22+ Things to do in Seattle with Kids

May 12, 2025

Seattle is one of those magical cities that somehow manages to be both exciting and easygoing, making it an ideal destination for families with plenty of things to do in Seattle with kids. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or planning an extended stay, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in the Emerald City.

From hands-on museums and outdoor playgrounds to ferry rides across Puget Sound, Seattle blends big-city attractions with breathtaking natural beauty.

You can spend the morning watching fish fly at Pike Place Market, the afternoon exploring the Pacific Science Center, and the evening gazing at city lights from the Iconic Space Needle—all while keeping the kids entertained.

If your little ones love animals, they’ll have a blast at the Seattle Aquarium or spotting sea lions at the Ballard Locks. Have active kids? Seattle’s parks, like Discovery Park and Green Lake, offer plenty of space to run, climb, and explore. And if you happen to visit on a rainy day (which, let’s be honest, is likely), don’t worry––Seattle is packed with kid-friendly activities that will keep everyone happy indoors.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best things to do in Seattle with kids by location, from the Seattle Center Complex to Bainbridge Island, plus a few insider tips to make your trip even smoother. Let’s dive in!

Why Seattle is a Great Place for Kids

Seattle is one of the best cities in the United States for families, thanks to its unique mix of outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, and kid-friendly attractions. Whether your child is an aspiring scientist, an animal lover, or just loves a good playground, Seattle has something for everyone.

A City Built for Exploration

Seattle is a city that invites curiosity. There are interactive exhibits at nearly every turn, from the Pacific Science Center to the Museum of Flight. Even a simple walk through Pike Place Market can become an adventure, with fish flying through the air and street performers entertaining the crowds.

Plenty of Outdoor Space to Run and Play

Seattle isn’t just about museums––it’s also a perfect place to get outside. Families can explore tide pools at Golden Gardens, climb driftwood at Discovery Park, or watch boats navigate the Ballard Locks. Even in the summer months, the city’s mild temperatures make outdoor play comfortable.

Animal Encounters, Big and Small

From sea otters at the Seattle Aquarium to tigers at Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle is packed with opportunities for kids to see animals up close. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale or dolphin on the ferry to Bainbridge Island!

Easy to Get Around

Seattle’s light rail and walkable neighborhoods make it easy to explore with kids in tow. Many of the city’s top attractions––like the Seattle Center Complex, Olympic Sculpture Park, and Chihuly Garden––are within walking distance of each other, making it possible to see multiple highlights in a single day.

Great for All Ages

One of the best parts about Seattle? It’s fun for kids of all ages. Little kids will love the Seattle Children’s Museum, while older kids can dive into music history at MoPOP Museum or try out a flight simulator at the Museum of Flight. Whether you’re traveling with a toddler or a teenager, you’ll find plenty of family activities to keep everyone engaged.

Get the Most of Seattle with the Seattle CityPASS

If you plan on hitting multiple attractions in Seattle, Seattle CityPASS is hands-down the best deal for families. This pass saves you up to 50% on admission to some of Seattle’s most iconic attractions, making it an easy way to experience the city’s top kid-friendly spots without overspending.

With CityPASS, you get access to:

The Iconic Space Needle: Two visits in 24 hours, so you can see the city by day and by night.
Seattle Aquarium: Watch playful otters, touch sea urchins, and explore the underwater dome.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Perfect for older kids who love music, sci-fi, or video games.
Woodland Park Zoo or Chihuly Garden and Glass: Choose between wild animals or dazzling glass art.
Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour or Museum of Flight: See the city from the water or take an aviation adventure.

Why families love CityPASS:

Saves money: Pay once and get discounted entry to multiple attractions.
Skip the lines: Less waiting means more time for fun things.
Perfect for kids of all ages: Whether you’ve got a toddler or a teen, there’s something for everyone.
Gives you flexibility: You have nine days to use your pass, so you don’t have to rush.

Want to grab one for your trip? Get your Seattle CityPASS here!

Now that you’ve got your CityPASS ready, let’s explore the best things to do with kids in Seattle––starting with the family-friendly attractions at Seattle Center!

Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Seattle Center

Pacific Science Center

If your kids love hands-on learning, the Pacific Science Center is a must-visit. It’s packed with interactive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to space travel.

