Things to Do in Seattle!

We’re so excited to celebrate with you over Labor Day Weekend in Seattle! Whether you’re arriving early or staying a bit longer, there’s no shortage of amazing sights, delicious food, and iconic spots to explore in the city. Many of you will be staying at the Thompson Hotel, located in the heart of downtown and right across from Pike Place Market or at another hotel downtown, so you’ll be perfectly positioned to soak it all in!

Here are some of our favorite things to do nearby and around the city:

🎡 Must-See Sights & Landmarks

Pike Place Market
Watch the famous fish-tossing, browse local shops and artisans, or grab a bite at one of the many food stalls.

Seattle Waterfront & Great Wheel
Stroll along the waterfront, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and take a ride on the Great Wheel for incredible views of the Puget Sound.

Space Needle & Seattle Center
An iconic symbol of Seattle. While you’re there, check out Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), or simply enjoy the views from the top.

Kerry Park
A small park with one of the most postcard-perfect views of the Seattle skyline.

Ballard Locks & Fish Ladder
Watch boats pass through the locks and see salmon navigate the fish ladder during spawning season. A peaceful spot blending nature and engineering.

Fremont Sunday Market
Less crowded than Pike Place, this eclectic open-air market has crafts, vintage finds, and street food from local vendors—great for a Sunday stroll.

🍽️ Food & Coffee

Storyville Coffee
A cozy spot to start your morning with a perfect cup of coffee. Located above Pike Place.

Caffe Vita
A Seattle staple roasting their own beans since 1995, with a welcoming vibe and excellent espresso drinks. There’s a location just a few blocks from Pike Place.

Victrola Coffee Roasters
A vintage-inspired café with excellent espresso and single-origin pour-overs, located on Pike Street.

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese (Nate’s favorite!)
Watch cheese being made and try their legendary mac & cheese. Located in Pike Place.

Momiji Sushi (Kate’s favorite!)
A serene spot in Capitol Hill featuring a tranquil indoor garden and modern Japanese decor. Known for its fresh nigiri, specialty rolls like the "Crunchy Seattle," and a curated sake list. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

The Pink Door (a special favorite!)
Located just off an unmarked entrance near Pike Place, this romantic Italian spot is known for its pasta, charming patio, and occasional live entertainment. Fun fact: this is where Kate’s parents had their first date! Highly recommend making a reservation.

Elliott’s Oyster House (Seafood on the waterfront)
Classic spot for oysters and seafood right on the pier. Great views, great happy hour, and a quintessential Seattle dining experience.

The Crab Pot (Casual, fun seafood experience)
Come hungry! This place is known for its “Seafeast” buckets: crab, clams, shrimp, and corn dumped right on the table. Messy, communal, and fun.

Biscuit Bitch (Southern comfort/brunch)
A bold, quirky, and beloved local spot serving up biscuits & gravy with a spicy, Southern twist. Fun and casual, it’s perfect for a laid-back breakfast or brunch near Pike Place. (Just be prepared for a bit of a line!)

Lecosho (European/NW fusion)
Cozy spot near the waterfront with creative pastas and a strong wine list.

🍸 Cocktail Bars

Zig Zag Café (Hidden gem near Pike Place Market)
Tucked down a staircase near the market, Zig Zag is a cozy, low-lit bar with expert bartenders and classic vibes. Great for craft cocktails without the pretension.

Canon (Capitol Hill – World-famous collection)
This tiny, moody bar boasts one of the largest spirits collections in the country. The cocktails are creative, dramatic, and impeccably made. A splurge, but a must for cocktail lovers.

Deep Dive (Beneath the Amazon Spheres)
Swanky and stylish with a luxe, almost theatrical feel. Think velvet booths, moody lighting, and beautifully crafted drinks. Reservations recommended.

Foreign National (Trendy & dark in Capitol Hill)
A dimly lit bar with inventive, globally inspired cocktails. From the team behind some of Seattle’s best restaurants.

Oliver’s Lounge (Inside the Mayflower Park Hotel)
For a classic cocktail experience, this old-school bar is known for its martinis and people-watching.

