspired by the magic of the holiday season as you stroll along the Wonderland Trail past woodland creatures from the Pacific Northwest and marvel at our majestic Mount Rainier.

More
A blue, irregularly-shaped textile with small yellow patterns, a pink dot, a central rectangular design with horizontal stripes, tan ribbed edging on the left, and two small turquoise accents on the right edge.
courtesy Frye Art Museum

An Indigenous Present

Through Feb 14, 2026
An Indigenous Present celebrates an increasingly visible and expanding field of Indigenous contemporary art. Co-curated by artist Jeffrey Gibson.

More
A set of four stainless steel utensils—a knife, fork, tablespoon, and teaspoon—lies on a folded cream-colored paper with text, arranged neatly on a white surface.
courtesy National Nordic Museum

New Nordic: Cuisine, Aesthetics and Place

Through Mar 8, 2026
Explore nature-inspired cuisine and design, blending wild ingredients, local materials, and cultural trends through food, art, architecture, and objects from Nordic restaurants.

More
A monochrome illustration of a woman wearing a patterned kimono. She appears to be amid glowing orbs, with her head bowed and eyes closed. The background is dark, creating a contrast with the lights and her flowing attire.
Kuchibeni Suisen © Miyako Maki; MoPOP

Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form

Through Jan 4, 2026
Showcasing the evolution of visual storytelling, this exhibit features the largest-ever selection of original Asian comic artworks.

More
A room illuminated with intricate, symmetrical patterns in red and blue, projected from a central light source. The geometric designs cover the walls, ceiling, floor, and a raised platform in the center.
courtesy Seattle Asian Art Museum

Anila Quayyum Agha: Geometry of Light

Through Apr 19, 2026
Anila Quayyum Agha’s "Geometry of Light" features large-scale sculptural installations of laser-cut steel cubes that project intricate shadows, reflecting her experiences.

More
Minimalist art gallery with white walls displaying black and white abstract artworks. An open doorway in the center leads to a dark room with the phrase
courtesy Henry Art Gallery

Kameelah Janan Rasheed: we leak, we exceed

Through Apr 26, 2026
we leak, we exceed will draw together threads from physics, Black critical thought, and information theory to create an immersive environment.

More
A close-up of a woven cream-colored garment with fringe, adorned with patterned bands in red, tan, and brown, featuring circular and chevron designs, and fastened with a small white bone toggle.
courtesy Burke Museum

Woven In Wool: Resilience in Coast Salish Weaving

Through Aug 13, 2026
This exhibit showcases historical and contemporary woven items, exploring the weaving cycle from gathering materials to intricate designs, with insights from skilled weavers.

More
A large wooden troll sculpture stands in a forest, its hand resting on a tree. A child plays at its feet, surrounded by tall trees and green foliage.
The Six Forgotten Giants, Little Tilde. Copenhagen, Denmark. Courtesy Thomas Dambo.

Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King

Ongoing
Danish environmental artist Thomas Dambo has a worldwide following for his large, inventive trolls made from recycled materials. Now you can discover six new friends in the PNW!

More

<< Previous

Next >>

Banner with "Visit Seattle" logo, large text saying "Spread the Love," a button reading "Support Seattle’s Small Businesses," and logos for Seattle Bank and Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area.

Plan Your Trip

A pizza topped with arugula sits on a wooden table next to a bowl of pasta with a spoon. A glass is nearby, and a pair of sunglasses is placed beside the dishes.

Food and Drink

It’s hard to beat the Pacific Northwest when it comes to fresh ingredients, forward-thinking chefs, and an unparalleled dedication to all things local.

More
A modern hotel room features a large bed with a teal and white color scheme. The room has a textured wooden accent wall, a comfortable seating area by a window with city views, and a sleek desk with a lamp.

Hotels & Accommodations

You won’t be left sleepless in Seattle.

More
Two light rail trains at a station platform, one on each side. Overhead signs read

Getting Around

Seattle is easy to navigate with a wide variety of smart transportation options.

More
Cover of the

Maps & Guides

Your one-stop resource for Seattle trip planning and on-the-ground information.

More
A pizza topped with arugula sits on a wooden table next to a bowl of pasta with a spoon. A glass is nearby, and a pair of sunglasses is placed beside the dishes.

