Welcome to Downtown Seattle
Dive into the center of culture and technology in downtown Seattle
Downtown Seattle is a place of legend for travelers, artists, and entrepreneurs. Architecture in Seattle represents every era and influence as the downtown area grows into a glittering mix of cutting-edge skyscrapers and historical venues. The restaurants offer acclaimed and international cuisine, and many can be found inside landmark shopping districts that are must-sees for tourists and locals alike.
Downtown Seattle is a place you can live without a car, but sweeping mountain climbs and shoreline drives are only a few minutes away. You will also delight in the verdant city design, as every tunnel, bridge, and divider blooms with cultivated green space. Living in downtown Seattle is a delightful mix of natural and urban, with inspiring views for those who love architecture and trees.
What to Love
- The Space Needle and Ferris Wheel
- Legendary Pikes Place Market
- Seattle Underground
- Art and sculpture everywhere you look
- Local breweries and coffee roasteries
- Lively yet low-key nightlife of trendy bars and glamorous cocktail lounges
Local Lifestyle
The local lifestyle of downtown Seattle is surprisingly peaceful. You will find all the density and demand of a bustling urban center, but in the Pacific Northwest, people aim to be soft-spoken and diplomatic. Seattle glitters with breathtaking architecture and luxury venues but also keeps some of the rural charm of the many farming and fishing communities nearby.
If you love farmer’s markets, walking tours, or exploring new restaurants, downtown Seattle has everything you need within walking distance.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Downtown Seattle has a seemingly endless number of places to visit and restaurants to explore within its few dense blocks. Start your journey at Pike Place Market, a renowned open-air market and one of the oldest Farmer's Markets in the state. The biggest attraction is the entertainment fish market, but you'll find a little bit of everything. For luxury shopping, head to the enormous Nordstrom, which is a shopping mall unto itself. Inside the massive multi-story Nordstrom are departments for men, women, children, households, and beyond complete with mini-shops for branded products.
If you're looking for fun in the sun and a trendy blend of local shops, head to the Seattle Waterfront, where the mix of ocean air and delectable restaurant aromas are as delightful as the views. For a little cultural enrichment, head to the Seattle Art Museum, where classical meets contemporary. Here you’ll find something for everyone.
Things to Do
There are many wonderful events and festivals to join when you live in downtown Seattle. Bumbershoot is an annual music festival and one of North America's largest. It takes place at the Seattle Center on Labor Day, including indoor and outdoor theaters and stages.
Seafair is a summer festival that the entire city adores. This unofficial Seattle holiday happens over the course of a weekend, including boating events, airshows, and festival activities.
Northwest Folklife Festival celebrates the art, history, culture, and heritage of the incredible tapestry of people in the Pacific Northwest. This festival brings together local artists across 25 stages and 200 booths.
Sports fans will also find plenty to do rooting for Seattle teams and attending home games for the Seahawks, Mariners, Sounders, Kraken, and Storm teams.
