The arboretum is the result of a collaboration between UW, which manages the tree and plant collections, and the City of Seattle, which owns the land and keeps up the trails, benches, and buildings. Start at the Graham Visitor Center and walk along Azalea Way to the stunning Japanese gardens. More adventurous tourists might want to explore the arboretum by kayak or canoe—an excellent strategy if you're looking for wildlife like ducks, beavers, turtles, and even bald eagles.

Seattle's aquarium features an array of animals from otters and seals to birds (and fish of all sizes), daily mammal feedings, and an amazing underwater dome that gives you a 360-degree fish-eye perspective on the mysterious activities of the Puget Sound.

Overlooking the Puget Sound and spanning 534 acres, Discovery Park features two miles of protected coastline, meadows, and meandering hiking trails for exploring, plus plenty of viewpoints for picnics. You can actually forage for wild blackberries here during warm summers.

You’ll find the artefacts of every definitive moment in Seattle’s history, from pre-colonial times to near-future, at this grand museum overlooking the South Bay of Lake Union.

OPENING HOURS

Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm

First Thursday of the Month: 10am-8pm

Pike Place Market gets most of the attention in Seattle, but since its opening in 2010, Melrose Market has gained a reputation as a locals' spot for specialty food items. Both are well worth a visit.