At a glance: The garden and museum reveal the life and art of Dale Chihuly—from a sculpture suspended in a glasshouse to globes of colorful glass nestled among flowers.

Why go? Wander through eight themed galleries and see short films at the on-site theater. Plus, admire views of the Space Needle from the garden.

At a glance: From the Wright brothers to space travel, the history of aviation is all on display at this expansive Seattle museum.

Why go? The museum complex houses over 150 air and spacecraft. Be sure to climb aboard the supersonic Concorde jet, tour the original Boeing Aircraft factory, and try out the space flight simulator.

At a glance: A foodie mecca, Seattle's historic farmers market is a multi-story maze of colorful food stalls, curiosity shops, and seafood vendors.

Why go? Sample culinary treats ranging from Chinese street food to classic French cuisine, and browse hand-made goods and souvenirs. Don't miss the street performers who typically set up outside.

At a glance: A Seattle classic, these ferries travel from the metro area to surrounding islands and coastal ports along the Puget Sound.

Why go? Enjoy views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains en route to your destination. Plus, keep an eye out for marine life—it’s not uncommon to spot whales.

At a glance: Set on the 73rd floor of Columbia Center, Sky View Observatory offers 360-degree views of Seattle, the Oympic Mountains, and Puget Sound.

Why go? Sky View is taller than the more famous Space Needle observation deck, so choosing this viewing platform lets you capture photos of the Needle itself.

At a glance: Set on a hill overlooking Seattle, Kerry Park's observation platform and park benches offer panoramic views of the city skyline.

Why go? Bring a camera to capture postcard-worthy shots of the Seattle skyline, Space Needle, and Puget Sound. On clear days, you can spot Mt. Rainier.

At a glance: Also known as the Ballard Locks, this busy stretch of waterway connects the salt water of Puget Sound to the freshwater ship canal.

Why go? Watch the locks in action and explore the adjacent botanical gardens. From June through September, see salmon leap up the fish ladder to their upstream spawning grounds.

At a glance: This conservation-focused zoo houses over 300 species and re-creates savannah, rain forest, and other endangered landscapes on its expansive campus.

Why go? The zoo is ideal for families with kids, whether you’re fascinated by Assam rhinos, butterflies, or Humbolt penguins. Time your visit around feeding times to catch animals and staff in action.

At a glance: Home of the Seattle Mariners, T-Mobile Park boasts a retractable roof, real grass, and one of Major League Baseball's largest scoreboards.

Why go? The massive venue thrums with energy during baseball games and concerts, while guided tours allow you to see restricted areas of the park.

At a glance: Once the tallest building on the West Coast, Smith Tower houses a 360-degree observatory, historical exhibits, and a prohibition-era cocktail bar.

Why go? Ride vintage elevators to the 35th floor and travel back in time to 1914, when the tower first opened. Sip a cocktail and try out the legendary "wishing chair."

At a glance: This iconic spire rises 605 feet (184 meters) above Seattle and offers 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and Olympic Mountains.

Why go? Ride the elevator to the observation deck, stand on the revolving glass floor to see the city below your feet, and have a bite at the tower’s café.

At a glance: A wilderness escape inside the city, Discovery Park offers 534 acres of trails, bluffs, and beaches, as well as beautiful views of Puget Sound.

Why go? Take in scenery on the Loop Trail and visit the West Point Lighthouse. On clear days, spot Mt. Rainier and catch the sunset from the beach.

At a glance: Set on Puget Sound, Alki Beach boasts volleyball courts, a popular jogging path, and plenty of room for sunbathing.

Why go? This is one of the few sandy beaches on the Pacific Northwest’s mostly rocky coastline. Enjoy views of the Seattle skyline while you build sandcastles, kayak, or relax on the sand.

At a glance: Once an industrial gas plant, this historic site is now a waterfront park. The preserved plant structures give the place a steampunk vibe.

Why go? Check out old machinery, the sundial on Kite Hill, and skyline views over Lake Union. A modern playground makes this spot ideal for families.

At a glance: This multi-story visitor center offers interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the foundation's work and show them how to get involved with causes they value.

Why go? Learn about the foundation’s efforts, explore solutions to problems facing people around the world, and take part in activities like building winter kits for homeless teens.

