Market Mornings to Waterfront Wonders

Brunch Hour

Pike Place Market is one of our favorite spots to start the day. It’s full of energy, character, and there’s so many delicious options to choose from. Pro tip: Go to the Market right when it opens, to beat the crowds and it will give you a bit more space for your kid to walk around. Before we dive into the food, we always stop for a photo with Rachel the Piggy Bank – it’s a must! Next stop, the iconic fishmongers. There’s something about tossing the fish up through the air that always brings a smile and a few giggles to my kids face. After soaking in the atmosphere, grab a warm breakfast from Piroshky Piroshky – a perfect little bite on the go while you wander through the vendor booths. On your way out, be sure to stop by Daily Dozen Doughnut Company for a warm, sugary treat after a successful morning out! If you’re looking for something refreshing, don’t miss Rachel’s Ginger Beer, where you can indulge in fruity nonalcoholic options or sip on a crisp Moscow mule. We even tried a ginger beer float, which was a fun twist on our sweet treat!

See and Do

With our stomachs full, we made our way to new Waterfront Park via the lovely Overlook Walk. This elevated path offers stunning views of the city and Puget Sound, and plenty of space to take in the view as a family.

Seattle Aquarium Jacky Danyluk

Our first stop once we reach the waterfront was the new sea-life-themed playground on Pier 58, which features a jellyfish climbing tower. Right next door is the Seattle Aquarium and the new Ocean Pavilion with color fish, which always captivates my toddler. Continuing our adventure, we enjoyed walking along the vibrant piers and took time to admire the art installations. For even more excitement, we experienced the high-tech flying theater ride, Wings Over Washington, which takes you on an exhilarating journey across the state’s most stunning sights. For an indoor activity, head over to Seattle Art Museum. On Saturday they host Family Saturday, which features activities that include storytelling, art making, gallery tours, performances, and movement workshops.

Dinner Time

As the sun began to set, a favorite stop for dinner is Ivar’s Acres of Clams. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant features a kids’ menu that comes with a coloring page—perfect for keeping little hands busy while we wait for our food. I am a fan of their legendary true cod fish and chips, while my child enthusiastically enjoys a gooey grilled cheese with fries. Afterward, we stroll over to the newly opened Molly Moon’s at the Pioneer Square Boat Landing or Hellenika in Pike Place Market to pick up a scoop of ice cream. The location right by the water creates a beautiful backdrop as we wrap up an exciting day.

Interactive learning in the U District

Brunch Hour

Burke Museum Kristin Gillespie

Inside the Burke Museum, we like eating Native American food at Off the Rez Café. My kids love the crispy fry bread with savory (pulled pork barbecue with slaw is Simon’s recommendation) or sweet (strawberry with extra powdered sugar, says Nikhil) toppings.

See and Do

We’re big fans of the Burke Museum. There’s an amazing amount to learn about in one space, from biology to paleontology to Native American culture and art. Be sure to peek into the windows to see scientists at work—you might witness an archeologist uncovering a tooth from a T-Rex, or a biologist examining hummingbird wings under a microscope. Simon likes the totem poles and the Chinook Guests from the Great River art installation. On the University of Washington campus, visit the impressive collection of contemporary works at the Henry Art Gallery and the gothic and grandiose Suzzallo Library, with its stained-glass windows, carved-wood trim, and ornate chandeliers. My children are in awe of this place—“this is the real Hogwarts,” whispered Simon, on a recent visit.

Courtesy Hello Robin

University Village is a great stop for shopping and snacking. Nikhil and Simon like Din Tai Fung for their soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) and garlic string beans, and Hello Robin for gigantic cookies. And Fireworks Gallery has an eclectic mix of local artisan goods and tchotchkes. End the afternoon at nearby Gas Works Park to explore the cool remains of the Seattle Gas Light Company and head up Kite Hill for an incredible view of Lake Union and downtown.