Food and Drink

It’s hard to beat the Pacific Northwest when it comes to fresh ingredients, forward-thinking chefs, and an unparalleled dedication to all things local.

More
A modern hotel room features a large bed with a teal and white color scheme. The room has a textured wooden accent wall, a comfortable seating area by a window with city views, and a sleek desk with a lamp.

Hotels & Accommodations

You won’t be left sleepless in Seattle.

More
Two light rail trains at a station platform, one on each side. Overhead signs read

Getting Around

Seattle is easy to navigate with a wide variety of smart transportation options.

More
Cover of the

Maps & Guides

Your one-stop resource for Seattle trip planning and on-the-ground information.

More

<< Previous

Next >>

Upcoming Events

Window on Washington Waters

Ongoing

This 120,000-gallon exhibit greets you as you take your first steps into the Seattle Aquarium. Filled with hundreds …

Event Website

Seattle Center Winterfest

Now through 12/31/2025

Throughout the five weeks of Winterfest, those in search of uplifting seasonal spirit or delightful diversion will find …

Event Website

Bigtooth

12/23/2025

Bigtooth takes the stage at Sea Monster Lounge.

Event Website

Calder at SAM

Ongoing

Calder at SAM celebrates the life, legacy, and work of iconic American artist Alexander Calder.

Event Website

Deities and Demons: Supernatural in Japanese Art

Ongoing

Japanese folklore, Shinto (an indigenous religion that reveres nature), and Buddhism have furnished fascinating subjects and ideas for …

Event Website

Docent-Led Museum Tours

Ongoing

On the third Friday of each month, dive deeper into Nordic culture, art, and history with a guided …

Event Website

Winterfest Campus Lighting

Now through 12/31/2025

Pop by Seattle Center after dark and delight in the wonderland of light!

Event Website

Damien Jurado’s December Residency

12/28/2025

Damien Jurado will perform live at The Tractor.

Event Website

Culture is Living

Ongoing

Cultural objects at the Burke Museum aren’t tucked away on shelves. They are alive, embodying the knowledge, language, …

Event Website
View All Upcoming Events

Featured Blog Posts

Colorful fireworks burst around the Space Needle at night, lighting up the sky above a crowd of people. A decorated Christmas tree and illuminated water fountains are also visible in the festive scene.
Credit Alabastro Photograpy

2025 Seattle Gift Guide: Local Gifts & Unique Experiences

Start checking everyone off your list. Whether you’re shopping from afar or planning a trip to experience Seattle in person, surprise your friends and family with these local goods and experiences.

More
A white and blue monorail train passes through a futuristic, metallic building with curved surfaces under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. People stand near colorful signage at the entrance.

Exploring Seattle’s Surroundings Without a Car

Seattle's ample and far-reaching transportation options make it easy to explore, even if you wind up in a neighborhood you weren’t expecting to.

More
Seattle skyline view from the water on a clear day, featuring the Space Needle on the left, tall downtown buildings, and a large white cruise ship docked near the shore, with blue sky and sea in the foreground.
Macy Williams

A Teen’s Guide for a Trip to Seattle

Macy fulfilled her dream of visiting Seattle by attending the National Journalism Convention with her journalism department, where she explored the Emerald City.

More
Thousands of fans fill the seats at Lumen Field on a sunny day in Seattle. The bright green turf with players in the center of the field fills the middle of the image.
Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field @stuffedsuitcase

The Ultimate Seattle Sports Fan Guide

Whether you’re a local looking to jump into the Seattle sports spirit, or you’re a visitor hoping to catch a great game, here’s a fan guide to help you plan your visit.

More
A person with red-painted nails holds a cocktail glass filled with a frothy, tan beverage. The drink surface is adorned with intricate brown swirls and a star anise garnish. The person wears a sparkly outfit and gold jewelry.
The Fonté Espresso Martini from The Fonté Bar. Photo credit: Hannah Corbin

Enjoy an Espresso Martini in the Country’s Coffee Capital

Check out this list for some of the best spots in town to sip this classic drink.

More
Space Needle with the city sparkling behind at dusk
Photo: Andrew Jacob Media

25 Things To Do in Seattle in 2025

From vibrant arts & culture to worldclass sporting events, new attractions, and lively celebrations—the Emerald City is buzzing with experiences all year long.