At a glance: Famous for its salmon-slinging fishmongers and lively service, this bustling stall is one of Pike Place Market's most popular attractions.

Why go? Stop by the stall to watch the action and purchase local salmon, crab, and other fresh seafood—it can be shipped straight to your house or packed with ice for your flight.

At a glance: MoPOP is known for its colorful, undulating metal facade—designed by Frank Gehry—and for its engaging exhibits.

Why go? Record music in the Sound Lab, learn about the history of Sci-Fi and the work of local bands Nirvana and Pearl Jam, and bring a sleeping bag to "camp out" while watching a movie.

At a glance: This northern Seattle oasis is a recreation mecca, with a paved trail that circles Green Lake, sports fields, swimming pools, and a boathouse with rental kayaks and paddleboards.

Why go? Swim or paddle on the lake and spot wildlife along the trail. Bring a picnick and see a play at the lakeside theater.

At a glance: The UW campus boasts historic architecture, walking paths, and acres of gardens that are open to the public.

Why go? Stroll along the Burke-Gilman Trail, visit the Henry Art Gallery, and relax in the campus gardens. Visit in spring for photos of Drumheller Fountain surrounded by blossoming cherry trees.

At a glance: Winding paths lead through seven themed gardens at this arboretum on the shores of Lake Washington.

Why go? The park offers birding and boating as well as kid-friendly events and scavenger hunts. Catch the cherry trees and other plants in bloom during spring, while autumn brings colorful foliage.

At a glance: Built to host the 1962 World’s Fair, this complex is home to the Space Needle, the International Fountain, and some of the city's most popular museums.

Why go? Visit the Space Needle, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the restaurants and food stalls. The center also hosts art exhibitions, musical performances, and festivals.

At a glance: Home to the Seattle Seahawks, this stadium is known as the loudest in the NFL and is popular for its compact design, which gets fans closer to the game.

Why go? Join the crowd at a football game, take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, or attend a concert at this popular venue.

At a glance: The 11-story glass and steel Seattle Public Library building is a local landmark that houses indoor gardens, exhibits, and lots of books and other media.

Why go? Admire the building’s unique architecture, join locals browsing the stacks, take the kids to story time, or attend an author event or movie screening.

At a glance: This Japanese-themed garden in the Washington Park Arboretum offers winding paths, arched bridges, colorful trees, stone lanterns, and gazebos.

Why go? Stroll through the garden and enjoy the scenery, or learn more about the park on a guided tour. On some dates you can also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

At a glance: A recreation oasis in the heart of Seattle, Lake Union offers many boating opportunities—from kayaking to cruises—and is surrounded by parks, trails, and restaurants.

Why go? Enjoy a waterfront meal, rent a boat and enjoy city views from the water, or explore the parks along the 6-mile Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop trail.

At a glance: Two polished tombstones, usually surrounded by flowers and visiting fans, mark the graves of the late martial arts star Bruce Lee and his son.

Why go? Visit this popular attraction to pay your respects to Bruce and Brandon Lee and to see mementos left by visitors from around the globe.

At a glance: Perched at the end of Pier 57 on Seattle’s waterfront, the Great Wheel offers views of the city and Puget Sound.

Why go? The Ferris wheel's enclosed gondolas are an ideal way to see the city, regardless of the weather. If you want a romantic private cabin for two, you can book VIP tickets.

At a glance: SAM houses pieces ranging from Victorian paintings to mind-bending modern sculptures.Along with its permanent galleries, the museum frequently hosts works from international artists.

Why go? Admire art from the Northwest Coast and regions around the globe, then see a film in the auditorium or make your own artwork a during drop-in studio day.

At a glance: With sandy beaches, a bustling marina, and miles of trails, Golden Gardens Park is spacious enough to be a true nature escape.

Why go? Bring a towel and enjoy one of Seattle’s rare sandy beaches, take a sailing lesson, or explore the interior of the park on forested trails.

At a glance: A tranquil South Seattle haven, the 20-acre Japanese-style Kubota Garden houses manicured gardens, bridges, and waterfalls.

Why go? The park is free to enter; stroll through to see the ornamental bronze entry gate, spring-fed ponds, and colorful Japanese maples.