Ten Fun Activities to Do in Seattle with Kids
- Thomas Tangen
- May 7
- 3 min read
Updated: May 27
Seattle’s blend of outdoor spaces, hands-on museums, and quirky urban fun makes it one of the most kid-friendly cities in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re entertaining a toddler, curious tween, or a mix of all ages, this list of activities to do in Seattle with kids includes playful favorites and creative outings for a day of low-stress fun.
1. Seattle Aquarium – Waterfront
Located right on Elliott Bay, the Seattle Aquarium is perfect for younger kids. You’ll find touch tanks, sea otters, and big windows looking out to the Puget Sound—sometimes you’ll even spot harbor seals just outside.
Bonus nearby activity: Ride the Seattle Great Wheel for sweeping waterfront views.
Address: 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
2. Woodland Park Zoo – Phinney Ridge
This 90-acre zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and features immersive exhibits like the Tropical Rain Forest and African Savanna. The Zoomazium indoor play space is great on rainy days.
Bonus nearby activity: Let kids burn off energy at Woodland Park Playground or rent a surrey bike at nearby Green Lake.
Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
3. Pacific Science Center – Lower Queen Anne
Hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a butterfly house make this science museum a must. The IMAX theater and rotating exhibits cater to a wide age range.
Bonus nearby activity: The museum is part of the Seattle Center campus, which includes the Space Needle and Artists at Play playground.
Address: 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
4. Artists at Play Playground – Seattle Center
This imaginative play area has a massive climbing structure, musical instruments, and creative design features. It’s great for both free play and a picnic break between attractions.
Bonus nearby activity: Catch a kid-friendly show at Seattle Children’s Theatre, just steps away.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
5. MOHAI (Museum of History & Industry) – South Lake Union
MOHAI makes Seattle’s history feel interactive and accessible. Kids will love the old fire truck, periscopes, and the maker space on weekends.
Bonus nearby activity: Rent a pedal boat or kayak right outside at The Center for Wooden Boats.
Address: 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
6. Discovery Park – Magnolia
One of the largest urban parks in Seattle, Discovery Park offers forest trails, open meadows, and a walkable beach. A great place to escape the city without leaving it.
Bonus nearby activity: Visit the Environmental Learning Center for hands-on nature displays.
Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199
7. Seattle Pinball Museum – Chinatown-International District
Not your typical museum. With a flat admission fee, kids and adults alike can play dozens of vintage and modern pinball machines as long as they like.
Bonus nearby activity: Grab bao buns, noodles, or bubble tea just around the corner.
Address: 508 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104
8. Seattle Children’s Museum – Seattle Center
Best for younger kids (ages 1–8), this museum is all about imaginative play. There’s a pretend grocery store, construction zone, stage, and international village setup.
Bonus nearby activity: Stop by the nearby Armory Food & Event Hall for snacks and lunch.
Address: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
9. Gas Works Park – North Lake Union
This funky industrial park has open space to run, kites to fly, and one of the best city skyline views in Seattle. Bring a soccer ball, picnic blanket, or just your camera.
Bonus nearby activity: Walk the Burke-Gilman Trail or grab ice cream from Molly Moon’s in nearby Wallingford.
Address: 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
10. Fremont Sunday Market – Fremont
If you’re visiting on a Sunday, this open-air market is family-friendly and full of surprises—from food trucks and handmade toys to vintage gear and street performers.
Bonus nearby activity: Don’t miss the Fremont Troll, just a few blocks away under the Aurora Bridge.
Address: 3401 Evanston Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Seattle is one of those cities that truly grows with your kids. From interactive museums to creative playgrounds and just-the-right-size adventures, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill the day (without the stress).
Want a custom Seattle itinerary tailored to your kids’ ages, attention spans, or favorite snacks? I can put one together just for you.Got a hidden gem or neighborhood spot that kids love? Drop a comment and I’ll check it out for a future field report.
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