More
An aerial view of a baseball game at a stadium with a partially open roof. The field is bright green, with players positioned around the bases. The stands are filled with spectators, and a city skyline is visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

T-Mobile Park's 2025 Food Lineup

Mariners Opening Day has arrived, and Seattle is stepping up to the plate when it comes to game day eats. Check out this roundup of some of our favorite bites and where you can find them!

More
A woman in a teal dress stands on a wood platform in front of a mural painted on the wall behind her that reads
Seattle Mural at Block 41 Lily Yu

Discover the enchanting charm of Seattle, Washington - fondly known as the Emerald City!

Follow along with Lily Yu, a Deaf travel blogger, as she explores the Emerald City and discovers some of the best attractions, restaurants, and photo spots to check out while visiting.

More

<< Previous

Next >>
Colorful fireworks burst around the Space Needle at night, lighting up the sky above a crowd of people. A decorated Christmas tree and illuminated water fountains are also visible in the festive scene.
Credit Alabastro Photograpy

2025 Seattle Gift Guide: Local Gifts & Unique Experiences

Start checking everyone off your list. Whether you’re shopping from afar or planning a trip to experience Seattle in person, surprise your friends and family with these local goods and experiences.

More
A white and blue monorail train passes through a futuristic, metallic building with curved surfaces under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. People stand near colorful signage at the entrance.

Exploring Seattle’s Surroundings Without a Car

Seattle's ample and far-reaching transportation options make it easy to explore, even if you wind up in a neighborhood you weren’t expecting to.

More
Seattle skyline view from the water on a clear day, featuring the Space Needle on the left, tall downtown buildings, and a large white cruise ship docked near the shore, with blue sky and sea in the foreground.
Macy Williams

A Teen’s Guide for a Trip to Seattle

Macy fulfilled her dream of visiting Seattle by attending the National Journalism Convention with her journalism department, where she explored the Emerald City.

More
Thousands of fans fill the seats at Lumen Field on a sunny day in Seattle. The bright green turf with players in the center of the field fills the middle of the image.
Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field @stuffedsuitcase

The Ultimate Seattle Sports Fan Guide

Whether you’re a local looking to jump into the Seattle sports spirit, or you’re a visitor hoping to catch a great game, here’s a fan guide to help you plan your visit.

More
A person with red-painted nails holds a cocktail glass filled with a frothy, tan beverage. The drink surface is adorned with intricate brown swirls and a star anise garnish. The person wears a sparkly outfit and gold jewelry.
The Fonté Espresso Martini from The Fonté Bar. Photo credit: Hannah Corbin

Enjoy an Espresso Martini in the Country’s Coffee Capital

Check out this list for some of the best spots in town to sip this classic drink.

More
Space Needle with the city sparkling behind at dusk
Photo: Andrew Jacob Media

25 Things To Do in Seattle in 2025

From vibrant arts & culture to worldclass sporting events, new attractions, and lively celebrations—the Emerald City is buzzing with experiences all year long.

More
An aerial view of a baseball game at a stadium with a partially open roof. The field is bright green, with players positioned around the bases. The stands are filled with spectators, and a city skyline is visible in the background under a clear blue sky.

T-Mobile Park's 2025 Food Lineup

Mariners Opening Day has arrived, and Seattle is stepping up to the plate when it comes to game day eats. Check out this roundup of some of our favorite bites and where you can find them!

More
A woman in a teal dress stands on a wood platform in front of a mural painted on the wall behind her that reads
Seattle Mural at Block 41 Lily Yu

Discover the enchanting charm of Seattle, Washington - fondly known as the Emerald City!

Follow along with Lily Yu, a Deaf travel blogger, as she explores the Emerald City and discovers some of the best attractions, restaurants, and photo spots to check out while visiting.

More

<< Previous

Next >>
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Explore Seattle's Diverse Neighborhoods

Explore All Seattle Neighborhoods

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Follow along for even more travel inspiration as we show you the businesses, locations, and opportunities that make the Emerald City so special. Find us @visitseattle.

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Good things are happening in Seattle – join us in celebrating the stories of resiliency, hope and optimism that are taking place all around our city and region every day.

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