Younger kids will love the butterfly house, while older kids can explore the planetarium or try a VR experience. Plus, the on-site IMAX theater plays nature documentaries and Hollywood films on one of the biggest screens in the city.

Ideal for: Little kids, older kids, and science lovers
Time needed: At least 3-4 hours
Bonus tip: If your kids are early risers, head here when it opens to beat the crowds.
Website: Pacific Science Center

Seattle Children’s Museum

Designed for younger kids, the Seattle Children’s Museum is a space where kids can play, explore, and use their imaginations. The exhibits include a pretend marketplace, a kid-sized theater, and a hands-on art studio. It’s the perfect place for kids to run around after a morning at the Iconic Space Needle.

Ideal for: Little kids (ages 1-8)
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: The museum is inside the Seattle Center Armory, which has a food court––a great option for a quick bite before heading to your next stop.
Website: Seattle Children’s Museum

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

For older kids and teens, the MoPOP Museum is one of the most exciting places in Seattle. This isn’t your typical museum—expect vibrant colors, larger-than-life exhibits, and interactive music zones where kids can play instruments and record songs. If your family loves music, sci-fi, or video games, this is a must-visit.

Ideal for: Older kids, teens, and pop culture fans
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Bonus tip: Don’t skip the independent shops inside––great for grabbing quirky souvenirs.
Website: Museum of Pop Culture

Chihuly Garden and Glass

You might not think a glass museum would be great for kids, but this one is surprisingly fun. The giant, colorful glass sculptures look like something out of a fairytale, and the outdoor garden area is a perfect place to let little ones explore.

Ideal for: All ages, especially those who love art
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: Try to visit on a clear day––the colors of the glass pop even more in natural sunlight.
Website: Chihuly Garden and Glass

Visit Woodland Park Zoo

If your kids love animals, Woodland Park Zoo is a must-visit while in Seattle. This well-maintained zoo is home to over 900 animals from around the world, including giraffes, penguins, tigers, and even red pandas. The enclosures are spacious and naturalistic, making it feel more like a walk through different ecosystems than a traditional zoo.

While younger kids will be fascinated by the up-close animal encounters, older kids might not find it as thrilling—unless they’re really into wildlife. That said, it’s still a great way to spend a few hours outdoors, and the zoo’s winding trails make for an easy, stroller-friendly walk.

Ideal for: Younger kids and animal lovers
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Bonus tip: If you want a bigger zoo experience, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma is worth the drive. It has an attached aquarium for even more wildlife fun.
Website: Woodland Park Zoo

Seattle Center Playground

Right next to the Children’s Museum, this huge playground is one of the best free kid-friendly activities in Seattle. There are plenty of climbing structures, slides, and swings, making it the perfect stop to let kids burn off some energy.

Ideal for: Little kids and active explorers
Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Bonus tip: Bring a coffee from the nearby Seattle Center Armory and let the kids play while you take a breather.

The Iconic Space Needle

Of course, no trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Iconic Space Needle. Kids will love the glass floor, where they can look down at the city below. The rotating glass benches on the observation deck add an extra thrill, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Olympic National Park.

Ideal for: All ages
Time needed: 1 hour
Bonus tip: Visit first thing in the morning or around sunset for the best views.
Website: Space Needle

Near Pike Place Market

Watch the Fish Toss at Pike Place Market

One of the best things for kids at Pike Place Market is watching the famous fish toss at the seafood stalls. The fishmongers at Pike Place Fish Market love to put on a show, tossing giant salmon through the air while calling out in unison. It’s loud, lively, and a fun little stop for kids before moving on to the next activity. Better yet, take a tour through the entirety of Pike Place when you’re done!

Ideal for: All ages
Time needed: 10-15 minutes
Bonus tip: Don’t buy fish here unless you’re ready to splurge––it’s pricey! Instead, grab snacks from nearby food vendors.

Try Samples at Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

Credit: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese via Instagram

Right across from Pike Place Market, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is one of the best places to stop for a quick snack. Kids can watch cheese being made through the glass windows, and there are usually free samples to try. If you’re hungry, grab a bowl of their famous mac and cheese––it’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a quick bite.