Rumba (Rum-focused tropical cocktails)
Just north of Pike Place, this spot serves Caribbean-inspired cocktails and a rum collection that’s unmatched in the city. Great for a fun, flavorful vibe.

The Nest (Rooftop bar at Thompson Seattle)
Stylish rooftop bar with panoramic views of Elliott Bay and Pike Place Market. Great drinks, cozy fire pits, and just an elevator ride away for guests staying at the hotel. Reservations recommended, especially on weekend evenings.

🍷 Wine Bars

Purple Café & Wine Bar (Downtown)
Stylish spot with a dramatic spiral staircase of wine and a deep list by the glass and bottle. Also serves great food. Ideal for a wine-focused dinner or happy hour.

Bottlehouse (Madrona)
A cozy, women-owned wine bar set in a charming 1905 Craftsman house. Offers a rotating selection of natural wines from the Pacific Northwest and beyond, complemented by seasonal small plates like truffle mac & cheese, burrata toast, and a curated cheese & charcuterie program. Enjoy indoor seating or a heated garden patio.

Footprint Wine Tap (Capitol Hill)
A casual and eco-friendly wine bar offering wine on tap. Great outdoor seating and relaxed vibes make it a great spot for groups.

La Dive (Capitol Hill)
Wine bar in Capitol Hill that specializes in natural wines with a playful, casual atmosphere.

🍺 Breweries

Elysian Brewing (Capitol Hill)
Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, Elysian Brewing's original brewpub offers a modern take on a classic beer hall. With a 220-seat capacity, it features industrial décor and an open brewing area, allowing guests to enjoy house-brewed beers like the renowned Space Dust IPA. The menu offers a variety of scratch-made dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. A perfect spot for beer enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.

Fremont Brewing (Fremont)
Family‑founded in 2009, Fremont Brewing offers a spacious, dog‑friendly urban beer garden with both indoor and outdoor seating. Known for small‑batch, artisan beers, especially their flagship Interurban IPA, rotating barrel‑aged releases and a relaxed local vibe. Perfect for beer lovers looking to escape the tourist crowds.

Cloudburst Brewing (Near Pike Place)
Small but mighty brewery known for creative IPAs and a very "Seattle" vibe. Right by the market and easy to swing by while exploring downtown.

Old Stove Brewing (Waterfront)
Great for groups with lots of seating and views of Elliott Bay. Solid beers, hearty food, and a prime location.

Holy Mountain Brewing (Interbay)
Cult favorite among craft beer fans. Known for saisons, wild ales, and beautifully balanced IPAs.

🌲 Outdoors & Activities

Agua Verde Paddle Club (Kayak & paddleboard rentals)
Rent kayaks or paddleboards on scenic Portage Bay at this fun spot in the University District. After paddling, grab tasty Mexican food and drinks at their waterfront café. Perfect for an active, relaxing afternoon!

Discovery Park
Escape the city for some trails, a beach walk, and beautiful views of Puget Sound. Located about a12 minute drive from The Admiral’s House and about 17 minutes from the Thompson Hotel.

Water Taxi Ride to West Seattle
Take the scenic water taxi from downtown to West Seattle’s Alki Beach. An easy and fun way to get around and see the city from the water.

Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Explore an impressive collection of contemporary and classic art downtown, including rotating exhibits and exclusive events.

Wine Tasting in Woodinville
Just a short drive from Seattle, Woodinville is home to upscale wineries offering private tastings and vineyard tours.

Ferry Ride to Bainbridge Island
Catch a ferry from downtown for a scenic ride and spend the afternoon exploring charming shops, wineries, and waterfront views on Bainbridge.

Gas Works Park
A quirky park with panoramic views of Lake Union and the skyline.

🛍️ Shopping & Local Finds

Elliott Bay Book Company (Capitol Hill)
A beloved local bookstore worth the visit for book lovers.

Raven’s Nest Treasures (Pike Place)
Native art, Asian antiques, and bespoke jewelry near Pike Place.

Indi Chocolate (Pike Place)
Sip drinking chocolate and shop handmade sweets near the Market.