Dinner Time

We recently tried Pablo y Pablo and loved it. Their nachos were amazing with spiced chicken, seasoned beans, pickled veggies, and spicy peppers. Pam’s Kitchen, a Caribbean joint, is also great. We love their curries and extra-fluffy parathas. Cool off on warm days with a local dessert: popsicles! Seattle Pops serves ice pops in fun flavors—mango, passion fruit, coconut cream. The best part? You can dip it in chocolate and sprinkles. According to Nikhil, his cookies-and-cream pop “was the best thing ever!”

Active Adventures in the Chinatown-International District

Brunch Hour

For a quick breakfast or lunch, head to Hood Famous, which serves amazing Filipino food in its cafe. The quiche of the day (especially when it’s with longaniza sausage) and comforting chicken arroz caldo are delicious. The cheesecakes are a hit with Polaris (who likes the calamansi flavor) and Cyrus (who favors the halo halo), and we like the ube lattes. Or have lunch at goPoké—after eating their ahi poke bowls, the boys love their shave ice topped with pineapple Dole Whip.

See and Do

The C-ID offers lots of ways to engage kids. Cyrus attends “mini break” (breakdance) classes with the Massive Monkees at The Beacon dance school; these drop-in sessions are for ages 2–6, but they have classes for older kids. Polaris plays basketball at the International District/Chinatown Community Center, which features all kinds of fun activities open to the public, including family gym on Saturdays. He also goes to Seattle Bouldering Project, a climbing gym that sells day passes and rents climbing shoes—all experience levels are welcome!

Courtesy Musang

At our game store, Tabletop Village, which mostly carries Pokémon products, kids can play Pokémon TCG (Trading Card Game) and Pokémon GO. When the boys need a break, we’ll often stop by Oasis Tea Zone for Taiwanese-style bubble tea, waffle fries, and octopus takoyaki balls—they also have pinball machines! Around the corner, kids can play for hours on the machines at the Seattle Pinball Museum.

Dinner Time

The C-ID has so many great restaurants, and it’s also convenient to a lot of other great dining neighborhoods. It’s about a 20-minute walk to Ivar’s Fish Bar on Pier 54, which has great views of Elliott Bay. Or for a sit-down dinner in a lovely old house not too far away in Beacon Hill, we all enjoy the delicious Filipino fare at Musang. The short rib kare kare is a favorite with us grown-ups, while Polaris is crazy about the sinigang na lechon belly, and Cyrus usually goes for the crispy buttermilk-batter fried chicken with gravy.

Outdoor Fun in Ballard

Brunch Hour

On Sunday, the Ballard Farmers Market is a must. Our kids love the crepe stand, but you can get ramen, tacos, pizza, anything—it’s all delish. Other faves are the classic diner Hattie’s Hat and the funky Lockspot near the Ballard Locks, a favorite cafe of fishermen for 100 years—try the fish and chips, and homemade cinnamon rolls.

See and Do

Golden Gardens Park Alamy Danita Delmont

Market Street and Ballard Avenue are lined with indie shops, including teen favorite DIY Tea Lab, where you can customize your bubble tea, and adjacent Just Poke. Walk, bike, or pick up an e-scooter to explore the flat, paved Burke-Gilman Trail. Stop at the Ballard Locks and admire the botanical gardens, and watch for seals and jumping salmon. Continue around Shilshole Bay Marina to lovely Golden Gardens Park for a breezy beach walk. Watch for sea birds, turtles, and the occasional beaver. Teens love to roast marshmallows over bonfires—it’s one of only two local beaches that allow fires. Our kids like to stop by Un Bien for awesome Caribbean sandwiches or old-school Little Coney for a root beer float or a soft serve with sprinkles.

Dinner Time

Patxi’s Pizza is always great, but Sam’s Sushi Bar & Grill is my kids’ absolute favorite! We’ve been going since my 17-year-old was in a high chair, eating salmon nigiri with both hands. Try the dragon and crunchy rolls, or the salmon teriyaki.