Ideal for: Kids who love snacks and food experiences
Time needed: 10-15 minutes
Bonus tip: If you’re visiting during peak hours, be prepared for a wait––it’s popular!
Website: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

Visit the Seattle Aquarium

A short walk from Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium is one of the best places to take kids in the city. It’s not huge, but it’s packed with interactive exhibits and marine animals. Kids can touch sea stars, watch the playful otters, and walk through the Underwater Dome, where sharks and fish swim all around you. They recently opened a second building, making the experience even better.

Ideal for: Kids of all ages
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
Bonus tip: Get there early––it can get crowded by midday.
Website: Seattle Aquarium

Take a Ride on The Seattle Great Wheel

Sitting on the edge of Seattle’s waterfront, the Seattle Great Wheel is one of the most fun things for kids who love heights. The gondolas are enclosed, so you don’t have to worry about the wind, and the slow rotation gives you stunning views of Puget Sound. It’s a great way to see the city from above without the lines at the Space Needle.

Ideal for: All ages, especially kids who love ferris wheels
Time needed: 20-30 minutes
Bonus tip: If you visit at night, the wheel lights up in different colors for an extra cool effect.
Website: The Seattle Great Wheel

Hop on an Argosy Cruises Boat Ride

For a great way to explore Seattle’s waterways, hop on an Argosy Cruises boat tour. These family-friendly tours take you through Elliott Bay and Lake Union, offering the best views of the skyline. Some tours even include a stop at the Ballard Locks, where kids can watch boats move between Puget Sound and Lake Washington.

Ideal for: Kids who love boats and being on the water
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: Book in advance if visiting during the summer months––tours fill up fast!
Website: Argosy Cruises Boat Ride

Best Parks in Seattle for Kids

Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest green space, Discovery Park, is a great place for families who love nature. Located on the Pacific side of Seattle, this park has beach access, tide pools, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s one of the best places to explore Seattle’s natural beauty, but be prepared––the parking situation is tricky. You’ll likely need to walk up to a mile to get to the beach, so plan accordingly if you have little ones.

Ideal for: Kids who love to explore, older kids, and nature lovers
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Bonus tip: Visit during low tide to check out the saltwater tide pools––you might spot tiny crabs, sea anemones, or starfish!

Green Lake Park

For a mix of playgrounds, walking trails, and water activities, Green Lake is a perfect place to take kids. The 3-mile loop around the lake is great for strollers, scooters, and bikes, and there are plenty of picnic areas for a great time outdoors. In the summer months, families can rent wooden boats or paddleboards for a little on-the-water fun.

Ideal for: All ages, especially families who love outdoor activities
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: If you visit in summer, bring swimsuits––the wading pool is a great way for kids to cool off.

Golden Gardens Park

If you’re looking for beachy vibes, head to Golden Gardens. Located in Ballard, this park has one of the best beaches in Seattle. Kids can play in the sand, explore the driftwood, and even watch boats sail by. It’s also a great spot to catch the sunset over Puget Sound.

Ideal for: Beach-loving families, little kids, and older kids who love to explore
Time needed: 1-3 hours
Bonus tip: Bring a picnic or stop by a food truck in Ballard before heading over.

Carkeek Park

Another great park on the north side of Seattle, Carkeek Park is a fun beach spot with train tracks running through it––which means kids can watch big trains pass by from a pedestrian bridge. It’s a favorite place for little ones who love loud noises and transportation. There’s also a playground, hiking trails, and a chance to explore the beach at low tide.

Ideal for: Train-loving kids, little kids, and families who love to explore
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: The water here is cold, but if you visit on a warm day, brave kids can splash around in the shallows.

Volunteer Park

Located in Capitol Hill, Volunteer Park is one of the biggest parks in Seattle and a great place to spend an afternoon. It has a huge playground for kids of all ages, a baby wading pool, and plenty of green space for running around. If your kids love art or nature, the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory are right next door.

Ideal for: Little kids, older kids, and families who want a mix of playground time and culture
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: On warm summer days, bring water guns––this is a favorite place for kids to have friendly water fights.

Magnuson Park

Seattle’s second-largest park, Magnuson Park, is another fantastic option for families. It has one of the best playgrounds in the city, featuring giant climbing structures, slides, and swings. It’s also located right on Lake Washington, making it a great spot for boating, swimming, and picnic lunches.

Ideal for: Active kids who love climbing, running, and playing near the water
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Bonus tip: If you visit in summer months, check out the Judkins Skate Park nearby for extra fun.

More Fun Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Watch the Boats at the Ballard Locks

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (also called the Ballard Locks) is a fascinating place where boats move between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. Kids love watching the water levels rise and fall as boats pass through, and during salmon season (summer and early fall), you can see fish jumping up the fish ladder.

Ideal for: Kids who love boats and nature
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: Visit on a clear day for the best views of the water.
Website: Ballard Locks

Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island

One of the most exciting (and budget-friendly) adventures in Seattle is taking a boat ride on the Washington State Ferryto Bainbridge Island. The ferry ride itself is a great time for kids––you might even spot whales or dolphins along the way! Once on the island, families can explore independent shops, grab a bite to eat, or check out the Kids Discovery Museum, which is designed for little kids.

Ideal for: All ages
Time needed: Half a day
Bonus tip: If walking onto the ferry, be prepared for a short walk from the terminal into town.
Website: Bainbridge Ferries

Visit the Museum of Flight

For kids who love airplanes, the Museum of Flight is a must-visit. This massive museum features real airplanes, flight simulators, and a full-size NASA Space Shuttle Trainer. Older kids will love learning about aviation history, while younger kids can explore the hands-on interactive exhibits.

Ideal for: Kids who love planes and space
Time needed: 2-3 hours
Bonus tip: Look for the free admission days if you’re visiting on a budget.
Website: Museum of Flight

Catch a Game at One of Seattle’s Sports Venues

Seattle is home to some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, and taking the kids to a game is a great way to experience the city’s energy. Whether you’re watching baseball, football, or hockey, there’s something for everyone.

Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park

Watching a Mariners game at T-Mobile Park is a fun family-friendly activity, especially during the summer months. The stadium has a dedicated kid’s play area, and nothing beats the classic combo of hot dogs and baseball.

Learn more: Best Seats for the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park

Seattle Seahawks or Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field

If you’re visiting during football season, catching a Seattle Seahawks game at Lumen Field is an unforgettable experience. While it’s one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL, older kids and teens will love the high-energy atmosphere.

Learn more: Best Seats for the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field

Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena

Hockey fans will love seeing the Seattle Kraken play at Climate Pledge Arena. This brand-new venue is designed to be environmentally friendly, and the games are fast-paced and exciting for kids of all ages.

Learn more: Best Seats at Climate Pledge Arena

Explore the Seattle Central Library

For a quieter activity, visit the Seattle Central Library––one of the city’s most beautiful and unique buildings. The children’s section is filled with interactive exhibits and cozy reading nooks, making it a perfect place to take a break from sightseeing.

Ideal for: Book lovers and kids who need a quiet break
Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Bonus tip: Head to the top floor for some of the best views of downtown Seattle.
Website: Seattle Central Library

Go Tide Pooling at Low Tide

If you’re in Seattle during a low tide, take the kids to Golden Gardens or Discovery Park to explore the saltwater tide pools. You’ll find tiny crabs, sea anemones, and maybe even a sea star or two! It’s one of the best free kid-friendly activities in Seattle and a fun way to introduce little ones to marine life.

Ideal for: Little kids and older kids who love nature
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Bonus tip: Check tide charts in advance––the best time to visit is when the tide is at its lowest.

Explore KidsQuest Children’s Museum

For families with younger kids, KidsQuest Children’s Museum in Bellevue is a fantastic hands-on play space designed to spark creativity and learning if you are up for a short drive. With interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and movement, this museum is perfect for kids up to about 9 or 10 years old.

The exhibits are all about learning through play, so don’t expect a traditional museum experience. This is a place where kids can climb, build, splash, and experiment. Some favorites include the indoor climbing structure, the water play area, and the construction zone where kids can design their own creations.

Ideal for: Little kids up to about 9-10 years old
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
Bonus tip: Since it’s located near Bellevue Square, you can easily combine a visit with lunch or a shopping break.
Website: KidsQuest Children’s Museum

Seattle is truly a perfect place for families, offering a mix of interactive museums, outdoor adventures, and unique city experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending a whole week, there’s always something new to explore.

If you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to grab a Seattle CityPASS for the best deal on attractions, and check out the best seats at Seattle’s sports venues if you’re adding a game to your itinerary.

No matter what you choose to do, one thing is certain––Seattle is a great time for kids and adults alike. Happy exploring!

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